1. Technical Specs & Direct Comparison (Sonic Blast 1 vs. Sonic Blast 2)
The ASICS Sonicblast 2 is a comprehensive overhaul in the Super Trainer / Fast Daily Trainer category. ASICS has retained the signature 46mm - 38mm stack height from the first generation but completely restructured the foam, upgraded the propulsion plate, and significantly shed weight.
Here is a side-by-side comparison between the ASICS Sonicblast 2 and the original Sonicblast 1 (based on a US Men’s Size 8):
- Weight (US Men’s Size 8):
- ASICS Sonicblast 2: An impressive 225 - 230 grams (~8.0 oz).
- ASICS Sonicblast 1: Approximately 242 - 245 grams (~8.5 - 8.6 oz). The second generation has trimmed about 15 grams, resulting in a much more nimble feel.
- Stack Height:
- ASICS Sonicblast 2: Maintains the massive 46 mm in the heel and 38 mm in the forefoot.
- ASICS Sonicblast 1: Same configuration with 46 mm heel and 38 mm forefoot, prioritizing maximum joint protection and shock absorption.
- Heel-to-Toe Drop:
- ASICS Sonicblast 2: 8 mm.
- ASICS Sonicblast 1: 8 mm.
- Midsole Technology:
- ASICS Sonicblast 2: A dual-density setup. The top layer is FF TURBO² (FF Turbo Squared)—the same high-end PEBA/ATPU foam used in elite marathon racers—integrated with an FF TURBO² trampoline pod in the forefoot. The bottom layer is FF BLAST™ MAX, providing a plush, stable foundation for landing.
- ASICS Sonicblast 1: Used a mix of standard FF Turbo and FF Blast Plus, lacking the snappy energy return of the new FF Turbo².
- Plate Technology:
- ASICS Sonicblast 2: Features the new ASTROPLATE™ made from Pebax®, now with a forked/trident shape. This design is more flexible, allowing it to move naturally with the mechanics of the toes while providing a sharp, responsive push-off.
- ASICS Sonicblast 1: A traditional flat Pebax plate, which felt stiffer and less responsive in the toe-off phase.
- Upper:
- ASICS Sonicblast 2: Redesigned Engineered Mesh—thinner, lighter, with improved breathability and better mechanical stretch.
- ASICS Sonicblast 1: A thicker mesh with more ankle padding, which tended to trap heat during long runs.
- Outsole:
- ASICS Sonicblast 2: Segmented ASICSGRIP™ rubber with a deeper central groove that exposes the Astroplate to save weight.
- ASICS Sonicblast 1: AHARPLUS rubber combined with a wide, flat ASICSGRIP layer.
2. On-Road Performance: First Impressions & Evolution
Out of the box, the Sonicblast 2 looks just as bulky as its predecessor, but the difference is immediate once you pick it up. Dropping the weight to under 230g for a US 8 creates a surprisingly light sensation that defies the 46mm stack height.
Build quality is sharp; the transitions between the FF Turbo² and FF Blast MAX foams are clean with no visible glue lines. The cutout in the outsole revealing the forked Astroplate gives it a modern, aerodynamic aesthetic.
On the first run, the difference is night and day. Even with the same stack height, the Sonicblast 2 feels more lively. The FF Turbo² foam feels plush yet energetic, and the trampoline pod in the forefoot adds a playful pop to your gait. The forked Pebax plate eliminates the stiff, awkward feeling under the midfoot found in the original, flowing naturally with your stride.
I’ve put over 80km on the Sonicblast 2, covering recovery runs, fartleks, tempo sessions, and a 25km long run. It is a massive evolution—retaining the protective 46mm cushion but delivering a bouncier, more energy-efficient ride.
3. Fit
At 165cm and 57kg, I opted for my true-to-size US 8. Here’s how it fits:
- Length: True to size. The toe box has a thumb’s width of space, preventing any jamming during steep descents.
- Toe Box: Performance-fit. The new Engineered Mesh is more pliable, making it comfortable for my average-width feet. If you have wide feet, I recommend going up 0.5 size to allow for foot swelling during long runs.
- Tongue & Lacing: A racing-style thin tongue with semi-gussets ensures it stays locked in place. The flat, soft laces distribute pressure evenly across the instep.
- Heel Lock: The reinforced heel counter, paired with generous internal padding, secures the ankle perfectly. No heel slippage here.
4. Cushion: FF Turbo² + FF Blast MAX
The dual-foam setup is the star of the show:
- FF TURBO² (Top): Sits directly underfoot. It’s snappy, incredibly responsive, and much more energetic than the original FF Turbo.
- Trampoline Pod: Acts like a mini-spring under the forefoot for a crisp toe-off.
- FF BLAST™ MAX (Bottom): Provides the necessary dampening to protect your joints from harsh road impacts.
- Feel: On a scale of 1-10, the cushion is an 8.8/10. It feels deep and protective without feeling like you’re sinking into mud, thanks to the plate and foam resilience.
5. Stability
A 46mm stack needs a solid base. The forked Astroplate allows the foot to move naturally through its biomechanical axis while providing excellent torsional rigidity. Stability earns a 9.0/10. The flared geometry at the heel and forefoot keeps you centered during tight turns, even at a 4:15/km pace.
6. Ride & Long-Distance Performance
The combination of the early-stage forefoot rocker, the forked plate, and the FF Turbo² foam creates an incredibly smooth ride. It encourages a natural, continuous forward roll regardless of your foot strike. For long runs over 20km, the protection is top-tier; the energy return from the plate helps maintain a consistent cadence even when fatigue sets in.
7. Upper & Outsole
The thin Engineered Mesh is excellent in hot, humid conditions—my feet stayed dry and ventilated throughout. The ASICSGRIP™ outsole is world-class, providing immense confidence on wet asphalt or slick park paths.
8. Versatility & Style
Beyond running, the Sonicblast 2 is a stylish piece of footwear. It provides a natural +4.6 cm height boost, which works great with both performance gear and casual streetwear, like joggers or oversized tees.
9. Who is this for?
- Lightweight Runners (<60kg): Ideal for tempos and speed work. The foam pop makes for a lively, efficient gait.
- Heavier Runners (65kg - 85kg+): The 46mm stack is a tank. It handles heavy loading without bottoming out, while the plate provides the structural integrity needed to prevent fatigue.
10. Conclusion & Value
The Sonicblast 2 is a definitive upgrade:
- Lighter: Saved ~15g while keeping the massive stack.
- Better Foam: FF Turbo² is significantly bouncier.
- Improved Plate: Forked design allows for natural movement.
- Breathable: New mesh upper fixes the overheating issues of the V1.
For a Super Trainer, this offers exceptional value and performance that bridges the gap between a daily trainer and a marathon racer.
11. Final Rating (Max 9.0)
- Design & Aesthetics: 8.8
- Cushion & Energy Return: 8.9
- Stability: 9.0
- Grip & Durability: 9.0
- Speed Performance: 8.8
- Long Run Performance: 8.9
- Price/Performance Value: 8.7
Overall Score: 8.8 / 10 (A perfect upgrade over the Sonicblast 1!)
💡 Helpful Tools:
- Find your perfect ASICS size: Running Shoe Size Converter.
- Compare with other shoes: Running Shoe Comparison Tool.
- Train with heart rate zones: Pace & Heart Rate Zone Calculator.
