The ASICS NOVABLAST 4 is a well-balanced daily trainer aimed at runners of all levels. Equipped with an FF Blast+ Eco midsole, it offers a stable and comfortable ride that feels at home on easy sessions and longer runs. This version of the shoe features good cushioning and improved outsole grip, making it a solid choice for those seeking an all-around neutral running shoe.
Our Verdict
The ASICS NOVABLAST 4 isn't a good choice for marathon racing. While its cushioning is good for comfort on long runs, its energy return is sub-par, making it less efficient for race pace. The shoe's weight doesn't help either. However, it provides good lateral stability, which can be beneficial for maintaining form through fatigue. Overall, this shoe is better suited for easier long runs than longer races.
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Midsole offers good amount of protection.
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Good lateral stability.
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Poor overall energy return.
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Too heavy for racing.
For shorter race distances like 5Ks and 10Ks, the ASICS NOVABLAST 4 lacks the energy return necessary for high-speed efforts. Its weight isn't bad but sub-optimal for racing, and without a plate, it doesn't provide the features needed for fast turnover. While it might work for recreational racers who prioritize comfort, there are more responsive options available for speed-focused efforts.
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Foam is quite firm at the forefoot.
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Poor overall energy return.
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Too heavy for racing.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 4 falls short in energy return. The forefoot doesn't provide the same explosive bounce found in top-tier performance shoes. The heel is even less responsive, which could make it feel sluggish for runners who land farther back on their stride. While it still offers some pop for a daily trainer, it's not the most efficient choice for those looking to maximize propulsion.
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Poor overall energy return.
One of the strongest aspects of the ASICS NOVABLAST 4 is its cushioning. The shoe offers a well-cushioned ride with solid protection underfoot, particularly in the forefoot, making it comfortable for longer efforts. The FF Blast+ Eco foam absorbs impact well, helping to reduce strain on joints. This plush feel makes it a good option for daily training and recovery runs.
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Forefoot cushioning is great.
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Midsole offers good amount of protection.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 4 stands out with its good lateral stability. The wide outsole and well-structured platform contribute to a steady and balanced feel, reducing the risk of rolling. This makes it a reliable option for neutral runners and those needing extra support during longer efforts. It holds up well for various paces, though its lack of a plate means it's not the most structured choice for aggressive speed sessions.
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Very wide at the heel.
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Fully-gusseted tongue.
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Foam is quite firm at the forefoot.
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High stack height.
- 5.5 Marathon Racing
- 5.9 5K/10K Racing
Performance Usages
- 4.5 Energy Return
- 7.7 Cushioning
- 7.6 Lateral Stability
Changelog
- Updated Apr 02, 2025: Converted to Test Bench 0.8.
- Updated Apr 02, 2025: Review published.
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Differences Between Sizes And Variants
We tested the ASICS NOVABLAST 4 in men's US size 9, as stated on the label. This model is available in various sizes for both men and women. The color featured here is Black/Blue Expanse, but it also comes in several other colorways, including a Paris Edition, a Platinum Edition, Safety Yellow/Cool Grey, and more, depending on your region. Wide versions are available separately for both men and women. The design section applies only to the exact model we tested, but we expect other size and gender variants to perform similarly.
Compared To Other Running Shoes
The ASICS NOVABLAST 4 is a versatile shoe for easy mileage that stands out for its good cushioning and lateral stability compared to many shoes within the broader daily trainer market. While not as plush or energetic as its successor, the ASICS NOVABLAST 5, this iteration offers a secure and predictable underfoot experience that's especially appealing to runners prioritizing stability. However, if you're looking for softer cushioning or greater energy return, the newer and improved NOVABLAST 5 or super trainers, such as the ASICS SUPERBLAST 2, are better options. Looking beyond, the Mizuno Neo Vista or the HOKA Skyward X provide strong alternatives for maximum cushioning.
This model sits clearly above basic trainers like the ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 27 or stability-focused shoes such as the ASICS GEL-KAYANO 31 but below specialized speed-focused options like the carbon-plated ASICS MAGIC SPEED 4 or carbon-plated super shoes like the ASICS METASPEED SKY PARIS and ASICS METASPEED EDGE PARIS.
