Saucony Paramount Max vs ASICS Superblast 3

Paramount Max or Superblast 3? Here’s how they compare on feel, fit, brand specs and price, from the fitting team at The Run House.

The short answer

Want the bounciest, deepest cushion for easy miles? Get the Paramount Max.

Want a light, max-stack trainer that can do it all? Get the Superblast 3.

Get the Paramount Max if

• You want more bounce and energy back
• You like a flexible, natural-feeling forefoot
• You prefer a lower drop (6mm vs 8mm)

Get the Superblast 3 if

• You’ll use it for tempo runs and workouts
• You like a bit more structure under the forefoot
• You want the lighter shoe, by about 2.2 oz
• You like a higher heel-to-toe drop (8mm vs 6mm)

On the run

Paramount Max: Explosively bouncy max cushion. Extremely deep, soft cushioning with explosive bounce, and surprisingly flexible and stable for its size. A treat for easy days and long runs.

Superblast 3: The do-everything super trainer. Very soft and protective, with a full stack of foam that still feels light. Bouncy enough for tempo days and long runs alike, though the FF Blast+ base keeps it from being as springy as the softest top layer suggests.

Specs side by side

Stack, drop and weight come from each brand’s own website. Numbers marked * aren’t published by the brand and come from other published specs. Weights are for the size each brand quotes. Expected life is our estimate.

Fit

Paramount Max. True to size with a deep footbed that suits orthotics. The upper doesn’t breathe well, and the heel counter is hit or miss.

Superblast 3. True to size with a normal width. The toebox mesh isn’t very breathable.

Try them on

Come try on both at The Run House in Walpole, Needham or Falmouth. Gait analysis is always free.

Shop the Paramount Max · Shop the Superblast 3 · Compare other running shoes