#116 Are Super Trainers Worth It? A Review of the ASICS Superblast, with Comparisons

"Super trainers" are the latest trend in shoe design: a next-generation foam, a midsole height of over 40mm, and a stiff rocker (with or without a plate). These new shoes can be a ton of fun to run in with huge amounts of cushioning and energy return. However, they come with hefty price tags and unknown effects on running biomechanics. Matt & David explore this new category of shoes, specifically reviewing the new ASICS Superblast and comparing it to other offerings like the New Balance SC Trainer and Adidas Prime X. Wondering if these super trainers are for you? Have a listen! The Subjective: what do you make of these new super trainers? Chapters 0:00 - Intro 3:16 - How to define "super trainers" 8:30 - Lower-stack shoes with super foams 12:30 - ASICS Superblast Review 17:44 - Comparing the Superblast to the other max-stack super trainers 20:33 - Weighing the cost of super trainers 27:26 - What's the purpose for max-stack super trainers 31:02 - Who these shoes might not work for 34:10 - What's being done well with this new category 38:44 - How could these shoes be improved? 43:02 - Is there a point of diminishing returns for midsole height? 47:19 - Where this category is headed in the future 50:36 - Wrap up