Asics Superblast vs. New Balance SC Trainer vs. Adidas Prime X Strung | Between THREE Shoes

Wow, this is quite the showdown. Thomas and Meaghan give you their thoughts on the three supermax cushion shoes (over 40 mm stack height) on the market right now. You know you can count on us to give our honest thoughts, so here you have it.
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[@alexkhan2000]

I have the Prime X Strung now and it's the most incredible running shoe I've ever tried. It's mind-blowing and I've put in 50 miles on it in lesser than a week because I just can't stop running in it. I would have put in more miles but I have a job and family to look after. haha The ride and the fun factor of the Prime X Strung is totally off the charts. There is just nothing like it. It's in a category of its own. It's best for long distances at marathon pace and doing tempo but it's actually quite versatile for what it is. It's bouncy, energetic, exciting, and propulsive for speed work with the max cushioning it provides for max protection, but I also found that it rides great at relaxed or slower paces. Definitely the 'Shoe of the Year' for me and by a large margin. After trying on the SC Trainer at home after receiving it by walking around and running in place at home and deciding that I didn't like it, I mulled it over and decided to give it another try half-size down because it may have been a fit issue. After returning the first one that was US 8.5 size, I ordered again for 8 and the fit was much better. Then, I took it out on some runs and I've put in 20+ miles on it now and, I have to say, I like it a lot. I don't absolutely love it like I do with the Prime X Strung but these are two totally different kinds of shoes except for the massive stack height. The Prime X Strung is more for speed and tempo for long distances while the SC Trainer is for easy/recovery long runs although it can do brisk paces comfortably as well. What still holds the SC Trainer back is the bulk and weight. You don't want to go too long with this. After 7~8 miles, you start feeling the bulk and weight more and it starts dragging you down. For me, 8 miles is the max that I'd want to run with the SC Trainer. With the Prime X Strung, it's marathon distance or even longer. As for the Superblast, even though I really like the Novablast 3, I'm not intrigued by it. Just not sure where or how this fits in my rotation. The Prime X Strung and SC Trainer both have their clear individual purpose. The Superblast, in comparison, just seems reactionary without a clear purpose laid out. I'll wait for more reviews as I'm a fan of the Novablast 3 and the Gel-Nimbus Lite 3, but this one doesn't excite me. As of now, it's just "Meh"... Just looking at it, it looks like a ballooned-up Novablast 3 but with different layers of midsole stack. I find the Novablast 3 "dragging" enough with its wide and bulky heel base, so more of the same with a higher midsole stack isn't all that appealing. But, I'm not going to know until I try it, so I'll just pass on the Superblast for now.

[@ericyu7091]

Nice write up and breakdown! You should have a running blog / website or KZbin channel. I will definitely follow !

[@jaredgoh9772]

Closed my eyes bought the NB, no regret

[@JIMZILA]

I bought the original prime x about 3 months ago. Loved it so much I bought the prime x strung about 2 weeks ago. These shoes can be used for pretty much anything. However, I primarily use them for long runs 10miles and up. My legs feel good after the run. At first , I didn't want to get because of the price,but but my legs thank me after every run. No more beat up legs after long challenging workouts. The continental rubber is resilient, I can barely notice the wear on my 3month pair. You won't regret these premium shoes!

[@BenediktusAndreSetyawan]

Did the original prime x and the strung version giving you that significantly different feeling on the upper?

[@oktaviu8668]

@@BenediktusAndreSetyawan I have both and the Strung Upper is more comfortable and it gives you more space for the toes in the forefoot. But I don't dislike any of the uppers. The midsole and the outsole are 100% the same

[@connie6635]

Really appreciate this video! Most other comparison videos are only looking at Superblast vs Novablast 3, but I wanted to see some analysis of "premium max-cushion" options like this

[@michaelhaney1357]

Picked up the SuperBlast at the NYC Marathon Expo. It really does have daily trainer feel which is a good thing. Feels more versatile than the Nike Invincibles I was using for my plodding miles and has more protection than the Novablast 3 for longer runs.

[@davidlundy9142]

perfect explanation

[@PlabonMondal]

Is it durable?

[@michaelhaney1357]

I got injured so too soon to tell as I only have 50 miles on them. No sign of wear. Will have a better idea next month.

[@nubetre]

What an excellent new video notification to get this morning.

[@MattSwain1]

I’ve only tried one of the three but I’m super happy with my choice of the Prime X Strung. You folks in the States seem to be getting robbed on the price because with current exchange rates (and a discount) I paid closer to the equivalent of 220USD here in the UK which affects the equation a lot. I’ve used them for all of my runs since getting them because I like them so much, fast intervals, easy runs, long runs, everything. I’ll add that I’m a very average runner (10-11 minute miles for my longer runs) so they’re not just for fast runners. There was definitely some instability at first, but whether I’ve made adjustments to my running, or maybe got a little stronger in the ankles from wearing them, I hardly notice that now (after 60+ miles). They just feel great to bounce along in!

