Superblast 3 vs Mach X 3

The Superblast 3 is the softest, bounciest Superblast yet, with a top layer of FF Leap over FF Blast Plus. On paper that means plenty of cushioning for not much weight, at 235g with no plate, and Ben Parkes says it may be the most comfortable long-run shoe they've worn.

What you give up is steadiness. Several reviewers found it wobblier on corners and as their legs tired, and one UK reviewer who preferred the firmer Superblast 2 now sends people to the Megablast instead. Most reviews still rank the Superblast 3 among the best super trainers you can buy, and one lab rated its grip the best it had tested.

We'd pick it as a marathon-training and long-run shoe for neutral runners who want a soft, lively ride. If you like a firm, planted shoe, it probably isn't for you. At £200 RRP it's one of the dearest trainers Asics makes, so check the price table before you buy.

The Mach X 3 is Hoka's do-it-all super trainer, the shoe you reach for when one pair has to cover the tempo session on Tuesday and the long run at the weekend. A Pebax plate sits inside a tall 44mm heel and 39mm forefoot stack, so you get a snappy, rolling ride without the harsh, race-only feel of a full carbon racing shoe. At 289g it is not light for the category, and you notice that on genuinely fast reps. What you get in return is versatility. It has enough cushioning to protect your legs over 20 miles and enough pop to hold marathon pace when you ask for it. Think of it as a workhorse with an extra gear rather than a pure speed tool. For runners who want a single plated trainer that does most jobs well, and who do not want to spend race-shoe money doing it, we rate the Mach X 3 highly. Just go in knowing it prioritises range over outright speed.