Asics Novablast 5 After 300 km: A Comprehensive Long-Term Review 🏃‍♀️

Running shoes are more than just gear; they’re a runner’s trusted companion. The Asics Novablast series has been a fan favorite for its unique blend of comfort, bounce, and versatility. The Novablast 5, the latest iteration, promised to build on the legacy of its predecessors. But how does it hold up after 300 km of rigorous use? In this in-depth review, we’ll explore the wear and tear, performance changes, and whether the Novablast 5 still deserves a spot in your running rotation.

🛠️ Construction and Durability: How Well Does It Hold Up?

🏗️ Upper and Fit: Still Snug and Comfortable

The Novablast 5’s upper has been a standout feature since its release. After 300 km, the shoe’s construction remains intact, with no visible snags, frays, or tears. The lockdown, which was praised during the initial review, continues to provide a secure and comfortable fit.

• Fit Adjustments: Compared to earlier versions, the Novablast 5 feels slightly snugger, especially over the top of the foot. This is a welcome change for runners who found previous models a bit too roomy.
• Toe Box: The toe box offers a more standard fit, with just under a full thumb’s width of space. This makes it suitable for a wide range of foot shapes without requiring sizing adjustments.

🏞️ Outsole Wear: Minimal but Noticeable

Visually, the outsole shows minimal wear after 300 km. The rubber lugs, which provide traction, are still largely intact. However, there’s a noticeable decline in grip, especially on wet surfaces.

• Traction Issues: While the Novablast series has never been known for exceptional grip, the Novablast 5’s outsole performance has degraded over time. Runners may need to exercise caution on wet or slippery terrain.
• Durability: Despite the grip issues, the outsole’s durability is commendable, with no significant signs of wear in high-impact areas.

🏋️‍♂️ Midsole Performance: The Heart of the Novablast

🎈 The Bounce Factor: A Tale of Two Halves

The Novablast 5’s midsole is where the magic happens—or at least, where it used to. The shoe’s signature bounce, which was a highlight during the first 150 km, has significantly diminished after 300 km.

• Initial Performance: The midsole provided a perfect balance of softness and energy return, making it ideal for both easy runs and faster workouts.
• After 300 km: The bounce has reduced to less than half of its original performance. While the shoe remains comfortable, it no longer delivers the explosive energy return that made it so appealing.

🧽 Cushioning: Still Plush but Losing Its Edge

The Novablast 5’s cushioning remains one of its strongest features, even after extensive use. However, the midsole foam has started to compress, leading to a less responsive ride.

• Comfort: The shoe is still incredibly comfortable, making it a great option for long runs and recovery days.
• Performance Decline: The loss of bounce means the Novablast 5 is no longer suitable for speed workouts or races.

🏞️ Versatility: From Workouts to Long Runs

🏃‍♂️ Easy and Moderate Runs: Still a Go-To Choice

Despite its performance decline, the Novablast 5 remains a reliable option for easy and moderate runs. Its cushioning and comfort make it a favorite for runners logging kilometers at a steady pace.

• Long Runs: The shoe’s plush feel and secure fit make it a solid choice for long-distance training.
• Daily Training: For runners looking for a comfortable daily trainer, the Novablast 5 still delivers.

⚡ Speed Workouts: No Longer a Contender

One of the biggest disappointments with the Novablast 5 is its inability to maintain performance during speed workouts. The loss of bounce and energy return has relegated it to the easy-run category.

• Alternative Options: Runners looking for a versatile shoe that can handle both easy runs and speed workouts may need to explore other options in their rotation.

🧐 Comparison to Previous Versions: Has Asics Lost Its Way?

🏆 Novablast 1 and 2: The Golden Era

The Novablast 1 and 2 set a high standard for the series, with their durable midsoles and consistent performance over hundreds of kilometers. Many runners, including the reviewer, found these versions to be nearly perfect.

• Midsole Longevity: The earlier versions maintained their bounce and cushioning for over 600 km, a feat the Novablast 5 has failed to replicate.
• Fit and Feel: The Novablast 5’s fit is an improvement over the earlier models, but its performance decline is a significant drawback.

🛑 Novablast 4: A Misstep

The Novablast 4 was widely regarded as a disappointment, with many runners feeling it failed to live up to the legacy of its predecessors. The Novablast 5 initially seemed like a return to form, but its long-term performance tells a different story.

🛠️ Technical Analysis: What’s Going On with the Midsole?

🧪 Foam Composition: A Step Backward?

The Novablast 5’s midsole foam, while initially impressive, appears to have a shorter lifespan compared to earlier versions. This could be due to changes in the foam’s formulation or density.

• Weight: The Novablast 5 weighs approximately 255g (9 oz) for a US men’s size 9, making it a lightweight option for a daily trainer.
• Durability: The foam’s rapid degradation suggests that Asics may have prioritized weight reduction over long-term performance.

🏗️ Design Choices: Innovation vs. Tradition

Asics has made several design changes in the Novablast 5, including a slightly narrower fit and a more streamlined upper. While these changes improve the shoe’s aesthetics and initial comfort, they may have come at the expense of long-term durability.

🏁 Final Verdict: Is the Novablast 5 Still Worth It?

👍 Pros

• Comfortable Fit: The snug yet roomy fit makes it suitable for a wide range of runners.
• Cushioning: The plush midsole provides excellent comfort for easy and long runs.
• Durability: The upper and outsole show minimal wear after 300 km.

👎 Cons

• Midsole Degradation: The loss of bounce and energy return is a significant drawback.
• Traction Issues: The outsole’s grip has noticeably declined, especially on wet surfaces.
• Versatility: The shoe is no longer suitable for speed workouts or races.

🎯 Who Should Buy It?

The Novablast 5 is ideal for runners looking for a comfortable daily trainer for easy and moderate runs. However, those seeking a versatile shoe for speed workouts or long-term durability may want to explore other options.

By the end of this article, you should have a clear understanding of how the Asics Novablast 5 performs over time and whether it’s the right shoe for your running needs. Whether you’re a casual runner or a seasoned marathoner, this review provides the insights you need to make an informed decision. Happy running! 🏃‍♂️