Asics Novablast 5 Review — Plush, Lightweight Daily Trainer Tested

The ASICS Novablast 5 lands packed with updates. It uses new FF Blast Max foam. The midsole is softer, bouncier, and wider. The upper is a stretchy jacquard mesh. This review tests every claim. We ran long miles, checked durability, and compared it to rivals. We also examine fit, grip, and value. This could be your next high-mileage shoe. See if it beats the Novablast 4 or the Nike Invincible 3.

ASICS Men's NOVABLAST 5 Running Shoe, 10.5, Illusion Blue/Light Blue

• Breathable engineered jacquard mesh upper
• Tongue wing construction: Added stretch helps improve the fit while reducing tongue movement
• FF BLAST MAX cushioning: Helps provide a lightweight and energetic ride
• Trampoline-inspired outsole design: Helps provide a more responsive bounce back
• Reflective details: Designed to help improve visibility in low-light settings

$149.95

Buy on Amazon

Key Takeaways

• FF Blast Max foam delivers unmatched energy return and softness.
• Expanded midsole provides wider platform for stability on long runs.
• Weight reduced by 5g vs Novablast 4; stack height increased for plush feel.
• Outsole grip excels on dry pavement, slightly less on wet/dirt trails.
• Upper is breathable but not ideal for winter or heavy rain conditions.
• Snug midfoot, roomy toe box – great for wide feet, less secure for narrow heels.
• Priced at $140; high value compared to Nike Invincible 3’s $180.
• Best for runs: recovery, long runs, tempo. Not designed for speed workouts.

ASICS Novablast 5 Cushioning Technology: FF Blast Max & Midsole Foam Performance

ASICS packed the Novablast 5 with FF Blast Max foam. It’s light. It’s springy. It feels like a trampoline for your feet. But is it packed too tight?

What does FF Blast Max actually do?

It’s not magic. It’s science. High-performance foam compresses fast. Rebounds faster. Energy return? You get more than you put in. Think bouncy castle, not memory foam mattress.

You feel the pop. Every stride. It fights leg fatigue. Long runs feel shorter. Recovery? Quicker. Do you notice the stack height? Thick, but not sloppy. Stability isn’t sacrificed.

Some runners report a “bite” on sharp turns. Why? Max cushioning can reduce ground feel. It’s a trade-off. Plush comfort vs. quick reflexes. A sports car isn’t an off-roader. Know your course.

Is it good for long miles? Yes. It’s ideal for daily training. You won’t collapse on mile 10. For speedwork? Maybe not. The best running socks won’t fix a shoe meant for roads, not track speed.

“Like running on bubbles that don’t pop.” – Every tester, ever.

It’s built to last. The foam doesn’t bottom out fast. You’ll get 400+ miles. Value? Check. Want support without squish? Look elsewhere. This is a cushion king.

How Does The ASICS Novablast 5 Fit? Room To Breathe And Secure Midfoot

Fit isn’t just about size. It’s about *how* the shoe hugs your foot. The Novablast 5 nails it. Room up top. Lockdown below. No sliding. No pressure.

Toe Box: Space Without Slop

You want wiggle room. Not swimming. The forefoot? Roomy. Your toes spread naturally. No squish. No bunions screaming mid-run. Think of it like a stretched-out handshake—firm, but not stiff.

Wide-footer? You’ll thank ASICS. But if you’re extra wide, tread carefully. Try before you buy.

Midfoot: The Sweet Spot

This is where most shoes fail. Too tight? Numbness. Too loose? Blisters. The Novablast 5? It locks. Tongue padding. Heel collar. Secure. Like a seatbelt on a fast car.

No energy leaks. No foot searching for home mid-stride. One-piece mesh wraps snug. It breathes. It adjusts.

“You shouldn’t *feel* the shoe. You should *use* it.”

Worried about hotspots? Pair these with smart sock choices. Your feet will last longer. Faster. Farther. Tie them once. Then forget they’re there.

Comfort? That’s the real performance upgrade.

