ASICS Novablast 5 vs Novablast 4: Which Novablast should you buy?

Summary

In this detailed comparison of the ASICS NovaBlast 4 and 5, the reviewer highlights the differences in their feel and performance. The NovaBlast 4 is praised for its versatility, providing a firmer, more responsive ride suitable for a range of paces, including faster runs. In contrast, the NovaBlast 5 offers superior comfort with a softer, bouncier midsole, making it ideal for easy, recovery runs but less responsive during speed work. Both shoes are good daily trainers, but the reviewer favors the NovaBlast 4 for its overall balance and performance, especially in varied training sessions.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Asics NovaBlast 5 offers a softer, more cushioned ride compared to the NovaBlast 4, making it ideal for easy, slower-paced runs.
• 😀 The NovaBlast 4 is firmer and more responsive, delivering better energy return and making it more versatile for a wider range of running paces, including tempo and interval sessions.
• 😀 The main difference between the NovaBlast 4 and 5 lies in the Midsole foam: the 4 uses a firmer Flytefoam Blast, while the 5 features a softer Flytefoam Blast+ for increased comfort.
• 😀 The NovaBlast 5 excels in comfort but can feel sluggish at faster paces, lacking the responsiveness and bounce seen in the NovaBlast 4.
• 😀 Both shoes are versatile daily trainers, but the NovaBlast 4 offers more versatility for various types of runs, from slow recovery runs to speed work.
• 😀 The NovaBlast 5 is more suited for those looking for a plush, easy ride with excellent cushioning but lacks performance for faster paces or more aggressive training sessions.
• 😀 Despite the NovaBlast 5’s softer feel, the 4 is preferred by those who want a shoe that performs across a variety of training runs, including moderate efforts and faster paces.
• 😀 Both shoes provide a smooth, rocking ride, but the NovaBlast 5 delivers a slightly smoother experience with its softer cushioning.
• 😀 For runners focused on marathon training or those needing a shoe for daily runs, both shoes provide great comfort, but the 4 is seen as more adaptable for various efforts.
• 😀 If you prefer a more responsive and snappy shoe for various running paces, the NovaBlast 4 is the better choice, while the NovaBlast 5 is better for comfort during easy-paced runs.

Q & A

What is the primary difference between the Asics NovaBlast 4 and NovaBlast 5 shoes?

The primary difference between the NovaBlast 4 and 5 lies in the midsole foam. The NovaBlast 4 uses a firmer midsole for better responsiveness and energy return, making it more versatile for different types of runs. The NovaBlast 5, on the other hand, has a softer midsole, providing more comfort but less responsiveness, especially for faster paces.

Which shoe is more suitable for faster-paced runs?

The NovaBlast 4 is better suited for faster-paced runs due to its firmer midsole, which offers more energy return and responsiveness. The NovaBlast 5, with its softer midsole, can feel sluggish at faster paces.

How does the NovaBlast 5 perform on easy or slow runs?

The NovaBlast 5 excels on easy or slow runs, providing a very comfortable and cushioned ride. The softer midsole foam offers excellent cushioning, making it a great option for longer, easy runs, although it may not offer as much bounce or energy return as the NovaBlast 4.

Is the NovaBlast 5 suitable for interval or tempo training?

The NovaBlast 5 is not ideal for interval or tempo training. Its softer midsole can feel sluggish at faster paces, making it less responsive during high-intensity efforts. For these types of workouts, the NovaBlast 4 would be a better choice.

How do the NovaBlast 4 and 5 compare in terms of cushioning and comfort?

The NovaBlast 5 offers more cushioning and a softer ride compared to the NovaBlast 4. While both shoes provide comfort, the 5 is better for those seeking a plush, cushioned feel, whereas the 4 strikes a balance between cushioning and responsiveness.

What is the main reason the reviewer prefers the NovaBlast 4 over the NovaBlast 5?

The reviewer prefers the NovaBlast 4 over the NovaBlast 5 because of its versatility. The 4 provides a firmer, more responsive ride, which the reviewer finds more enjoyable for a variety of runs, including easy runs and faster efforts. The NovaBlast 5, while more comfortable, is better suited for slower, easy runs.

Which shoe is recommended for runners training for a marathon?

Both the NovaBlast 4 and 5 are suitable for marathon training, but the NovaBlast 4 is more versatile and can handle a variety of runs, including tempo sessions and long runs. The NovaBlast 5 is more specialized for easy runs but might not perform as well during faster training sessions.

What type of runs is the NovaBlast 4 ideal for?

The NovaBlast 4 is ideal for a wide range of runs, including easy runs, tempo runs, long runs, and even some interval work. Its firmer midsole offers responsiveness and a more energetic feel, making it a great all-around shoe for various paces.

Is the NovaBlast 5 considered an all-around daily trainer?

No, the NovaBlast 5 is not considered an all-around daily trainer. While it offers excellent cushioning for easy runs, its softness and lack of responsiveness make it less suitable for faster-paced sessions. It is more of an easy day shoe rather than a versatile daily trainer.

How do the prices of the NovaBlast 4 and NovaBlast 5 compare, and which is better value?

Both shoes offer good value for money, but since the NovaBlast 4 is the older model, it may be available at a lower price. The NovaBlast 5 is considered an incremental improvement over the 4, but if the price difference is significant, the NovaBlast 4 may represent better value, especially given its versatility.