Just because we have a new version we don’t have to make the old version worse than it really is, and start pointing to all the defects of the Novablast 4 when we have been saying it is one of the best shoes in 2024 for more than a year now. It is still a great shoe
Thats how it goes. Things move on. I do find it ironic as I'm prepping my "best of 2024" content, of which the NB4 is part of that, talking about the Nb5 as such. So it goes...
Yes 2024 was just a “maintaining” one for their daily shoes. I bought a second Nimbus 25 instead of 26 and didn’t bother with NB4. It seems 2025 will be a better year.
As ever top rated video, bravo sir. I've been a fan since V1. So after your recommendation I look forward to purchasing this version. Keep up the great work. Many thanks.
Then the Nb5 should bring back many a happy memory while bringing something new and dynamic. It's a fun one! Thank you for the kind words on the content. 🤙🏻
@SagasuRunning my pleasure. Just honest. Your the most factual and interesting guy on UA-cam. The highest compliment I can pay you is you remind me of Sir David Attenborough. Who is a national treasure here in the U.k. Keep up the great work
Ha…I appreciate the kind words…but not NEARLY in that realm with him. Though the idea of being that type of “voice” for running shoes in 20-30 years…we will see. 💪🏻
I bought 2 pairs of nb4 cause they were on sale they feel great on my feet i have them on wide but after a week of running on them I got injured and was out for 3 weeks. I'm back on my feet now, but skeptical to run on them again, maybe they're just not for me maybe it has higher drop than what's marketed, I found higher than 8mm drop doesn't work for me, so I'm back to my puma deviate nitro 2, copped out a 3rd pair on 60% sale along with the ZoomFly 6 which I'm nearing to buy another pair of it since it also works for me.
Been using my nb4 for long runs most the year, prob my favorite long run shoe. Stable and super light. Will be buying the 5 but will be looking for some cheap 4s.
So much better than „it’s wider and softer“ - thanks for your effort. I loved version 1 and liked 2, but with 3 the spark was gone. Maybe the fire will come back with #5.
Been with the Novablast since the 2nd iteration. Loved the 2nd, didn't get on with the 3rd, loved the 4th. Based on your very thorough review (which I really truly appreciate), looking forward to the 5th.
Another great video! I got serious about running this year and the NB4 has been my favorite trainer so far, can't wait to try the 5. I will say with 130 miles on my pair the outsole durability doesnt seem great to me. I'm on the heavier side for a runner at 178lbs but at this rate by 200 miles the "trampoline" area won't have any rubber left.
Novablasts in general aren't super high volume outsoles, though that seems excessive. I started to see minor wear on the NB4 by 50mi, especially on my high wear areas (lateral forefoot, especially my right foot). But with the NB5 I'm seeing none, not even the slightest. That impressed me. Thus far the outsole on the NB5 is proving to be VERY good for me.
This shows how shoes are different for everyone, i personally hold marathon pace super easy in the novablast 4, even over some of my other shoes that should be faster.
@@MsPietpaaltjes I can definitely hold MP in the Nova 4. But HMP not so much even on progression runs, the shoe just feels very bulky and heavy towards the end of a long run (about ten miles or so). Maybe the 5s will do a better job in this regard.
Softer foam and less heel foam is probably a deal breaker for me, the 4 was one of the only non-stability shoes I could wear. It wasn’t a brick like a stability shoe but also I didn’t totally demolish the heal in a few runs
I’d still try them on if you can. You might be surprised. All the heel structure and support is still there in the NB5 but in a much smoother transition. Softer AND more resilient is also the key. Soft and spongy is a no go for me. Soft and resilient is totally different. Again, you might be surprised.
Very nice comparison and sounds like the Novablast 5 is the type of shoe I’d enjoy. Also on a side note, I finished my 2 weeks to “Make Super Shoes Great Again” challenge. Went out yesterday in the Endo Pro 3 and ripped a 21:17 5K. Not quite the sub 21 I was going for, but realized how much I don’t like the 5K. The pain cave is real. Haha
Nice. How did the EP3s feel though. Ya, 5k pain cave is a special place. The NB5 is very good. You know the type of shoe I normally like (and don't like). For me to like this one, as much as I do, says something about it.
@ The EP3 still feels pretty good as I’m approaching 100 miles. I still struggle a bit with the lacing and how much the lateral edge tapers in the forefoot. I’m getting SN Rise vibes from your excitement around the NB5. I have around 109 miles I’m in my Rise and they still feel as good now as on the first run. Really consistent shoe.
Awesome comparison!! I agree I’ve liked the Novablast 4 for easy days and maybe some tempo, but didn’t quite have the fun and versatility I was expecting for a Novablast. Really looking forward to the Novablast 5! What would you say is the best use case for the 5?
