Asics Novablast 4 - (Completely unbiased review)

Summary

In this video, the host reviews the new Aex Novablast 4, comparing it to its predecessors. With updates like the FF Blast Plus Eco foam and improved grip, the shoe aims to be an everyday running option. Despite a slight weight increase and concerns about wet weather performance, the Novablast 4 offers comfort and value at £135. The host also discusses potential shoe rotations with other Aex models, suggesting the Novablast 4 remains a strong all-rounder despite a few drawbacks.

Takeaways

• 👟 The video reviews the Aex Novablast 4, the latest version of a popular running shoe series.
• 🏃‍♂️ The reviewer purchased the shoe at the New York Marathon Expo for an unbiased review.
• 📈 The Novablast 4 features an updated FF Blast Plus Eco foam, similar to the Gel Numers 25, for improved comfort and performance.
• 👟 The shoe has a new outsole designed to enhance grip, addressing issues from previous versions in wet conditions.
• 🌟 A new woven upper and upgraded gusseted tongue provide better lockdown and comfort.
• 💰 The Novablast 4 is priced at £135 in the UK, €150, and was bought for $140, offering value for money without a price increase.
• 📏 The shoe has a stack height of 41.5mm at the heel and maintains an 8mm drop from heel to toe.
• 📈 There's a slight weight increase in the Novablast 4 compared to version 3, now weighing 300g versus 288g.
• 🎨 The shoe comes in five launch colors, with a lime green being the reviewer's favorite.
• 🌧️ Despite improvements, the wet weather performance is still not perfect, with some sliding in rainy conditions.
• 🔥 The new foam is softer and less responsive than the previous model, which might be a strategic move to differentiate it from higher-end models.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the video?

The main topic of the video is a review of the all-new Aex Novablast Version 4 running shoes.

What improvements were made in the Novablast Version 4 compared to the previous version?

The Novablast Version 4 includes a new FF Blast Plus Eco foam, improved outsole for increased grip, a new woven upper mesh, an upgraded gusseted tongue, and a new heel flare for better comfort.

How much did the reviewer pay for the Novablast Version 4 at the New York Marathon Expo?

The reviewer paid $140 for the Novablast Version 4 at the New York Marathon Expo.

What is the price of the Novablast Version 4 in the UK?

The price of the Novablast Version 4 in the UK is £135.

What are the stack heights of the Novablast Version 4?

The stack height of the Novablast Version 4 is 41.5mm at the back of the shoe.

What is the weight difference between the Novablast Version 3 and Version 4?

The Novablast Version 3 weighed 288 grams, while the Version 4 weighs 300 grams.

What is the midsole material of the Novablast Version 4?

The midsole material of the Novablast Version 4 is the FF Blast Plus Eco foam, which contains 20% recycled content.

What are the launch colors of the Novablast Version 4?

There are five launch colors for the Novablast Version 4, with the reviewer's pick being a lime green colorway.

What is the reviewer's first like about the Novablast Version 4?

The reviewer's first like about the Novablast Version 4 is its fantastic balance of being lightweight, cushioned, and responsive, making it a versatile shoe for various types of runs.

What is the reviewer's main concern regarding the Novablast Version 4's performance in wet conditions?

The reviewer's main concern is that the Novablast Version 4 still slides around a bit too much in wet conditions, despite the improved outsole, and they are concerned about the durability of the new rubber.

What is the reviewer's opinion on the woven upper of the Novablast Version 4?

The reviewer likes the woven upper but thinks it might overheat during summer conditions or in hot climates.

What is the reviewer's suggestion for a two-shoe rotation with the Novablast Version 4?

The reviewer suggests adding the Meta Speed Sky or Edge to the Novablast Version 4 for a two-shoe rotation, depending on the runner's preference.

What is the reviewer's final recommendation for the Novablast Version 4?

The reviewer recommends the Novablast Version 4 as one of the very best all-round shoes, but suggests looking for discounted older models if possible, as they offer more speed and enjoyment.

Outlines

00:00

👟 Introduction to the Aex Novablast 4 Review

The video begins with the host's excitement about reviewing the Aex Novablast 4, the latest in a series of well-received running shoes. Purchased at the New York Marathon Expo, the host promises an unbiased review after testing the shoe in various conditions, including wet weather, to assess improvements in grip. The first paragraph covers updates to the shoe's materials, including a new FF Blast Plus Eco foam midsole and an improved outsole for better traction. The upper mesh is now woven for enhanced comfort and durability, and the tongue and heel have been redesigned for a secure fit. The shoe is positioned as a versatile daily trainer suitable for a range of running types.

