The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 is a good daily trainer designed for runners who prioritize comfort and bounce. Among the various shoes in ASICS's lineup, the NOVABLAST 5 is a huge step up from the DYNABLAST, but not as bouncy or deeply cushioned as the SUPERBLAST or MEGABLAST. For heel strikers, this shoe feels soft and protective, but also a bit less lively. Overall, it's a good daily trainer for runners of any level who want a stable, comfortable shoe for logging lots of miles.
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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 responsiveness 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.
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.
Firm forefoot.
Too heavy to race.
Unplated.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 is a decent option for long runs. Its stable platform stays dependable as fatigue sets in, and the cushioning held up reasonably well over 40 km in our simulated long run test. The forefoot rocker does a bit to help keep you rolling forward as the miles wear on, but it's not stiff enough to maintain momentum that consistently.
Stable platform stays dependable as fatigue sets in.
Cushioning holds up reasonably well deep into a long run.
Shoe starts to feel heavy on tired legs.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 is a very good daily trainer. Good stability and great cushioning make for a comfortable, dependable ride on regular miles. It's also reasonably light given how much cushioning it packs in, so it doesn't feel like a chore to put in daily miles. The midsole has a very gentle rocker, so it doesn't do that much to roll you through each stride, but it's smooth enough for easy miles.
Great cushioning makes routine runs comfortable.
Ride is stable and dependable.
Reasonably light given how much cushioning it packs in.
Changelog
- Updated Oct 02, 2026: We've converted this review to Test Bench 0.15, which replaces Responsiveness with three specific performance usages: Bounciness, Snappiness, and Roll. To read more about the changes, see the changelog.
- Updated Sep 17, 2026: We've converted this review to Test Bench 0.14, which adds new lace-specific results. We've included a close-up photo of the laces, as well as details including lace type, width, thickness, and stretch. To read more about the changes, see the changelog.
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Updated Jul 17, 2026:
We've updated the Popular Comparisons section to tweak the wording and add a link to the newly reviewed Brooks Ghost Amp.
- Updated Jun 30, 2026: We've converted this review to Test Bench 0.13, which identifies the different foams used in the shoe's midsole. We've included a microscopic image of the foam cells to give you an idea of what the microstructure looks like. To read more about the changes, see the changelog.
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Updated Jun 19, 2026:
We've updated the Popular Comparisons section to include a link to the newly reviewed ASICS GEL-CUMULUS 28.
- Updated Jun 17, 2026: We've converted this review to Test Bench 0.12, which fixes how we measure firmness, a component of the Stability and 5K/10K Racing usages. There may be inconsistencies between the text and the scores for these usages, but the scores should still be considered valid. We've also brought back the Energy Return score and added two new usages: Daily Training and Long Run. To read more about the changes, see the changelog.
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Updated Apr 15, 2026:
We updated the review to include text for the new Fit usage box, which was recently added to our test bench.
- Updated Apr 15, 2026: We've converted this review to Test Bench 0.11, adding two new rocker measurements to the Design section, and three new responsiveness tests to the Performance section. The Energy Return usage score has been replaced with Responsiveness. Check out the details in our changelog.
- Updated Feb 20, 2026: We've converted this review to Test Bench 0.10, adding a new set of fit tests to the Design section and an overall fit performance usage. Check out the details in our changelog.
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Updated Jan 30, 2026:
We updated the review to include a link to our article about the best ASICS running shoes.
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Updated Jan 27, 2026:
We updated the review to include the latest iteration of the ASICS GEL-NIMBUS in the Popular Running Shoe Comparisons section.
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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.
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Updated Sep 18, 2025:
We updated the Popular Running Shoe Comparisons box to include the ASICS MEGABLAST in ASICS' lineup.
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Updated Sep 12, 2025:
We updated the Popular Running Shoe Comparisons box to include a mention of the ASICS SONICBLAST.
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Updated Aug 11, 2025:
We updated the Compared to Other Running Shoes box to mention the ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 27.
