Energetic, cushioned, breathable daily trainer
In the world of running shoes, where every brand claims to have reinvented the wheel, it's refreshing to find a shoe that genuinely shakes things up. The Asics Novablast 5 has quietly stepped onto the scene, ready to redefine what runners expect from their daily trainers.
This latest installment takes the well-loved Novablast series and dials it p. The key player here is the new FF Blast Max foam. Unlike the usual marketing fluff, this foam delivers—a reported 8.5 percent increase in bounce compared to last year's model. Imagine a midsole that feels like a trampoline, propelling you forward with each stride. It's not just hype; it's a noticeable difference that could make those long miles feel a bit shorter.
The shoe doesn't stop at the midsole. The upper has been revamped with a jacquard mesh that enhances breathability, keeping your feet cooler as the pavement heats up. The new race-ready tongue, inspired by the acclaimed Superblast 2, offers a snug fit without cutting off circulation—a balance that's harder to achieve than you'd think.
Now, every rose has its thorn. Previous versions of the Novablast had a less-than-stellar reputation in wet conditions, and at first glance, the streamlined outsole of the Novablast 5 doesn't scream “rain-ready.” It's a potential sticking point for those who refuse to let a little weather keep them indoors. Only time and a few downpours will reveal if this has been truly addressed.
With a heel height of 41.5mm and a forefoot height of 33.5mm, the stack is generous but doesn't feel cumbersome. The soft AHAR LO outsole aims to provide better traction across various surfaces, which is a promising touch for those who like to mix up their running terrain.
Priced at $140 and available in eight colorways, the Novablast 5 positions itself as a solid investment for runners seeking a reliable, energetic ride. It's not just another shoe cluttering the wall at your local running store; it's a daily trainer that might just make you fall in love with running all over again.
In a market saturated with options, it's the shoes that offer a genuine experience—something that makes you look forward to lacing up—that truly stand out. The Novablast 5 seems poised to be one of those shoes. It's not about chasing the latest fad; it's about enhancing the simple joy of running.
Pros:
- Enhanced Bounce and Energy Return
The new FF Blast Max foam provides an 8.5% increase in bounce, offering a trampoline-like ride that energizes every step. - Improved Cushioning and Comfort
The midsole's dynamic construction ensures softer landings and an energized toe-off, making it ideal for both long recovery runs and faster tempo sessions. - Breathable and Comfortable Upper
The jacquard mesh upper enhances ventilation, keeping your feet cool and comfortable during extended runs. - Snug, Race-Ready Fit
The new tongue design, inspired by the Superblast 2, offers a secure fit while minimizing tongue movement, reducing distractions during runs. - Versatile Use
Suitable for various types of runs—from daily training to race day, thanks to its responsive ride and cushioning balance. - Stylish Design and Variety
Available in eight colorways, it combines performance with aesthetics.
Cons:
- Limited Wet-Weather Performance
The outsole design remains streamlined, which may not resolve previous models' lack of traction in wet conditions. - Potential Fit Issues for Some Runners
While the new upper improves breathability and fit, runners with wider feet may need to ensure it provides adequate room. - High Stack Height
With a heel height of 41.5mm, the shoe's stack might feel too high or unstable for runners who prefer a more grounded feel. - Price
At $140, it may be considered pricey compared to other daily trainers, especially for those on a budget. - Durability in Question
With a focus on lightweight materials and energy return, the shoe’s long-term durability on rough terrains remains to be seen.
$140