05:01

💰 Detailed Analysis and Comparison of the Aex Novablast 4

This paragraph delves into the specifics of the Aex Novablast 4, including its purpose as an everyday running shoe, price points in various regions, and release date. The host discusses the shoe's stack height and drop, noting a slight increase in weight compared to its predecessor. The midsole's eco-friendly component and the lack of a carbon plate are highlighted, along with the shoe's color options and width availability. The host shares personal sizing advice, noting a half-size smaller fit compared to other models. The paragraph concludes with the host's initial impressions of the shoe's balance of lightness, cushioning, and responsiveness, as well as its comfort and value for money.

Keywords

💡Novablast

The Novablast is a series of running shoes, with the video focusing on the fourth version of the shoe. It is a central theme of the video as the reviewer discusses its features, improvements, and performance relative to its predecessors. The term is used to refer to the specific model being reviewed, highlighting its significance in the running shoe market.

💡FF Blast Plus Eco Foam

FF Blast Plus Eco Foam is a type of midsole material used in the Novablast 4, as mentioned in the script. It is identical to the material used in the Gel-Nimbus 25, another running shoe model. The foam is a key component affecting the shoe's cushioning and responsiveness, and its introduction in the Novablast 4 is a significant update from the previous version.

💡Outsole

The outsole is the outermost part of a shoe that comes in contact with the ground, providing grip and traction. In the context of the video, the Novablast 4 has a new outsole designed to improve grip, particularly in wet conditions, which was a weakness in the previous version of the shoe.

💡Upper

The upper refers to the part of the shoe that covers the top of the foot and provides support and enclosure. The Novablast 4 features a new woven upper, which is said to offer improved breathability and durability. The change in the upper material is one of the updates discussed in the video, emphasizing the shoe's enhanced comfort and fit.

💡Gusseted Tongue

A gusseted tongue is a feature in shoes that provides an extra layer of material to prevent debris from entering and to enhance comfort. The Novablast 4 has an upgraded gusseted tongue, which is mentioned as offering a 'really nice lock down,' indicating an improvement in fit and comfort over the previous model.

💡Heel Flare

The heel flare is the design element at the back of the shoe that flares out to accommodate the Achilles tendon. The video mentions a new heel flare in the Novablast 4, which is designed to be more comfortable and address issues some runners had with the previous version.

💡Daily Trainer

A daily trainer is a type of running shoe designed for regular use in various types of runs. The Novablast 4 is described as an everyday daily trainer, indicating its versatility and suitability for different running conditions and paces.

💡Stack Height

Stack height refers to the measurement of the shoe's sole from the ground to the top of the collar. The video discusses the stack height of the Novablast 4, noting a slight change in measurement and comparing it to the previous version, which is important for understanding the shoe's cushioning and performance.

💡Drop

Drop in running shoes refers to the difference in height between the heel and the forefoot. The Novablast 4 maintains an 8mm drop, which is a key specification for runners considering the shoe's impact on running form and comfort.

💡Wet Weather Performance

Wet weather performance is a critical aspect of running shoe evaluation, especially for those who run in various weather conditions. The video discusses the improvements in the Novablast 4's grip in wet conditions, although it still has some issues, indicating the shoe's performance in slippery environments.

💡Value

Value in the context of the video refers to the cost-effectiveness and quality of the Novablast 4 relative to its price. The reviewer commends the shoe for maintaining its price despite updates and improvements, positioning it as a good value option among its competitors.

Highlights

Introduction of the Aex Novablast 4, a new version of the popular running shoe.

The Novablast 4 features a new FF Blast Plus Eco foam, identical to the material used in the Gel Numers 25.

An improved outsole for better grip, addressing issues from previous versions.

A new woven upper mesh for the shoe, enhancing comfort and fit.

Upgraded gusseted tongue for a better lockdown.

A redesigned heel flare to address Achilles issues from the previous model.

Purpose of the shoe as an everyday running shoe for various types of runs.

The price of the Novablast 4 is £135 in the UK, with a slight price difference in other regions.

Stack height and drop remain consistent with the previous model.

A slight weight increase in the Novablast 4 compared to version 3.

The shoe is neutral with an engineered woven upper for breathability and durability.

