Hi, I’m James, a foot and ankle specialist. Today, I’m going to walk you through the major differences between the Asics Novablast 5 and Novablast 4. These shoes may look similar, but Asics has made some key changes to the cushioning, fit, and performance in the Novablast 5. Let’s dive in to see how these updates affect your experience when walking, standing, or running.
1. Cushioning: FF BlastMax vs. FF Blast+ Eco
Novablast 5 Cushioning
- Heel Stack: 41.5mm
- Forefoot Stack: 33.5mm
- Heel Drop: 8mm
- Weight: 255g (Men’s US 9)
The Novablast 5 features the FF BlastMax cushioning, providing a softer, bouncier feel. Compared to the Novablast 4, you’ll sink into the shoe more. This new cushioning offers a smooth transition from heel strike to push-off but doesn’t deliver the same snappy energy return. It’s ideal for daily training, easy runs, and recovery runs.
Novablast 4 Cushioning
- Heel Stack: 41.5mm
- Forefoot Stack: 33.5mm
- Heel Drop: 8mm
- Weight: 255g (Men’s US 9)
The Novablast 4 used FF Blast+ Eco cushioning, which was firmer and more responsive. Runners loved the quick push-off and the energetic rebound. This made the Novablast 4 better suited for uptempo runs, fartlek sessions, and performance training.
2. Stability Features: Sidewalls and Sole Flare
Novablast 5 Stability
- Sidewalls: Enhanced sidewalls around the heel for added stability.
- Heel Counter: Stiff heel counter to stabilize your ankle upon landing.
- Sole Flare: Reduced sole flare compared to the Novablast 4.
Because of the bouncier cushioning in the Novablast 5, your stabilizing muscles (like the peroneals and posterior tibial tendon) work harder to keep your foot steady. While it does offer stability features like sidewalls and a heel counter, it’s inherently less stable than the Novablast 4.
Novablast 4 Stability
- Sidewalls: More pronounced sidewalls for enhanced foot cradling.
- Sole Flare: Wider sole flare for greater contact with the ground.
The Novablast 4 offered a more stable ride, thanks to its firm cushioning and wider sole flare. This made it a great option for those needing a stable neutral shoe.
3. Upper Fit and Design
Novablast 5 Upper
- Material: Engineered mesh for a snug midfoot fit and breathable forefoot.
- Toe Box: Spacious, allowing for toe splay.
- Lockdown: Improved lockdown with a woven knit around the laces.
- Tongue: Thin, gusseted tongue for a secure fit.
The Novablast 5 offers a snug fit in the midfoot and heel while providing plenty of room in the forefoot. True to size for normal-width feet, though there’s currently no wide version available.
Novablast 4 Upper
- Material: Woven knit upper with a more relaxed fit.
- Toe Box: Slightly roomier than the Novablast 5.
The Novablast 4’s upper had a slightly looser fit, making it more adaptable for a wider range of foot shapes.
4. Performance and Use Cases
Novablast 5: Daily Trainer
- Best For: Daily runs, easy runs, and recovery runs.
- Feel: Soft, cushioned, and smooth.
- Drawbacks: Less responsive for uptempo work.
If you want a daily trainer that absorbs impact and provides a smooth transition, the Novablast 5 is your go-to shoe. It’s great for longer, slower runs but lacks the responsiveness for faster sessions.
Novablast 4: Performance Trainer
- Best For: Uptempo runs, fartlek sessions, and performance training.
- Feel: Firm, responsive, and snappy.
- Drawbacks: Less suited for long, easy runs.
If you need a shoe that delivers energy return and speed, the Novablast 4 is the better choice. It excels in shorter, faster runs and uptempo workouts.
5. Walking and Standing Comfort
- Novablast 5: Good for short walks, but the aggressive forefoot rocker makes it less ideal for all-day standing.
- Novablast 4: Slightly better for walking and standing due to its stability features and firmer cushioning.
Final Thoughts: Which Shoe Should You Choose?
- Novablast 5: Choose this if you want a plush daily trainer for easy runs and longer distances.
- Novablast 4: Choose this if you prefer a responsive performance trainer for uptempo runs and speedwork.
Both shoes have their strengths, so it comes down to your running style and preferences.
If you have any questions about the Novablast 5 vs. Novablast 4, or any other Asics shoes then drop them in the comments! Check out the links in the description to purchase these shoes, which helps support the website. If you found this helpful, please like, share, and subscribe for more running shoe comparisons!
By following this guide, you can choose the perfect Novablast model for your needs. Happy running! 🏃♂️👟
