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ASICS Superblast 3: still the benchmark super trainer… only better
ASICS pulls out all the stops with the new Superblast 3. Since its debut, the Superblast has carved out a category of its own: the super trainer. Not just a daily trainer, not a carbon-plated racer, but a shoe capable of doing it all—easy runs, intervals, long runs, and even the marathon for some runners. All without a plate, yet featuring massive cushioning and impressively low weight. Over the years, it has established itself as one of the most versatile maximalist shoes on the market. Expectations for this third version are therefore sky-high. And ASICS delivers a major update with the addition of its most advanced foam to date: FF LEAP™. The Superblast 3 promises an even more refined ride, with more energy return, more fun, and even less weight. It’s only February, and we may already have a shoe-of-the-year contender.
| ASICS injects its new FF LEAP™ foam into the Superblast 3
On paper, the Superblast 3 stays true to its DNA: massive cushioning, high energy return, comfort, and ultra-lightweight construction for a training shoe. The specs are impressive:
✔ 46.5 mm heel / 38.5 mm forefoot
✔ 8 mm drop
✔ 10 g lighter than v2
✔ 239 g (US 9)
But the real change lies in the foam. This year, the Superblast 3 features FF LEAP™, an A-TPU (aliphatic TPU) compound already seen in the METASPEED Tokyo series and the METASPEED Ray. It replaces the FF TURBO™ PLUS used in the previous version. Simply put, FF LEAP™ is ASICS’ most advanced foam yet—more dynamic, more resilient, and longer-lasting.
Underfoot, the dual-layer setup remains:
✔ Top layer (premium / race-level): FF LEAP™, lighter and more energetic
✔ Bottom layer (daily trainer): FF BLAST™ PLUS, designed to absorb impact
The result? A highly responsive yet protective platform that feels among the best on the market.
| More dynamic… yet still accessible
The Superblast has always been comfortable, but version 3 gains even more pop thanks to its trampoline pod under the forefoot. This technology—already proven in models like the Novablast—enhances rebound during toe-off.
When you pick up the pace—marathon effort, tempo, or a fast finish in a long run—the shoe responds immediately. Impact is absorbed by the FF BLAST™ PLUS layer and returned with controlled spring from the FF LEAP™ foam.
Even after 20 km, the shoe remains comfortable and lively thanks to its generous stack height. And despite the towering 46.5 mm, stability never feels compromised. The foam remains firm enough for controlled, confident strides.
Technical specs – SUPERBLAST 3
- Category: Super trainer (no carbon plate)
- Use: Easy runs, training, long runs
- Midsole: FF LEAP™ + FF BLAST™ PLUS
- Technology: Trampoline pod
- Surface: Road
- Level: All runners
- Weight: 239 g (men)
- Stack height: 46.5 mm / 38.5 mm
- Drop: 8 mm
- Available: March 1, 2026
- Price: $220
- Comparable models: Nike Vomero Plus, Brooks Hyperion Max 3
| Upper, grip, and design: reliable and refined
The upper remains similar to the previous version, with a slightly updated cord-style lacing system. There’s ample toe room and friction-free comfort. ASICS also continues its sustainability efforts, incorporating recycled polyester and using solution-dyed lining to reduce water consumption during production.
Underfoot, durable rubber is strategically placed in high-abrasion zones for dependable traction and longevity.
Aesthetically, ASICS leans into a cosmic theme: distorted logos, space-inspired colors, and a heel graphic symbolizing the emotion of crossing the finish line.
“Knowing that the SUPERBLAST 3 builds on a model runners already trust, we wanted to ensure this evolution truly elevates the experience. As the most innovative shoe in the BLAST family—now powered by the same next-generation FF LEAP™ foam as our elite METASPEED series—the SUPERBLAST 3 delivers a lighter, bouncier, more energizing stride.”
Paul Lang, Senior Global Product Manager, ASICS
| Superblast 3 vs Mega Blast: what’s the difference?
The comparison makes sense. The Superblast has long been ASICS’ premium daily trainer, ideal for everyday miles and active long runs. But with the arrival of the Mega Blast—which also uses an A-TPU foam (FF TURBO™ Squared)—the lineup became less clear.
The difference lies in ride feel:
✔ Mega Blast: More aggressive, lower-to-the-ground feel, better suited for faster sessions and experienced runners
✔ Superblast 3: More versatile and accessible, designed to handle everything
If you prefer a specialized rotation, the Mega Blast may complement your lineup. But if you want one shoe that truly does it all, the Superblast 3 remains the smarter choice.
| Who is it for?
The Superblast 3’s greatest strength is its versatility and accessibility. It can cover nearly every run of your week:
➜ Easy runs
➜ Recovery jogs
➜ Tempo sessions
➜ Active long runs
➜ Even race day (for 99% of runners)
You could realistically complete an entire marathon build—and race it—in this shoe. It especially shines at marathon and steady endurance paces.
Ideal for:
➜ Beginners seeking one do-it-all shoe (including racing)
➜ Experienced runners looking for a dynamic long-run option
➜ Fans of Superblast 1 and 2
➜ Runners wanting a max-cushion super trainer without carbon
| The ASICS rotation
Within ASICS’ lineup, the BLAST series dominates daily training performance:
➜ NOVABLAST™: Versatile daily trainer with FF BLAST MAX foam
➜ SONICBLAST™: Dynamic trainer with FF TURBO SQUARED and ASTROPLATE (PEBAX)
➜ SUPERBLAST™ 3: Premium ultra-versatile super trainer with FF LEAP
➜ MEGA BLAST™: High-performance premium trainer with FF TURBO™ SQUARED
For carbon-plated racing, the METASPEED Tokyo series and METASPEED Ray remain the go-to options.
| What really matters
The Superblast 3 doesn’t reinvent the formula—it refines it. Lighter, bouncier, and just as versatile, it builds on everything that made the franchise successful. FF LEAP™ adds extra energy. Weight drops. Stability remains controlled. Yes, versatility comes at a cost—the price climbs to $220. That stings a bit. But durability and quality remain top-tier.
Since its debut, the Superblast has defined the “super trainer” category. With version 3, the tradition continues. ASICS pushes the limits again—more cushioning, more energy, more distance, more speed. With its ultra-lightweight build, protective yet dynamic foam, and unmatched versatility, the Superblast 3 may well be one of the most complete running shoes on the market in 2026.
✔ The ASICS Superblast 3 will be available from March 1, 2026, for $220 on asics.com asics.com and at specialty retailers.
Clément LABORIEUX
Journalist
