ASICS Versablast

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ASICS Versablast: Review

β€œA lightweight and breathable shoe for the everyday runner.”

Overview


The ASICS Versablast is a running shoe designed for daily running on road surfaces. This shoe is known for its lightweight construction and sock-like fit, providing a comfortable experience for runners who prefer a close-to-ground feel.

Key Features:

  • Lightweight Design: At just 207g for men and 179g for women, the Versablast is built for speed and agility.
  • Sock-like Fit: The shoe's upper is designed to wrap around the foot for a snug, seamless feel.
  • Breathable Upper: The fabric used in the upper ensures good ventilation, keeping feet cool during runs.
  • Durable Outsole: The rubber compound used in the outsole offers traction and longevity, even on hard surfaces.

The ASICS Versablast is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize a lightweight and breathable shoe for shorter distances. Its durable outsole offers reliable performance, making it suitable for both competitive races and casual jogs.

Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently in the most expensive 30% of running shoes today.

Verdict

The consensus on the ASICS Versablast


The ASICS Versablast has carved out a niche for itself among lightweight running shoes suitable for short to medium distances. Its design is praised for the sock-like fit and breathability, which are particularly beneficial during warm weather runs. However, it may not be the best choice for those seeking a shoe with substantial arch support or a cushioned ride for longer distances. The Versablast shines in its affordability and durability, making it a cost-effective option for runners on a budget. While it may not provide the bounce some runners seek, it remains a solid choice for beginners and those looking for a reliable daily trainer.

Updates to ASICS Versablast


The ASICS Versablast continues the brand's tradition of providing reliable, everyday running shoes. While it maintains the core features that runners have come to expect from the ASICS Versablast family, it stands out for its lightweight design and breathable upper, making it a go-to choice for those looking for a no-fuss running companion.

Comparable Shoes


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The ASICS Novablast 2 is a good alternative for runners seeking more cushioning and a bouncier ride compared to the Versablast. It's ideal for those who prefer a plush feel during longer runs.

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Runners in need of a stability shoe will find the ASICS Kayano 28 to be a better fit than the Versablast. The Kayano series provides additional support for overpronators or those with flat feet.

6 ASICS Versablast Pros & Cons


3 Pros

The ASICS Versablast is praised for its lightweight design, making it ideal for runners who prioritize speed and agility during their runs.
Its sock-like fit and breathable upper contribute to a comfortable running experience, especially in warmer climates.
The durable outsole with added protection in high-wear areas ensures the shoe's longevity, even with regular use.

3 Cons

The shoe's cushioning may not be sufficient for runners looking for a plush ride during longer runs.
Lack of significant arch support may be a drawback for runners who require more structured support in their footwear.
The Versablast's breathability, while a pro in warm weather, could lead to cooler feet in colder conditions.

In Depth


Upper

The upper of the ASICS Versablast is crafted to provide a sock-like feel, which is appreciated by runners for its comfort and seamless fit. The fabric used is also highly breathable, making it an excellent choice for running in warmer climates. However, this same feature might lead to cooler feet in colder weather, something to consider for those who run in varying temperatures.

Midsole

The midsole of the Versablast is designed for short to medium runs, offering a level of cushioning that is adequate for distances up to 10 miles. While it may not have the plushness of some of its counterparts, it provides a stable and responsive ride that many runners find sufficient for their daily training needs.

Outsole

Durability is a key strength of the ASICS Versablast, with the outsole featuring a tough rubber in high-wear areas. This design choice extends the shoe's lifespan, even when used frequently on hard road surfaces. The grip provided by the outsole ensures a secure footing, which is crucial for maintaining pace and stability during runs.

Size/fit

The Versablast is noted for its true-to-size fit, which is a crucial aspect for runners when selecting a new shoe. The medium toe box accommodates a range of foot shapes, ensuring comfort without compromising on the snug, supportive feel that is characteristic of the shoe's overall design.

Comfort

Comfort in the ASICS Versablast is achieved through its lightweight design and breathable upper, which together create a pleasant running experience. The shoe's construction minimizes unnecessary weight, allowing for a more natural stride and reducing fatigue over shorter distances.

