ASICS Novablast 4: Complete Review & Comparison Guide

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Overview

The ASICS Novablast 4 is ASICS' bouncy, fun daily trainer—a shoe that prioritizes energy return and playful ride feel over traditional cushioning comfort. With FF BLAST PLUS foam throughout, the Novablast 4 delivers a springy sensation that makes every run feel more lively.

This is the shoe that turned ASICS' reputation around. While the brand was known for traditional, reliable shoes, the Novablast proved ASICS could make something exciting. The fourth version refines the formula while maintaining the bounce that made it famous.

Key Specifications

Spec	Value
Category	Daily Trainer, Long Run
Cushion Level	High
Heel-to-Toe Drop	8mm
Weight (Men's/Women's)	9.3oz / 8.1oz
Stack Height	41mm heel / 33mm forefoot
Pronation Support	Neutral
Width Options	Standard, Wide
MSRP	MSRP: $140
Surface	Road

What It's Known For

The Novablast's FF BLAST PLUS foam is designed for energy return, not just impact absorption. This creates a bouncy, trampoline-like feel that some runners absolutely love. The high stack height combined with the responsive foam makes the Novablast feel faster than its cushioning level suggests.

At just 9.3oz, the Novablast is remarkably light for its stack height—making it versatile enough for both easy days and uptempo efforts.

Why Runners Love It

Pros

• Exceptionally Bouncy: The FF BLAST PLUS foam delivers outstanding energy return that makes runs feel fun.

• Lightweight for Stack: At 9.3oz with a 41mm stack, it defies the weight-cushioning tradeoff.

• Fun, Engaging Ride: The bounce makes even easy runs feel lively and engaging.

• Versatile Performance: Works for easy days, long runs, and faster efforts.

What Some Runners Don't Like

Cons

• Stability Concerns: The soft, bouncy foam can feel less stable for some runners.

• Polarizing Feel: Some runners find the bounce unsettling rather than enjoyable.

Who Should Consider This Shoe

The ASICS Novablast 4 is ideal for:

• Runners who want fun, engaging daily training
• Those logging 20-60 miles per week who value versatility
• Runners training for 5K to marathon distances
• Anyone bored with traditional trainers who wants something different

Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere

Consider other options if you:

• Prefer stable, planted rides
• Want soft cushioning without bounce
• Need stability support
• Find excessive energy return unsettling

How It Compares: Cross-Brand Comparison

Shoe	Cushion	Drop	Weight (M)	Price	Best For
ASICS Novablast 4	High	8mm	9.3oz	MSRP: $140	Bouncy fun training
New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4	Moderate	6mm	8.2oz	MSRP: $140	Bouncy speed
Saucony Kinvara 15	Moderate	4mm	7.2oz	MSRP: $140	Light bouncy training
Nike Vomero 18	High	10mm	10.6oz	MSRP: $160	Cushioned training
HOKA Mach 6	Moderate	5mm	7.8oz	MSRP: $150	Light responsive training

ASICS Lineup: Same-Brand Comparison

Shoe	Cushion	Drop	Weight (M)	Price	Best For
ASICS Novablast 4	High	8mm	9.3oz	MSRP: $140	Bouncy versatile training
ASICS Novablast 5	High	8mm	9.0oz	MSRP: $150	Updated bouncy training
ASICS Superblast 2	High	8mm	8.8oz	MSRP: $200	Bouncy speed training
ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26	High	8mm	10.4oz	MSRP: $160	Soft cushioning
ASICS Megablast	High	8mm	8.5oz	MSRP: $200	Maximum bounce

Final Verdict

The ASICS Novablast 4 delivers a unique ride that sets it apart from traditional trainers. The bouncy FF BLAST PLUS foam creates an engaging experience that makes daily training feel fun rather than routine.

For runners who want their cushioning to push back, the Novablast 4 is one of the best options available. Its combination of bounce, lightness, and versatility makes it a standout choice.

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