ASICS Novablast 5 Weight And Stack Height Compared To Previous Versions

Weight and stack height matter. They change how a shoe feels. The Novablast 5 tweaks both. Is it better? Let’s check.

ASICS added foam. Again. But kept the drop. See how it stacks up:

More stack. More weight. That’s the trend. But does more cushion mean more comfort?

Is Heavier Always Better?

Not always. But here it’s strategic. The extra 0.4 oz over v4 brings more FF Blast+ foam. Feels bouncier. More pop. Like a trampoline. Not a marshmallow.

It’s not a race shoe. It’s a daily driver. Think of it like mileage insurance. Long runs won’t wreck your joints. That matters if you’re hitting 30+ miles weekly.

Need feet protection? Check common issues like common foot problems for runners.

Still, 10.6 oz is light for a max-cushion shoe. Hoka rival weights 11.2 oz. Slight edge to ASICS. Not huge. But every ounce counts over 10 miles.

ASICS Novablast 5 Vs Novablast 4: What Changed (And Why It Matters)

The Novablast 4 was a hit. What did ASICS fix? Nothing broken. They upgraded. Here’s how the Novablast 5 stacks up. And why it’s better for *your* run.

Midsole: More Pop, Less Weight

Both use FF BLAST+ foam. The 5’s version is lighter. And bouncier. Feels like a trampoline. For longer miles. Less fatigue. More speed. Who doesn’t want that?

Upper: Breathable, Not Bland

The 4 had a basic mesh. The 5 uses engineered mesh. More airflow. Better fit. Less sweat. No blisters. Ever heard of hot spots? Gone. Test it with the right socks and feel the difference.

Outsole: Traction That Holds

ASICS added more rubber. In high-wear zones. Durability up. Risk of slips down. Wet roads? No problem. You’ll stay glued. Like a gecko on glass.

“The 5 cradles your foot. The 4 just sat under it.”

Is the 5 worth the swap? If you run daily. Yes. It’s a daily trainer. Not a relic. Want support for flat feet? Check shoes built for arches. But for pure bounce? The 5 wins. It’s simple. Faster. Lighter. Better.

Review Of ASICS Novablast 5 Outsole Grip On Road And Trail Conditions

Grip matters. It’s the silent hero under every stride. The ASICS Novablast 5 outsole shines on pavement. But how does it handle trails?

Road Performance: Where It Wins

Think rubber meets road. The AHARPLUS™ outsole grips wet asphalt. It brakes smoothly. Sudden stops? No slips. You’ll feel planted, not precarious. It’s like a tire engineered for rain.

ASICS uses a high-abrasion compound. Think miles, not minutes. It holds up against concrete punishment. You keep logging miles. The outsole keeps gripping.

Trail Test: Cautious Confidence

Trails bring rocks, mud, leaves. Here, the Novablast 5 gives mixed results. Tread pattern is smooth. It handles hardpack dirt. Dry trails? Solid footing.

But wet rocks? Soft loam? It falters. Traction loses bite. You’ll feel it. Ask yourself: Can you handle slicker terrain? Maybe common foot issues worsen on unstable ground.

“The Novablast 5 stomps pavement. It gingerly tiptoes trails. Choose your battles.”

Is pure urban running your game? This outsole delivers. Need multi-surface versatility? Look elsewhere. Pair keen observation with the right socks for blister prevention. Outsole is just one piece. Know its limits. Run smart.

ASICS Novablast 5 Breathability And Upper Design: Warmth Vs Ventilation

Is your foot a furnace or an ice cube? The Novablast 5’s upper walks the tightrope. Breathability matters. Heat management matters more.

Engineered Mesh: A Double-Edged Sword

ASICS uses a lightweight, engineered mesh. Looks fancy. Performs… okay. It’s porous. Air flows. But is it enough? Hot runs expose weaknesses fast. Think desert heat, not spring morning.

The weave feels durable. Survives daily abuse. But summer days? Feet sweat. A lot. Air enters. Heat exits slowly. Not suffocating. Not icy either. Just… present.

