There’s something unmistakably raw and real about lacing up a new pair of running shoes and heading out into the rolling trails of the Bergisches Land. This region in western Germany, with its undulating terrain, dense forests, and postcard-worthy valleys, has always been a proving ground for any running gear I review. This time, I brought with me the ASICS Novablast 5, a shoe that promises maximal cushioning, enhanced energy return, and a whole new level of bounce.
Safe to say, I had high expectations. The Novablast series has always intrigued me, but version 5, with its buzz around the new FF Blast MAX foam and increased stack height, felt like it deserved more than just a quick city jog. I gave it the terrain it deserved: wet forest paths, gravel trails, and steep road climbs all across the Bergisches Land.
Softer, Higher, Lighter
Fresh out of the box, the Novablast 5 makes a statement. The silhouette is bold, the stack height imposing, and the jacquard mesh upper sleek yet breathable. ASICS has clearly taken the feedback from previous iterations to heart. The heel bevel is less aggressive than the NB4, and the fit feels just a hair roomier, especially around the toebox.
On my first run through the Wupper valley, I felt it immediately: this shoe wants to bounce. Each footstrike rolled effortlessly into the next, and though I was only planning a short warm-up run, I found myself adding more kilometers just to enjoy the ride.
Tech Specs Table
All the technical information comes straight from ASICS’s own website for reliability.
| Specification | ASICS Novablast 5 |
| Weight | 254g (men’s US 9) |
| Heel Stack Height | 40.9 mm |
| Forefoot Stack Height | 33.5 mm |
| Drop | 7.4 mm |
| Midsole Foam | FF Blast MAX |
| Midsole Softness | 13.0 HA |
| Energy Return | 63.6% |
| Toebox Width (widest part) | 97.5 mm |
| Toebox Width (big toe) | 74.4 mm |
| Rocker Geometry | Mild Forefoot Rocker |
| Fit | True to Size, Medium Width |
| Breathability | Moderate |
| Outsole Grip | Adequate (Dry only) |
| Best Use | Daily Running / Long Distance |
| Price | $140 |
The Midsole: Cloud-Like Yet Responsive
The star of the show is undoubtedly the FF Blast MAX midsole. Compared to version 4, the foam in Novablast 5 feels radically different. On a long run from Altenberg Abbey through the forested ridges of Odenthal, the softness of the foam didn’t just absorb impact, it made climbing less punishing.
Yet, despite this plush cushioning, I never felt like I was sinking. There’s a snappy rebound on toe-off that encourages quick turnover, making it surprisingly competent for tempo efforts. The 7.4 mm drop feels almost perfect, giving enough heel protection for rearfoot strikers like me while still feeling agile.
The Upper: Breathable and Comfortable (Mostly)
Let me be upfront, the upper could breathe better. It was fine in 15°C spring temperatures, but I imagine it might feel warm during peak summer. That said, the jacquard mesh is soft against the foot, doesn’t cause hotspots, and has a sock-like fit that holds you just right.
On technical descents near Schloss Burg, where lateral stability matters, the shoe felt secure. Heel lockdown was solid, and the padded tongue prevented any lace bite over long distances. This shoe could handle most terrain, as long as it’s dry.
Outsole: The Only Real Weak Link
Traction, or rather the lack of it on wet surfaces, is the Achilles heel of the Novablast 5. On a rainy morning, I tackled the trails around Beyenburger Stausee. While the cushioning still performed beautifully, the rubber outsole struggled for grip on slick wooden bridges and wet cobblestones.
For runners living in wetter climates or doing trail-heavy routes, that could be a dealbreaker. For dry pavement, it performs admirably. But I wouldn’t take this out in a downpour unless you’re planning to slow things way down.
Fit and Comfort: Wide-Foot Friendly and Long Run Ready
With a toebox width of 97.5 mm and more height than before, this is easily the most forgiving Novablast for wide-footed runners. On my long run looping around Wermelskirchen, I had zero issues with hot spots, black toenails, or numb toes, the usual suspects of poorly fitting shoes.
True to size fit, ample forefoot space, and a plush collar make it ideal for beginners and seasoned runners alike. Whether you’re going 5K or 25K, this shoe adapts without fuss.
Long Distance Performance: Bergisches Tested
What surprised me most was how well the Novablast 5 held up over distance. Over 20K into a mixed-surface run through the Südliche Bergische Höhen, my legs still felt fresh. There was no deadening of the foam, no fatigue-inducing harshness underfoot. For a $140 daily trainer, this is where it punches far above its weight.
The rocker geometry, combined with the generous stack and new foam, creates a ride that feels fluid and predictable. It’s a perfect companion for long, easy days and even moderate uptempo efforts.
Is the ASICS Novablast 5 good for marathon training?
Yes, especially for long training runs. It’s cushioned enough to protect joints and responsive enough to handle strides and faster efforts.
Can I use ASICS Novablast 5 for speedwork?
You can, but it’s not ideal. While bouncy and light, it’s not built for elite-level responsiveness. Consider the ASICS Superblast 2 or a carbon-plated shoe for serious speed sessions.
Is ASICS Novablast 5 worth upgrading from Novablast 4?
Absolutely. The foam alone makes it worthwhile. It’s softer, more fun, and returns energy better.
Conclusion: Running’s Most Fun Daily Trainer Yet
After over 100 kilometers through the stunning Bergisches Land, I can confidently say this is the best Novablast yet. It balances maximal comfort with real-world versatility in a way few shoes do. The FF Blast MAX midsole is a joy, and the fit is inclusive enough for a wide range of runners.
It’s not perfect, wet traction and breathability need work. But for $140, this is a shoe that feels premium, runs like a dream, and makes you want to go just one more kilometer. And then another.
