Asics Novablast Review: The Trampoline-Like Daily Trainer Everyone’s Raving About

You know that run where your legs feel like anchors, every step is a thud, and your so-called “cushioned” shoes somehow manage to feel both mushy and unforgiving? Where the idea of another boring recovery jog sounds worse than leg day at the gym?

That's the reality for a lot of runners stuck in traditional daily trainers: flat underfoot feel, lifeless foam, and a ride that turns every mile into a chore instead of a habit you actually look forward to.

Enter the antidote.

The Asics Novablast is built for one thing above all else: making running feel fun again. Instead of dull cushioning, you get a trampoline-like bounce. Instead of dragging your feet, you feel like you're being nudged forward. And instead of dreading your next easy run, you might catch yourself adding an extra mile—just because.

Why the Asics Novablast Feels So Different

On paper, the Asics Novablast is a neutral daily trainer with a lightweight mesh upper and a big stack of cushioned midsole. In reality, it feels more like someone packed a mini-pogo stick under your feet.

Asics uses its energetic FF BLAST family of foam in the Novablast line (FF BLAST in earlier versions, FF BLAST+ and FF BLAST+ ECO in the later ones), combined with a distinctive, trampoline-inspired outsole geometry. The result: a ride that runners consistently describe as “bouncy,” “effortless,” and even “ridiculously fun.”

If you've tried more traditional Asics models like the Gel-Cumulus or Gel-Nimbus and found them a bit too tame, the Novablast is the wild, energetic cousin that still works as an everyday shoe—but refuses to be boring.

Why this specific model?

The Asics Novablast stands out in a crowded daily trainer market because it doesn't just cushion your stride; it amplifies it.

• Big stack height, low weight: The Novablast line typically packs a high stack of foam (around the mid-30 mm range in the heel, depending on version) while keeping the shoe relatively lightweight. That means soft landings without feeling like you're hauling around a brick.
• Bouncy FF BLAST midsole: Asics' FF BLAST and FF BLAST+ foams are engineered for energy return, not just absorption. In practice, that translates to a noticeable rebound as you toe off, especially at moderate to uptempo paces.
• Trampoline-inspired geometry: Look at the sole and you'll see a sculpted, almost cratered design. This shape compresses and springs back as you land, amplifying the feeling of bounce underfoot. It's not marketing fluff—runners on Reddit and forums repeatedly call this shoe “trampoliny.”
• Versatile for easy days and tempo: While marketed as a daily trainer, many runners report using the Novablast for everything from recovery runs to faster efforts. It's not a full-on race shoe, but it's lively enough that picking up the pace feels natural.
• Breathable, comfortable upper: The engineered mesh upper balances structure and comfort, with good breathability and enough room in the forefoot for many foot shapes. Lockdown has improved through the line, especially in later versions.

In plain English: if your current shoes feel flat, the Novablast gives you a spring-loaded upgrade without forcing you into a carbon-plate racer or a hyper-niche super shoe.

At a Glance: The Facts

Feature	User Benefit
FF BLAST / FF BLAST+ midsole foam	Delivers a highly responsive, bouncy feel that makes runs feel lighter and more energetic.
High stack height with moderate heel-to-toe drop	Provides plush cushioning for longer runs while maintaining a smooth, rolling transition.
Trampoline-inspired outsole geometry	Enhances rebound on toe-off, giving a "trampoliny" sensation underfoot.
Engineered mesh upper	Improves breathability and comfort, helping keep feet cool and supported over many miles.
Abrasion-resistant outsole rubber	Boosts durability and grip for daily training on roads and light paths.
Neutral stability design	Ideal for runners without major pronation issues who want a free, natural-feeling ride.
Eye-catching, modern design	Looks as fast and fun as it feels, doubling as a casual sneaker between runs.

What Users Are Saying

Scroll through Reddit threads and running forums about the Asics Novablast, and a few themes appear again and again.

The praise:

• Bounce and fun factor: Many runners call it one of the "most fun daily trainers" they've owned, and some say it made them look forward to easy runs again.
• Comfort for longer runs: The cushioning is frequently praised for taking the sting out of long mileage or back-to-back training days.
• Surprising versatility: Users report using it for everything from slow recovery runs to tempo workouts, thanks to its blend of softness and responsiveness.
• Value compared with "super shoes": You get a lively ride without paying carbon-plate race-shoe prices.

The criticisms:

• Stability for some runners: The high, soft stack and bouncy feel can feel a bit unstable, especially for overpronators or those used to very structured shoes.
• Fit nuances: A few runners find the midfoot or heel fit tricky and tweak lacing for better lockdown.
• Durability for heavy heel strikers: While overall durability is solid, some heavier or hard-striking runners report faster wear in specific outsole zones.

Overall sentiment from the community trends very positive: the Asics Novablast is widely viewed as a go-to "fun shoe" that doesn't sacrifice practicality.

Behind the Novablast is Asics Corp., a long-established Japanese sportswear company listed under ISIN: JP3118000003, known for blending biomechanics research with real-world running feedback. That lineage shows here: this isn't just a fashion-forward sneaker; it's a purpose-built training tool.

Alternatives vs. Asics Novablast

The daily trainer category is fiercely competitive, and the Asics Novablast finds itself up against some serious heavy hitters. Here's how it stacks up conceptually against popular options:

• Nike Pegasus line: The Pegasus is a classic "do-it-all" trainer with a more traditional, slightly firmer ride. If you want more snap and less bounce, Pegasus wins. If you want a more playful, cushioned feel, Novablast takes the edge.
• Hoka Clifton series: Clifton offers a very cushioned, gentle ride with a rocker shape that encourages a smooth roll. The Novablast feels more energetic and springy, while Clifton feels softer and more mellow.
• New Balance Fresh Foam 1080: The 1080 leans into plush comfort and a refined fit. The Novablast feels more responsive and lively but a bit less "luxury slipper."
• Asics Gel-Nimbus: Within Asics' own lineup, the Nimbus is the classic high-cushion workhorse with a more traditional, stable, and slightly heavier feel. Novablast is the younger, more energetic sibling—lighter, bouncier, and better suited to runners who like a dynamic ride.

If you prioritize pure bounce and an exciting underfoot feel, the Asics Novablast sits near the top of the field. If you need maximum stability or have a history of injury that benefits from motion control, a more structured model may be a safer bet.

Who the Asics Novablast Is Best For

The Asics Novablast is a strong match if:

• You're a neutral runner or mild supinator without major stability needs.
• Your current daily trainers feel dull, flat, or overly firm.
• You want one shoe that can handle easy days, steady-state runs, and the occasional tempo.
• You value fun and sensation as much as pure performance specs.

It might not be ideal if:

• You significantly overpronate and rely on motion-control features.
• You prefer a very low-to-the-ground, minimal feel.
• You're extremely sensitive to instability from high-stack shoes.

Final Verdict

Running shoes don't just protect your joints; they shape how every mile feels. And that feeling often decides whether you lace up tomorrow—or skip "just this once."

The Asics Novablast is for runners who are tired of their shoes getting in the way of their motivation. Its high-energy FF BLAST midsole, trampoline-inspired geometry, and surprisingly versatile ride combine into something addictive: a shoe that makes even the easy miles feel a little bit electric.

No, it's not the most stable shoe on the market, and it's not a dedicated race-day rocket. But if you want a daily trainer that delivers big cushioning, big bounce, and big fun—without super-shoe prices—the Novablast deserves a spot at the top of your list.

If you're ready to trade thuds for spring and drudgery for something that actually feels good underfoot, the Novablast might be the shoe that makes you fall back in love with running.