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Updated Jul 30, 2025:
We revised the phrasing in the Marathon Racing box to better align with the latest test bench scores.
- Updated Jul 30, 2025: We've converted this review to Test Bench 0.8.1, which mainly updates the score components for the Marathon Racing and Lateral Stability usage boxes to improve accuracy.
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Updated May 21, 2025:
We updated the Compared to Running Shoes box to include links to some of our other articles.
- Updated Apr 02, 2025: Converted to Test Bench 0.8.
- Updated Apr 02, 2025: Review published.
We've bought and tested more than 300 running shoes. Every pair purchased with our own money, never supplied or sponsored by brands. Our data-driven tests are designed to go beyond marketing claims, and since every shoe goes through the exact same methodology, you can directly compare results to find the right pair for your needs.
Test Results
Energy Return
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 gives back a decent amount of energy, particularly at the forefoot, which does a significantly better job of rewarding the force you put into it. Heel landings won't feel quite as lively as a result, but neither end of the shoe feels dead underfoot.
The forefoot provides a better bounce than the heel, so 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 a 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.
Stability
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 has good stability, thanks to a broad platform 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.
Firm forefoot.
Soft foam.
High stack height.
The shoe has a soft heel that prioritizes 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.
Cushioning
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.
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, resulting in a smoother, 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 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.
Bounciness
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 is a reasonably bouncy shoe. It compresses about the same in the heel as the forefoot, but the forefoot gives back more of that stored energy, so toe-offs feel a bit springier than landings do.
Snappiness
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 has a fairly muted snap at toe-off. The forefoot doesn't resist bending much and only returns a modest share of the energy stored in it as it releases, so push-offs feel more subdued than propulsive. The forefoot is reasonably firm, at least, which gives it some structure to push against, even if the overall sensation stays fairly mellow.
Roll
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 rolls alright through each stride. The rocker gives way under load too easily, so the assistance it provides fades as you push off with real force. The forefoot's geometry offers a moderate amount of guidance rolling you forward, and the heel has a slight bevel that helps ease heel strikers into midstance, but neither is pronounced enough to make the transition feel especially smooth.
True To Size
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 fits well overall, and most runners can buy their normal size. The length is true to size; the forefoot has sufficient volume and width, but the arch is a bit narrow. For runners who need more width in the midfoot, there are wide versions of this shoe in both Men's and Women's sizes.
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.
Popular Running Shoe Comparisons
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 is a versatile daily trainer with excellent cushioning and decent energy return, making it ideal for daily runs, and even some tempo intervals or strides. Faster runners who want a shoe that responds better to harder efforts should consider the ASICS MEGABLAST. If you want a shoe that's especially well-built for long runs, see the ASICS SUPERBLAST 3. If you want a shoe with the comfort and cushioning of the NOVABLAST 5 but you're worried about stability, get the Saucony Hurricane 26.
If you're looking for more shoes from ASICS' lineup, take a look at our recommendations for the best ASICS running shoes. For more options from other brands, check out our recommendations for the best running shoes.
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 3 is a more capable all-rounder than the ASICS NOVABLAST 5. It's lighter, much more cushioned, and better suited to long runs or marathon training, while still working well for daily mileage and faster efforts. The NOVABLAST 5 is the better option if you mainly want a more stable daily trainer for easy runs and regular mileage, and it's cheaper.
The Nike Vomero Plus has better energy return than the ASICS NOVABLAST 5, making it the better pick for larger runners. The ASICS is much lighter, so smaller runners who apply less force may get more out of it. Both are soft enough for easy miles and bouncy enough to pick up the pace.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 is a better shoe than the Nike Pegasus 42. It's lighter, much more cushioned, and bouncier, making it the pick for runners who want one shoe for daily training, long runs, and faster workouts. The Pegasus 42 is firmer and more stable, with a more rockered heel, so it's still a solid choice for heel strikers who want a steadier, more grounded ride.
