Reddit · r/RunningShoeGeeks · May 18, 2025 · summarized
MixedAn 81kg runner lost the Novablast 5's initial bounce after 300-350km, but at 500km it is still soft and protective for easy long runs up to 25km.
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ASICS Novablast 5 Reviews
Max cushion
Most runners find the Novablast 5 soft, bouncy and comfortable, with a roomy, breathable upper.
How the signal works
The signal score
A score out of 100 for how well reviewed a product is next to others of its kind. It rises with positive reviews and with how many there are; negative and mixed reviews take points off. The best in each category scores in the 90s.
So a handful of glowing reviews can’t beat a product lots of people like. No sponsored placements.
What people mention
Common concerns
Real runner experiences (110)
Add your reviewShowing 6 reviews mentioning great for long runs Show all
Reddit · r/RunningShoeGeeks · Jan 10, 2025 · summarized
PositiveLoves the Novablast 5, better and more fun than their two NB4s, and comfortable cruising up to 30km.
YouTube · Doctors of Running · Dec 8, 2024 · summarized
PositiveA physical-therapist reviewer covers about 100 miles, with runs up to 13-14 miles. They find the soft, bouncy foam smooth and very comfortable for easy miles, long runs and recovery, though less snappy than the previous version. The outsole and foam show almost no wear. Downsides are a wide but low-volume fit that needs the midfoot laced down (some forward slide), and a heel counter that gets more noticeable. It suits runners who like soft, trainer-style cushioning.
Blog · Run & Smile · summarized
PositiveRun & 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.
Blog · shuichi-running.com — Runshu · summarized
PositiveCalls it the best in the line: the bounce of v3 with the stability of v4, light and easy to turn over, with excellent fit. Midsole still bouncy at 700 km; ideal for easy and long runs up to moderate effort. Only real weakness is wet grip.
Blog · The Sunny One — Sam · summarized
PositiveSam 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.
Common questions about ASICS Novablast 5
What do runners say about ASICS Novablast 5?
Most runners find the Novablast 5 soft, bouncy and comfortable, with a roomy, breathable upper. The main complaint is that the cushioning goes flat sooner than expected, often somewhere between 250 and 400 km, though a few get far more. Some find it less stable than the Novablast 4.
Is ASICS Novablast 5 worth it?
Of the 110 reviews with a clear verdict, 41% are positive, 26% mixed and 33% negative. The praise mentioned most is responsive. The most common complaint is wears out fast.
What are the most common complaints about ASICS Novablast 5?
The complaints reviewers mention most: wears out fast (31 reviews), unstable (5 reviews) and blisters (1 review). For example: An 86kg forefoot striker found the Novablast 5 lost responsiveness after 100km and has ordered a replacement.
Where do these ASICS Novablast 5 reviews come from?
We collected and summarized 110 experiences shared on Reddit, YouTube and blogs, with links to the original sources. Reviews submitted here are checked for spam before they appear. Every review, submitted here or collected, is read as positive, mixed or negative.
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