Cushioning

Cushioning in the Versablast is modest, catering to runners who prefer a firmer ride or do not require extensive padding for their chosen distances. While it may not be the top pick for those seeking a cushioned shoe for longer runs, it holds up well for its intended use in shorter outings.

Breathability

The ASICS Versablast excels in breathability, thanks to the ventilated upper that keeps feet cool and dry. This feature is particularly advantageous in hot weather, ensuring comfort throughout the run. However, runners might want to pair it with warmer socks when temperatures drop.

Stability

Stability in the Versablast is adequate for a neutral running shoe, providing a secure base without the need for additional support structures. This makes it suitable for runners with neutral pronation who do not require corrective features in their footwear.

Durability

The ASICS Versablast is built to last, with extra protection in areas prone to wear, such as the toe box. The durable materials used in the shoe's construction contribute to its longevity, making it a reliable choice for regular runners.

Grip

The grip on the Versablast's outsole is noteworthy, offering reliable traction on road surfaces. This ensures a confident running experience, with less risk of slipping and the ability to maintain a consistent pace.

Who should buy the ASICS Versablast?


The ASICS Versablast is well-suited for runners seeking a lightweight and breathable shoe for their everyday training. It's an excellent option for those who enjoy short to medium distance runs and prefer a close-to-ground feel without excessive cushioning.

Who should not buy the ASICS Versablast?


Runners in search of a shoe with ample cushioning for long distances or those requiring significant arch support might want to explore alternatives. The ASICS Versablast may not meet the needs of individuals with specific support requirements or those training for longer races where a more cushioned shoe could be beneficial.

ASICS Versablast: What's it good for?


The ASICS Versablast is particularly good for short to medium distance runs on road terrain. Its lightweight design and breathable upper make it a strong contender for runners who value speed and comfort during their daily workouts.

4 ASICS Versablast FAQs


Is the ASICS Versablast suitable for long-distance running?

The ASICS Versablast is designed primarily for short to medium distances. While it offers a comfortable and lightweight ride, runners planning for longer distances might prefer a shoe with more cushioning.

How does the ASICS Versablast perform in hot weather?

The breathable upper of the ASICS Versablast makes it an excellent choice for running in hot weather, as it helps to keep the feet cool and dry.

Can the ASICS Versablast be used for races?

Yes, the ASICS Versablast can be used for short running races, such as 1 mile to 10 kilometers, due to its lightweight design and responsive feel.

What type of support does the ASICS Versablast offer?

The ASICS Versablast is a neutral running shoe, offering a stable ride without additional support structures. It's best suited for runners with neutral pronation.

ASICS Versablast alternatives

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ASICS Versablast
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ASICS Versablast
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similarity
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released
Released
Dec 2020
Feb 2015Apr 2017Jul 2014Apr 2017Nov 2015
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Expert Review Score
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Weight
Weight
M: 207 g
W: 179 g
M: 218 g
W: 181 g
M: 232 g
W: 179 g
M: 213 g
W: 179 g
M: 238 g
W: 190 g
M: 249 g
W: 207 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
13 mm
18 mm
16 mm
17 mm
M: 20 mm
W: 18 mm
20 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
10 mm
10 mm
8 mm
6 mm
8 mm
4 mm
Heel
Heel
23 mm
28 mm
24 mm
23 mm
M: 28 mm
W: 26 mm
24 mm
Usages
Usages
Daily running
Daily runningSpeed trainingDaily runningDaily runningDaily runningDaily running
Brand
Brand
ASICS
NikeNikeNikeNikeNike
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
Lightweight
LightweightLightweightLightweightLightweightLightweightLow drop
Techs
Techs
Nike FlyknitNike FlyknitNike Flyknit
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
Vegan β“‹Vegan β“‹Vegan β“‹
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ASICS Versablast characteristics and specifications

Specificationsvs Average
Released
Dec 2020
Measurements
Weight
M: 207 g
W: 179 g
Heel to toe drop
10 mm
Heel
23 mm
Forefoot
13 mm

Evolution of the ASICS Versablast product family

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AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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