Asics Novablast 5 keeps the momentum going for one of Asics’ most popular daily trainers, blending pillowy cushioning with a lively, springy ride. It’s the kind of shoe that caters to runners who want plush comfort but still like a bit of pep in every step—equally at home on everyday miles, longer efforts, or those easy recovery jogs.
First feel:
The moment you slide into the Novablast 5, it’s like your feet are landing on a soft cloud. The magic lies in the FF Blast+ Max midsole—it’s not just cushier than before, it’s also snappier. You get this trampoline-like bounce without feeling cut off from the ground, which is a tough sweet spot to hit. But here, Asics nails it.
Plenty of ultra-soft shoes end up feeling mushy or unstable, but this one holds steady. Even with a heel stack north of 40mm, it doesn’t feel wobbly or bulky. The ride flows nicely, with smooth transitions that don’t push you into a certain stride pattern. Whether you’re a heel striker or you land up front, it just works.
Upper construction:
The engineered jacquard mesh upper is a standout. It hugs the foot without pinching, and you won’t find yourself fussing with laces mid-run. The lockdown is spot-on—no heel slip, no over-tightening. Asics also improved the tongue, giving it a more supportive, integrated feel so pressure is spread evenly across the top of the foot.
Airflow is excellent, too. Even on warm days or during high-mileage weeks, your feet stay cool and dry—no swampy aftermath to deal with.
On the run:
The Novablast 5 feels best when you’re cruising—easy days, steady-state long runs, or anything in between. The rocker is gentle, helping you roll forward naturally instead of forcing the motion. The foam gives you that little spring that makes you want to keep going, but without feeling bouncy to the point of instability.
While it’s not built as a pure speed shoe, it’s not a slouch either. Pick up the pace for a tempo stretch or toss in some strides, and it responds just fine. Think of it more as a steady performer than an all-out sprinter.
Durability:
After logging over 100 kilometers, the midsole still feels lively and the outsole looks barely touched. The rubber placement is generous, especially in the spots that take the most pounding. Like all soft foams, FF Blast+ Max might lose a touch of bounce over time, but its slightly more stable nature actually makes it a better long-term daily trainer.
Versatility:
This shoe’s not just a comfort cruiser—it could easily be your one-and-done daily trainer. From slow recovery days to moderate long runs, it handles most workouts with ease. The only real gap is at the extremes: full-on racing or aggressive speedwork, where you might prefer something lighter or plated.
Aesthetics and fit:
Asics has really sharpened the look of the Novablast series, and version 5 carries that forward. It’s sleek, modern, and comes in plenty of colors to match your style. Fit runs true to size for most, with a snug midfoot and enough toe room for a little swelling on long efforts.
Ideal user:
Neutral runners looking for a breathable, cushioned, and stable everyday trainer will feel right at home here. Medium to heavier runners will appreciate the extra underfoot protection, while lighter runners will still enjoy the bounce and smooth feel on longer runs.
If you want one shoe that can cover almost everything—daily runs, long runs, recovery days—this one makes a very strong case. It takes traditional cushioned comfort and gives it a modern, more energetic spin.
Final thoughts:
The Asics Novablast 5 hits all the right notes: comfort, stability, and a fun ride. It’s the kind of shoe that makes it easier to lace up on sluggish days and keeps you rolling when you’re feeling good. As far as daily trainers go, it’s tough to beat, and for plenty of runners, it could easily be the mainstay of their rotation.
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| Plush and responsive cushioning | Not ideal for all-out speedwork |
| Breathable and secure jacquard mesh upper | Foam may lose some bounce over extended use |
| Smooth transitions with subtle rocker | Slightly high stack height may not suit everyone |
| Durable outsole for long-term use | |
| Modern design with multiple color options |
Joma R3000
