The First Plated Model in the "BLAST" Series Is Here! What's the Asics "SONICBLAST" All About?

Asics has released the new "SONICBLAST," the first-ever plated model in its popular "BLAST" series. This lineup already includes the max-stack "SUPERBLAST," known for its incredible bounce, and the "NOVABLAST," a daily trainer loved for its comfortable rebound. So, what exactly does the "SONICBLAST" bring to the table?

Excluding its racing lineup, Asics' running shoes are generally sorted into three main categories: stability models led by the long-selling "GEL-KAYANO," high-cushion trainers represented by the immensely popular "GEL-NIMBUS," and the "BLAST" series, which focuses on a fun, bouncy ride.

The recently unveiled "SONICBLAST" (along with the "MEGABLAST," announced simultaneously) isn't a direct successor to the "SUPERBLAST 2." Instead, it represents a new direction for the expanding "BLAST" family.

'The SUPERBLAST is not going away. Think of this as an expansion of the BLAST series with the addition of these two models,' explains Hikaru Yamazaki of ASICS Japan Corporation. 'The BLAST series will now be built on four pillars: SUPERBLAST, NOVABLAST, SONICBLAST, and MEGABLAST.'

New FF TURBO SQUARED Material in the Midsole

The "SONICBLAST" features a dual-layer midsole. The bottom layer consists of FF BLAST MAX, the same material used in the "NOVABLAST 5," which offers excellent rebound and a cloud-like softness. The top layer uses the new FF TURBO SQUARED, a lightweight and highly responsive material.

Compared to FF TURBO, FF TURBO SQUARED boasts approximately 32% more rebound. It deforms and compresses upon landing and then quickly returns to its original shape, creating a spring-like sensation that helps extend your stride.

'FF TURBO SQUARED was developed with the goal of being even more responsive than the FF TURBO PLUS used in the SUPERBLAST 2. In terms of responsiveness, it's on a similar level to the FF LEAP material used in the recently released ultra-lightweight top racing model, the METASPEED RAY.'

'By using FF TURBO SQUARED in the top layer of the midsole and FF BLAST MAX in the bottom layer, I believe we've created a shoe that offers a soft landing and a responsive bounce that supports forward momentum.'

The ASTROPLATE, Delivering Stability and Responsiveness

A key feature of the "SONICBLAST" is the plate embedded within the midsole. Named the ASTROPLATE, this plate is made of PEBA (polyether block amide), not carbon. It's a more flexible material than carbon. This ASTROPLATE is embedded from the forefoot to the midfoot.

'The SONICBLAST was developed as a training model for runners who use max-stack, carbon-plated shoes like the METASPEED series for races. It can handle speed-focused training like interval runs and tempo runs, and it's less taxing on the body than shoes with carbon plates.'

'We also had university runners training for the Hakone Ekiden test them, and we received feedback that they are also a great match for faster-paced jogs and long-distance runs.'

When I actually ran in the "SONICBLAST," I felt a pleasant bounce. You can also feel how the highly responsive foam material and the ASTROPLATE work together to support propulsion.

Unsurprisingly, it's clearly easier to pick up speed compared to a standard jogging shoe. That said, I didn't feel any plate stiffness or harshness underfoot. The ride feel is like a milder version of Asics' popular carbon-plated model, the "MAGIC SPEED 4." For someone with my leg strength, I got the impression that the "SONICBLAST" would be a better match as a race-day shoe than a carbon-plated one.

Spotlight on the Premium MEGABLAST Model

Released alongside the SONICBLAST, the MEGABLAST is a model engineered for the daily training needs of runners who compete in carbon-plated shoes.

The entire midsole is crafted with FF TURBO SQUARED. This positions the MEGABLAST as a step-up from the SUPERBLAST 2, offering a more responsive and lightweight experience.

Both of these new additions to the BLAST series are definitely ones to watch.