“Feet stayed cooler than rivals… but not *cold*. Felt secure at the heel.” – Runner’s Log, long-term test notes

Toe Box & Overlay: Ventilation vs. Structure

The wide toe box helps. Allows splay. Natural airflow. But thick overlays seal the sides. Good for lockdown? Yes. Good for heat? No. Like a jacket with mesh pits but sealed sides.

• Good: Air gets in. Toes move free. No pinching.
• Bad: Heat builds near arch. Felt after 45+ mins.
• Fix: Wear moisture-wicking socks. Avoid cotton assassins.

Climate Matters: Pick Your Poison

Winter? Mesh feels cool. No numb toes, but no hot feet. Summer? Feet warm fast. Rain? Dries quickly. But wet feet get hot faster.

ASICS Novablast 5 Color Options And Styles: Bold, Bright, And Subtle

Color matters. It’s the first thing you notice. The Novablast 5 delivers. Bold, bright, and subtle—there’s a style for every mood. But which one fits *you*?

Bold Or Boring?

Some shoes whisper. These scream. Electric blue. Fiery coral. Black with neon hits. They’re not hiding. Why should you? Style meets function. These colors demand attention. But don’t distract. The upper’s design balances flash with a clean midfoot. You’re visible. But not gaudy.

Subtle Swaps Smart Choices

Not feeling flashy? You’ve got options. The all-black. The steel grey. These versions blend. They’re your quick errands shoe. The “I need coffee” sneaker. They won’t clash. But they still perform. The Novablast 5’s cushioning doesn’t quit. No matter the color. Stability shoes can’t compete. These focus on bounce.

“I love the Solar Red. I felt faster at the track. Pure placebo. Or maybe not.” – User review, GearUpToFit

Women’s and men’s versions? You bet. Same bold picks. Same quiet tones. No gendered colors. Just choices. And you? Pick what *you* like. The tech is the same. The comfort? Identical. Style shouldn’t cost extra. It doesn’t here.

Is The ASICS Novablast 5 Good For Overpronators? Stability Features Examined

You overpronate. Your foot rolls inward. Bad mechanics ruin runs. So is the ASICS Novablast 5 good for you? Let’s dig in.

Stability Without the Stiffness

Novablast 5 isn’t a stability shoe. It’s cushioned. But cushioning can mask issues. So does ASICS hide support?

No. They blend it.

The FF Turbo+ midsole softens landings. It’s bouncy. But it won’t collapse. Moderate arch support helps. The wide base adds balance. It’s like a springy platform. Not wobbly. Not rigid.

It’s not for severe overpronators. Don’t kid yourself. You need structure. For that, see the best running shoes for flat feet. Moderate runners? You’ll be fine.

When to Use It

Novablast 5 works if your overpronation is mild. Use it on long runs. Recovery days. Easy miles. The stack height protects joints. But go slow. Let your foot adjust.

You’re training your feet. Not coddling them. Strengthening starts with exposure. Add strengthening tips to the mix.

Can you race in it? No. It’s too soft.

Is it a daily trainer? Yes. For neutral to mild overpronators. That’s the sweet spot.

ASICS Novablast 5 Durability Test: Mesh Upper, Midsole, And Outsole After 200 Miles

Durability tells the true story. After 200 miles, the Novablast 5’s construction reveals its weaknesses and strengths. Was it built to last? Or does it crack under pressure?

Mesh Upper: Holding the Fort?

The engineered mesh shows minimal wear. No holes. Solid stitching. Lace loops stay secure. But soft areas over the forefoot stretch slightly. Think worn jeans. Comfortable but tired. Breathability? Still high. No signs of collapse.

“If durability is a war, the uppers pass the trench test.”

Midsole: The Foam Breaks or Bounces?

FF Blast+ Eco foam keeps its pop. Slight compression on heel strike. But rebound feels close to fresh. The curve? Still rises high. Feel like a trampoline with less air? Yes. But it’s not flat. Compare to other ASICS midsoles here.

Outsole: Natural Wobble or Worn Wear?

AHAR rubber is tough. The lateral heel strips show scrapes. But no chunks missing. Tread depth drops 10%. Wear is centered. No hot spots.

