Sonicblast 2 vs Mach X 2

Fordy Runs calls it a big step up from the first version, and the spec sheet backs that up. The Sonicblast 2 keeps the layout of the first version (FF Turbo Squared on top, FF Blast Max underneath, a Pebax plate between them) but the plate is now forked, and reviewers say it's noticeably lighter and bouncier than before. It's a plated super trainer for tempo sessions, marathon-pace long runs and the odd race, not a soft shoe for recovery days.

Doctors of Running graded it A-, and another review's three testers liked the ride too, though all of them found it firm at easy pace. The catch is price. At £170 RRP it sits right beside the Superblast 3, which is still the better choice if you want one shoe for easy days as well as fast ones. If most of your running is at tempo or marathon pace, the Sonicblast is the sharper of the two, and it gets easier to recommend once it drops below full price in the table.

Heel rub is the first thing to know about the Mach X 2. Nearly every review mentions it: the heel collar is thin and unpadded, several testers got blisters in the first few runs, and another found it dug into the Achilles. Get past that and the ride is why people put up with it. It's a rockered, snappy super trainer that reviewers took from easy runs to track reps, and Believe in the Run graded its performance an A.

Doctors of Running were less convinced, finding it heavy for fast running and unstable for one of their testers. Hoka has since released the Mach X 3, which reviewers rate more highly, so the 2 makes most sense as a discounted buy. At £180 RRP it's hard to choose over its successor, but check the price table, because an older super trainer at a good discount is a different proposition.