ASICS
Sonicblast 2
Product Judgment
Strong
8.3
Category: Speed Trainer
Release year: 2026
Evidence base: Extensive
Reviewers generally agree; slow-pace comfort draws differing assessments.
Price Judgment
Reasonable
Common retail price: ~$190
Availability: Widely Available
Based on manual research as of Sep 28, 2026
Description
High-stack super trainer positioned for uptempo and marathon-pace training. Lighter and more breathable than its predecessor. Praised for stability and lively ride, with some trade-offs in comfort and fit.
Firm, responsive midsole with trampoline pod delivers energetic toe-off and propulsion. Wide platform and forked plate ensure rare stability for a shoe in this class. Ride feels bouncy and quick at speed, but stiff and less forgiving at slower paces. Breathable upper and secure lockdown enhance performance feel.
Best for runners seeking a stable, energetic trainer for tempo runs and marathon-pace efforts. Excels in long, fast sessions where propulsion and control are valued. Less suited to easy or recovery runs due to firmness and midfoot stiffness. Ideal for those prioritizing stability and bounce over plushness.
Performance Scores
Comfort
7Breathable upper and secure fit, but narrow toe box limits comfort for some.
Energy Return
9Dual-foam midsole and trampoline pod deliver excellent propulsion and bounce at speed.
Stability
9Wide platform, forked plate, and sole flaring provide outstanding stability for a super trainer.
Durability
7Above average outsole durability with minimal wear after initial miles.
Fun to Ride
8Aggressive rocker and lively forefoot create an engaging, energetic ride at tempo paces.
Run Fitness
Daily
6Firm, stiff ride feels less compliant and bumpy at easy paces.
Long
8Protective stack and stable platform suit marathon-pace long runs.
Tempo
10Responsive midsole and propulsion pod excel at uptempo and threshold efforts.
Race
8Lively, stable ride works well for marathon and half marathon racing.
Recovery
5Firmness and midfoot stiffness limit comfort for slow, easy recovery runs.
Pros & Cons
- Outstanding stability for stack height
- Excellent energy return
- Breathable, secure upper
- Lively ride at speed
- Narrow toe box
- Firm at slow paces
- High price
Wide platform and forked plate deliver rare stability for a high-stack super trainer.
Dual-foam midsole and trampoline pod provide top-tier propulsion and bounce at faster paces.
Engineered mesh upper is more breathable and offers a secure lockdown.
Aggressive rocker and responsive forefoot create a fun, energetic ride for tempo running.
Toe box remains somewhat narrow, which may cause discomfort on longer runs or for wide-footed runners.
Firm, stiff midsole can feel harsh and less smooth during easy or recovery runs.
Premium price is higher than some competitors with softer rides.
Specifications
Best for paces
3:45–5:15 min/km
Drop
8 mm
Stack height
46 mm heel / 38 mm forefoot
Weight
242 g
Drop
8 mm
Stack height
46 mm heel / 38 mm forefoot
Weight
242 g
Pronation
Neutral
Width
medium
Terrain
Road
Technologies
FF Turbo Squared, FF Blast Max, Pebax Astroplate
Plate
Composite
Best for paces
3:45–5:15 min/km
Comparable Models
ASICS Sonicblast combines stiff propulsion with limited bounce, while Sonicblast 2 adds a livelier toe-off and a particularly stable workout platform.
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ASICS Superblast 3 combines plush, energetic cushioning with a roomy upper, addressing the Sonicblast 2's harsh easy-pace feel and restrictive toebox.
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Brooks Hyperion Max 4 emphasizes plush long-run protection and a snappy forefoot, while Sonicblast 2 favors firmer, quick-feeling tempo propulsion.
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Saucony Endorphin Speed 5 emphasizes firm, controlled turnover with a secure breathable upper, while Sonicblast 2 adds a bouncier toe-off on a stiff, wide platform.
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New Balance SuperComp Rebel delivers soft, lively workout propulsion, addressing the Sonicblast 2's harshness but sacrificing its unusually strong platform stability.
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