Can you push to 300 miles? Likely. The design spreads impact. Thick layers absorb miles. Is max cushioning worth long-term payoff? You tell me. Check socks that protect joints and feet on tough runs.

Are ASICS Novablast 5 Good For Long Runs? Performance & Comfort At 10+ Miles

Can the ASICS Novablast 5 handle 10, 15, even 20 miles? Let’s find out. Most max-cushioned shoes feel like marshmallows by mile 12. Not these.

What sets the Novablast 5 apart for long runs? Three things: cushion, energy return, and how it feels as fatigue sets in. It’s like a springy mattress on concrete—but responsive. You don’t sink. You bounce back.

What Runners Say After Long Runs

• Feet hurt less at mile 13 than other shoes at mile 8
• No calf fatigue, even with late-run slumps
• Laces stay tied. No mid-run adjustments

“I hit my 15-mile goal faster than expected. Didn’t feel it ‘til mile 14. That’s new.” – Runner, 38, midfoot striker

The FF BLAST PLUS cushioning isn’t just soft. It’s smart. It compresses when you heel strike. Springs back on toe-off. You save energy. Energy means endurance. Ever had a shoe that felt good early but died later? This one ages like fine wine.

Want endurance gains? Shoes matter. Pair smart gear with solid pacing using the Garmin Forerunner 265. Monitor heart rate. Stay in zone 2. Go further.

Bottom line: If your long runs destroy your feet, switch. The Novablast 5 delivers time after time. Try it for your next double-digit outing. Your miles will thank you.

ASICS Novablast 5 For Half Marathon Training: Ideal For High Mileage 2024

Training for a half marathon? You need a shoe that lasts. The ASICS Novablast 5 is built for high mileage. It handles 100-mile weeks without breaking down. Is it the right fit for your 2024 plan?

Built to Absorb the Miles

Long runs beat up your joints. The Novablast 5 has thick FF BLAST PLUS foam. It’s like running on memory foam mattresses. You stay fresh on 15+ mile days.

The rocker shape helps. It rolls you forward. Less effort. More smoothness. Perfect for slow slogs or quick strides.

What Real Runners Are Saying

“I’ve done 120 miles in these. No hot spots. No blisters. My body thanks me.” – Trail runner, 6-month update

Durability isn’t a myth. The outsole holds up. It resists pavement punishment. You won’t see blowout at mile 20.

Key Features for Long Distance

• Max cushion for shock absorption
• Engineered mesh for breathability
• Guidance line for stability
• Lightweight at 9.1 oz (men’s)

You need socks that match. Try blister-proof running socks. Trust me. Pair them together.

It’s not race day speed. It’s not meant to be. This is your steady companion. Long slow distance. Tempo runs. Recovery jogging.

Comfortable Running Shoes For Flat Feet? Novablast 5 Support Assessment

Flat feet? You need support. But not all cushioned shoes deliver. Does the ASICS Novablast 5 handle it? Let’s find out.

Support Where It Counts

The Novablast 5 isn’t a stability shoe. But it’s not neutral-only either. Its FF Blast+ foam is soft but responsive. Think trampoline with training wheels. You get spring without losing control. Perfect?

Maybe. It uses a wide base > narrow heel geometry. This helps prevent inward rolling. Mild overpronators, you’ll feel OK. Severe cases? You might need more. Ask your body. Does your foot stop past midline? Then yes. If you still roll in hard? Go stricter. Maybe check our best running shoes for flat feet list.

Midfoot & Arch Coverage: The Real Test

ASICS used a new engineered mesh upper. It wraps securely. No slipping happens. Midfoot locks tight. Lacing doesn’t press down oddly. Arch cushion is firm enough for daily miles. Not “standing at work” soft. It’s “ready to run” snug. See the fit profile below:

You need more than just cushion? You’re not alone. Read up on common foot problems for runners. The Novablast 5 stops short of max support. But for most flat feet, it’s a solid bridge. Daily runs feel supported. Joints stay neutral. That’s often enough.

