Do Beginner Runners Need a Super Trainer? My Experience With the ASICS Superblast 2

 When I started running, I spent quite a bit of time researching my first pair of running shoes.

After reading reviews, I decided to go with ASICS. It seemed like a reliable choice for a beginner, and I found a lot of positive reviews. That was just my impression, though, and other runners might feel differently. At the time, I was looking at the Novablast 5, Superblast 2, and Megablast.

The Superblast 2 and Megablast were more expensive, and I kept wondering whether I really needed a super trainer when I was just starting out.

In the end, I decided I probably didn't, so I bought the Novablast 5. Looking back, I still think that was the right choice.

Why I Eventually Wanted Another Shoe

The Novablast 5 became my everyday running shoe. I trained in it regularly and even used it for a 10K race.

As I kept running, I started thinking about having more than one pair of shoes. I liked the idea of rotating between shoes instead of wearing the same pair every day. I also wanted something that might feel better suited for long runs, faster workouts, and races.

That brought me back to the Superblast 2. I wasn't looking to replace the Novablast 5. I wanted a second shoe that could serve a different purpose.

Why I Chose the Superblast 2

When I started looking for a second shoe, I was considering both the Superblast 2 and the Megablast. I had a chance to try them on in a store.

As a beginner runner, I couldn't really tell much difference between the two shoes when I tried them on. Around that time, the Superblast 3 was about to be released, and I found the Superblast 2 at a discounted price.

That helped me choose the Superblast 2 over the Megablast.

What I Noticed After About 80 Miles

I now have about 80 miles on my Superblast 2 and about 240 miles on my Novablast 5.

The biggest difference I notice is how the shoes feel when I run. Both shoes have a bouncy feel, but the Superblast 2 feels even bouncier and more responsive to me, which makes running in it more fun. The Novablast 5 feels a little softer, and I sometimes prefer that when my legs are tired.

I also noticed something about my left ankle during long runs. After running for more than an hour in the Novablast 5, my left ankle often felt more tired than my right. That made me pay closer attention to how my feet landed, and I noticed that my left ankle seemed to roll inward slightly.

Interestingly, when I ran longer distances in the Superblast 2, my left ankle didn't feel as tired afterward. I can't say whether the shoe itself made the difference, but it's something I've noticed from running in both shoes.

If there's one thing I don't particularly like about the Superblast 2, it's the way it looks. The shoe isn't especially heavy, but it looks a little too big and bulky on my feet. I enjoy running in it more than I enjoy looking at it.

Why I Like It for Race Day

These days, I mostly use the Superblast 2 for tempo runs, longer runs leading up to a race, and race days.

I especially enjoy its bouncy, responsive feel during races. Compared with a softer ride, it makes running feel more energetic and fun.

I've worn the Superblast 2 in both 10K and 15K races, and I was happy with my results. I wouldn't say the shoes were responsible for those results, but I really enjoyed racing in them.

For me, race day isn't just about running as fast as possible. I also want to enjoy the experience, and the Superblast 2 helps me do that.

Do Beginners Really Need a Super Trainer?

When I started running, I didn't really know what kind of training I would enjoy or what I wanted from a running shoe. The Novablast 5 was comfortable and worked well for almost everything I needed.

As I gained more experience, I started doing tempo runs, longer runs, and more races. I also learned more about the kind of ride I enjoyed. That's when the Superblast 2 started to make sense as a second shoe.

Looking back, I don't think I needed a super trainer when I first started running. But after about 80 miles in the Superblast 2, I'm glad I added one to my rotation.