ASICS Novablast 5 Reviews

After 473 miles of easy runs and some threshold work, the Novablast 5 is durable, comfortable, good on hills and fun, with grip improving over time.

Training for a first half marathon in the Novablast 5, they find it a comfy daily trainer for lighter runs.

First 6km in the Novablast 5 (sized down half a size): wide toe box, very comfortable upper, nice energy return, stable, and good grip on wet pavement.

After 50km of marathon-block training, finds the Novablast 5 very comfortable with a roomy toe box and breathable upper, and a surprisingly snappy rocker, though slippery on wet cobbles.

Early-mile impressions of the shoe, including a few wet evening runs, in winter UK conditions. They like the smooth, bouncy, stable ride, the good breathability, the comfortable fit with no heel slip, hot spots or blisters, and the cushioning for the weight, calling it a versatile daily trainer. The big complaint is poor grip on wet ground, which they say is worse than the previous version. The fit runs wide, so narrow feet may struggle, and they sized down half a size.

First run in the Novablast 5: true to size, comfortable upper, secure lacing, great stability and balanced responsiveness.

Run & Smile found the ride soft without sinking, with a springy toe-off that comes alive when pushed, and good leg protection over 20 km. Its sweet spot is easy, long and tempo runs up to half-marathon effort; it is too soft for fast track reps, and wet grip is weak at faster paces.

Sam says it was comfortable from the first step, with no break-in. Its springy bounce mellowed into a deeper, plusher ride after about 75 miles, ideal for easy and recovery runs and slow long runs over 12 miles. It is too soft for tempo, with mediocre wet traction.