ASICS Novablast 5 Review

ASICS Novablast 5 Shoe Review

Cushioned and adaptable for your daily demands.

Boasting a massive comeback over the past few years with fly-off-the-shelves models like the Superblast 2 and Metaspeed Edge and Metaspeed Sky Paris series, ASICS is delivering yet another runner favourite in a newly revamped package to kick off the 2025 training season. 

Meet the ASICS Novablast 5. Designed to be extremely versatile (both in the types of runs and runners it serves), this daily trainer is well-cushioned, supportive, and durable. Whether you're a beginner runner looking for a shoe that can grow right along with you or a seasoned athlete who needs a dependable easy-run bestie, the Novablast 5 is a quality choice for any runner's shoe rotation.

In this review, we'll break down some key features of the new Novablast 5, plus share some honest feedback from real runners from our Toronto running community. Let's blast off!

Key Features Of The Novablast 5

  • Enhanced Cushioning: The Novablast 5 introduces FF BLAST™ MAX cushioning, delivering softer landings and a more energized toe-off, ideal for easy-effort and longer-distance runs.

  • Improved Fit: A tongue wing construction in the upper minimizes tongue movement, while the engineered jacquard mesh upper offers increased stretch and ventilation for a secure and breathable experience.

  • Sustainable Design: ASICS incorporates at least 75% recycled materials in the shoe's main upper, reflecting a commitment to reducing waste and carbon emissions.

  • Reflective Details: Designed to enhance visibility in low-light conditions, ensuring safety during early morning or evening runs.

Must-Know Tech Specs

  • Weight: Approximately 8.6 oz (255g)

  • Heel Drop: 8mm

  • Stack Height: 41.5mm (heel), 33.5mm (forefoot)

  • Category: Neutral

Novablast 5 Runner Reviews

Check out our firsthand reviews from local runners and BlackToe Running staff who have tested the Novablast 5:

"I found the Novablast 5 to fit true to size. It's firm feeling and a solid running shoe that doesn't stray too far out of its lane (for example, it doesn't have a massively high stack or extreme roll). It was relatively warm when testing it out in the winter, but I think it will be breathable too. It would make a great intro shoe for a newer runner, or a good daily trainer for those easy 5 to 10k runs for just about anybody. It does feel like an upgrade from the 4 with more cushioning... a mini Superblast, if you will!"

- Kim K, BlackToe Running Midtown, Head Coach

"I’ve been loving the Novablast 5! In my opinion, they fit true to size, and the upgrades to the upper provide a much better fit for me, offering great lockdown. The new cushioning (FF Blast Max) has been a noticeable upgrade, it’s soft yet still delivers that snappy, bouncy feel that makes every run fun and enjoyable. They’re so comfortable, it’s easy to forget you’re even wearing them! The Novablast continues to be a staple in my rotation, especially for easy and long runs. No matter how many kilometres I put on this shoe, I always seem to come back to them. What I really love about the 5 is how versatile it feels, you can easily pick up the pace without it holding you back. It’s such a fun and reliable option for a variety of runs!"

- Cameron B., Local Runner

"I honestly haven’t run in ASICS since I was a little kid, and when I put them on, I was shocked. So lightweight, almost as if they have that bounce of a carbon plate but without one! Genuinely required no break in time, felt like MY shoe from the first run I did in them. I will be using these as my go-to shoe right now for everyday mid-distance runs! Sometimes also wearing for long - I normally wear my carbon plate New Balance trainers for long but these are so comfy, I will defs be doing long runs in them too! I did try on the ASICS Novablast before a few months ago, but I didn’t find them light enough. The Novablast 5 feel enhanced! I 100 percent will be buying these again when I hit my mileage in them."

- Jill, A., Local Runner

Where Can You Find The ASICS Novablast 5?

Are you ready for a run that's out of this world? The ASICS Novablast 5 is set to launch on January 20, 2025 (dates are always flexible, of course), and we expect it to remain a versatile daily trainer among runners looking for a cushioned, responsive, and dependable ride.

BlackToe Running, Toronto's favourite specialty running store, will have the ASICS men's Novablast 5 and ASICS women's Novablast 5 fully stocked both online and at our King Street West and Midtown retail stores. As a go-to destination for runners in the Toronto area, we can't wait to help more customers hit the ground running in the new Novablast 5!

Connect with us online or visit our helpful Shoe Experts in person for all your running gear and training needs!