ASICS has once again revamped its popular NovaBlast line, and the NovaBlast 5 is already generating buzz for its combination of performance and style. Known for offering a responsive and bouncy ride, the fifth iteration builds on its predecessors with some exciting updates that runners are eager to experience. There are several new technologies and techniques used to bolster the overall fit and feel of the shoe which I will further comment on below.

 

The on-foot feel is an upgrade from the previous model. The foam feels plush and energetic. While the shoe leans toward being a neutral daily trainer, I would say it's versatile enough for those up-tempo days when you want to get the pace going a little faster. The foam will feel good at the faster paces but will work the foot more without having any form of plate.

 

The overall look of the shoe is very similar to the previous iterations however I feel this model looks sleeker and less chunky. This is what I feel the overall whelming theme of this new version is. Sleeker, lighter, bouncier. They have achieved this by making the upper much more breathable. Using a new technical mesh material they have managed shave weight and enhanced breathability. The enhanced underfoot feel comes from the combination of the new FF BLAST MAX and the newly shaped trampoline-inspired outsole shape. This compliance from the foam allows for a softer ride but also more responsive feedback, both of which provide a much more enjoyable experience when out-pounding the pavement.

 

It appears that the outsole material has improved, and increasing the covering should result in a marginally longer lifespan. Without wearing the shoe for a few hundred km, it's really difficult to predict how long it will last, but the new features appear to be a pleasant improvement for the model's lifespan.

All things considered, I think this is a better shoe than the 4, every issue they had has been fixed, and I'm looking forward to seeing how the shoe holds up after 200 kilometres of running.