The New Asics Novablast 5 vs Superblast 2: Which trainer will be right for you?

The All-new Asics Novablast 5

The Novablast 4 earned its reputation as one of last year’s top daily trainers, and its successor, the Novablast 5, brings refined updates designed to enhance comfort and performance for runners of all levels.

With the highly anticipated Novablast 5 just around the corner in Australia, lets compare the newest from Asics, to one of their top favorites, the Superblast 2.

Midsole

The most significant update is in the midsole. Replacing last year’s slightly dense FF Blast Plus midsole, the new Novablast 5 now features the FF Blast Max midsole, previously used in the Glideride Max lineup.

This max-cushion midsole delivers a softer, lighter, and more comfortable feel underfoot. Asics also highlights FF Blast Max as one of their most energy-efficient foams, providing a noticeably bouncier ride. In terms of design, the shoe retains the same geometric shaping and outsole pattern as the previous model.

Upper Material & Fit

The Novablast 5 introduces a Jacquard mesh upper, replacing the woven mesh from the Novablast 4. This new material provides a softer, more comfortable fit while maintaining a lightweight and breathable design.

Additionally, the heel pad has been enhanced to offer a more secure and supportive feel at the back.

Asics Superblast 2

The Asics Superblast 2 remains a standout in the running world, building on the success of its predecessor with thoughtful upgrades. It features a revamped midsole that blends the bio-based FF Blast Plus Eco foam with FF Blast Turbo Plus technology. This combination offers an impressive balance of softness, energy return, and responsiveness, making it a versatile choice for both long, steady runs and quicker-paced efforts. The new foam is designed to save your legs over extended distances while maintaining a lightweight and stable feel.

This iteration also includes a woven mesh upper for improved fit and structure, addressing feedback about the previous version's bagginess. The outsole has been enhanced with AsicsGrip material for better durability and traction, while the removal of problematic midsole cutouts reduces debris collection during runs. Overall, the Superblast 2 continues to deliver high-stack cushioning and a smooth, enjoyable ride, earning its reputation as one of the most fun and reliable trainers for 2024

Technical Comparison: Superblast 2 vs. Novablast 5

Novablast 5

Sport / Type - Running, training & competition
Weight - 255grams
Heel Drop - 8mm
Support - Neutral
Cushion - Max

Superblast 2

Sport / Type - Fast training, Running & competition
Weight - 250grams
Heel Drop - 8mm
Support - Neutral
Cushion - Max

Our Verdict

Both the Novablast 5 and Superblast 2 are excellent performance trainers, offering comfort and reliability for long-distance runs. If you’re seeking a shoe that delivers enhanced performance, responsiveness, and speed across easy runs, long distances, tempo sessions, or even marathons, the Superblast 2 is a great choice.

On the other hand, the Novablast 5 shines as a versatile option with excellent cushioning. Its ride setup accommodates various foot strikes and performs well for most types of runs, including tempo training. However, for longer marathon distances, the Superblast 2 has the edge. At nearly $70 AUD less, the Novablast 5 will remain a popular and accessible option for runners seeking a dependable all-around trainer.