Asics Novablast Running Shoes Review

The Asics Novablast delivers responsive cushioning and energetic ride for daily runners seeking comfort over long distances without sacrificing speed.

The Asics Novablast stands out in the crowded running shoe market with its FlyteFoam Blast cushioning that provides a bouncy, propulsive feel. Designed for everyday training, this neutral shoe appeals to runners who want versatility for tempo runs, long efforts, and recovery jogs. Its lightweight build and breathable upper make it a go-to option for road running worldwide.

Updated: 05/14/2026

By Alex Rivera, Senior Product Editor - covering running gear and global fitness markets.

At a Glance

• Product: Asics Novablast
• Category: Neutral running shoes
• Brand/Manufacturer: Asics
• Primary Use Cases: Daily training, long runs, tempo workouts
• Availability: Global retail and online
• Key Markets: Road running, fitness enthusiasts

What Asics Novablast Is and How It Works

The Asics Novablast features a midsole made from FlyteFoam Blast, a lightweight foam that delivers high energy return. This technology compresses underfoot and snaps back, creating a trampoline-like sensation that propels runners forward. The shoe's AHAR outsole provides durable grip on roads and light trails, while the engineered mesh upper ensures ventilation and a secure fit.

Runners experience the Novablast's stack height of around 41mm in the heel and 33mm in the forefoot, offering a 8mm drop that suits heel and midfoot strikers. The wider platform base enhances stability for neutral runners, preventing excessive pronation during extended miles. Ortholite sockliner adds plush comfort right from the first step.

In practice, the foam's supercritical foaming process results in a softer, more resilient material compared to traditional EVA foams. This allows the Novablast to maintain bounce even after high mileage, making it reliable for training cycles up to 400 miles.

Why Asics Novablast Matters for Consumers and Industry

For consumers, the Novablast offers value at its typical $140 price point, balancing performance with accessibility. Runners praise its fun ride that motivates consistent training, reducing fatigue on legs during marathon prep or half-marathon builds. Its versatility eliminates the need for multiple shoe rotations for most amateurs.

In the industry, Asics positions the Novablast as a core model in its performance lineup, competing with shoes like the Nike Pegasus and Hoka Clifton. It demonstrates Asics's focus on foam innovation, influencing trends toward energetic, maximalist cushioning. Retailers stock it heavily due to strong repeat purchase rates among loyal customers.

Global runners benefit from sizes accommodating wider feet, with options up to men's 13 and women's 11 in standard widths. Colorways refresh seasonally, keeping the model fresh without major redesigns.

Asics Novablast in the Global Market

Demand for the Novablast remains steady in North America, Europe, and Asia, driven by running boom post-pandemic. Asics reports consistent sales through direct-to-consumer channels and specialty stores. Competition includes Saucony's Endorphin Speed for speedwork, but Novablast excels in daily use.

Supply chain leverages Asics's manufacturing in Japan and Vietnam, ensuring quality control. Adoption spans beginners to sub-3-hour marathoners, with endorsements from coaches emphasizing its durability.

Asics Corporation develops and markets the Novablast through its global footwear division. The brand maintains strong R&D in Japan to refine models like this.

Shares of the issuer trade on the Tokyo Stock Exchange under ISIN JP3118000003.

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