The ASICS Novablast 5 is designed for medium-weight, neutral runners seeking an energetic and comfortable experience during training and races. Its key win is providing exceptional bounce and energy return, helping you run faster and feel energized. However, its maximalist midsole design may not appeal to those preferring a more minimalist or 'ground-feel' running shoe.
FF BLAST™ MAX Foam: Creates a softer, more energized running experience with superior cushioning and energy return.
Trampoline-Inspired Outsole Design: Engineered to provide additional bounce and propulsion with every step.
Lightweight Construction: At 255g (for UK 10.5 variant, typical for this model), it's designed to help maintain speed and reduce fatigue.
Breathable Upper: Ensures optimal airflow and comfort, even during intense runs.
High-Grip Outsole: Provides excellent traction and safety, especially on asphalt surfaces, ensuring confident push-offs.
Maximalist Midsole: Features a total stack height of 41.5mm/33.5mm for enhanced comfort and impact absorption.
Neutral Shoe Type: Specifically built to support runners with a neutral pronation pattern.
Exceptional Bounce & Energy Return: The FF BLAST™ MAX foam and trampoline outsole deliver a highly responsive ride.
High Comfort: Maximalist cushioning ensures a comfortable footprint, ideal for sustained training.
Lightweight Design: Contributes to a feeling of speed and reduced effort.
Versatile for Road Running: Excellent for both daily training and race day on asphalt.
Reliable Traction: High-grip outsole provides safety and confidence on paved surfaces.
Road-Specific: Not ideally suited for trail running or varied off-road terrains.
Maximalist Feel: Runners who prefer a low-profile or minimalist shoe might find the high stack height less appealing.
Neutral Support Only: Not designed for runners requiring significant stability or motion control.
Exceptional Bounce & Energy Return: The FF BLAST™ MAX foam and trampoline outsole deliver a highly responsive ride.
High Comfort: Maximalist cushioning ensures a comfortable footprint, ideal for sustained training.
Lightweight Design: Contributes to a feeling of speed and reduced effort.
Versatile for Road Running: Excellent for both daily training and race day on asphalt.
Reliable Traction: High-grip outsole provides safety and confidence on paved surfaces.
Road-Specific: Not ideally suited for trail running or varied off-road terrains.
Maximalist Feel: Runners who prefer a low-profile or minimalist shoe might find the high stack height less appealing.
Neutral Support Only: Not designed for runners requiring significant stability or motion control.
The ASICS Novablast 5 is engineered to transform your running experience, making each stride feel more energetic and less taxing. Its core strength lies in the FF BLAST™ MAX foam, which is not just about softness but also about responsive rebound. This means that as your foot lands, the foam compresses and then springs back, returning energy to propel you forward.
Coupled with the trampoline-inspired outsole, this creates a distinctly bouncy feel underfoot. Runners will notice this 'pop' especially during faster paces or when trying to maintain a consistent rhythm over long distances. This makes the Novablast 5 an excellent choice for:
Daily Training Runs: Provides the cushioning and comfort needed for everyday mileage.
Tempo Runs & Intervals: The responsive nature helps with quicker turnovers and maintaining speed.
Long Runs: The high stack height (41.5/33.5mm) and robust cushioning help absorb impact over extended periods, reducing fatigue.
Race Day: While not a dedicated carbon-plated racer, its energy return makes it a strong contender for non-elite race efforts.
The high-grip outsole ensures dependable traction on asphalt, providing confidence even during sharp turns or wet conditions (though caution is always advised on slippery surfaces). The breathable upper material (Nylon) contributes to comfort, keeping your feet cooler during warmer runs or prolonged efforts.
This shoe is specifically designed for medium-weight, neutral runners. If you have significant pronation, you might need a shoe with more stability features. Its primary habitat is the road, where its design truly shines.
Lacing: Ensure your shoes are laced securely but not overly tight. Use all eyelets to provide a snug fit around your midfoot.
Break-In Period: While the Novablast 5 is comfortable out of the box, allow a few short runs to fully adapt to its bouncy feel and cushioning. Gradually increase mileage.
Runner Type: Best suited for neutral runners. If you overpronate, consider ASICS stability shoes.
Weight: Ideal for medium-weight runners seeking a cushioned and responsive ride.
Surface: Optimally designed for asphalt and paved road surfaces. Its grip and cushioning are tuned for these environments.
Activity: Excellent for daily training, long runs, tempo runs, and general road running.
Cleaning: Remove excess dirt by gently brushing the outsole. For the upper and midsole, use a soft cloth or sponge with mild soap and cold water. Avoid harsh chemicals.
Drying: Always air dry your shoes at room temperature, away from direct sunlight or heat sources (like radiators), which can damage materials. Do not put them in a dryer.
Storage: Store shoes in a cool, dry place. Avoid leaving them in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.
Rotation: If you run frequently, consider rotating between two pairs of running shoes. This allows the cushioning to fully decompress and extend the lifespan of each pair.
Lifespan: Running shoes typically last between 300-500 miles (500-800 km), depending on your running style, weight, and terrain. Monitor for signs of wear on the outsole and a decrease in cushioning responsiveness.