No carbon plate in the shoe, but features an AHA high abrasion rubber outsole.

Five launch colors available, with the green colorway being the reviewer's favorite.

The shoe does not come in other widths besides standard but has a slight width increase.

Recommendation to go half a size down for the best fit.

Balance of lightweight, cushioned, and responsive features in the Novablast 4.

Comfort and lockdown provided by the new upper design.

Value for money at £135, without a price increase from the previous version.

Wet weather performance has improved but still not ideal.

Concerns about the durability of the new rubber outsole due to its softness.

Potential for the woven upper to overheat in hot climates.

The new foam is softer and less responsive than the previous model.

Recommendation for a two-shoe rotation with the Metas Speed Sky or Edge for different running types.

Suggestion to find discounted older models for better value.

Overall positive experience with the Novablast 4, despite some dislikes.

Anticipation for the 'Shoe of the Year' review, with the Novablast 4 as a contender.

Transcripts

whoa hello everybody and welcome back to

the channel super excited for this one

today because we are going to be

reviewing the all new aex novablast

number four version two and three were

some of the very best shoes over the

last few years so super excited to see

if this one is going to live up to the

hype we picked up the shoe from the New

York Marathon Expo last weekend bought

it 100% with my money to give you that

completely impartial unbiased 100%

honest review so I've been running in

this shoe all week now got up to 80k

doing all sorts of different types of

Paces different distances and most

importantly a lot of running in the wet

weather as well has the grip improved

from version 3 where it was pretty

terrible in wet conditions let's get the

Nova blast 4

[Music]

