Too Many Blasts?
Last year I got a chance to see the fall 2025 lineup from Asics and I remember thinking how silly it was for all these new shoes with “blast” in the name. In the last few weeks we’ve seen the release of the MegaBlast and SonicBlast with more Blasts coming. As an old school runner the amount of specificity in these new lines becomes muddled and confusing.
In just the last few years we’ve added new categories: performance trainers, super shoes, plated trainers, and everyday shoes with foams that used to be reserved for race day. While I always get excited to try out new models, at times it gets hard to keep them separated.
How I Tested Them
In the last two weeks I took the MegaBlast and SonicBlast out for two runs each to see how they compared. Both went on an 18 to 20 mile long run with some faster miles built in, and both did a 6 to 7 mile tempo run.
I’ll admit I took both pairs out for their maiden voyage on the long run without ever trying them on first. That is a terribly bad idea that could have gone south quickly, especially since I’m still not totally over an Achilles injury. But both pairs caused me zero Achilles issues, sizing issues, bunion issues, hot spots, or blisters. A risky move that could have backfired, but Asics passed the test here.
MegaBlast: Cushioned Miles
The MegaBlast felt closer to what I was used to in the SuperBlast. It was airy, light, and bouncy. I felt like I could run a long way in them. They had that forefoot pop I’ve liked in models like the NovaBlast or even the new GT2000.
There is a ton of cushion and it felt great on the long run. I really enjoyed the feel halfway through 18 miles. On the shorter tempo run, though, the cushion felt like too much. It wasn’t overly soft or sinky, but softer than I’d prefer when I wanted to run fast.
SonicBlast: My Cup of Tea
The SonicBlast was more my style. I’ve been running in the Brooks Hyperion Max and liked it, and the SonicBlast felt like Asics’ version of that.
I have a hard time finding shoes that are firm but comfortable. So many shoes today have an overabundance of cushion, and I feel lost in them. My stride becomes unnatural, like the shoe is doing the running and I’m just along for the ride.
The SonicBlast blended traditional and new. It almost reminded me of an old school flat. It was great for forefoot striking, not overly cushioned, and not reliant on rocker geometry.
The 20 miles I ran in them was the best run I’ve had all year. I dropped pace from just under 8:00 down to almost 6:00 over 20 miles, felt great, and stayed in control. At 180 dollars I think it’s priced well against competitors like the Hoka Mach X. It feels like a legitimate Baltimore Marathon option for me — no plate, just a shoe that compliments my stride instead of altering it.
Who Each Shoe Fits
Most people are probably going to like the MegaBlast. It has done really well for us at the store, and there is a lot to like. You pick it up and it feels fast. If I hadn’t tried the SonicBlast I’d probably be right there too.
For me, the MegaBlast is best for someone who wants light, bouncy, high cushion for long mileage. The SonicBlast is for someone who prefers lower stack, a firmer ride, and a shoe that lets them run naturally.
Either way, Asics is putting out some killer shoes right now, and we’re lucky to have options that are both new and focused.
