Asics Novablast 4 vs Asics Gel-Nimbus 26: Which Asics shoe is best for you?

Summary

In this video, Nick compares the ASICS GEL Nimbus 26 and the ASICS Novablast 4, two cushioned running shoes within the ASICS range. The Nimbus 26 is a flagship cushion shoe, more expensive and heavier, with plush comfort and a focus on easy runs. The Novablast 4 is lighter, cheaper, and offers a more responsive ride with better grip, making it a versatile daily trainer suitable for various paces. Nick's preference lies with the Novablast 4 for its balance of cushioning, responsiveness, and value.

Takeaways

• 👟 The video compares the ASICS NOA Blast 4 and the ASICS GEL Nimbus 26, two cushioned training shoes within the ASICS range.
• 🏷️ The GEL Nimbus 26 is positioned as the flagship cushion shoe and is more expensive, especially in the UK where it's priced at £180, compared to the NOA Blast 4 at £135.
• 💰 In the US, the GEL Nimbus 26 is $160 and the NOA Blast 4 is $140, with the latter being the more affordable option in both regions.
• ⚖️ The NOA Blast 4 is the lightest of the two, weighing 270g for a UK9 size, compared to the GEL Nimbus 26 at 318g for the same size.
• 🔢 Both shoes have an 8mm drop and similar stack heights, with the GEL Nimbus 26 having a slightly higher heel stack at 42mm versus 41.5mm on the NOA Blast 4.
• 🛍️ The midsoles of both shoes are made from the same material, FF Blast Plus Eco cushioning, with the GEL Nimbus 26 also featuring additional pure gel under the heel.
• 👢 Both shoes have a wide design for stability, with the GEL Nimbus 26 being notably wider, and both feature a woven upper with a mesh tongue on the NOA Blast 4.
• 👟 The NOA Blast 4 has a more responsive and lively feel due to midsole tweaks, offering versatility without sacrificing soft cushion protection.
• 🏃‍♂️ The GEL Nimbus 26 is recommended for easy, comfortable runs and recovery, lacking the versatility for faster paces compared to the NOA Blast 4.
• 👍 The reviewer prefers the NOA Blast 4 for its lighter weight, better response, and versatility, making it suitable for a wider range of runs, including faster paces.
• 📈 The verdict favors the NOA Blast 4 as a superior and more cost-effective option, offering a good balance of cushioning and performance for various types of runs.

Q & A

What are the two Asics running shoes being compared in the video?

The two Asics running shoes being compared are the Asics GEL Nimbus 26 and the Asics Novablast 4.

Which shoe is considered the flagship cushion shoe in the Asics range?

The GEL Nimbus 26 is considered the flagship cushion shoe in the Asics range.

How does the price of the GEL Nimbus 26 compare to the Novablast 4 in the UK and the US?

In the UK, the GEL Nimbus 26 is priced at £180, while the Novablast 4 is priced at £135. In the US, the GEL Nimbus 26 is $160, and the Novablast 4 is $140.

What is the weight difference between the GEL Nimbus 26 and the Novablast 4?

The GEL Nimbus 26 weighs 318 grams, while the Novablast 4 is lighter, weighing 270 grams.

What is the stack height at the heel and forefoot for both shoes?

The GEL Nimbus 26 has a stack height of 42mm at the heel and 34mm at the forefoot. The Novablast 4 has a slightly lower stack height of 41.5mm at the heel and 33.5mm at the forefoot.

What is the material used for the midsoles of both shoes?

The midsoles of both shoes are made from the same material, FF Blast Plus Eco cushioning from Asics.

What is the difference in the rubber used on the outsoles of the two shoes?

The GEL Nimbus 26 uses a hybrid of Asics' AHAR and AHAR Plus materials, while the Novablast 4 has a thicker layer of rubber that feels softer and provides slightly better grip compared to the previous version.

What is the recommended shoe size for both the GEL Nimbus 26 and the Novablast 4 based on the video?

The video recommends going true to size for both the GEL Nimbus 26 and the Novablast 4.

How does the fit of the GEL Nimbus 26 compare to the Novablast 4 in terms of snugness and roominess?

The GEL Nimbus 26 is described as having a more snug fit, particularly around the heel, while the Novablast 4 is described as having a secure but roomier fit with plenty of wiggle room in the toe box.

Which shoe is considered more versatile for a range of paces according to the video?

The Novablast 4 is considered more versatile for a range of paces, as it offers a balance between cushioning and responsiveness, making it suitable for both easy and faster runs.

What is the main difference in the ride feel between the GEL Nimbus 26 and the Novablast 4?

The main difference in the ride feel is that the GEL Nimbus 26 has a softer, more cushioned feel, while the Novablast 4 offers a more immediate and responsive ride with a slightly firmer feel underfoot.

Which shoe is recommended for runners who prefer a lighter and more versatile shoe?

The Novablast 4 is recommended for runners who prefer a lighter and more versatile shoe, as it offers a good balance of cushioning and responsiveness at a lower price point.

What is the verdict on the comparison between the GEL Nimbus 26 and the Novablast 4?

The verdict is that the Novablast 4 is the superior shoe overall, offering a better balance of cushioning, responsiveness, and versatility at a lower price, making it the recommended choice.