Asics Novablast 5 vs Saucony Ride 18

Welcome to Flawless Shoe Reviews! You’re in the right place if you’re trying to decide between the Asics Novablast 5 and the Saucony Ride 18.

These are two of the most popular neutral daily trainers, but they offer very different rides. The Novablast 5 has changed drastically from the previous version, moving away from its performance feel, while the Ride 18 keeps its uptempo DNA with some tweaks.

By the end of this, you’ll know exactly which shoe fits your needs, whether you’re looking for a bouncy cruiser or a snappy daily trainer.

How Do They Feel Underfoot?

Let’s start with the biggest difference—the midsole.

Novablast 5: Softer & More Cushioned

If you tried the Novablast 4, you might have expected the Novablast 5 to be another fast, springy daily trainer—but Asics has gone in a different direction.

• The FF Blast Max cushioning makes this shoe feel softer, more forgiving, and less aggressive than its predecessor.
• You sink into it slightly on landing, but it bounces back to help propel you forward.
• The extra cushioning makes it a better long-run or recovery-day shoe, but it’s not as sharp for speed work as the older model.

If you loved the Asics Nimbus 27 for its plush feel but wished it had a bit more bounce, the Novablast 5 could be a great alternative. On the other hand, if you want something with even more stability, the GT-2000 13 might be worth a look.

➡️ Related: Asics Gel-Nimbus 27 vs. Novablast 5 – Which Is Better for Cushioning?

Ride 18: A Snappier, More Responsive Feel

In contrast, Ride 18 is all about balance. Its firmer, more energetic ride makes it a great all-rounder.

• The PWRRUN+ midsole has a noticeable spring, especially in the forefoot.
• It feels faster and more connected to the ground than the Novablast 5.
• If you want a shoe that can handle everything from daily miles to tempo sessions, this is the better option.

Think of it as a middle ground between a max-cushion shoe and a performance trainer. If you’re also considering a stability shoe, you might want to check out how the Saucony Guide 17 compares to the Ride 18.

➡️ Related: Saucony Ride 18 vs. Guide 17 – Stability or Neutral?

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How Stable Are They?

Even though both are neutral shoes, they offer different levels of stability.

Novablast 5: More Neutral Than Ever

• The softer midsole means your foot sinks in more, so it doesn’t feel as stable as previous versions.
• It still has sidewalls around the heel and midfoot but aren’t as prominent as before.
• If you tend to pronate a little, this might feel less secure than the Ride 18.

If you’re after something neutral but with a bit more support, the Gel-Cumulus 27 might be a better choice.

Ride 18: A More Structured Ride

• Features sidewalls on both the medial and lateral sides, helping control foot motion.
• A broad platform and slight sole flare keep your foot centred.
• Even though it’s not a full-stability shoe, it offers better structure than the Novablast 5.

If you need even more guidance but still want a smooth ride, the Hoka Arahi 7 might be worth a look.

Upper & Fit: Which Feels More Comfortable?

Fit is subjective, but there are clear differences between these two.

Novablast 5: Snug & Lightweight

• Tapered toe box—if you have wide feet, you might find it too narrow.
• No wide option available, so it’s best for normal to slightly narrow feet.
• Thin, breathable engineered mesh, but not as plush as the Ride 18.

If you prefer more room in the forefoot, you might like the Bondi 9’s wider fit.

Ride 18: More Volume, More Comfort

• Wider toe box, making it more accommodating.
• Available in wide sizes, so better for wider feet or high-volume feet.
• Plush, padded upper for extra comfort.

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Which One Should You Choose?

Pick the Novablast 5 if:

✔️ You want a bouncier, softer ride for long runs and easy miles.
✔️ You don’t mind a slightly looser stability feel.
✔️ You prefer a lighter shoe with a fun, energetic midsole.

Pick the Ride 18 if:

✔️ You want a snappier, more responsive shoe for daily training and tempo runs.
✔️ You need a slightly more stable platform without a full stability shoe.
✔️ You prefer a roomier toe box and a more padded fit.

Final Thoughts

The Novablast 5 and Ride 18 might seem similar initially, but they’re designed for entirely different runners.

• If you want soft, cushioned, and fun, go with the Novablast 5.
• If you want snappy, springy, and versatile, the Ride 18 is your best bet.

If you’ve tried either of these shoes, let us know what you think in the comments! And if you’re still deciding, check out some of our other running shoe comparisons below.