1Several reviewers observe that the Nova Blast 5 has a notably soft, cushioned midsole, though opinions on whether that softness is a virtue or a liability differ sharply.
Most reviewers welcome the plush cushioning as well-balanced and comfortable, but runners sensitive to excessive softness should be aware one reviewer found it "extremely mushy and kind of quicksand like," reducing push-off efficiency.
5 creators6 opinions1 counterpoint
Opinions (6)
Yowana observes that the Nova Blast 5 is 'a lot softer' than the Nova Blast 3.
The Biggest Shoe Leaks Right Now: Evo SL 2 & Unreleased Super Shoes13:51TF XC Running Shoe Reviews (TF XC) observes that the Nova Blast 5 is nice and soft but also still energetic.
Best Daily Trainer Running Shoes 2025Watch sourceEDDBUD observes that the ASICS Nova Blast 5 uses Flight Foam Blast Max midsole material, which is a little bit softer than what was in the Nova Blast 4.
ASICS BLAST SHOE LINEUP 2025Watch sourceMidLife Runner observes that the Nova Blast 5's foam has some give to it.
I finally figured out the ASICS SUPERBLAST 23:51The Run Testers finds the ASICS Nova Blast 5's midsole is nicely balanced.
Our favourite running shoes of 2025 | Tom's full list of best running shoes this year9:27The Run Testers observes there is a lot of cushioning in the ASICS Nova Blast 5.
Our favourite running shoes of 2025 | Tom's full list of best running shoes this year9:27
Counterpoints (1)
jogoncrago reports that in the Nova Blast 5, he felt 'so much plush foam' that when he landed he compressed it once, and then when he went to push off there was a 'second layer of compression' that reduced the force he could generate through his calves and hamstrings to get off the ground; he describes this as 'extremely mushy and kind of quicksand like'.
New Balance Rebel V5 Review: Inoffensive3:13
2Multiple reviewers position the Nova Blast 5 as a strong daily trainer and all-rounder suitable for general running.
If you want one shoe for everyday easy miles and general running, the Nova Blast 5 is widely endorsed as a solid all-round choice.
5 creators7 opinions
Opinions (7)
TF XC Running Shoe Reviews (TF XC) identifies the Nova Blast 5 from ASICS as one of their favorite daily trainers from 2025.
Best Daily Trainer Running Shoes 2025Watch sourceMidLife Runner categorizes the Nova Blast 5 as a 'dynamic daily trainer,' similar to the Neo Zen and Neo Vista V2, offering a little speed, a little softness, and a little something nice.
SHOE BATTLE: Mizuno Neo Zen V. Mizuno Neo Vista v2Watch sourceEDDBUD finds the Nova Blast 5 covers the daily use category.
ASICS BLAST SHOE LINEUP 2025Watch sourceSagasu Running , using ASICS's marketing language, states the Nova Blast 5 is the daily trainer with an energized bounce, the lowest stack in the Blast lineup, and meant for general all-around running.
3Reviewers commonly find the Nova Blast 5 versatile enough for easy miles and comfortable cruising while retaining some capacity for faster-paced work, though none call it a fast race shoe.
The Nova Blast 5 can handle a range of paces from easy runs to comfortable interval sessions, but buyers seeking a dedicated speed or race day shoe should look elsewhere.
3 creators6 opinions
Opinions (6)
TF XC Running Shoe Reviews (TF XC) observes that the Nova Blast 5 is nice and soft but also still energetic.
Best Daily Trainer Running Shoes 2025Watch sourceEDDBUD finds the Nova Blast 5 nimble enough to classify as a shoe that one could perhaps run at some faster paces, though plush enough for easier miles.
ASICS BLAST SHOE LINEUP 2025Watch sourceThe Run Testers states you can definitely do nice easy runs in the ASICS Nova Blast 5.
Our favourite running shoes of 2025 | Tom's full list of best running shoes this year9:27
4Reviewers who have run in multiple Novablast versions consider the Nova Blast 5 a return to form, with some calling it the best all-round version of the family.
If you were disappointed by intermediate Novablast versions, the 5 is widely seen as a high point worth reconsidering.
2 creators3 opinions
Opinions (3)
EDDBUD finds the Nova Blast 5's midsole formula takes the shoe back almost full circle to the original Nova Blast version 1, but with a much better, more fitting upper.
ASICS BLAST SHOE LINEUP 2025Watch sourceThe Run Testers observes that the Novablast range has varied over its last few versions; he liked some and was not a big fan of others.
Our favourite running shoes of 2025 | Tom's full list of best running shoes this year9:27The Run Testers finds the ASICS Nova Blast 5 is probably the best all-round version of the Novablast family.
Our favourite running shoes of 2025 | Tom's full list of best running shoes this year9:27
5A couple of reviewers report that the Nova Blast 5 holds up well over time in terms of durability.
Early durability signs are positive, which is reassuring for a shoe meant to accumulate high mileage.
