The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 is a highly cushioned daily trainer designed for runners who prioritize comfort and bounce. Featuring a new FF Blast Max midsole, it provides a soft yet energetic ride, making it well-suited for recovery runs and long distances while still retaining enough responsiveness for uptempo efforts. The redesigned mesh upper is aimed at enhancing breathability and comfort. With its improved cushioning and refined midsole technology, ASICS has made the NOVABLAST 5 a top choice for those seeking a lively yet deeply cushioned running experience.
Our Verdict
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 offers a mix of cushioning and bounciness that makes it a decent choice for marathon racing. The shoe provides a well-padded underfoot feel that helps reduce leg fatigue. However, the shoe's energy return isn't the best, meaning it lacks the propulsive feel of true marathon racing shoes. Additionally, its weight is too heavy to be a competitive option. Overall, it's best suited for runners prioritizing comfort over speed but may not be the ideal choice for those seeking maximum efficiency over 26.2 miles.
Very plush.
Reasonably lightweight
Too heavy to race.
Unplated.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 is mediocre for shorter races. It has decent energy return, and the foam in the forefoot is relatively firm to support quicker efforts, though its heavier weight and the absence of a carbon plate mean it's not tailored for elite-level racing. These factors limit its competitive edge, positioning it primarily for recreational runners rather than elite racing scenarios.
Reasonably lightweight
Too heavy to race.
Unplated.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5's energy return is decent, delivering a bouncy and efficient ride, especially for a daily trainer. While it doesn't have the aggressive propulsion of some high-performance models, it still offers enough responsiveness to spice up your daily miles and faster efforts when needed. Those seeking a bit of spring without an overly rigid or harsh feel will find it adequate.
Quite springy for a trainer.
Not as propulsive as super shoes.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 offers great cushioning, providing a plush underfoot experience. The heel is more protective than the forefoot, but overall, the cushioning is relatively well-balanced, making it comfortable for a variety of runs. The shoe absorbs impact effectively without feeling overly soft.
Very plush.
The heel is especially well cushioned.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 provides a stable platform, aided by a wide base that enhances balance. However, the soft heel foam and taller stack height make it less ideal for runners who need extra control. While most runners will find it stable enough for daily use, those prone to excessive movement or requiring more structured support might find it lacking in security.
Wide base.
Fully-gusseted tongue.
Soft foam.
High stack height.
Performance Usages
Changelog
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Updated Oct 23, 2025:
We updated the review to include text for the Forefoot Long Run Cushioning test, which was recently added to our test bench. Based on insights from that text, we also adjusted the Marathon Racing, Cushioning, Weight, Heel Cushioning, Heel Firmness, and the Popular Running Shoes Comparisons boxes.
- Updated Oct 23, 2025: We've converted this review to Test Bench 0.9, which adds a Forefoot Long Run Cushioning test to our performance section. Read more in our changelog.
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Updated Oct 01, 2025:
We updated the Pros & Cons, Energy Return, Cushioning, Marathon Racing, Heel Energy Return, Heel Cushioning, Forefoot Cushioning, Forefoot Energy Return, and Forefoot Firmness boxes to align with the latest test bench, refreshed the Popular Running Shoe Comparisons section, and revised the side-by-side comparisons to keep the review accurate.
- Updated Oct 01, 2025: We've converted this review to Test Bench 0.8.2, which updates our methodology for the impact force range used in our compression tests to improve their accuracy. This also affects all usage and performance usage boxes using those compression tests as score components.
Differences Between Sizes And Variants
We tested the ASICS NOVABLAST 5 in men's US size 9, as stated on the label. This model is available in a wide range of sizes for both men and women. Notably, wide versions are offered separately for both genders, catering to those requiring additional width. The shoes come in multiple colorways, including Black/Carrier Grey, White/Piedmont Grey, Pure Aqua/Seal Grey, Indigo Blue/Amber, Illusion Blue/Light Blue, and Greyish Purple/Coral Reef. The specific colorway we tested is Indigo Blue/Amber. Availability of these color options may vary depending on your region.
Popular Running Shoe Comparisons
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 is a versatile daily trainer with excellent cushioning and dynamic responsiveness, making it ideal for various daily runs, including tempo intervals or strides. Its plush midsole compresses well, protecting your legs during extended efforts while remaining responsive enough to handle pace surges. In the broader shoe market, if you're looking for more energy return and you're willing to sacrifice a bit of cushioning, check out the adidas Adizero Evo SL, which offers great value. Another compelling option that offers similar performance is the Mizuno Neo Zen.
Within the ASICS lineup, its versatility positions it above daily trainers like the ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 27. Runners specifically prioritizing stability might prefer the ASICS GEL-KAYANO 31, but the NOVABLAST 5 strikes a better balance for most. There's also the ASICS SUPERBLAST 2, an unplated uptempo trainer which is more cushioned, bouncier, and has a geometry that feels more adapted to long runs and faster paces. There's also the ASICS SONICBLAST, a versatile plated super trainer. The ASICS MEGABLAST is a high-stacked, versatile trainer that combines max cushioning with a lively, unplated ride. At the higher-performance end, the ASICS METASPEED SKY PARIS and the ASICS METASPEED EDGE PARIS are dedicated carbon-plated racing shoes. For most runners wanting a cushioned, versatile, and fun experience, the NOVABLAST 5 remains a standout choice.
