ASICS Novablast 5 Review — Comfort, Versatility, and Effortless Performance

Few running shoes have caused as much excitement this year as the ASICS Novablast 5. It’s flying off shelves across the UK, with retailers struggling to keep it in stock — and for good reason. This fifth-generation Novablast takes everything runners loved about its predecessor and refines it even further. The result is a shoe that feels comfortable, balanced, and effortlessly adaptable across a wide range of paces.

From the moment you lace up, the Novablast 5 feels soft yet stable. The upper delivers a snug, supportive fit with no pressure points, while the FF Blast+™ ECO midsole provides that trademark Novablast bounce — energetic and smooth but now with greater control. A slightly wider base gives the shoe a more grounded feel, improving stability without compromising its lively ride. What sets the Novablast 5 apart is how naturally it adapts: it’s equally comfortable cruising at recovery pace, picking up speed for tempo efforts, or handling quicker bursts like intervals.

Once you settle into a rhythm, the shoe almost disappears beneath you — a true hallmark of a great daily trainer. There’s no rubbing or hotspots, and the energy return stays consistent as the kilometres roll by. The ride feels effortless and natural, letting your mind wander instead of worrying about your feet. The outsole features generous AHAR+ rubber coverage, which not only boosts durability but also provides impressive grip, even in cold or slippery conditions.

The ASICS Novablast 5 strikes a rare balance between cushioning, responsiveness, and stability — creating a “just right” feel for a huge range of runners. Whether you’re logging easy miles, building fitness, or chasing a bit of speed, this shoe handles it all with confidence. It’s versatile, comfortable, and easy to forget you’re even wearing — and that might be its greatest strength.

Who This Shoe Is Best For

  • Neutral runners seeking a versatile daily trainer
  • Suitable for easy runs, tempo sessions, and steady efforts
  • Great option for mid-pack runners who want one shoe for everything
  • Runners looking for soft, springy cushioning with a stable feel

Key Features

  • FF Blast+™ ECO midsole for soft, responsive cushioning with sustainability in mind
  • Wider platform for improved stability and smoother transitions
  • Engineered mesh upper that’s breathable, comfortable, and secure
  • AHAR+ outsole for long-lasting traction and grip in all conditions
  • Light, lively, and built for a wide range of paces
  • Approx. weight: 260g (men’s UK 8.5) | Drop: 8mm
ASICS Novablast 5 Review — Comfort, Versatility, and Effortless Performance

The ASICS Novablast 5 is one of the most adaptable daily trainers on the market — comfortable enough for easy runs, energetic enough for faster efforts, and stable enough for everything in between. It’s the kind of shoe that simply works without calling attention to itself, and that effortless, forget-you’re-wearing-it quality is exactly why it’s become one of the most sought-after running shoes of the year.