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The ASICS Novablast 3 is a running shoe designed for comfort and versatility. This shoe is known for its responsive cushioning, provided by the FF Blast+ foam in the midsole, which offers a soft yet energetic ride.
Key Features:
The ASICS Novablast 3 is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize comfort and responsiveness for their daily running. Its stability enhancements offer confidence on the move, making it suitable for long runs and even marathon distances. The eco-friendly upper adds to the appeal for environmentally conscious athletes.
According to our analysis of reviews from experts around the world, it averages a review score of 87%. This puts it in the highest rated 20% of comparable running shoes. According to our analysis of prices across the internet, at current rates it's just below the median price of running shoes.
The ASICS Novablast 3 has received acclaim for its improved stability, lighter weight, and responsive cushioning. Runners appreciate the FF Blast+ foam which provides a bouncy and comfortable ride, suitable for both slow and fast paces. The shoe's wider base and redesigned midsole geometry contribute to a more stable experience, addressing stability concerns from previous models. The new upper mesh enhances breathability and fit, while the use of recycled materials aligns with eco-friendly values. Although the shoe may not be the top choice for racing among experienced runners, it is an excellent option for beginners tackling their first long-distance events. The outsole's grip on wet surfaces could be better, but overall, the Novablast 3 is a strong contender for the best daily trainer of the year. For those seeking a do-it-all running shoe, the ASICS Novablast 3 is a compelling choice that balances comfort, performance, and sustainability.
The ASICS Novablast 3 introduces several updates from its predecessor, the ASICS Novablast 2. The new version features a lighter weight, more responsive FF Blast+ foam in the midsole, and a redesigned upper made with recycled materials. The shoe's wider platform and heightened sidewalls enhance stability, addressing feedback from earlier models. These changes make the Novablast 3 a significant evolution within the ASICS Novablast family.
The Nike Pegasus 39 is a popular daily trainer that offers a balance of cushioning and responsiveness, similar to the ASICS Novablast 3. While both shoes are suitable for a variety of runs, the Pegasus 39 may appeal to runners who prefer a slightly firmer ride and a more traditional fit.
The Saucony Endorphin Speed 3 is another versatile running shoe that competes with the ASICS Novablast 3. It features a responsive midsole with a nylon plate, making it a great option for runners seeking a shoe that can transition from training to racing. The Endorphin Speed 3 may be preferred by those looking for a more performance-oriented design.
The HOKA Clifton 9 is known for its maximalist cushioning and lightweight design. Runners who enjoy the plush feel of the Novablast 3 but are seeking an even softer ride may find the Clifton 9 to be a suitable alternative. The Clifton 9 also offers a wider fit, which may be more comfortable for runners with wider feet.
The New Balance FuelCell Rebel 3 is a speed-oriented trainer that provides a responsive and lightweight ride. While the Novablast 3 is versatile for various paces, the Rebel 3 is specifically designed for faster workouts and races. Runners looking for a shoe with a focus on speed may prefer the Rebel 3 over the Novablast 3.
The Brooks Launch 10 is a budget-friendly option that offers a balance of cushioning and responsiveness. It is a solid choice for runners who want a reliable daily trainer without the higher price tag of the Novablast 3. The Launch 10 may not have the same level of cushioning as the Novablast 3, but it is a great option for those on a tighter budget.
The ASICS Novablast 3 TR is a special version of the Novablast 3 designed for trail running. It offers the same responsive FF Blast+ midsole cushioning but adds a more rugged outsole for improved traction and durability on off-road surfaces. The TR version is slightly heavier due to these enhancements but provides runners with the same comfortable and versatile ride as the standard Novablast 3.
The ASICS Novablast 3 features an upgraded monofilament jacquard mesh upper that is both soft and light, providing a secure and comfortable fit. The upper is designed to wrap around the foot snugly, offering enough support for daily training needs without compromising on breathability. The heel collar is padded for additional comfort, and the gusseted tongue ensures a stable fit without shifting during runs. The upper's construction with at least 75 percent recycled materials also makes the Novablast 3 an eco-friendly option for runners.
