Superblast 3 vs Deviate Pure Nitro 1

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 Deviate Pure Nitro is Puma's plateless super trainer, and it sits in a clever spot: most of the bounce of a race shoe, without the plate telling your legs what to do. It runs on a full PEBA Nitrofoam midsole with a 38mm heel and 30mm forefoot, an 8mm drop, and a listed 220g, so it is light for how much shoe you get underfoot. This is a fast everyday trainer rather than a marathon racer. It shines on tempo runs, progression runs and honest daily miles where you want a lively, energetic ride but still want your foot to do the steering. Because there is no carbon plate, it feels more natural and forgiving than a plated super trainer like the Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 4, which makes it easier to run slow in. If you want one bouncy running shoe that covers most of your week, this is a strong pick.