[@stephanvonwolf5666]

I'm not even a runner, I'm disabled because of back issues and these double the amount of time I can spend on my feet. But I've had the exact same experience as you. While the instability never goes completely away it does largely go away the more you wear them. I think your balance gets more used to it and I think you feel some stronger muscle groups in your ankles? I always imagine it's probably something like when a woman tries to learn how to wear high heel shoes? It may be a little rough at first but eventually it comes together for them? That was an awesome comment by the way! They're not just for the elite Runner, they're for everybody. If you know anybody with severe back pain I highly encourage you to encourage them to start trying out some Super Shoes probably starting with the Hoka Bondi 8

[@daddyV88]

It’s not bad here in the US either because the adidas app has regular 50% off sales. I got the prime x for $150

[@alexkhan2000]

I tried the SC Trainer and didn't like it - too bulky, heavy, and squishy *for me*. Returned it almost right away. Same with the More v4. For squish and bounce, I'm happy with the Incredible Run 2, Novablast, 3, Clifton 8, and 1080 v12 in the easy/recovery category and didn't feel the SC Trainer and More v4 really added anything better. I do like the Rebel v3 though - great for short speed work. I should receive the Prime X Strung in about a week and I'm very excited as I really like the Adios Pro 3 and the Takumi Sen 8 for speed and racing. There's something about the adidas's Lightstrike Pro foam that I really like compared to other midsole foams from other brands. I'm not concerned about the Prime X Strung's stack height or instability at all. People complain about the VaporFly's stability but it's never been an issue for me. I love the Novablast 3 and it's my daily trainer workhorse along with the Endorphin Speed 3, but I'm on the fence with the Superblast for now. Not sure how and where it'd fit in my rotation. I have a pretty good idea of how I'll use the Prime X Strung based on my experience with Adios Pro 3 and Takumi Sen 8, both which I love and enjoy very much.

[@crazyjds]

Between the 3 got the NB sc trainer. Why? 2e and heck it’s on sale for $95!

[@ketanmamtora4693]

Thanks guys! How about superblast vs. new balance more v4? Both are non-plated max cushion.

[@stephanvonwolf5666]

Something tells me that the more V4 wouldn't stand a chance? I have the V3 and it's just not very impressive at all.

[@Believeintherun]

More v4 is soft and spongy. Excellent for recovery runs and people that just want comfort. The superblast is more responsive and versatile.

[@Ak-ig8os]

Prime x I am loving this shoe

[@spenceraronfeld4456]

Thomas you cannot not pick one - I’d pick the Adidas ❤

[@simonecarniglia4870]

What's the best shoe for long runs where you have to do some km at Marathon, Halfs Marathon and even faster paces during marathon build-up? These may fit that spot....I love my Invincibles and ZoomX foam foe Easy Long runs but they cannot go that fast....I am intrigued by the Superblast for that purpose

[@paddywiggle]

That’s exactly what this shoe is for

[@Believeintherun]

The superblast or prime x would work. I might give a slight edge to the prime x for faster paces.

[@TheJoelys86]

Yo Thomas, where did you get that jacket? I need that one in my life.

[@Believeintherun]

It’s smartwool and unfortunately I ripped it right after this. I loved it, now it will be my throw away at the nyc marathon 😞

[@Hurts4MVP1]

Hi Meaghan or Thomas, how can we purchase some BITR or Faster Bastard merch? I see some neat merch behind you!!!

[@Believeintherun]

The website has a shop Believeintherun.com

[@cfreeze3691]

Just copped the SC trainer for 119 on discount

[@13lars]

I was asked from a new runner, whit slightly wider feet, witch shoes 2 chose. My tip was Novablast/superblast, Speed 3 and if ur little into speed, Puma Deviate elite nitro 2. Other Sugestions?

[@sufuhashim2092]

Thanks👍🏾

[@duncanpowell5322]

The AHAR plus rubber wouldn't need to be that good to be better than Novablast. It's treacherous

[@MattRunsColorado]

Don't love this category of shoe. Seems unnecessary in a shoe rotation. Thanks for the comparison!

[@ericyu7091]

I think the prime X shrug fits into category of those 16+ miles @ MP pace or tempo workout especially on not too fresh legs and you don’t want to waste the miles on your carbon plated racers like Alphafly or pro 3 or vaporfly. Perfect for those long marathon training blocks especially on those peak weeks

[@MarS-dc2qx]

What about the Nike ones

[@paulmulks]

Guys is it just the upper that has changed on the Prime X? Or have they changed anything in the design of the shoe? I had the OG Prime X but had to sell it as it caused me nothing but shin problems. I really want to try that SC trainer

[@Believeintherun]

Just the upper, but it changed the game for us.

[@stephanvonwolf5666]

That's a really good question! It appears to me that they have widened or flared out the rear midsole? I don't know why they don't increase it further, the only thing in the way of that being the world's greatest shoe is the instability which could easily be fixed with higher side walls and a more flared midsole at the rear. It seems like a no-brainer?

