Megablast 1 vs Superblast 2

The Asics Megablast is the brand's big, bouncy super trainer: a plateless max-stack running shoe that sits above the Superblast as the softer, taller, more cushioned option in the line. There is no carbon plate here, so the propulsion comes purely from a huge 46mm heel of FF Turbo Squared foam and the shape of the sole. That makes it a versatile do-everything trainer rather than a pure speed tool. It soaks up easy miles, holds a long run together, and still has enough energy return to lift into a steady tempo when you want it. At 230g it is not light for a trainer, and at £229 it is priced like a race shoe, so it asks a lot up front. But if you want one cushioned shoe that covers most of your week without a plate dictating the ride, the Megablast makes a strong case. We rate it as a premium daily-to-long-run trainer with real pop.

The Asics Superblast 2 is the rare running shoe that does almost everything, and does it well. It is a super trainer, not a racer, with a towering, springy midsole and no carbon plate, yet it still has the bounce and turnover most runners chase on plated shoes. We rate it as one of the most versatile daily trainers you can buy. At 249g it is not light for a no-plate shoe, but you forget the weight once that big stack starts rolling you forward. Easy miles feel plush, long runs feel protected, and a tempo or a half marathon brings out a genuinely lively ride. The catch is the price: at an RRP of £200 it sits in race-shoe territory, so it asks a lot up front for a do-it-all trainer. If you want one premium shoe for most of your week, this is the one to beat. Those after pure daily value should look at the cheaper Asics Novablast 5.