Check out our recommendations for the best running shoes to find your perfect pair.
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 and the ASICS NOVABLAST 4 serve different roles despite their similar name. The SUPERBLAST 2 is a premium unplated uptempo trainer. It delivers a lighter, more cushioned experience with better energy return, making it more suitable for longer runs, tempo efforts, or even amateur racing. In contrast, the NOVABLAST 4 offers a slightly firmer, more stable ride, making it good for runners prioritizing stability. While both shoes can handle daily mileage, runners looking for maximal cushioning, versatility, and race-day potential will prefer the SUPERBLAST 2.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 4 and the ASICS NOVABLAST 5 offer noticeably different running experiences despite their shared lineage. The NOVABLAST 4 provides a firmer ride with greater stability, appealing to runners seeking a secure and predictable feel underfoot. In contrast, the NOVABLAST 5 represents a clear improvement for most, delivering a softer, more dynamic experience thanks to enhanced cushioning and better responsiveness. This shift does come at the expense of stability, but overall, the NOVABLAST 5 is lighter, more energetic, and better suited to handling versatile workouts and longer miles comfortably.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 4 and the ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 26 are both solid daily trainers in ASICS' lineup, but they excel in different areas. The NOVABLAST 4 is more versatile and better at picking up the pace, with better energy return and a notably lighter weight. However, the GEL-NIMBUS 26 is firmer overall, offering more stability and making it a good fit for easy runs at slower paces.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 4 and the adidas Supernova Rise are both well-rounded daily trainers, but the ASICS offers a bit better value. If you prefer a higher stack height with better cushioning for longer runs, the NOVABLAST 4 is a no-brainer and is notably lighter. However, the adidas shoe offers more ground feel and has better energy return overall.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 4 is a more well-rounded shoe than the ASICS GEL-KAYANO 31. It's significantly lighter and uses more responsive foam, making it better for faster paces. It isn't as stable as the GEL-KAYANO 31, which is a better fit for heavier runners or those who need support elements.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 4 is a bit more versatile than the ASICS GLIDERIDE MAX. It's lighter and offers better energy return, making for a bouncier ride for tempo work and faster paces. However, the GLIDERIDE MAX is a better fit for longer distances, offering a more stable, cushioned ride.
Test Results
The ASICS NOVABLAST 4 has an acceptable weight for a daily trainer but isn't quite as light as some of its competitors, like the adidas Adizero Evo SL. While it's not overly heavy, it's not quite versatile enough for faster efforts and racing. This weight keeps it comfortable for long runs and recovery days but holds it back slightly in responsiveness for tempo work and speed sessions.
When choosing your size, know that this model continues the ASICS trend of running slightly longer than most other brands.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 4 struggles with energy return in the heel, offering a less bouncy and lively ride compared to some higher-end models like the ASICS SUPERBLAST 2. While it provides a cushioned and protective landing, it doesn't translate that energy into much forward momentum.
Energy return in the forefoot is slightly better but leaves plenty of room for improvement. The midsole foam isn't very propulsive when pushing off. While it doesn't feel completely dead for a daily trainer, those seeking a more springy and efficient ride may find it lacking compared to more energetic foams on the market, such as the foam on the adidas Adizero Evo SL.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 4 offers decent heel cushioning, effectively absorbing impact across a range of forces. It provides a plush landing, making it a great choice for those who prioritize comfort on longer runs. While it softens landings well, it still maintains enough structure to prevent excessive sink-in, striking a good balance between comfort and stability.
The cushioning in the forefoot of the ASICS NOVABLAST 4 is well-executed, ensuring great protection and plushiness. This helps maintain comfort over extended distances.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 4 has a moderately firm heel, offering good stability without feeling overly rigid. It's quite firm at lower forces but becomes noticeably softer than other shoes, like the Nike Invincible 3, at higher impact levels. This means heel strikers might find it softer, while forefoot strikers are likely to feel more rigidity.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 4's forefoot is firm, maintaining good stability. This makes it a solid option for runners who appreciate a more structured forefoot. That said, runners looking for a soft feel in this area will find it a bit harsh on the foot.
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