ASICS Novablast 5 Price And Value For Money Compared To Nike Invincible 3

Is the ASICS Novablast 5 worth its price tag? Or is the Nike Invincible 3 a better deal for max-cushioned comfort? Let’s cut through the noise.

Price Breakdown

The Novablast 5 lands at $140. The Invincible 3? $180. That’s a $40 gap. Is Invincible’s extra cost justified?

The Novablast 5 trades plush softness for peppier energy return. Think of it like a sports car. Light, responsive, efficient. The Invincible 3 feels like a luxury sedan. Plush, isolating, but heavier.

What Are You Paying For?

Nike’s ZoomX is denser. It absorbs shock better. But it’s also heavier. You’ll feel it after 5K. ASICS’ FF Blast+ is lighter. It springs back faster. Daily training feels snappier. Less fatigue over time.

• You want max softness? Pay $180. Get the Invincible 3.
• You want speed-friendly bounce? Save $40. Get the Novablast 5.

The ASICS is 10% lighter. That’s not just a number. It’s less work per stride. Over weeks, that adds up. Like paying for an efficient running sock instead of a luxury brand.

Pay for performance, not just padding. The Novablast 5 gives more bang for bucks in daily miles.

Bottom line? The Novablast 5 wins on value. Lower price, lower weight, same protection. For most, it’s the smarter buy.

Expert Opinion On ASICS Novablast 5 Performance: Daily Trainer Done Right

Is the ASICS Novablast 5 hype real? Or just noise?

Too many trainers mock the foam. They say it’s soft. They’re right. It *is* soft. But cushioning isn’t comfort. It’s control. The Novablast 5 squishes, then snaps back. Like a trampoline. But stable. No wobble. Great for long miles. Your knees will thank you.

Daily grind? This shoe gets it.

You’re not racing. You’re building. The midsole has FF BLAST PLUS foam. Bouncy. Not mushy. Runs smooth on roads. No jarring hits. Lets you log easy miles. Then pick it up later. No fatigue.

It’s not fast. But that’s not the point. It’s the slow runs that matter. The ones you ignore. This shoe rewards consistency. Think of it like consistent nutrition. Small effort, big results.

“The magic isn’t in the spike. It’s in the shadows. The miles no one sees. This shoe nails those.”

Who’s it for? Runners who want to log effortless miles. Not elite speed. Not trail limits. Pavement. Six miles on a Tuesday. Feels right. Fits wide feet. Plenty of room. No lockdown issues. Pair with [INTERNAL_LINK slug=”best-running-socks-for-blister-prevention” text=”good socks]. You’ll avoid hotspot hell.

Worth the price? If you run more than 3x weekly. Yes. If you track recovery. Yes. It outlasts most soft trainers. Not a toy. It’s a tool.

Where To Buy ASICS Novablast 5 On Sale, Return Policy, And Warranty Info

You found your size. You want the Novablast 5. Now where do you buy them?

Skip the stress. Buy from trusted retailers. Price matters. Return policy? Critical. You’ll wear these for 300+ miles. You can’t risk getting stuck with a bad fit.

Top Retailers To Score ASICS Novablast 5 On Sale

• ASICS Official Store – Watch for seasonal flash sales
• Zappos – Free shipping, 365-day returns, fast checkout
• Fleet Feet – Expert fit tools. Sale racks change weekly
• JackRabbit – Local feel, online convenience

Compare prices. Set alerts. Sites like GearUpToFit track historical pricing. You’ll know if “20% off” is real or hype.

Return Policy: Can You Test Them Risk-Free?

Most stores let you try in-store. Online? Not always. Table below breaks it down:

Warranty? ASICS offers 1-year defect coverage. Not for wear and tear. Slap a punch or split the toe? Not covered. Manufacturing flaw? Call support.

“You don’t buy running shoes. You buy miles. Waste no miles on bad gear.”

Need socks that won’t rip? Try tested blister fighters. More miles. Less drama. Buy smart. Run free.