For more options, check out our recommendations for the best running shoes, as well as the best running shoes for men and the best running shoes for women.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 and the ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 weigh about the same, but they target different types of runs. The NOVABLAST 5 is a versatile daily trainer, comfortably handling easy runs and mixed workouts, thanks to its great cushioning. The SUPERBLAST 2, meanwhile, positions itself as an unplated uptempo trainer, and its foam offers better energy return and more underfoot protection. Also, its more pronounced rocker and slightly firmer foam make it feel more rolling, favoring faster-paced runs. For runners prioritizing faster workouts and intervals, the SUPERBLAST 2 will have a slight edge, whereas the NOVABLAST 5 offers greater comfort and cushioning for longer, slower-paced runs or general daily mileage.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 and the adidas Adizero Evo SL both deliver impressive versatility, but each shines in different areas. They both offer protective cushioning, making it ideal for long runs and daily training, particularly if you prioritize plush comfort. Meanwhile, the Evo SL is lighter and offers more energetic responsiveness, allowing for snappier workouts and even racing. The NOVABLAST 5 still has some bounce, but its overall design and geometry mean it's more geared towards easier runs.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 and ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 27 are both neutral daily trainers built for comfort but cater to very different preferences. The NOVABLAST 5 is a modern, high-stack trainer that combines soft FF BLAST+ ECO foam with a responsive geometry, giving it a fun, energetic bounce while staying light and super cushioned. It's the more playful of the two, capable of handling some pace variations and offering a more engaging ride for runners who like to feel their shoes give them something in return for their efforts. The GEL-NIMBUS 27, in contrast, is ASICS' flagship soft-cruiser and focuses on plushness and stability. It provides excellent impact absorption for all types of easy runs. However, it's noticeably heavier and less dynamic than the NOVABLAST 5, and it lacks the versatility and excitement of its sibling.
Both the ASICS NOVABLAST 5 and the Brooks Glycerin 22 are cushioned neutral trainers, but they differ in ride character. The NOVABLAST 5 feels lighter and more energetic, offering quicker transitions and more rebound underfoot. The Brooks Glycerin 22 is denser and steadier, providing deeper cushioning and a more stable feel. Runners who want bounce and responsiveness will prefer the ASICS NOVABLAST 5, while those prioritizing comfort and consistency will favor the Brooks Glycerin 22.
We've recently started buying and testing running shoes with a very data-oriented approach. While we're just getting started, our methodology already has dozens of tests to help you make the right purchasing decision for your needs. Not only do we use high-end equipment to gather objective data, but we also order multiple sizes of the same shoes for team members to be able to log in miles. This real-world testing is done at various paces and conditions, and with different types of workouts, to cover all the bases. This allows us to verify our results and ensure they align with what you might feel with a specific pair.
Test Results
This shoe is quite lightweight for a daily trainer. It won't feel light enough for racing, but it remains manageable for daily training. Compared to the ASICS NOVABLAST 4, this version is a bit lighter, enhancing efficiency over extended mileage.
ASICS shoes typically run slightly longer than most other brands, and this model follows that trend—something to consider when selecting your size.
Heel energy return from the midsole is acceptable, giving landings a somewhat bouncy feel. The response on impact smooths transitions and delivers an energetic ride for a daily trainer, adding a bit of fun to your outings.
The forefoot provides a better bounce compared to the heel, meaning runners who land towards the front of the shoe will find it more bouncy. It's also a huge step up from the ASICS NOVABLAST 4, providing a more energetic experience. The new foam formulation delivers more dynamic sensation, making it easier to pick up the pace. It's still just a daily trainer, so don't expect top-of-the-line responsiveness, but this update makes the shoe feel more at home during faster efforts and adds a bit of fun to your easy mileage.
This shoe's heel cushioning is great. It's more protective than the ASICS NOVABLAST 4, thanks to the updated foam, which enhances impact absorption, creating a smoother and more comfortable landing for heel strikers. This makes this shoe a great choice for those who prioritize a plush feel in the heel.
The protection under the forefoot is very good. The foam composition allows for a very cushioned and protective feel.
The shoe has a soft heel, prioritizing comfort and cushioning over firmness. This results in a plush, forgiving landing that reduces impact, making it a great choice for recovery sessions. However, runners who prefer the firmer, more supportive heel of the ASICS NOVABLAST 4 may notice a slight reduction in overall stability.
The forefoot is quite soft at lower forces, meaning lighter and/or slower runners will feel more give when running. At higher forces, the midsole stiffens progressively to allow for some firmness at toe-offs. Still, runners who liked the firmer, slightly more snappy feel of the ASICS NOVABLAST 4 might find the updated version a bit softer than expected.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 provides good cushioning for short to mid-distance runs, remaining comfortable and protective up to around 10 km. Beyond that, the cushioning gradually loses some of its depth, though it doesn't completely bottom out either. Still, its protection tapers off more noticeably than in the ASICS SUPERBLAST 2, which offers a way more protective experience over long distances. The NOVABLAST 5 performs best for daily runs or moderate efforts rather than long-run durability.