ASICS Sonicblast: Complete Review & Comparison Guide

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

Bob BodilyBob Bodily
3 min readShoes
ASICS Sonicblast: Complete Review & Comparison Guide

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

  • Fast for Training: The carbon plate delivers race-shoe snap in a training-durable package.

  • Carbon Plate Snap: Provides propulsive feel that makes tempo runs more efficient.

  • Comfortable for Workouts: Works well for intervals, tempo runs, and longer fast efforts.

  • Good Training Durability: Built to last through repeated workout sessions.

What Some Runners Don't Like

Cons

  • Premium Price: At MSRP: $180, it's pricier than non-plated trainers.

  • 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.

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