First Look at the ASICS Novablast 5
Debuting a brand-new foam for ASICS, the Novablast gets lighter, more energetic and even more breathable for improved performance across any type of run.
Introduction
A firm favourite for its lively feel and daily use durability, the Novablast has been updated. So let’s take a look at what that means for this popular shoe.
Key Info
Price: £134.99
Foot type: Neutral
Weight: 255g (Men’s) 225g (Women’s)
Stack height: 41.5mm – 33.5mm (Men’s) 40.5mm – 32.5mm
Heel drop: 8mm
Surface: Road
Best for: A versatile shoe ready for just about any type of run.
History
Launched in 2020, a tough year for some, the Novablast was a key part of modernising the ASICS range in a time of great technological improvements within the industry.
The Novablast has always stood out from the pack, designed for speed, it has the durability for everyday use, but it also stands out because it was designed to. With a dynamic looking geometric design across the huge stack of foam under the heel, and strong colourways, it has always been a shoe that made you want to run in it.
Closer Look
A feature of the Novablast has always been a construction of the midsole and outsole that is shaped to create extra bounce, in what ASICS term the “trampoline” effect.
The Novablast 5 is no exception and heightens this effect using a brand-new foam. Called FF Blast Max cushioning, it’s the first time it’s been used in any shoe and makes up the entirety of the midsole.
Apparently, the new foam has given the Novablast 5, 8.5% improved “bounce properties” over the previous v4, giving an already lively shoe a more energetic feel, bursting with bounce. It also features an updated upper. A technical mesh that offers a light and airy feel, boosting breathability over the previous, perfectly good upper. A winged tongue offers improved fit and less tongue movement.
Made with the environment in mind, the construction has a 17% lower carbon footprint than the industry average.
Conclusion
Highly cushioned and bouncy, the Novablast 5 is ideal for just about any sort of run, long runs, tempo training and even race day can all be conquered with aplomb.
The dynamic feel is at home from speed work to recovery runs and the comfort throughout should not be underestimated. Add in an eye-catching design and range of colourways and you get another winner in a line of excellent shoes.
FAQ
What is the ASICS Novablast for?
It’s a running shoe that is famed for its versatility, use it for long runs or races, recovery runs, tempo runs, or any activity you want.
Can you run a marathon in the Novablast?
With a massive stack of cushioning under your foot, and a fast, responsive feel the Novablast makes a great marathon shoe.
Is Novablast good for daily running?
Although it has an up-tempo feel to it, the Novablast also has lots of rubber in the outsole and a durable build that will last for daily use, making it an ideal every day runner.
Are ASICS Novablast good for speed?
Although not as fast as some of the top end race day shoes on the market, the Novablast combines a new propulsive foam with a trampoline effect midsole and outsole to give a fast, versatile feel that is ready for speed.
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