After plenty of miles in these, I’d say this version is a genuine return to form, especially for anyone let down by the fourth iteration.
The Novablast 5 manages to pack in maximum cushioning while staying light at just 254g, boasting a 40.9mm heel stack and the new FF Blast Max midsole that feels softer and more lively than before. It’s a strong pick for daily training, easy recovery runs, and even the odd tempo day.
I’ve looked closely at everything from the revamped mesh upper to the grip and flexibility. If you’re a beginner after a do-it-all shoe or a seasoned runner just wanting a plush daily trainer that won’t empty your wallet, knowing how the Novablast 5 stacks up—comfort, durability, and how it fares against rivals—should help you figure out if this £135 trainer deserves a spot in your lineup.
Key Features and Improvements
The Asics Novablast 5 brings some big changes that fix what held the Novablast 4 back. The new midsole foam really transforms the ride, and the upper just fits better overall.
What’s New Compared to the Novablast 4
The main event here is the FF Blast Max midsole. It replaces the old FF Blast+ Eco foam and uses POE (polyolefin elastomer) instead of EVA.
The ride is way softer and bouncier than last year’s model. The Novablast 4 just felt too firm for a daily trainer, honestly. This new foam brings back that fun, squishy feel from earlier Novablasts.
Weight drops from 260g to 250g in my size 9—a decent 10g shaved off. The upper gets a more breathable mesh, too.
The toe box is noticeably roomier. A lot of folks griped about the narrow fit in the Novablast 4, and Asics seems to have actually listened this time.
Cushioning depth stays the same but feels a lot plusher. The price is still £135, which is pretty good considering the upgrades.
Core Design and Specs
The Novablast 5 keeps the 41.5mm heel stack height from before. That’s just over the World Athletics 40mm limit for racing—though, let’s be real, most of us won’t care.
Specs at a glance:
- Weight: 250g (men’s UK 9)
- Drop: 10mm (41.5mm heel, 31.5mm forefoot)
- Price: £135
- Midsole: FF Blast Max (POE-based)
- Upper: Technical mesh with gusseted tongue
The outsole uses AHAR LO rubber with a bit more coverage. I did notice some small holes in the rubber to cut weight—occasionally they’ll pick up stones, but it’s not a dealbreaker.
The upper is a thin, technical mesh that feels way more modern than the fuzzy material on the Novablast 4. There’s a new tongue loop, too, which helps keep things in place.
Target Runner and Intended Use
The Asics Novablast 5 is a solid daily trainer for most people. I’ve tested it on everything from slow 7:00/km jogs to 4:30/km tempo efforts.
It works for beginners and experienced runners who just want one shoe that can do a bit of everything. The soft midsole makes easy runs comfy, but there’s enough bounce for picking up the pace.
Best for:
- Daily training miles
- Easy/moderate pace runs
- Anyone wanting a lighter daily trainer
- Those who thought the Novablast 4 was too firm
Long runs? No problem—I’ve taken them out for a 25km day without issues. Not the best for track workouts or racing, since the midsole is so soft. The wider fit is especially nice if you’ve got broad feet.
It’s in the same lane as the Nike Pegasus and Brooks Ghost, but it’s lighter than both.
Fit, Comfort, and Upper Performance
The Novablast 5 fits true to size and the upper is a real step up. The new jacquard mesh gives more structure but doesn’t sacrifice comfort, even on longer runs.
Sizing and Fit Insights
I found my usual running shoe size worked just fine. The fit is a touch wider all over, but with a lower volume feel than lots of trainers.
The toe box has enough room—definitely not cramped, but not clown-shoe wide either. There’s a bit of a taper on the outside, but it opens up nicely at the forefoot.
The midfoot is wider but still hugs the foot. It’s a good mix of secure and not too tight.
The heel collar is well padded, which helps balance out the slightly wider heel cup. The heel counter is moderately stiff and didn’t bug me at all.
I did have to cinch the laces a bit for a good lockdown, but nothing fancy like lace locking was needed.
Jacquard Mesh Upper Materials
The jacquard mesh upper is a big upgrade from the old woven stuff. It feels more structured but still flexes when you need it to.
The mesh has a bit of stretch, so your foot can move naturally. It can feel a little scratchy if you go sockless, though.
I’d definitely wear socks for longer runs—otherwise, it might get annoying.
The new upper holds the forefoot better than the Novablast 4. You notice this more when you pick up the pace.
It’s a decent balance between breathability and what you’d expect for durability.
Breathability and Lockdown
The tongue is thin and well gusseted, so it doesn’t budge. The lace loop helps keep it centered, too.
Lockdown is secure, but not suffocating. The tongue and upper wrap the midfoot nicely.
Breathability is fine for most runs, though there are more ventilated shoes out there.
