Asics Novablast 5: The Daily Driver That's Turned Up the Volume

The Asics Novablast series. Ah, a name that's become synonymous with that sweet spot of comfort and versatility in the running world. Each iteration has been met with a flurry of anticipation, like a much-awaited gig from your favourite band, and the Novablast 5? Well, it's the headliner that's got everyone talking. Forget the support act; this one's stealing the show. We've delved deep into the professional reviews and real-world user feedback to bring you a comprehensive, no-nonsense breakdown of whether the Novablast 5 lives up to the hype.

The Chatter Amongst the Pros: A Symphony of Praise

Our journey begins with the seasoned critics, the folks who spend more time pounding pavements than most of us spend watching telly. Publications like Runner's World UK, RunRepeat, Women's Running UK, OutdoorGearLab, Running Warehouse, and Find My Footwear have all weighed in, and the consensus is overwhelmingly positive. Picture a round of applause at a packed-out stadium - that's the vibe we're getting.

The star of the show? The midsole. Asics has swapped out the old foam for their new FF Blast Max, and it's like they've found the secret sauce. This isn't just a tweak; it's a full-blown upgrade. Reviewers are raving about the softer, bouncier ride, a sensation akin to running on clouds that have a spring in their step. It's a deliberate move by Asics to elevate the underfoot experience, and boy, have they nailed it.

But it's not just the midsole that's got tongues wagging. The Novablast 5 has shed some weight, making it feel more agile and responsive. The upper, crafted from an engineered jacquard mesh, is a breath of fresh air - literally. Comfort and breathability are top-notch, keeping your feet happy even on those sweltering summer runs. And here's the kicker: despite all these enhancements, the price point has largely remained the same as the Novablast 4. It's like getting a premium upgrade without the premium price tag. In today's economy, that's a win.

This shoe isn't a one-trick pony, either. It's a versatile beast, capable of handling everything from leisurely recovery jogs to those lung-busting long runs and even a bit of speed work. It's the sort of shoe you can rely on, day in and day out, without needing to switch to something else.

The Midsole Magic: Where Cushioning Meets Responsiveness

Let's dive deeper into that midsole, shall we? The FF Blast Max foam is the heart and soul of the Novablast 5. Runner's World UK highlights the noticeable plushness, while RunRepeat confirms the improved energy return, calling it the plushest foam ever used in a Novablast. It's a delicate balance, like a perfectly brewed cuppa - soft but not soggy, responsive but not harsh.

Women's Running UK waxes lyrical about the "dreamy landing" for easy and long runs, yet emphasises the shoe's ability to handle faster paces. Find My Footwear reckons Asics has hit the "Goldilocks" point - not too soft, not too firm, just right. Running Warehouse describes the cushioning as high on comfort and energy, though perhaps not as snappy as dedicated speed shoes.

OutdoorGearLab points out the "sweet spot" of resilience without mushiness, and the impressive stack height of around 41mm at the heel. That's maximalist cushioning territory, folks. RunRepeat's lab measurements confirm a 40.9mm heel stack and a 33.5mm forefoot stack, providing excellent impact protection. The 8mm drop (or 7.4mm, according to RunRepeat) is a classic choice, suitable for a wide range of runners.

While the softness and bounce are generally lauded, it's worth noting that speed demons might crave something firmer and snappier. But for most of us, this midsole is a dream come true.

The Upper Story: Comfort and Lockdown in Harmony

Now, let's talk about the upper. The engineered jacquard mesh has been praised for its comfort and secure fit. Runner's World UK applauds the new lacing system and gusseted tongue, providing a snug, breathable wrap. RunRepeat echoes this, highlighting the pillow-like padding in the heel and excellent ventilation.

Women's Running UK notes the ample padding and structure around the heel and ankle, along with plenty of room in the toe box. A Reddit user calls the upper "amazing," praising its lightness, breathability, and lockdown. Find My Footwear reports a true-to-size fit, with a comfortable upper that offers a touch of natural stretch.

Running Warehouse reviewers found the upper plush and comfortable, though some raised concerns about breathability in hotter conditions and the tongue's adjustability. OutdoorGearLab reports a "spot on" fit with a slightly more spacious toe box and a padded, winged tongue. Run and Smile praises the upper's lockdown and breathability, though they suggest runners with narrower feet might need thicker socks.

Overall, the upper strikes a fine balance between comfort and security. Just be mindful if you've got narrow feet or plan on running in scorching temperatures.

The Outsole Saga: Grip or Slip?

