If you’re torn between the New Balance Rebel v5 and the ASICS Novablast 5, you’re not alone. Both are hugely popular neutral running shoes—but they serve different purposes depending on whether you’re walking, training, or racing. In this review, we’ll break down the key differences in midsole design, fit, stability, and best use so you can choose the right shoe for your needs.
Cushioning and Stack Height
The Rebel v5 features a unique EVA/PEBA blended midsole, with 35mm in the heel and 29mm in the forefoot, giving it a 6mm heel-to-toe drop. The blend is around 80% EVA and 20% PEBA, offering a taste of superfoam responsiveness while remaining lightweight and stable. This results in a shoe that feels snappy, quick to turnover, and ideal for speed sessions.
In contrast, the Novablast 5 uses ASICS’ latest FF BlastMax cushioning, also found in shoes like the GlideRide Max and Asics GT 2000 14. It delivers a bouncier, more plush feel underfoot, especially compared to the firmer Novablast 4. With 41.5mm in the heel and 33.5mm in the forefoot, the Novablast 5 has an 8mm drop and a slightly more cushioned ride—especially suited to longer efforts.
Winner for Cushioning:
- Rebel v5 = More responsive, better for speed
- Novablast 5 = Softer, more forgiving for daily miles
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Stability Features
While both shoes are neutral, they approach stability differently.
The Novablast 5 features large sidewalls on both the medial and lateral sides and a generous sole flare underfoot. This gives you a broad base of support—especially useful for heel strikers or runners who want a bit of extra structure without a stability post.
The Rebel v5, on the other hand, has smaller sidewalls that are focused more toward the midfoot. It also has a broader platform through the midfoot, which helps keep things stable without overcorrecting your gait. The Rebel v5 is stable for a performance shoe but still leans toward minimalism in its geometry.
Upper Fit and Comfort
Rebel v5:
- Upper: Single-layer engineered mesh
- Toe box: Wide and breathable
- Fit: Slightly narrowed midfoot and heel for better lockdown
- Tongue: Slightly thicker than v4, non-gusseted
- Heel: Flexible heel counter, minimal padding
Novablast 5:
- Upper: Jacquard mesh with a snugger fit in the toe box
- Toe box: More tapered than the Rebel but now comes in wide versions
- Fit: True to size, with slightly more padding around the collar
- Heel: Firmer counter with more padding for comfort
If you have sensitive heels or need more lockdown, the Novablast 5 may offer a bit more structure. But if you like a roomy toe box and lightweight feel, the Rebel v5 is one of the best in its class.
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Weight
- Rebel v5: ~225g (US men’s size 9)
- Novablast 5: ~255g (US men’s size 9)
If weight is your top priority, the Rebel v5 is noticeably lighter and better suited for race-day prep or tempo work.
Best Use: Lifestyle vs Performance
Both shoes work well as daily trainers, but their strengths lie in slightly different areas:
- Rebel v5:
Best for speedwork, tempo runs, or runners looking for a lightweight, responsive shoe. While it can be used casually, it’s built more for performance — similar to other lightweight, performance-leaning models in New Balance’s range. - Novablast 5:
A true do-it-all daily trainer—durable enough for long runs, forgiving enough for recovery runs, and stylish enough to wear casually. It’s also slightly better suited to walking and standing for long periods due to its plushness and heel structure, which is a common trait among ASICS’s more lifestyle-friendly trainers.
Final Thoughts
- Choose the New Balance Rebel v5 if you want a light, nimble shoe that feels fast and responsive—perfect for uptempo efforts, intervals, and fast training runs.
- Go with the ASICS Novablast 5 if you want a comfortable, cushioned ride that transitions well between daily training and casual wear, with more structure and stability.