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 is a better choice than the ASICS NOVABLAST 5 for faster workouts. It returns more energy and offers more protection, and its firmer, curved shape favors quicker paces. The NOVABLAST 5 is more comfortable, making it better for slower runs and general daily mileage.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 6 is a slight improvement over the ASICS NOVABLAST 5. It's more cushioned and bouncier, while its new premium forefoot pod makes toe-off a bit livelier. Otherwise, they're very similar daily trainers, so NOVABLAST 5 owners have little reason to upgrade.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 is a more versatile daily trainer than the HOKA Clifton 10. It's lighter and bouncier while still offering good stability, so it handles everything from easy runs to faster sessions. The HOKA is heavier and less lively, but its plush, stable ride absorbs impact well, making it a good no-fuss pick for easy miles.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 and ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 28 are both neutral daily trainers, but they're built around two very different priorities. The NOVABLAST 5 is the more modern option, with a lighter, bouncier, more playful ride that makes everyday miles more energetic and fun, even if you're not trying to run fast. The GEL-NIMBUS 28 is the comfort-first cruiser, with a more protective, cushioned feel that's meant to keep your legs fresh and absorbed on easy and recovery runs, but without that same lively rebound. If you want daily mileage that's springy and engaging, go with the NOVABLAST, but if you want pure cushioning and protection above all else, the NIMBUS is the better fit.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 and the Nike Vomero 18 are both daily trainers focused on comfort, but they take different approaches. The ASICS is lighter, more cushioned, and more energetic, offering a soft, bouncy ride that protects your legs while still feeling playful across a range of paces and distances. It's just a bit more versatile, whether you're cruising or picking things up. The Vomero 18, on the other hand, is heavier and firmer, with a more structured and stable platform that emphasizes consistency and durability. The Vomero counters with a smoother rocker and slightly snappier forefoot, appealing more to those who prefer a grounded, stable feel for short, easy miles.
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, delivering a fun, energetic bounce while remaining 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, focusing 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.
The ASICS MEGABLAST is a more exciting and versatile shoe than the ASICS NOVABLAST 5. It's lighter, much bouncier, and more cushioned, so it handles long runs, daily miles, and even faster work. The NOVABLAST 5 is a more balanced, dependable daily trainer that's a safe choice for shorter everyday runs.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 and Brooks Ghost 17 are both daily trainers, but they have very different ideas of what that means. The ASICS is the livelier, more modern option, with more stack, more bounce, and better cushioning for everything from daily miles to light uptempo efforts. The Brooks is the trusted stalwart: stable, familiar, and built more around consistency than excitement. It's less cushioned and less responsive than the ASICS shoe, but its steadier platform makes sense for runners who want a classic daily trainer that works as well for walking as it does for easy runs.
The adidas Adizero Evo SL is a more versatile shoe than the ASICS NOVABLAST 5. It's lighter and more energetic, so it handles workouts and even racing, not just daily miles. The NOVABLAST 5 still has some bounce and plush comfort, making it the better pick for easier runs and daily training.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 is a better all-around running shoe than the Saucony Endorphin Speed 5. Its plateless design is significantly more cushioned and more accessible for daily miles, offering a smooth, stable ride for easy running while still handling a bit of faster work. That said, the Saucony's plated design returns much more energy, so it's the better shoe if you're looking for something dedicated to intervals and faster running.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 and New Balance 1080v15 are both great daily trainers, but the New Balance is the better pick for most runners. It's slightly more stable and returns a bit more energy, so despite being marginally heavier, it takes less effort to run in and is a more reliable option for daily miles. The ASICS is marginally more cushioned and protects your legs a bit better over longer runs; however, if you regularly run more than 10K, the ASICS will keep your legs more protected from the road.
The New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5 and the ASICS NOVABLAST 5 are both daily trainers that aim to blend comfort and versatility, but they approach the task in different ways. The Rebel v5 is lighter, lower to the ground, and its natural rocker works well for easy runs and strides. In contrast, the NOVABLAST 5 is higher stacked and more robust overall, delivering better cushioning and more rebound, especially for longer efforts. Its FF Blast+ Eco foam feels more dynamic and holds up better under heavier runners or higher mileage. While both shoes are on the softer side, the ASICS feels plusher overall.
