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ASICS Sonicblast: Complete Review & Comparison Guide
In-depth review of the ASICS Sonicblast. See how it compares to similar plated tempo trainers, specs, pros, cons, and where to buy.

ASICS Sonicblast: Complete Review & Comparison Guide
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Check your local running store or online retailers for availability.
Overview
The ASICS Sonicblast is ASICS' plated tempo trainer—designed specifically for workout days when you want race-shoe snap without burning through your race flats. With a carbon fiber plate and responsive foam, the Sonicblast delivers the propulsive feel needed for tempo runs, intervals, and faster training.
This is the shoe that bridges the gap between comfortable trainers and race-day shoes. The Sonicblast gives you a taste of carbon plate performance while being durable enough for regular training use.
Key Specifications
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Category | Speed, Daily Trainer |
| Cushion Level | Moderate |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 8mm |
| Weight (Men's/Women's) | 8.2oz / 7.0oz |
| Stack Height | 40mm heel / 32mm forefoot |
| Pronation Support | Neutral |
| Width Options | Standard |
| MSRP | MSRP: $180 |
| Surface | Road |
What It's Known For
The Sonicblast brings carbon plate technology to tempo training. The plate provides snap and propulsion that makes faster running feel more efficient, while the moderate cushioning keeps the shoe comfortable enough for varied workouts.
At 8.2oz, it's light enough to feel fast but substantial enough to handle regular training miles without falling apart quickly.
Why Runners Love It
Pros
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Fast for Training: The carbon plate delivers race-shoe snap in a training-durable package.
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Carbon Plate Snap: Provides propulsive feel that makes tempo runs more efficient.
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Comfortable for Workouts: Works well for intervals, tempo runs, and longer fast efforts.
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Good Training Durability: Built to last through repeated workout sessions.
What Some Runners Don't Like
Cons
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Premium Price: At MSRP: $180, it's pricier than non-plated trainers.
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Stiff for Easy Runs: The carbon plate makes it less comfortable for recovery days.
Who Should Consider This Shoe
The ASICS Sonicblast is ideal for:
- Speed-focused runners who want plated performance for workouts
- Those who do regular tempo and interval sessions
- Runners training for 5K to half marathon distances
- Anyone wanting carbon plate feel without using race shoes
Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere
Consider other options if you:
- Primarily do easy, recovery runs
- Prefer soft, flexible trainers
- Want a do-everything daily trainer
- Are on a tight budget
How It Compares: Cross-Brand Comparison
| Shoe | Cushion | Drop | Weight (M) | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ASICS Sonicblast | Moderate | 8mm | 8.2oz | MSRP: $180 | Plated tempo training |
| Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 | High | 8mm | 7.6oz | MSRP: $170 | Versatile plated trainer |
| Nike Zoom Fly 6 | Moderate | 10mm | 9.0oz | MSRP: $170 | Plated tempo training |
| HOKA Mach X | Moderate | 5mm | 8.6oz | MSRP: $180 | Plated daily training |
| New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 | Moderate | 6mm | 8.2oz | MSRP: $140 | Unplated speed |
ASICS Lineup: Same-Brand Comparison
| Shoe | Cushion | Drop | Weight (M) | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ASICS Sonicblast | Moderate | 8mm | 8.2oz | MSRP: $180 | Plated tempo training |
| ASICS Superblast 2 | High | 8mm | 8.8oz | MSRP: $200 | Plated daily training |
| ASICS Megablast | High | 8mm | 8.5oz | MSRP: $200 | Maximum bounce |
| ASICS Novablast 5 | High | 8mm | 9.0oz | MSRP: $150 | Unplated bouncy training |
Final Verdict
The ASICS Sonicblast delivers carbon plate performance for tempo training without the guilt of wearing out race shoes. It's purpose-built for workout days when you want to feel fast and efficient.
For runners who do regular speed work and want plate-assisted performance, the Sonicblast is an excellent training tool.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Check your local running store or online retailers for availability.