The midsole of the ASICS Novablast 3 is equipped with the new FF Blast+ foam, which is touted to be 20% softer and faster than the previous FLYTEFOAM BLAST material. This results in a midsole that offers an improved energy return while maintaining a highly comfortable underfoot feel. The midsole's redesigned geometry, wider base, and higher sidewalls contribute to a stable ride, making the Novablast 3 suitable for a variety of running conditions and distances.
The outsole of the ASICS Novablast 3 is constructed with AHAR rubber (ASICS High Abrasion Rubber), strategically placed in high-wear areas for durability. While the outsole provides reliable traction on dry surfaces, some runners noted that it could slip a bit on wet roads. Despite this, the outsole's design contributes to the overall lightweight and responsive nature of the shoe, and it is expected to outlast the midsole's resilience.
The ASICS Novablast 3 offers a true-to-size fit with a medium-to-snug feel throughout. The engineered mesh upper and padded heel collar work together to provide a secure and comfortable fit. Some runners found the toe box to be slightly long, but overall, the shoe accommodates a range of foot shapes and sizes, ensuring a comfortable fit for most runners.
Comfort is a standout feature of the ASICS Novablast 3, with its FF Blast+ foam midsole delivering a soft and bouncy ride. The shoe's lightweight design, combined with the plush cushioning, makes it ideal for long runs and recovery days. The upper's breathable mesh and padded heel collar add to the overall comfort, making the Novablast 3 a shoe that runners can wear for extended periods without discomfort.
The ASICS Novablast 3 boasts generous cushioning, thanks to the FF Blast+ foam in the midsole. This cushioning provides a soft and protective landing with a high energy return, making the shoe versatile for both easy runs and tempo efforts. The cushioning is not overly bouncy, allowing for a balanced ride that is comfortable and responsive.
The engineered monofilament mesh upper of the ASICS Novablast 3 is designed to maximize breathability, keeping runners cool and dry during their workouts. The mesh material is not only lightweight but also allows for ample airflow, making the Novablast 3 an excellent choice for running in warmer conditions.
Stability has been significantly improved in the ASICS Novablast 3, with a wider base and retooled midsole geometry that provides a more planted feel. The raised sidewalls and stiffer heel counter enhance the shoe's stability, giving runners the confidence to tackle various terrains and distances. This makes the Novablast 3 a reliable option for those who require a stable ride without the need for traditional stability features.
Durability is a strong point for the ASICS Novablast 3, with its AHAR rubber outsole designed to withstand the rigors of daily running. The strategic placement of the rubber ensures longevity, particularly in high-wear areas. The shoe's construction and materials are built to last, offering runners a dependable option for their training arsenal.
The grip of the ASICS Novablast 3's outsole is effective on dry surfaces, providing runners with the traction needed for confident strides. While the grip on wet roads may not be as strong, the shoe's outsole design still contributes to a secure running experience. The reinforced rubber sections aid in improving traction and durability, making the Novablast 3 a versatile choice for different running conditions.
The ASICS Novablast 3 is well-suited for runners seeking a shoe that offers a balance of cushioning and responsiveness. It's ideal for those who enjoy daily training sessions, ranging from slow recovery runs to more lively paces. Runners with a neutral pronation and average weight will find the Novablast 3 to be a comfortable and versatile option for their running needs.
Runners with wide feet may find the ASICS Novablast 3's fit to be too snug, and those looking for a budget-friendly option might be deterred by the slight price increase. For those seeking a wider fit, the Saucony Endorphin Speed 3 may be a better choice, while the Brooks Launch 10 offers a more affordable alternative without sacrificing performance.
