Asics Sonicblast 2

The Asics Sonicblast 2 is the Japanese brand's new "super shoe" with a plastic plate (made of Pebax®, to be precise, sold under the name ASTROPLATE™), a high-stack shoe for those looking for a fast, responsive and well-cushioned ride on their quality runs and intervals, without having to lace up a pure racing shoe. Within the Asics Blast family it sits between the Novablast 6, which is more comfortable but less responsive, and the Superblast 3, which, despite having no plate, offers more responsiveness thanks to the innovative FF LEAP™ compound and is probably its biggest rival: not for nothing is it one of the most popular shoes of recent times.

Compared with its predecessor, the Sonicblast, the changes run deep and clearly aim to fix the most criticised point of the first version: its overly firm feel. The heel has been rounded, noticeably improving transitions, the plate has been completely redesigned and the outsole debuts a pad that acts as a springboard in the forefoot, adding to the bounce. All this while cutting around 5% of the weight. The engineered mesh upper is light and very breathable, with a stitched tongue and straps that hold the foot well. It fits true to size, with generous volume in the toe box that gives some room up front. The heel counter is firm but well placed and causes no discomfort, which is no small thing with these yearly updates.

The midsole combines FF Turbo 2 foam in the top layer with FF Blast Max in the bottom one, a firm, protective setup with good responsiveness, no doubt enhanced by a forked Pebax® ASTROPLATE™ that also adds stiffness and structure. The rocker is pronounced and the forefoot pad acts as a kind of lever, giving extra drive when you pick up the pace. With an 8 mm heel-to-toe drop, it is ideal for runners who want a responsive yet stable shoe for controlled runs and intervals without resorting to carbon-plated shoes or the latest compounds.