The ASICS Novablast 5 is designed for neutral runners with normal to high arches or underpronators who seek a highly cushioned and energetic ride for road running. Its key win is the 'trampoline effect' provided by the FF BLAST MAX foam, offering unmatched bounce and responsiveness for various paces. While excellent for road surfaces, it's primarily optimized for paved routes rather than rugged trails.
FF BLAST MAX Foam: A new superfoam delivering a lightweight, highly cushioned, and energetic ride with improved shock absorption and bounce.
Trampoline-Inspired Geometry: Updated outsole design for an energetic toe-off and enhanced grip, amplifying the shoe's signature bouncy feel.
HYBRID ASICSGRIP Outsole: A combination of AHAR and ASICSGrip for best-in-class traction, even on wet surfaces, and improved durability.
Engineered Jacquard Mesh Upper: Provides excellent stretch, ventilation, and durability, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit with a spacious toe box.
Tongue Wing Construction: Enhances fit, minimizes unwanted movement, and improves midfoot lockdown for a more stable running experience.
Maximal Cushioning: With a stack height of 41.5 mm in the heel and 33.5 mm in the forefoot (8mm drop), it offers soft landings and long-distance comfort.
Sustainability Focus: Min. 79% of the primary upper consists of recycled materials, and the trampoline-inspired outsole uses approximately 20% bio-based content.
Reflective Details: Enhances visibility in low-light conditions for added safety during evening or early morning runs.
Exceptional bounce and energy return from FF BLAST MAX foam
Plush, maximal cushioning for superior comfort on long runs
Versatile for various run types: easy, long, tempo, and recovery
Enhanced traction on both dry and wet road surfaces
Lightweight design despite high cushioning
Significant use of recycled and bio-based materials for sustainability
Primarily designed for road running, less suited for rugged trails
Maximalist cushioning might not appeal to all runners who prefer a more ground feel
Info needed: May require a break-in period for some users to adapt to the bounciness
Exceptional bounce and energy return from FF BLAST MAX foam
Plush, maximal cushioning for superior comfort on long runs
Versatile for various run types: easy, long, tempo, and recovery
Enhanced traction on both dry and wet road surfaces
Lightweight design despite high cushioning
Significant use of recycled and bio-based materials for sustainability
Primarily designed for road running, less suited for rugged trails
Maximalist cushioning might not appeal to all runners who prefer a more ground feel
Info needed: May require a break-in period for some users to adapt to the bounciness
The ASICS Novablast 5 excels as a highly cushioned, energetic daily trainer. Runners will experience a distinct 'trampoline effect' with each stride, making runs feel more lively and less taxing. For easy runs and recovery days, the plush FF BLAST MAX foam provides soft landings and reduces fatigue, allowing your legs to feel fresher. During long runs, the maximal cushioning ensures sustained comfort over many miles, protecting joints and maintaining a natural stride. If you're looking to pick up the pace, the shoe's responsiveness makes it suitable for tempo runs, light intervals, and even short race efforts, offering enough pop to propel you forward. The HYBRID ASICSGRIP outsole ensures reliable traction, even when roads are damp. The engineered mesh upper provides a breathable and secure fit, adapting well to the foot's movement while running.
Lacing: Unlace the shoes fully before putting them on. Insert your foot, ensuring your heel is comfortably seated at the back of the shoe.
Tongue Adjustment: Center the padded tongue to prevent rubbing and ensure the tongue wing construction effectively locks down the midfoot.
Lacing Technique: Begin lacing from the toes upwards, applying even pressure. Ensure the laces are snug but not overly tight to avoid pressure points. You might experiment with different lacing patterns if you experience specific comfort issues.
Initial Wear: Wear the Novablast 5 for short walks or easy activities before your first run to allow your feet to adjust to the shoe's fit and feel.
Runner Type: Best suited for runners with a neutral gait, normal or high arches, and underpronators. Its even shock distribution supports a natural stride.
Running Surface: Designed for road running. While the grip is excellent, it's not intended for rugged trail conditions.
Run Type: Ideal for a wide range of runs including daily training, long runs, recovery runs, tempo runs, and light intervals.
Cleaning the Upper: Gently brush off loose dirt with a soft brush (e.g., an old toothbrush). For tougher spots, use a mild soap (like dish soap) mixed with water and a soft cloth or sponge. Wipe the mesh upper clean and rinse with clean water. Avoid harsh chemicals.
Cleaning the Outsole: Remove any debris from the outsole grooves. You can use a brush and water to clean the rubber.
Drying: Allow the shoes to air dry naturally at room temperature. Avoid direct sunlight or using heat sources (like a dryer or radiator), as this can damage materials and adhesives.
Storage: Store your running shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing them in damp environments to prevent odor and material degradation.
Odor Control: Remove insoles occasionally to air them out. You can also use shoe deodorizers or baking soda sachets to absorb moisture and odors.