The Asics Sonicblast 2 is the second version of the first plated shoe in the Blast line: an explosive training partner with a ride close to the carbon rockets. The Asics Novablast 6 is a safe bet, one of the best daily trainers. Two complementary approaches, with a budget gap that matters: the Sonicblast is pricier, $35 more.
The Sonicblast 2 stacks FF Turbo² A-TPU over a layer of FF Blast Max, with a fork-shaped Pebax plate between the two. The feel is well balanced with a touch of firmness, and the propulsion gets genuinely close to the brand’s carbon-plated models.
The Novablast 6 carries over FF Blast Max and adds a block of FF Turbo² under the forefoot, with no plate: the feel is well balanced and leans plush, for a more flexible, less rigid ride.
The Sonicblast is taller, with the same standard 8 mm drop. On the scale it is a bit lighter, by almost 20 g / 0.7 oz.
Responsiveness is where the real difference shows up. The Sonicblast 2 is a lot of fun as soon as you pick up the pace: tempo workouts and marathon-pace stretches are a real pleasure. It still works really well on 400 m repeats thanks to the plate and the firmness. But it is less enjoyable on slow easy runs.
The Novablast 6 covers a wide range of paces and makes tempo workouts very enjoyable, while staying great on recovery runs. It is more limited on the sharp accelerations of short repeats.
Both uppers are excellent. The engineered mesh on the Sonicblast 2 breathes very well, with impressive comfort for a speed shoe and a precise lockdown (maybe a little too precise for some runners with wide feet). The new woven engineered mesh on the Novablast 6 is more structured than on the previous version, with impressive step-in comfort. Go with your usual size in both cases.
Day to day, both can take you to the marathon. The Novablast 6 even works for beginners, with a smooth transition and an undemanding ride. The Sonicblast 2 is not a shoe to start running in: its height and its propulsion ask for a bit of experience.
Sonicblast 2 vs Novablast 6: Which Should You Choose?
For most runners, the Novablast 6: versatile, forgiving and cheaper.
The Sonicblast 2 is the obvious pick if you want a partner to pick up the pace in training or racing.
