Here’s a detailed look at the ASICS Men’s Novablast 5 — what’s new, how it performs, its pros & cons — so you can decide if it’s a good fit for you.
Key Specifications
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Weight (US Men’s 9) | ≈ 8.9-9.6 oz (≈ 250-255 g) depending on source. |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 8 mm (though some measured slightly less) |
| Stack Height | ~ 41.5 mm in the heel / ~ 33.5 mm in the forefoot. |
| Midsole Foam | FF Blast Max — ASICS’s newer foam designed to be softer/light and with more energy return than the previous version. |
| Upper | Engineered jacquard mesh (≈ 75% recycled materials). Improved ventilation/stretch. Tongue-wing / tongue gusset design to reduce tongue movement. |
| Outsole / Traction | Updated AHAR LO rubber in high-wear areas, softer feel, better grip especially in wet conditions. |
What’s Improved Over Novablast 4
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Softer, more responsive midsole with better energy return via FF Blast Max.
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Adjusted heel bevel (less aggressive), which helps smoother transitions especially for heel-strikers.
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More breathable, stretchy, and comfortable upper (new mesh, recycled materials).
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Improved grip/outsole rubber (especially on wet tarmac)
What It’s Good For
This shoe is best for:
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Daily training / long runs: The cushioning and stack height make it good for comfort over longer distances.
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Recovery / easy runs: It’s plush enough that you’ll feel less fatigue.
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Some faster efforts (tempo or steady-state runs): It won’t be a racing spike or minimal shoe, but many find it appropriately responsive for sub-threshold or tempo work.
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Anyone wanting a neutral shoe (i.e. not specifically for overpronation support).
What’s Less Ideal Possible Downsides
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Because of the high stack and softer foam, lateral stability (especially for heavy runners or those needing more structure) is less than some more stability-focused shoes.
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The shoe is not really built for racing / all-out speed (no carbon plate etc.).
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Some runners report that the foam loses its “pop” (bounciness) after a certain mileage (~ 150-200 km) and becomes less lively.
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Toe box height is average; if you have very wide forefeet, may feel snug or press.
Fit Sizing Notes
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Generally runs true to size.
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Upper is roomy in some areas; good midfoot/heel lockdown, though some found toe-box slightly cramped.
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Width: standard; as of the latest reviews, no “wide” version widely available (or at least less options).
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.