The gusseted tongue stays put, so you’re not fussing with it mid-run.
The lacing system holds well, no pressure points as long as you adjust it right.
In-Shoe Feel on Long and Easy Runs
The Novablast 5 is a treat for easy runs—plenty of cushion, and the lower volume fit keeps things locked in without feeling stiff.
Long runs are comfortable, too. The structured upper prevents hot spots, which is a relief over big mileage.
It’s especially nice for recovery days. The shoe doesn’t feel bulky or awkward at slower paces.
For easy runs, breathability is good enough in most weather. The secure fit means no sliding around, even on longer efforts.
The upper is just more stable than version 4, which helps with pace changes. It’s still got the comfort you want for daily miles.
Ride, Cushioning, and Midsole Technology
The Novablast 5 gets a big boost from its new FF Blast Max midsole foam and that thick stack height. The result? A softer, comfier ride with plenty of bounce.
Stack Height and Heel-to-Toe Drop
The Novablast 5 has a 40.5mm heel stack and 32.5mm forefoot stack, for an 8mm drop. That’s firmly in max-cushion territory.
The extra stack height soaks up impact, which is great on longer runs when your legs are feeling it.
The 8mm drop is friendly for heel strikers like me. It rolls you forward without being too dramatic.
Asics tweaked the heel bevel, so landings are smoother and less jarring than before.
The big cushion makes it a good pick for heavier runners or anyone coming back from injury. If you want a really close-to-the-ground feel, though, this isn’t it.
FF Blast Max Foam and Cushioning
The FF Blast Max foam is the headline here. Asics says it’s 8.5% bouncier than the old FF Blast Plus Eco foam.
In real-world running, it’s definitely softer underfoot. The cushion is spot-on for easy days and long runs.
The foam walks the line between soft and springy. It’s plush for recovery but still lively enough for some tempo work.
I’ve used these for everything from 5Ks to a half marathon, and the cushioning stayed consistent—never felt flat or dead.
There’s a pod-like groove in the forefoot for extra spring. If you land midfoot or forefoot, you’ll notice the added bounce.
Stability and Responsiveness
Despite the soft foam, the Novablast 5 is more stable than you’d expect. The wide base keeps you from rolling around.
Pace changes are no problem. I’ve done mixed sessions—5K efforts at 4:20/km, 1K intervals at 4:05/km—and never felt wobbly.
It’s not as snappy as something like the Superblast 2, but for the price, the energy return is solid. It’s quick enough for most workouts, still comfy for easy miles.
The big forefoot rocker from version 4 is still here, helping you roll through your stride. The central forefoot lug adds to the smooth ride.
Outsole, Durability, and Comparisons
The Novablast 5’s outsole is a bit better than before, but durability is a mixed bag after a lot of miles. It’s up against tough competition like the Nike Pegasus Plus and ASICS SuperBlast.
Outsole Grip and Traction
The outsole is fine for most road runs, but it’s not the standout feature. The rubber lugs grip well on dry pavement and can handle light trails.
Traction:
- Dry roads: Good grip
- Wet surfaces: Not great, so watch your step
- Light trails: Okay, but not what it’s made for
The outsole uses a mix of rubber compounds, but grip fades after 200-300km.
Slipperiness on wet roads becomes more noticeable as the miles add up. It’s best kept to dry surfaces where it shines.
Durability Expectations
From my runs and checking other reviews, durability is a bit of a mixed story. The upper holds up well—no major wear after 300km.
The midsole foam, though, loses its bounce pretty quickly. I noticed it getting less springy after 150-200km.
Durability notes:
- Upper: no fraying or tearing
- Outsole: little visible wear
- Midsole: softens up noticeably early
- Overall: expect 300-400km before the ride feels tired
The FF Blast Max foam starts off lively but fades faster than older Novablasts, which could easily last 500km or more. That’s something to keep in mind if you rack up the miles fast.
How It Stacks Up to Rivals
When I put the Nike Pegasus Plus up against the Novablast 5, the Novablast 5 definitely feels cushier out of the box, but the Pegasus just keeps that same ride for longer. It’s kind of the workhorse here.
The ASICS SuperBlast is a different animal—bouncier, more robust, but you’re looking at an extra £40-50 over the Novablast 5’s £135 tag. That’s not nothing.
Comparison Breakdown:
- Cushioning: Novablast 5 > Pegasus Plus > SuperBlast
- Durability: SuperBlast > Pegasus Plus > Novablast 5
- Value: Pegasus Plus > Novablast 5 > SuperBlast
The GlideRide Max is honestly smoother for those slow, easy days. Still, I’d say the Novablast 5 can handle a mix of paces—at least at first.
Price-wise, the Novablast 5 holds its own out of the gate. But if you’re hoping for a shoe that’ll last all season, its midsole just breaks down quicker than the old guard.
