Asics Novablast 5

Asics Novablast 5 continues the evolution of one of the brand’s most beloved daily trainers, offering an irresistible combination of cloud-like cushioning and energetic response. Designed for runners who crave comfort but also want a touch of bounce, this shoe promises to deliver on daily runs, long efforts, and recovery days alike.

First feel:

Slip on the Novablast 5 and you’re greeted with a plush underfoot feel that’s immediately comforting. The FF Blast+ Max midsole is the heart of the experience—softer and more responsive than its predecessors, offering a trampoline-like sensation without feeling disconnected from the ground. That balance is hard to get right, but here it works beautifully.

Unlike some ultra-soft shoes where your foot sinks and wobbles, the Novablast 5 feels surprisingly stable. It’s high off the ground, with a heel stack over 40mm, but it doesn’t feel top-heavy or overly cushioned. Transitions are smooth, and the shoe doesn’t force your stride into a particular rhythm. Whether you heel strike or land more towards the forefoot, it adapts.

Upper construction:

The engineered jacquard mesh upper is another highlight. It wraps the foot comfortably without pressure points or hotspots. The lockdown is excellent—no heel slippage, no need to overtighten the laces. The tongue design has also improved; it’s more supportive and better integrated than in previous versions, helping distribute pressure evenly across the top of the foot.

Breathability is top-notch, which makes the Novablast 5 a good option for warmer climates or high-mileage weeks. Even on long runs, feet stay cool and dry.

On the run:

This shoe shines when you’re logging easy miles or settling into long steady-state runs. The rocker is subtle—it helps roll you forward without feeling like the shoe is taking over. That’s great for runners who prefer a natural stride. The foam gives you that bounce that makes each step feel spring-loaded, but not so much that it becomes unstable.

It’s not designed for all-out speedwork, but you can still pick up the pace. If you throw in a few strides or a tempo section mid-run, the Novablast 5 responds well. It’s a shoe that encourages consistency rather than explosiveness.

Durability:

After over 100 kilometers, the midsole still feels lively, and the outsole shows minimal wear. The rubber coverage is generous, especially in high-impact zones. Like all soft foams, the FF Blast+ Max may lose a bit of its spring over time, but the transition toward slightly more stability makes it an even better companion for daily mileage.

Versatility:

This isn’t just a cushioned cruiser. The Novablast 5 can easily serve as a one-shoe-quiver for runners who want to do most of their training with a single pair. From recovery jogs to moderate long runs, it handles nearly everything with comfort and efficiency. Its only real limitation is at the extreme ends—true speedwork or racing, where a lighter or plated shoe might be better suited.

Aesthetics and fit:

Asics has made clear strides in design with the Novablast line, and version 5 is no exception. It’s sleek, modern, and comes in multiple colorways to suit different tastes. The fit is true to size for most, with a dialed-in midfoot and enough room in the toe box to accommodate a slight swell during long efforts.

Ideal user:

This shoe is perfect for neutral runners seeking a well-cushioned, breathable, and stable daily trainer. It’s particularly well-suited for medium to heavier runners who benefit from a bit more underfoot protection, but its bouncy feel also makes it fun for lighter runners who want to feel fresh over longer distances.

If you want one shoe that can do most things well—daily runs, long runs, recovery sessions—the Novablast 5 makes a compelling case. It offers a modern update on traditional cushioning with a more energetic twist.

Final thoughts:

The Asics Novablast 5 delivers where it matters most: comfort, stability, and fun. It’s the kind of shoe that makes running feel easier, helping you get out the door on tough days and carry momentum on the good ones. As a daily trainer, it’s hard to beat—and for many, it could easily become the go-to shoe in their rotation