ASICS MEGABLAST Review
The max-cushioned running shoe category has become one of the most competitive segments in the industry, with brands racing to build shoes that offer exceptional comfort without sacrificing performance. ASICS enters that conversation with the MEGABLAST, its highest-stacked and most cushioned daily trainer to date.
Unlike the Gel-Nimbus 27, which focuses on plush comfort, or the Superblast 2, which blends speed with versatility, the MEGABLAST aims to deliver both maximum protection and surprising responsiveness by utilizing the same premium FF TURBO²™ foam found in ASICS’ elite racing lineup.
On paper, it sounds like the perfect long-run companion. But does it live up to the hype?
Let’s dive in.
ASICS MEGABLAST Specs
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Neutral Max-Cushion Daily Trainer |
| Weight | 230 g / 8.1 oz (Men’s US 9) |
| Stack Height | 46 mm heel / 38 mm forefoot |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 8 mm |
| Midsole | FF TURBO²™ |
| Plate | None |
| Upper | Engineered Woven Upper |
| Outsole | ASICSGRIP™ Rubber |
| Surface | Road |
| Support | Neutral |
| Price | $225 USD |
Pros
- Exceptionally lightweight for its massive stack height
- Premium FF TURBO²™ cushioning feels energetic and protective
- Smooth rocker geometry promotes effortless transitions
- Comfortable upper with excellent lockdown
- Stable platform despite towering cushioning
- Excellent long-run comfort
Cons
- Premium $225 price tag
- Less nimble than lightweight trainers
- May feel overly soft for runners who prefer a firmer ride
How We Tested
We evaluated the ASICS MEGABLAST across a variety of runs, focusing on:
- Easy daily miles
- Recovery runs
- Long runs
- Moderate uptempo efforts
- Dry and wet pavement
- Overall comfort, stability, cushioning, traction, and versatility
First Impressions
The MEGABLAST immediately looks enormous.
Its towering 46 mm stack gives it one of the tallest profiles in the ASICS lineup, yet the surprisingly low weight makes it feel much smaller once you pick it up.
Step-in comfort is outstanding. The engineered woven upper wraps the foot comfortably while the thick slab of FF TURBO² foam creates an incredibly soft first impression without feeling unstable.
Unlike many oversized trainers, the shoe feels surprisingly refined.
Ride
The ride is exactly what you’d expect from a shoe carrying premium FF TURBO² foam—but with more stability than many super-soft competitors.
At slower paces, the cushioning absorbs impact effortlessly, making recovery days feel exceptionally smooth.
As the pace increases, the MEGABLAST responds better than expected. While it isn’t designed to replace a dedicated speed shoe, the lightweight construction and energetic foam allow it to comfortably handle steady runs and marathon pace efforts.
The rocker geometry also deserves praise, helping the shoe roll naturally through each stride without requiring extra effort.
Midsole
The star of the show is unquestionably the midsole.
ASICS equips the MEGABLAST with a full-length slab of FF TURBO²™, the same premium foam used in its flagship racing models.
The result is a combination rarely found in max-cushioned trainers:
- Exceptional impact protection
- Noticeable energy return
- Lightweight feel
- Smooth transitions
Despite the generous amount of foam, the wide platform keeps the ride feeling surprisingly planted through corners and longer efforts.
Upper
The engineered woven upper strikes an excellent balance between comfort and security.
Highlights include:
- Highly breathable construction
- Comfortable heel padding
- Secure midfoot lockdown
- Accommodating forefoot
- Minimal pressure across the top of the foot
The upper disappears during the run—exactly what you want from a premium daily trainer.
Outsole
The ASICSGRIP™ outsole provides dependable traction across a variety of surfaces.
During testing it inspired confidence on:
- Dry pavement
- Wet roads
- Bike paths
- Light gravel
Rubber coverage is generous for such a lightweight shoe, suggesting above-average durability for high-mileage runners.
Fit & Sizing
The ASICS MEGABLAST fits true to size.
The heel feels secure, the midfoot wraps comfortably, and the forefoot provides enough room for natural toe splay without feeling sloppy.
Most runners should order their normal ASICS running shoe size.
Performance
Easy Runs
Outstanding.
This is where the MEGABLAST feels most at home. The soft cushioning significantly reduces impact while keeping transitions smooth and natural.
Rating: 10/10
Long Runs
Perhaps its greatest strength.
The combination of FF TURBO² foam and lightweight construction keeps legs feeling fresher deep into longer efforts.
Rating: 10/10
Recovery Runs
Excellent.
The shoe excels at relaxed efforts where comfort is the primary objective.
Rating: 10/10
Tempo Runs
Better than expected.
Although not a plated trainer, the energetic foam allows the shoe to comfortably handle moderate uptempo running.
Rating: 8.5/10
Comparisons
ASICS MEGABLAST vs Superblast 2
The Superblast 2 remains the more versatile option for runners wanting one shoe to handle nearly every workout. The MEGABLAST shifts the focus toward maximum comfort and protection while still maintaining respectable responsiveness.
Choose the Superblast 2 if: you regularly run workouts and tempo sessions.
Choose the MEGABLAST if: comfort and long-run protection are your priorities.
ASICS MEGABLAST vs Gel-Nimbus 27
The Gel-Nimbus offers a softer, more traditional daily trainer experience.
The MEGABLAST feels lighter, more energetic, and significantly more responsive thanks to FF TURBO² foam.
ASICS MEGABLAST vs Nike Vomero Premium
Both shoes target runners seeking maximum cushioning.
The Nike Vomero Premium provides an ultra-soft rolling sensation through its Zoom Air system, while the MEGABLAST feels lighter, more stable, and more responsive thanks to its premium foam.
Who Should Buy the ASICS MEGABLAST?
Buy this shoe if you:
- Want ASICS’ most cushioned trainer.
- Run high weekly mileage.
- Prioritize comfort on long runs.
- Prefer lightweight max-cushion shoes.
- Need extra impact protection.
Look elsewhere if you:
- Primarily run intervals or track workouts.
- Want a firmer, more connected ride.
- Prefer lower-stack daily trainers.
Verdict
The ASICS MEGABLAST successfully bridges the gap between traditional max-cushioned trainers and premium super trainers.
Instead of simply adding more foam, ASICS pairs its elite FF TURBO²™ midsole with a lightweight platform that feels remarkably energetic for a shoe with a 46 mm stack height. The result is one of the most comfortable long-run shoes the brand has ever produced, without feeling sluggish or cumbersome.
At $225, it sits firmly in the premium category, but runners seeking exceptional comfort, reduced fatigue, and a highly protective ride will find plenty to like. While dedicated speed sessions are better left to plated trainers or the Superblast 2, the MEGABLAST excels at exactly what it was designed for: making daily miles, recovery runs, and long efforts feel easier.
Overall Rating: 9.6/10
| Category | Score |
|---|---|
| Cushioning | 10/10 |
| Comfort | 10/10 |
| Responsiveness | 9/10 |
| Stability | 9.5/10 |
| Fit | 9.5/10 |
| Durability | 9/10 |
| Value | 8.5/10 |
| Overall | 9.6/10 |
Like this article? Please leave a comment below and tell us what you think and also let us know what’d you like to see us cover next in our Value Guide series. Make sure you subscribe below for more!
You must be logged in to post a comment.