The ASICS Novablast 3 is excellent for runners who want a shoe that can handle a variety of workouts. Whether it's long runs, tempo efforts, or recovery days, the Novablast 3's cushioning and responsive midsole make it a top choice. Its stability improvements also make it suitable for those who need a reliable shoe for daily mileage.
The ASICS Novablast 3 offers a true-to-size fit with a medium-to-snug feel throughout. The updated upper provides a more secure and comfortable fit, with a slightly longer toe box than previous versions.
Yes, the ASICS Novablast 3 is suitable for marathon distances, thanks to its responsive cushioning and improved stability. It provides a comfortable ride that can support runners throughout the entire marathon.
While the ASICS Novablast 3 is versatile enough for various paces, it is primarily designed for comfort and daily training. Runners seeking a shoe specifically for speed training may want to consider options with a more performance-oriented design.
The ASICS Novablast 3 features an upper made with at least 75 percent recycled materials, reducing waste and carbon emissions. The sockliner is produced with a solution dying process that cuts water usage by approximately 33 percent.
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bestDeal | Show prices | |||||
priceBand | Price band | |||||
similarity | Similarity | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar |
released | ReleasedSep 2022 | Jun 2024 | Dec 2023 | Jun 2024 | ||
expertReviewScore | Expert Review Scoreā ā | ā ā | ā ā | ā ā | ā ā | ā ā |
Weight | WeightM: 252 g W: 215 g | M: 269 g W: 218 g | M: 261 g W: 221 g | M: 241 g W: 207 g | ||
Forefoot | Forefoot23 mm | 31 mm | 36 mm | |||
Heel to toe drop | Heel to toe drop8 mm | 6 mm | 8 mm | |||
Heel | Heel31 mm | 37 mm | 44 mm | |||
Usages | UsagesDaily runningSpeed training | Speed training | Daily running | Daily running | Speed training | RacingSpeed training |
Brand | BrandASICS | New Balance | Nike | New Balance | Brooks | ASICS |
Strike Type | Strike TypeFore/Midfoot strike | Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike | Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike | Fore/Midfoot strike | Fore/Midfoot strike | Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike |
Shoe Type | Shoe TypeComfortableLightweightMaximalist | ComfortableMaximalist | ComfortableMaximalist | Comfortable | LightweightMaximalist | |
Rocker | Rocker | |||||
Carbon fiber plate | Carbon fiber plate | |||||
Breathable | Breathable | |||||
Techs | Techs | New Balance FuelCell | New Balance Fresh Foam | |||
Environmental Characteristics | Environmental CharacteristicsSustainable | |||||
Common characteristicsRoadNeutralNeutral pronationHigh archOrthotic friendlyRemovable insole |
Characteristics | |
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Sports | Running (+2049) |
Terrain | Road (+1362) |
Usages | Daily running (+1132)Speed training (+302) |
Brand | ASICS (+257) |
Support Type | Neutral (+1603) |
Pronation Type | Neutral pronation (+1578) |
Strike Type | Fore/Midfoot strike (+1115) |
Arch Type | High arch (+1525) |
Shoe Type | Comfortable (+239)Lightweight (+409)Maximalist (+428) |
Fit | Medium toe box (+854) |
Features | Orthotic friendly (+455)Removable insole (+438)Rocker (+177) |
Materials | Mesh (+942) |
Events | 10k (+711)5K and 10K (+135)Half marathon (+711)Marathon (+711)Obstacle course racing (+168) |
Environmental Characteristics | Sustainable (+175) |
Colorways | Black, Black / Amber, Black / Cyber Grape, Black / Dried Leaf Green, Black / Green, Black / Pink Rave, Black / Purple, Black / Soft Sky, Black / White, Black Island Blue |
Specifications | vs Average | |
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Model | 3 | |
Released | Sep 2022 | |
Measurements | ||
Weight | M: 252 g W: 215 g | |
Heel to toe drop | 8 mm | |
Heel | 31 mm | |
Forefoot | 23 mm |