[@shahzadabbasi4667]

Where u people r base?

[@Believeintherun]

Baltimore

[@filoIII]

Adidas Prime X Strung is a no-go being unstable.

[@13lars]

Hi. Im a pronator. Im very picky on shoes. 2 supershoes that worked for me is; Prime-x strung and Endorphine pro 3. It have support. Running at 5-6 min/km

[@ob9400]

ASIC’s SB not worth $220 at all total waist of the money

[@MarS-dc2qx]

New balance shoes are cheap

[@marciobiza9384]

[@wilfredo-teyrosalesfotos]

Great breakdown of the super max category. Y’all did warn us last year that this category was coming after the first Prime X now it’s an arms race and I am here for it 😂

[@ksteege]

Lots of fun - I love the SC trainer and although it is heavy for sure I have done longish double digit runs and done faster workouts in it as well - the upper is just perfect in that it just melts away for me it locks the show in place so that it basically becomes a part of my foot. I do realize that its different for all, but s far every person I have recommended this to has bought and loved it so its not just me.

[@tazpengra]

currently shopping for a new long run/recovery shoe, so this is appreciated. I tried the regular PrimeX last year and it made my hip hurt after just a few miles; trying to keep my foot on top of the midsole (no cradle or other support to keep it in place, foot wanted to slip off laterally unless I altered my gait). NovaBlast dug into my achilles, I assume this is a similar upper on the SuperBlast. Tried the SC Trainer in a store the other day, half size up cuz NB runs short, and they felt great. I'll probably be getting those, but I wish they'd change that fugly giant N logo. The Rebel-1 had a nice look to it.

[@thejeffinvade]

I got the old prime X on sale for $120 USD. So bouncy. It’s my go to long run shoe now.

[@mortenfogh7228]

Most of these shoes are lighter than cushioned shoes from 3-5+ years ago. For training, most of your readers won't find a big difference between the weight of each shoe you are showing. It's not a detail that should decide which shoe you buy of these three. They will all work well for most people.

[@DingoDirk88]

I certainly notice the weight difference between the SC and the Prime X. It's immediately noticeable IMO

[@Jeancnantes]

The supercomp is true to size?

[@stephanvonwolf5666]

What an awesome idea! I only wish it was longer? Anyway to redo that with a longer version that's more in-depth on the shoes. I watched everything out put out so I've seen the one videos on each of the individual shoes and they were remarkably good. I have Asperger's and one of my Asperger's special interest is sneakers and I watch every single show out there, up to three or four hours a day some days pretty much 7 days a week. You guys are my favorite. You're just down to earth and comfortable to listen to people. Or at least you appear to be. Lol! My only disappointment in the video and something you could easily probably redo is where is the vapor fly and or the alpha fly? It is the one glaring exception from the runners wet dream video that y'all just put out "between three shoes". Such excellent material to work with and yell only made 7 minutes. I'm sure that's harder than it looks. But it just wasn't enough for this shoe Junkie. Lol! And I was super curious to see where the vapor fly or the Alpha fly would fit in and which of the two you would use? My guess is the alpha fly? Such a great time to be alive if you are a sneakerhead! :-) By the way I have an outside the box to use for you. I'm not a runner I have seven herniated discs in my spine from getting hit by a drunk driver. I was only 16 years old riding on a moped and I'm now 54 dealing with chronic back pain. After trying my first Super Shoe which was the hookah Bondi 7 I realized that I could double the amount of time I could spend on my feet wearing such shoes. While I'm kind of poor I do struggle to try and buy as many different Super Shoes as I can get my hands on for a healthy rotation hopefully making them last longer? I just can't say enough good things about you guys! We love you! We love you! We love you! Thank you so much for what you do! Your truly, Stephan von Wolf :-)

[@Believeintherun]

Thanks for the kind words Stephan. It sounds like you love shoes as much as we do.

[@filoIII]

Reports are the Super and Novablast are horrawful in the rain. SLICK!

[@michaeltran2743]

Ran in the rain this morning. Wasn’t bad at all. Although I was more cautious with my steps

[@jaysiebenmorgen4249]

What do you guys define as an easy run? Pace vs distance?

[@Believeintherun]

Effort makes for an easy run. Our training has easy effort miles, workouts, tempo runs, and long runs. Easy effort means your heart rate is lower, your breathing isn’t labored, you can hold a conversation.

[@michaeltran2743]

Just got the superblast in. Now I have all 3 pairs 😂

[@Ben-yw8be]

I can only speak for the Superblast. The price is justified due to the verstatility of the shoe. It does well in so many things. It is light for its stack and also very stable. It doesn’t feel mushy. It feels like you are in a trampoline. Really good for tempo efforts and even marathon efforts for non-elites. It takes care of your feet after a long run. I don’t feel as sore the next day.