done right let's chat out all of the

changes they've made in version four of

the shoe compared to the outgoing model

the first one is this new FF blast plus

Eco foam

which is exactly the same as they're

putting in the gel numers 25 so if you

running this it's now identical to that

they've also got a new outso on the shoe

to increase the grip which really did

need improving they've also swapped the

upper mesh of the shoe for a new woven

upper they've upgraded the gusseted

tongue which has now got a really nice

lock down in and also at the back of the

shoe a really nice new heel flare so

some people had a few Achilles issues in

the last one it's now really nice flared

up very very comfortable at the back of

the shoe so there are all the updates

now let's chat about the facts and

figures so the purpose of a shoe like

this is very much a everyday daily roach

you do all sorts of different types of

runs fairly well in it moving on to the

price this will set you back

£135 here in the UK I paid

$140 last weekend it's going to be

around about

€150 now I should say this shoe is set

to launch worldwide from the first of

December but they did a a little soft

launch at the Expo last weekend which is

how I managed to bag this pair in terms

of the stack Heights 41 1/2 mil at the

back of the shoe now the last shoe was

31 but astics are changing how they're

reporting stack Heights in their shoe so

in terms of how this compares to the

last one it's exactly the same there's

still that 8 mm drop from the back of

the shoe to the front of the shoe and

there's been a little slight weight

increase for me in my model so version

three was 288 G and this is coming in at

3 300 G it's a neutral shoe and I said

earlier this lovely engineered woven

upper little bit more stretchy little

bit more breathable and durable that's

what aexs are saying and the mids salt

this FF blast Eco plus 20% recycled

content in there there's no carbon plate

in the shoe the outs soole is this aha

low density rubber outsole aha stands

for aex high abrasion Rubber and this is

very very similar to what they put on

the bottom of the super blast but the

super blast is the High version and this

is the lower version should be a little

bit stickier a little bit lower density

on the Nova blast 4 in terms of colors

there's five launch colors well there

are on the asex UK website this is

definitely my pick I love this green

color let me know what do you think of

this crazy like lime green colorway I

just think it looks fantastic especially

on the backdrop of some

wintry wintry running conditions at the

moment it doesn't come in any other

widths other than a standard width but

it's still quite wide there has been a

slight width increase in the shoe around

about 5 mm and was it true to size no I

actually went half a size down compared

to what I have got my super blast in and

compared to what I've got my gel nimus

in that may be just due to the slightly

roomier toe box and a slightly little

bit of increase around the ankle area as

well not sure but half the sice down

felt perfect for

me my first like with this shoe is just

a fantastic balance of lightweight

cushioned and responsive and it's just

oh so versatile that true doit all

nature of this type of shoe really does

carry forward diversion 4 it's one of

those shoes that can do all sorts of

different runs really well recovery runs

easy runs uptempo runs and races as well

if you are just someone that's looking

for one shoe to do it all this is very

much one of the very best options out

there my second like is just the comfort

of this shoe the new upper here is

fantastic getting a really solid lock

down there's just a little bit of cus

sideways movement I do have quite narrow

feet a little bit of extra width but not

too bad I really don't think many people

are going to notice that no hot spots no

blisters or any discomfort whatsoever

and my third like with this shoe at £1

135 it's delivering some really good

value aex haven't put the price up so

kudos to them for that as Sony

manufacturers are but some of the main

competitors for this type of shoe

something like the New Balance 1080

we've got version 13 just over here

ready to go I haven't even worn these

yet but we'll be testing these ones out

next week they're coming in £25 more

expensive something like the Boston 12

is only £5 more but it's a bit more

expensive the Stockon Triumph 25 more

yeah this is just delivering some really

good value in this sort of everyday shoe

sector of the market quickly guys if you

are funny of the video so please smash

that like button subscribe to the

channel if you don't already for some

more shoe reviews and let us know what

has been your shoe of the year so far

this is definitely a contender for me

I'd love to know what your best shoes

are we'll catch up down in the comments

so chat all things right back to the

[Music]

video now my first dislike unfortunately

is still the wet weather performance of

the shoe isn't fantastic I've done about

30k in pouring weather conditions here

in London we've had this week still

sliding around a little bit more than i'

would like now it's a lot lot better

than version 3 without a doubt this new

rubber they' put on the bottom of the

shoe it's definitely a little bit sticky

I'm bit concerned about the durability

because it is quite soft and tacky so we

might not be getting that much value out

of these shoes in the long term I don't

know if they're going to be releasing a

TR version or a trail version of this

shoe but in version three that was a

really good winter shoe for all sorts of

wet weather running fantastic grip on

the bottom but at the moment still just

sliding around a little bit too much so

as I say it's now a shoe you can run in

the rain in it's going to be okay but

it's definitely not perfect yet my

second issue here is this woven uper I

do really like it it's going to be F

fine for running in all three seasons

we're going to have coming up now in the

northern hemisphere but I think it's

just going to overheat a little bit in

summer conditions if you're running in a

really hot climate these sort of woven

uppers you that possibility of

overheating so it's just something to

potentially be aware of and my third

dislike it's just not as responsive as I

would like in a shoe this new FF blast

plus Eco foam is just not quite as poppy

as the outgoing model it's just a little

bit softer it's not quite as Lively I

guess now they have this one of the best

shoes ever made made in the lineup with

the all you know the absolute headline

FF turbo super critical foam in there I

feel like they've just had to slow this

one down a little bit to justify

potentially spending £210 on a shoe like

this they can't make this one too good

otherwise no one's going to buy this one

so I don't know whether it's a bit of a

marketing move like that but yeah it's

just not quite as poppy it's not quite

as fun to run in as the last one when

I've taken it up to speed it's handled

it well but I'm just feel like I'm just

having to put a little bit more effort

in than I would like you know it's the

same foam out of the gel nbus 25 which

is pretty much an allout easy and

Recovery run shoe

[Music]

only so if you did want to make a bit of

a rotation in the aex lineup I'd

recommend getting something like the

metas speed sky or Edge depending on

what type of runn you are and that will

make a really good two shoe rotation if

you want to make it three would you add

in the gel nimus or the super blast for

me I'd add in the super blast because

this has just slowed down a little bit I

haven't got my meta speed edge here at

the moment but that's going to make a

really fantastic three or two shoe

[Music]

lineup I recommend you get this shoe or

try and find some of the discounted old

models if you're a big Nea blast fan for

me I'd say definitely go and find some

old discounted models version three you

can find them for about 100 pound at the

moment and that is going to be an

exceptional daily shoe just got that

little bit more speed in it a little bit

more fun and enjoyment but if you can't

find that then I'd have no problem in

recommending this shoe it's still one of

the very very best all round shoes out

there yes I've got a few dislikes being

very very nitpicky but I've had a

fantastic time running this shoot

definitely going to stare my rotation

I'm definitely going to enjoy putting a

lot more marvs in it but it's still not

going to take over my favorite shoe of

all time stay tuned because we're going

shoe of the year and this is definitely

going to be a contender for that so stay

tuned for that coming up later in the

year so that's it guys hope you found

the video useful next up will be my full

aex comparison video keep on working

hard keep on going done we'll see you

very soon in the next one