2 creators2 opinions
Opinions (2)
6One reviewer strongly disliked the Nova Blast 5, finding the foam so excessively soft that it undermined his running mechanics and made the shoe unwearable beyond short periods.
Runners who prefer ground feel and firmer, more responsive foam may find the Nova Blast 5's plushness actively counterproductive; this reviewer preferred the New Balance Rebel V5 for easy jogs.
1 creator4 opinions
Opinions (4)
jogoncrago reports that in the Nova Blast 5, he felt 'so much plush foam' that when he landed he compressed it once, and then when he went to push off there was a 'second layer of compression' that reduced the force he could generate through his calves and hamstrings to get off the ground; he describes this as 'extremely mushy and kind of quicksand like'.
New Balance Rebel V5 Review: Inoffensive3:13jogoncrago states he did not like the Nova Blast 5 'at all'.
New Balance Rebel V5 Review: Inoffensive3:13jogoncrago reports he 'pretty much couldn't wear the Nova Blast for much more than half an hour before I wanted to take it off'.
New Balance Rebel V5 Review: Inoffensive3:13
7Reviewers note improvements in the Nova Blast 5's upper compared to earlier Novablast versions, finding it more snug and comfortable.
The upper has been refined from the looser fit of earlier versions, which may benefit runners who found previous Novablasts too roomy.
2 creators3 opinions
Opinions (3)
TF XC Running Shoe Reviews (TF XC) finds the Nova Blast 5's upper to be super comfortable.
Best Daily Trainer Running Shoes 2025Watch sourceEDDBUD finds the Nova Blast 5's midsole formula takes the shoe back almost full circle to the original Nova Blast version 1, but with a much better, more fitting upper.
ASICS BLAST SHOE LINEUP 2025Watch sourceEDDBUD observes that the first Nova Blast version was a little bit long in fit, while the Nova Blast 5's upper is not quite so generous.
ASICS BLAST SHOE LINEUP 2025Watch source
8Reviewers regard the Nova Blast 5 as a strong value pick, with one noting a UK sale price around £110 and another selecting it as a best-value runner-up.
The Nova Blast 5 is seen as a shoe that delivers broad all-round capability at a competitive price point, making it appealing for cost-conscious buyers.
2 creators3 opinions
Opinions (3)
EDDBUD states the Nova Blast 5 is on sale in the UK at the time for around about £110.
ASICS BLAST SHOE LINEUP 2025Watch sourceThe Run Testers selected the ASICS Nova Blast 5 as his third-pick best value shoe.
Our favourite running shoes of 2025 | Tom's full list of best running shoes this year12:30The Run Testers finds the ASICS Nova Blast 5 a fantastic all-round shoe that ticks a lot of boxes.
Our favourite running shoes of 2025 | Tom's full list of best running shoes this year12:30
9One reviewer measured the Nova Blast 5 sample at 254 g with an 8 mm drop and observed elevated heel sidewalls that add support over the first Novablast.
These specs — moderate weight, standard drop, and added heel support — suggest a shoe designed for stable daily running rather than stripped-back speed.
1 creator3 opinions
Opinions (3)
EDDBUD measured the Nova Blast 5 sample size at 254 g.
ASICS BLAST SHOE LINEUP 2025Watch sourceEDDBUD observes the Nova Blast 5 has elevated sidewalls around the heel that provide a little bit more support than the first version ever did.
ASICS BLAST SHOE LINEUP 2025Watch sourceEDDBUD notes the Nova Blast 5 has an 8 mm drop.
ASICS BLAST SHOE LINEUP 2025Watch source
10One reviewer observes that the Nova Blast 5's outsole grip has improved over the past few versions, and another notes the blast-series outsole uses minimal rubber with exposed foam for a compliant ground feel.
Traction appears to have improved, though the outsole design prioritizes soft ground feel over maximum rubber coverage, which could affect long-term durability on rough surfaces.
2 creators2 opinions
Opinions (2)
EDDBUD observes the Nova Blast 5's grip is a little bit better in version 5 than in the past few versions.
ASICS BLAST SHOE LINEUP 2025Watch sourceSagasu Running mentions that the Nova Blast has a blast-series outsole with minimal rubber coverage and exposed foam, which provides a compliant, soft ground feel.
Asics Blast Series - Design and Technical Analysis3:30
11One reviewer observes that most runners he has spoken to who own the Nova Blast 5 are very happy with it, and he has seen it on many feet at race start lines including marathons.
Real-world reception appears broadly positive, with the shoe showing up even in marathon settings despite being positioned as a daily trainer rather than a super shoe.
1 creator2 opinions
Opinions (2)
The Run Testers observes he has seen the ASICS Nova Blast 5 on a lot of feet on the start line of races, including marathons, because it ticks all those boxes for a certain type of runner.
Our favourite running shoes of 2025 | Tom's full list of best running shoes this year9:27The Run Testers observes most if not everybody he speaks to who has the ASICS Nova Blast 5 is really happy with it.
Our favourite running shoes of 2025 | Tom's full list of best running shoes this year12:30