The ASICS SONICBLAST and ASICS NOVABLAST 5 are both versatile trainers, but the SONICBLAST is the more capable performance option. It's more cushioned, more energetic, and uses a partial plate to add structure for faster running and longer efforts. The NOVABLAST 5 is lighter and better suited to relaxed daily mileage, so get that shoe if you're just looking for a daily trainer.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 and HOKA Bondi 9 are both high-stack daily trainers, but they prioritize comfort in different ways. The ASICS is the lighter, more modern-feeling option, combining great cushioning with a lively bounce that makes it quite versatile. The HOKA leans harder into protection, with a more cushioned, more comfort-forward ride, but it feels heavier on foot and more focused on soaking up impact than feeling nimble. If your priority is maximum protection and a plush cruiser feel, the HOKA makes more sense. However, if you want a lighter daily trainer that still delivers great cushioning with a bit of bounce for more versatile training, the ASICS is the better fit.
The Saucony Endorphin Azura is a better running shoe than the ASICS NOVABLAST 5. It's lighter and more cushioned, providing impressive impact protection across daily miles and long runs. Despite being slightly less stable, it returns significantly more energy, giving you much more assistance through each stride. Its cushioning also holds up much better over longer distances, and it can comfortably get you through a marathon if you're not racing, unlike the ASICS.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 4 and the ASICS NOVABLAST 5 offer noticeably different running experiences despite their shared lineage. The NOVABLAST 4 provides a firmer ride with greater stability, appealing to runners seeking a secure and predictable feel underfoot. In contrast, the NOVABLAST 5 represents a clear improvement for most, delivering a softer, more dynamic experience thanks to enhanced cushioning and better responsiveness. Overall, the NOVABLAST 5 is better suited to comfortably handle versatile workouts and longer miles.
The HOKA Mach 6 and the ASICS NOVABLAST 5 are both versatile daily trainers but cater to different needs. The Mach 6 sits closer to the ground and offers a lighter, firmer feel, making it a great no-fuss option for daily training. In contrast, the NOVABLAST 5 provides significantly more cushioning, helping to protect your legs during longer efforts, and a midsole that delivers greater energy return.
The ASICS GEL-CUMULUS 28 and ASICS NOVABLAST 5 are both daily trainers that use the same FF BLAST MAX midsole compound, but they're built for different runners. The CUMULUS 28 is higher-drop, more stable, and has a stiffer rocker, making it more geared towards relaxed daily mileage. The NOVABLAST 5 is lighter, more cushioned overall, and significantly more responsive, with much better energy return under both the heel and forefoot, making it the better pick if you want a livelier shoe that can handle a wider range of paces.
The Mizuno Neo Zen and the ASICS NOVABLAST 5 are both modern, high-stack daily trainers built for comfort and bounce, but they differ in execution. The Mizuno is softer and more cushioned, offering a plush, highly protective ride that's ideal for easy and recovery runs. It also features a sock-like upper that helps save weight and contributes to the shoe's lighter overall build compared to the ASICS. However, this upper comes with a trade-off: the lockdown isn't as secure, and it has a less accommodating fit that can feel less stable during longer runs.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 and ASICS GT-2000 14 are both daily trainers, but they serve very different purposes: the NOVABLAST 5 is a modern, neutral trainer focused on fun cushioning and bounce, while the GT-2000 14 is a traditional support trainer designed with overpronation control in mind. The GT-2000 14 has a wider base, firmer foam, and stronger lateral stability, so it feels more planted, especially if you roll inward or simply like a very controlled ride. In contrast, the NOVABLAST 5 is lighter, softer, and noticeably more energetic, with a higher, plusher stack and a more rockered feel that makes easy runs and uptempo efforts feel livelier and smoother.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 and the Brooks Glycerin 22 are two daily trainers that take very different approaches. The ASICS is the lighter, more lively option, prioritizing cushioning across both forefoot and heel, and excels in everything from recovery miles to long distances, whilst remaining responsive enough for light uptempo efforts as well. The Brooks shoe is the more classic option. A sturdy workhorse with a smaller stack, it prioritizes stability and, though it still has adequate cushioning, it's best for runners looking for a dependable companion for easy, long, and recovery runs without any aggressive pace changes.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 is better overall than the ASICS GLIDERIDE MAX, but each shoe has its strong suit. The NOVABLAST 5 is better for picking up the pace, with significantly better energy return and a more lightweight design. The GLIDERIDE MAX, by contrast, has better cushioning, especially in the heel, and is better suited for longer, easier miles.
