Experience a Refreshing Bounce to Make Running Fun! What Makes ASICS "SUPERBLAST" So Remarkable?

Inspired by trampoline structures, ASICS "BLAST" series boasts an exceptional bounce. The latest in the series, "SuperBlast," features a 6.5mm thicker midsole than the "NOVABLAST 3" released last fall.

With an ultra-thick sole that stands at 45.5mm, including the insole, the "SuperBlast" offers a softer cushioning and a springy ride. But what thoughts and technology lie behind the "SuperBlast"?
 
The "BLAST" series, known for its energizing bounce and springy ride, was developed to make running enjoyable and to boost runners' motivation. This background stems from recent advancements in foam materials.
 
"High-rebound, lightweight new foam materials have been developed, and using these characteristics to create shoes that elevate runners' spirits was the starting point for the BLAST series," says Tomoki Ishizashi from ASICS, who was in charge of developing the "SuperBlast."
 
So, what kind of shoes make runners feel happy and run comfortably? The key lies in the bounce. High-rebound shoes extend stride length and improve running tempo. Shoes with high cushioning protect feet from landing impact and make runners forget the hardness of the ground. By combining high levels of both rebound and cushioning, a bounce sensation is created.

The Thickness of the Sole is a Whopping 45.5mm!

The "BLAST" series continues to evolve in pursuit of a comfortable bounce. How has the latest "SuperBlast" been updated from the "NOVABLAST 3"?
 
"The thickness of the sole has increased, and the midsole material has changed, which are major points. The midsole thickness, which was a maximum of about 31.0mm in the NOVABLAST 3, now stands at a maximum of 37.5mm in the SuperBlast. Including the outsole and insole, the total thickness of the sole is a maximum of 45.5mm, making it the thickest running shoe in ASICS history.

"The midsole used in the NOVABLAST 3 was made of FF BLAST PLUS, but the SuperBlast's midsole is a two-layer structure, primarily using FF BLAST TURBO. FF BLAST TURBO is also used in ASICS' top racing shoe series, MetaSpeed, and is the most responsive material among ASICS' lightweight midsole foam."

The "SuperBlast" midsole features a two-layer structure of FF BLAST TURBO and FF BLAST PLUS. What are the intent and effects?
 
"We aimed to include as much FF BLAST TURBO as possible to enhance responsiveness. While manufacturing methods may evolve to allow even thicker layers in the future, we have maximized the thickness within current manufacturing capabilities. FF BLAST TURBO is a material resistant to deformation, contributing to high stability, but using it alone in the midsole wouldn't provide the soft feel and bounce of the NOVABLAST 3. Therefore, we adopted FF BLAST PLUS for the bottom layer of the midsole.

"The heel is somewhat thick, but FF BLAST PLUS is installed to the thinnest shaping possible. We tested various materials, but this combination was chosen for its comprehensive balance of bounce, ride, and lightness."
 
The trampoline-inspired sole structure, a unique element of the "BLAST" series that produces the signature bounce, is also carried over. A recessed area in the central part of the sole allows it to deform easily under load, creating a trampoline-like bounce effect as the material restores.