ASICS Novablast 3: The Ultimate Daily Trainer

ASICS Novablast 3: The Ultimate Daily Trainer

The ASICS Novablast 3 is a standout running shoe that has garnered significant attention. Here’s a detailed look at its features, performance, and durability after 100 miles of running.

1. Improved Cushioning and Foam

The Novablast 3 features an additional millimeter of stack height compared to its predecessor, the Novablast 2. It now has 31 mm of stack height with an 8 mm drop, providing 23 mm of FF Blast Plus midsole foam. This new foam is lighter, squishier, and more resilient than the previous FF Blast, offering enhanced responsiveness and a softer ride. The shoe weighs 8.9 ounces, significantly lighter than the 9.7-ounce Novablast 2, providing more cushion and springiness without added weight.

2. Enhanced Upper Design

The upper of the Novablast 3 is made of engineered mesh, which is both comfortable and breathable. It features a decent amount of padding in the heel cup for added plushness and comfort, ideal for those who prefer extra cushioning in the heel. The new notched tongue design sits flatter and is less obtrusive, enhancing overall comfort and fit.

3. Durable Outsole

The outsole retains the trampoline-inspired design seen in previous models. This design ensures that when you land, the forefoot compresses and then releases, providing an extra pop off the ground. Despite no significant changes in the rubber pattern, the outsole remains effective in providing traction and durability across various surfaces.

4. Versatile Performance

The Novablast 3 excels as a daily trainer, setting a new standard for versatility. It is durable enough for easy runs, comfortable for long runs, and nimble enough for workouts. The FF Blast Plus foam offers a bouncier and squishier sensation while maintaining stability in the heel and ankle, making it a highly adaptable shoe for different types of runs.

5. Stability and Neutral Support

Despite its high cushioning, the Novablast 3 maintains stability, particularly in the heel and ankle areas. While it remains a neutral shoe, the stability enhancements make it suitable for a wide range of runners, even those who typically avoid overly squishy shoes.

6. Performance on Various Terrains

The shoe performs well on different surfaces, from city pavements to dirt roads and loose gravel. During a run in Eugene, the shoe handled steep, wet, and loose gravel sections with ease, showcasing its impressive traction and stability.

7. Fit and Comfort

The Novablast 3 fits true to size, with a standard size nine proving comfortable and secure. The fit is similar to previous versions, making it an easy transition for those familiar with the Novablast line.

8. Wear and Tear

After 100 miles, the foam shows some visual creasing but remains bouncy and lightweight. There is minor scuffing on the foam, particularly in high-impact areas, but this does not affect the overall performance. The rubber outsole shows minimal wear, maintaining its durability and traction capabilities.

Conclusion

The ASICS Novablast 3 is a versatile and durable running shoe that excels in comfort, stability, and performance across various terrains. Its lightweight design, enhanced cushioning, and improved upper make it a top choice for daily training. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a beginner looking for a reliable all-in-one shoe, the Novablast 3 is an excellent investment. Its ability to handle a variety of runs and conditions makes it a standout option, and it has rightfully earned the title of shoe of the year.