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14 and ASICS NOVABLAST 5 are both cushioned daily trainers, but they deliver that comfort in very different ways. The ASICS feels like the more modern option, pairing generous cushioning with noticeable bounce to create a fun, protective ride that stays lively for daily miles and steady efforts. The New Balance comes in heavier with a lower drop and focuses more squarely on cushioning and reliability, offering a stable, predictable platform that prioritizes comfort over energy return.
The New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 and the ASICS NOVABLAST 5 are both daily trainers, but they cater to different running preferences. The New Balance offers a classic daily trainer feel with a firmer midsole and a more grounded, stable ride. On the other hand, the ASICS is significantly more cushioned, providing better underfoot protection, which is especially beneficial during longer runs or for those who prioritize softness and comfort. While both shoes are reliable choices for daily training, choose the Rebel v4 if you prefer a stable, firm feel and the NOVABLAST 5 if you want maximum cushioning and comfort over extended distances.
The Nike Pegasus Premium and the ASICS NOVABLAST 5 both fall into the daily trainer category but deliver very different ride experiences. The ASICS feels lighter and more energetic, with its foam providing a lively rebound that encourages quicker pacing. The Nike shoe takes the opposite approach, emphasizing more impact absorption at lighter loads and easy runs. Those looking to chase a fun, bouncy feel will prefer the ASICS, while those who prioritize plush comfort will appreciate the Nike.
The New Balance Ellipse and ASICS NOVABLAST 5 are both daily trainers, but they behave differently underfoot. The ASICS is lighter and higher-stacked, combining good cushioning with noticeable bounce, which makes it feel more dynamic but also a bit less stable overall. The Ellipse offers some bounce as well, but with less overall cushioning and a lower, more grounded feel that translates into better stability and more connection to the road.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 and Salomon Aero Glide 3 are two versatile daily trainers that perform similarly across a wide range of roles in a shoe rotation, capable of handling daily miles, workouts, and long runs. The Salomon is better cushioned in the heel, so heavy heel strikers will get better protection. The Salomon also has better energy return, making it a better pick if you plan to do lots of speed workouts. The ASICS still offers very good cushioning but provides a firmer feel underfoot. Overall, the more relaxed geometry of the ASICS makes it a good option for runners who want some versatility but are not aiming for top speed.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 and the PUMA Deviate NITRO 3 are both high-stack cushioned trainers that perform similarly despite some key differences. They both return a similar amount of energy, but the ASICS offers a more cushioned ride, making it a better choice for longer efforts and for those seeking plush comfort. The PUMA, however, feels more controlled, with a carbon fiber plate and firmer foam.
The PUMA Magnify NITRO 3 and ASICS NOVABLAST 5 are both bouncy, versatile trainers built for everyday use. The NOVABLAST 5 packs more cushioning underfoot for a plusher ride but sacrifices some energy return, most notably in the forefoot, where the Magnify NITRO 3 delivers much better return. The fit of the ASICS might be more accommodating to runners with wider feet, as PUMA's sizing is narrower in both the heel and forefoot.
The Brooks Ghost Amp and ASICS NOVABLAST 5 are both versatile daily trainers that aim to do it all, but the ASICS is the better shoe for most runners. It's more protective underfoot, offering a livelier ride. It's also lighter, and its midsole holds up better over longer efforts. The Brooks is still a good daily trainer, and its lower stack and drop mean it's more stable and suits runners who want a closer connection to the road.
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. The availability of these color options may vary by region.