The outsole, featuring an AHAR LO rubber compound, has been a point of contention. RunRepeat identifies traction as the Novablast series' weakest link, stating the v5 still lacks optimal grip on wet surfaces. Women's Running UK agrees, suggesting the cutaway design might compromise traction.

A Reddit user advises against using the shoe on trails or expecting excellent winter grip. Running Warehouse reviewers have mixed experiences, with some finding solid traction and others noting significant improvements over the v4. OutdoorGearLab acknowledges the Novablast 5's grip struggles but highlights the new compound as an improvement. Run and Smile finds good grip on dry surfaces but less so on wet ground.

The consensus? The grip has improved, but it's still a potential limitation, particularly in wet or icy conditions. Stick to dry surfaces, and you'll be golden.

Novablast vs. the Competition: A Battle of the Daily Trainers

How does the Novablast 5 stack up against its predecessors and rivals? It's consistently portrayed as an upgrade, particularly in terms of midsole feel. Runner's World UK says it's softer and smoother than the v4. RunRepeat suggests fans of the v3 will love the v5, which reintroduces a more dynamic ride.

Compared to other daily trainers, the Novablast 5 is a soft, cushioned option. RunRepeat suggests the Saucony Ride 17 or Brooks Ghost Max 2 for a firmer feel, and the ASICS Superblast 2 or Puma Velocity Nitro 3 for superior traction. A Reddit user likens the midsole to Fuel Cell with a higher stack or the Adidas Adizero SL2.

Find My Footwear compares it to the New Balance Rebel, a softer, cushioned, and responsive model. OutdoorGearLab suggests the Hoka Mach 6 or Puma Velocity Nitro 3 for a firmer ride. The Novablast 5 carves out a niche as a highly cushioned, versatile daily trainer with a soft ride.

Who's It For? The Runner's Profile

The Novablast 5 caters to a broad spectrum of runners. Runner's World UK recommends it for beginners or those seeking a single shoe for various sessions. RunRepeat suggests it's excellent for those wanting a versatile, cushioned daily trainer at a good price.

Women's Running UK echoes this, calling it a great option for beginners or one-shoe runners. A Reddit user enthusiastically recommends it to any neutral runner. OutdoorGearLab believes it's best for most runners as a daily trainer and an excellent one-shoe option. Run and Smile suggests it suits neutral runners for various runs.

The User Verdict: Real-World Experiences

Let's hear from the runners themselves. User reviews largely mirror the positive professional sentiment. A Reddit user calls it the "best daily trainer/do it all shoe." Another user, who purchased it early, finds it a good middle ground between the v3 and v4. Running Warehouse reviewers report strong sales and praise the upgrades.

A user who ran over 200 kilometers thoroughly enjoyed it, highlighting the "trampoline" effect and improved fitness. The comfortable upper and cushioned midsole are consistently praised. However, some users note the outsole wear and reduced bounce over time. Sizing and fit are generally true to size, though some note potential discrepancies.

The Final Lap: Is It Worth It?

The Asics Novablast 5 is a stellar daily trainer. Its strengths - the improved midsole, comfortable upper, and versatility - make it a top contender. While there are some drawbacks, like the grip and potential midsole durability, the overwhelming positive feedback speaks volumes.

The Pros:

• Softer, bouncier FF Blast Max midsole.
• Improved energy return.
• Plush, comfortable cushioning.
• Versatile for various runs.
• Lighter than the v4.
• Comfortable, breathable upper.
• Good fit, accommodating wider feet.
• Improved traction.
• Smooth transitions.
• Good value.
• Suitable for all levels.
• Nimble feel.
• Durable upper.
• Initial "trampoline" effect.

The Cons:

• Lacks grip on wet surfaces.
• Breathability issues in heat.
• Tongue design problems.
• Too wide for narrow feet.
• Midfoot flexibility issues.
• Not ideal for speed work.
• Potential sliding on declines.
• Outsole durability concerns.
• Reduced midsole bounce over time.
• Slightly less stable than v4.
• Forefoot pod dislike.
• Heel padding durability.
• Potential lace bite.
• Not ideal sockless.
• Slight rigidity.
• Wide platform lack of agility.
• Midsole softness not for everyone.

In essence, the Asics Novablast 5 is a brilliant daily trainer that delivers on comfort, versatility, and value. It's a shoe that's ready to tackle whatever you throw at it, making it a worthy addition to any runner's arsenal.

key pros of the Asics Novablast 5 as identified from professional and user reviews

Asics Novablast 5 cons as identified from professional and user reviews: