Asics Superblast 3

The Asics Superblast 3 lands with what is probably the most significant update in the line: the new FF LEAP foam, the same one used in the Metaspeed Edge Tokyo racer, which replaces the v2's FF Turbo+ in the top layer of the midsole. The result is a lighter shoe that keeps the 8 mm drop but with a high stack, placing it squarely in maximalist territory. Its rather high price makes it one of the most expensive options in its category, but the materials justify the investment: not many training shoes put latest-generation foam underfoot, offering a combination of lightness, cushioning and stability that is hard to match.

The upper has a woven mesh that is lighter than the v2's, with a hybrid lacing system (elastic cords at the bottom, punched eyelets at the top) that allows a personalised fit. The tongue, partially stitched to both sides, is thin and perforated with generous holes for ventilation, although the toe box lacks breathing holes, a drawback when running in warm weather. The forefoot offers moderate to high volume: roomy for narrow feet and right for medium feet. The heel counter is stiffer than in the v2, but the improved collar padding makes up for any feeling of stiffness.

Underneath, the combination of FF LEAP in the top layer, noticeably softer and more responsive than the previous FF Turbo+, over a firmer 10 mm FF BLAST+ base produces a soft but controlled ride. That lower layer acts as a stabiliser, stopping the top foam from compressing too much under load, especially in the arch area, where it rises slightly on the medial side. The outsole combines AHARLO at the heel and ASICSGRIP at the forefoot, with exceptional grip and outstanding durability for such a light shoe. Ideal for long runs and controlled sessions: it is not the softest (that is what the Novablast 6 is for), but it is the most consistent and reliable shoe in the Asics range for high-volume training, with an astonishingly good response.