Badminton Shoes ASICS Blast FF3 Review

Joyce October 8, 2024 0

If I were to ask you right now: What are the essential features or technologies that a premium sneaker priced around a thousand yuan should possess?

Your first answer, chances are, would be “carbon plate,” and so would mine.

Yet, there exists a shoe, or even a brand, that never incorporates carbon plates in its high-end badminton shoes. Renowned in the running shoe scene but niche and intriguing in the badminton world, it’s none other than ASICS.

Upon hearing the name “Aurora,” one might envision a dazzling icy blue, but the “Venom” colorway with its black and green hues is equally captivating, exuding a sci-fi vibe.

The “exoskeleton”-like TPU reinforcement, resembling alien ecology, serves as the backbone of the Blast FF3 (Aurora 3), enhancing both its aesthetic appeal and overall performance.

The Blast FF3 (Aurora 3) is a lightweight cushioned badminton shoe. Its sock-like design eliminates tongue slippage, enhancing comfort, while the upgraded upper improves wrap and stability. The midsole features lightweight FLYTEFOAM foam, balancing lightness with cushioning. The TPU stability plate on the lateral side provides lateral support.

Static Wear Experience

As a 179 cm, 68 kg individual with a Greek foot of 265 mm and a narrow yet wide foot shape, I chose a size 42.5 with an internal length of 270 mm for the Blast FF3 (Aurora 3). Upon wearing, I noticed that the forefoot space is moderately roomy, with a snug fit around the midfoot and a tight-fitting sensation across the instep.

Due to the slight excess space in the forefoot, I suggest adjusting the lining material or wearing thicker socks, or even replacing the insole, as these can effectively address the issue. Thus, I conclude that the Blast FF3 (Aurora 3) would suit players with wide feet and a low instep.

Fans of the predecessor, the Blast FF2, would attest to its secure fit and robust support, but some criticized the reduced heel lockdown due to the lowered ankle collar.

The Blast FF3 (Aurora 3) addresses this by adopting a tongueless half-sock inner boot and adding more foam padding to the heel. Although the heel lockdown is slightly improved over its predecessor, it still falls short for those with narrow feet like me.

The tongueless half-sock design lowers the ankle collar, sacrificing some protection but enhancing flexibility while providing moderate ankle support. This versatility even allows some players to use it for volleyball or basketball.

On-Court Experience

Weighing just 332.2g for a size 42.5 (270 mm), the Blast FF3 (Aurora 3) feels light and agile on the feet, with a low center of gravity, solidifying its position as a speed-oriented shoe.

Its ground feel upon takeoff is solid and responsive, with no drag. Notably, the fused heat-sealed upper enhances support compared to its predecessor but may require some breaking in due to its stiffer flex.

Outstanding Support and Anti-Rollover Performance

Not only does the Blast FF3 (Aurora 3) physically widen its outsole to prevent rollover, but its low center of gravity also contributes to this.

Moreover, the material hardness of the outsole’s lateral edge is noticeably increased, further enhancing anti-rollover performance.

Coupled with the TRUSS TIC TPU midfoot stabilizer, which runs through the shoe, reinforcing the outer corners, the heel’s anti-rollover effect is remarkable, making it virtually impossible to roll over during intense play.

Impressive Traction

Especially on wooden floors in multi-purpose venues, the Blast FF3 (Aurora 3)’s unique tread pattern of irregular circles and triangles, combined with its solid rubber outsole, provides exceptional grip.

Interestingly, while tying my shoelaces, I caught a whiff of the rubber’s aroma, reminiscent of childhood playdough. Could this unusual scent hint at the shoe’s exceptional grip due to a more adhesive rubber compound?

Now, you might wonder, even with these impressive features, what truly sets the Blast FF3 (Aurora 3) apart. Here’s the real deal:

ASICS enthusiasts are likely familiar with the brand’s renowned GEL cushioning and FLYTEFOAM foam technologies. GEL, introduced in the 1980s, remains a top fluid cushioning technology in running shoes despite its weighty density.

In contrast, FLYTEFOAM foam, ASICS’s primary lightweight and responsive cushioning technology, was a natural choice for the Blast FF3 (Aurora 3).

Contrary to the typical soft, plush feel of foam, the FLYTEFOAM in the Blast FF3 (Aurora 3) provides a more supportive and firm landing, with a concentrated rebound impact. While the cushioning is improved over its predecessor, heavier players may find the impact too direct.

Conclusion

The Blast FF3 (Aurora 3) demonstrates that a shoe from a brand with a rich heritage can achieve greatness through simple yet effective material technologies and refined application of existing technologies.

It boasts robust torsional rigidity, anti-rollover performance, and improved breathability and wrap over its predecessor. However, there’s still room for improvement in heel lockdown, forefoot space, and cushioning for heavier players.

As a speed-oriented shoe, it offers quick start-up response but sacrifices some protection and cushioning, making it less suitable for heavier players.

Lastly, among premium sneakers priced below 600, there’s ample choice among flagship and celebrity-endorsed models. But if you seek uniqueness, avoiding the “same-shoe” syndrome, and drawing admiring glances from fellow players, the Blast FF3 (Aurora 3) from ASICS will surely put a smile on your face when they inquire about it.