The ASICS Novablast 5 TR are versatile running shoes designed for athletes who transition between road and unpaved paths. With their advanced FF BLAST™ MAX cushioning and specialized lug outsole, they offer a dynamic blend of soft landings, energetic responsiveness, and reliable grip across various terrains. While engineered for versatility, optimizing performance requires understanding its neutral profile and ensuring it aligns with your specific running needs.
FF BLAST™ MAX Cushioning: Provides an exceptionally soft landing and highly energetic rebound for a bouncy feel with every stride.
Specific Lug Outsole: Enhances traction and grip, making the shoe suitable for both smooth road surfaces and more challenging unpaved trails.
Road to Trail Versatility: Engineered to perform reliably on diverse surfaces, eliminating the need to switch shoes when your route changes.
Neutral Shoe Type: Designed for runners with neutral pronation, offering balanced support without specific motion control features.
Training Focus: Built for regular training sessions, offering comfort and durability for consistent use.
8 mm Drop: A moderate heel-to-toe drop that caters to a wide range of running gaits.
Approximate Weight (255g): A relatively lightweight design for an agile feel during runs, varying slightly by shoe size.
Exceptional Cushioning: FF BLAST™ MAX offers a plush yet responsive ride.
Versatile Traction: Lug outsole provides reliable grip on both roads and light trails.
Energetic Ride: Designed to provide a 'bouncy' and propulsive feel.
Comfort for Training: Suitable for consistent, longer training runs due to cushioning.
Adaptable: Great for mixed-terrain routes, reducing gear changes.
Neutral Support Only: Not designed for runners requiring significant pronation control.
Trail Limits: While 'Trail' capable, it's optimized for unpaved paths, not aggressive technical trails.
Weight Consideration: While agile, 255g is not ultra-light for a pure road racing flat (but good for a versatile trainer).
Fit Specificity: As with any shoe, individual foot shape and preference will impact overall comfort.
Exceptional Cushioning: FF BLAST™ MAX offers a plush yet responsive ride.
Versatile Traction: Lug outsole provides reliable grip on both roads and light trails.
Energetic Ride: Designed to provide a 'bouncy' and propulsive feel.
Comfort for Training: Suitable for consistent, longer training runs due to cushioning.
Adaptable: Great for mixed-terrain routes, reducing gear changes.
Neutral Support Only: Not designed for runners requiring significant pronation control.
Trail Limits: While 'Trail' capable, it's optimized for unpaved paths, not aggressive technical trails.
Weight Consideration: While agile, 255g is not ultra-light for a pure road racing flat (but good for a versatile trainer).
Fit Specificity: As with any shoe, individual foot shape and preference will impact overall comfort.
The ASICS Novablast 5 TR shines as a do-it-all training shoe for runners who encounter a mix of surfaces. On asphalt and paved roads, the FF BLAST™ MAX cushioning delivers a remarkably soft yet responsive experience, making longer runs feel lighter and more energetic. The high stack height provides ample protection, reducing impact fatigue.
When transitioning to unpaved paths, gravel roads, or well-maintained dirt trails, the specialized lug outsole comes into its own. Unlike standard road shoes, the Novablast 5 TR offers enhanced grip, preventing slips and boosting confidence on varied terrain. This means you can seamlessly integrate trail sections into your road runs without compromising stability.
This shoe is ideal for:
Daily Training: Its comfort and responsiveness make it a great choice for regular mileage.
Mixed Terrain Runs: Perfect for routes that include both urban sidewalks and park trails.
Long Runs: The generous cushioning helps maintain comfort over extended distances.
Tempo Runs: The energetic rebound of the FF BLAST™ MAX foam can add a spring to faster efforts.
For example, if your usual training route involves 5km on pavement followed by 3km on a local park's gravel path, the Novablast 5 TR eliminates the need for a shoe change, performing effectively on both. Its neutral profile suits runners whose feet don't excessively roll inward or outward during their stride, ensuring a natural running experience.
Try On: Always try on running shoes, ideally at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen. Wear the type of socks you typically run in.
Thumb's Width: Ensure there's about a thumb's width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe.
Secure Fit: The midfoot should feel snug but not tight, and your heel should not slip excessively.
Lacing: Experiment with different lacing techniques to achieve optimal comfort and security for your foot shape.
Runner Type: Best suited for neutral runners who do not require extensive pronation support.
Surface: Highly compatible with road surfaces (asphalt, concrete) and light to moderate unpaved trails (gravel, dirt paths). It is not designed for technical, rocky, or muddy mountain trails.
Usage: Ideal for daily training and long runs.
Cleaning:
After runs, especially on trails, gently brush off loose dirt and mud.
For deeper cleaning, use a mild soap (like dish soap) and cold water with a soft brush.
Do not put shoes in a washing machine or dryer, as this can damage materials and adhesives.
Drying:
Remove insoles and let shoes air dry naturally at room temperature.
Stuffing with newspaper can help absorb moisture and maintain shape.
Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources, which can cause material breakdown.
Storage:
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Allow shoes to fully dry between uses to prevent odor and mildew.
Inspection: Regularly check the outsole for excessive wear and the upper for tears or damage. This indicates it might be time for a replacement.
Rotation: If you run frequently, consider rotating between two pairs of shoes to extend their lifespan and allow cushioning to rebound fully.