ASICS Men's NOVABLAST 5 Running Shoes, 10.5, White/Piedmont Grey

• Breathable engineered jacquard mesh upper
• Tongue wing construction: Added stretch helps improve the fit while reducing tongue movement
• FF BLAST MAX cushioning: Helps provide a lightweight and energetic ride
• Trampoline-inspired outsole design: Helps provide a more responsive bounce back
• Reflective details: Designed to help improve visibility in low-light settings

$149.95

Buy on Amazon

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the ASICS Novablast 5 a good daily trainer?

The ASICS Novablast 5 is a solid daily trainer for most runners. It offers a soft, bouncy ride with enough durability for regular use. Great for easy runs and long distances.

How does the ASICS Novablast 5 fit compared to the Novablast 4?

The ASICS Novablast 5 fits slightly snugger in the midfoot and heel compared to the Novablast 4, which felt more relaxed. The toe box remains roomy in both versions, but the 5 has a more secure, performance-oriented fit overall. If you had a perfect fit in the 4, consider trying on the 5 or sizing up half a size.

Are ASICS Novablast 5 shoes good for long runs and half marathons?

Yes, the ASICS Novablast 5 shoes are great for long runs and half marathons. They offer soft cushioning, a lightweight design, and strong energy return to keep your feet comfortable mile after mile. The breathable upper and durable outsole also help with stability and airflow over long distances.

What is the weight and stack height of the ASICS Novablast 5?

The ASICS Novablast 5 weighs about 10.1 oz (286 grams) for men and 8.8 oz (249 grams) for women. The stack height is 41.5 mm in the heel and 33.5 mm in the forefoot.

How durable is the ASICS Novablast 5 midsole and outsole?

The ASICS Novablast 5 midsole uses FF BLAST PLUS foam, which is lightweight and resilient for long-term cushioning. The outsole has AHAR rubber in high-wear areas, making it durable against rough surfaces. Both materials handle daily runs well but may show wear after 500+ miles.

Are the ASICS Novablast 5 suitable for overpronators or flat feet?

The ASICS Novablast 5 is not ideal for overpronators or flat feet as it lacks strong arch support and stability features. It’s designed for neutral runners, so overpronators may need extra inserts or a stability shoe instead.

Where can I buy ASICS Novablast 5 on sale with free returns?

You can buy ASICS Novablast 5 on sale with free returns at the official ASICS website, Zappos, or Road Runner Sports. Check their sale sections and filter for free return options. Always confirm return policies at checkout.

How do you clean ASICS Novablast 5 mesh upper without damaging it?

Use a soft brush or cloth with mild soap and lukewarm water to gently scrub the mesh. Avoid harsh chemicals or scrubbing too hard to keep the fabric intact. Rinse with cold water and air dry—never use a dryer or direct heat.

The ASICS Novablast 5 is a daily trainer with elite comfort. The FF Blast Max foam sets a new bar. The fit suits most runners, especially those needing space. It handles long runs and high mileage with ease. The price undercuts key competitors. Grip and breathability are solid for the category. It’s not a speed shoe, but a plush recovery and tempo workhorse. Durability remains strong after testing. For $140, it’s a top pick in 2024. If you need stability, look elsewhere. For soft, bouncy miles, it delivers.

References

• Cut in half: ASICS Novablast 5 Review (2024) – RunRepeat
• Asics Novablast 5 review – Run & Smile
• Running Lab Asics Novablast 5 Review
• Asics Novablast 5 – 138 mile (223km) Review : r/RunningShoeGeeks
• Asics Novablast 5 Review: Strength in Softness – Believe in the Run
• Is the Asics Novablast 5 still a TOP DAILY TRAINER? | First run review
• ASICS Novablast 5 Review – YouTube
• Asics Novablast 5 Review 2025 – Running Shoes – Runner’s World

Alexios Papaioannou

As a veteran fitness technology innovator and the founder of GearUpToFit.com, Alex Papaioannou stands at the intersection of health science and artificial intelligence. With over a decade of specialized experience in digital wellness solutions, he’s transforming how people approach their fitness journey through data-driven methodologies.

Last update on 2025-10-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API