All around daily trainer...ha! The shoe literally can do anything, though as my performance matrix points out... steady to threshold running is it's sweet spot.
I have enjoyed both the 3 and 4. The 3 wore out much quicker. I replaced them just shy of 400 miles but they felt dead much sooner than that. I’m just over 300 miles in the 4s and won’t be surprised if I go over 400. Like you said, 4 is much more consistent. I also didn’t realize they added so much more foam to the 4 though. I’ll definitely be replacing my 4s with the 5s when the time comes. Great review and great comparison video!
I'm very curious how consistent FFBlastMax is over the long term. I can't wait to see some longer term reviews of it. I'll be back in late winter/early spring with an update on durability as well.
I have more than enough shoes to keep me going until the Spring, which is unfortunate because so many good shoes have come out in recent months in general, especially from Asics and Adidas. It feels like a golden age.
Please do an Asics Novablast 5 vs NB Rebel v4 vs Adidas Evo SL. When you do, please advise on the toe box width of the Adidas Evo SL. Great Indepth reviews you are doing.
This won't be happening. I've talked a lot about my feelings on the NB Rebel v4 and why it's not on the channel and I don't have a Evo SL and don't expect to get one until the spring at this point. However, as soon as I do get a Evo SL I will be doing a NB5 vs Evo SL video...I just can't say when that will be.
I'd say the SL2 is still more performance oriented. LSP, even the core of it, is still a better foam overall that FFBlastMax (which is great). I could go either way though. I'd probably lean to the Nb5 as it's more versatile, but if i needed something more speed focused I'd go SL2. If I'm just going to grab a shoe for easy running it would be the NB5 as it's just more fun for that.
FFBlastStrikeMaxPro? Ya, some Saucony product manager lost a bet with that name… no one could have actually tested that one with consumers and found it wasn’t laughed at.
The softer and wider Novablast 5 seems more like an agile Cumulus 26 now. Guess people will only pick Cumulus over Novablast if they need a shoes for walking
Asics gutted the Cumulus in 2024. Putting that silly rubberized roam outsole on, what used to be, a daily trainer was a dumb move. I like a rubberized foam outsole, but not on a daily trainer. It made more sense on the Nimbus. The Novablast is the de facto daily trainer from Asics now…
NB5 does easy just. I'd just go for the NB5 at this point. Unless you find a great deal on the NB4 and can't resist. Next video up will get into the NB5 + SB2. Stay tuned.
How’s the arch support? Because I tried on the NB4 and it felt like there was negative arch and I’m wondering if it feels the same in the NB5. Awesome review by the way😤
I'm going to be totally honest. I have high and developed arches from yers of barefoot running and rarely notice arches in shoes unless they are extreme (too much or too little). I haven't noticed anything in the NB5. My guess is that if they NB4 gave you issues the NB5 too will as I think they are the same (or similar) lasts. The softer foam in the NB5 might change it but it will be minimal.
As stated in the video. The NB5 feels like a true 8mm, maybe a bit lower due to the compression in the foam. The NB4 feels 8-10, definitely a 8, if not more.
In my review for the NB5 I commented that it was "plasticy" and rougher...but when I compared them again I found the opposite. The NB5 upper is plasticy, but its soft and flexible (as you saw in the video). I always thought of the Nb4 upper as soft and flexible...but it's nothing compared to the NB5. It should be very durable as well. I'm sure when RunRepeat gets a pair they will confirm that.
Do you know if FF Blast Max remains resilient in cold temperatures? I assume it is not PEBA based but I'm not sure. Love the platform comparison diagram from below, and the shot from above. I am looking for a long easy cruiser, as I already have long workout shoes. Yet I will probably get the NB5 because of its more streamlined shape and upgraded foam.
FFblast is a blended EVA of some sort… I don’t know the exact makeup of FFblastMax though. I’m sure that will be out soon. Eva’s do stiffen in cold but it also depends on what the blend is here. Regardless, the coldest temp I really ever see is around 5c (41f), even that is very rare, so I can’t really say.
@@SagasuRunning Not yet but it'll be launched soon here as NB4 is being sold with discounts now. Just ordered NB4 at 130 USD, 20% over MRP of 165 USD. Hopefully it'll be fun and durable for the price 😅
Asics Japan is very good to Taiwan. They do 1-2 day early drops here. We got the Metaspeed Paris and Superblast 2 early here the same way. They are only in one or two stores and just for a short time then they are gone. Asics does similar drops in Japan.
@@SagasuRunning I know it does seem like I'm in the minority, but I thought the 3 was fun, speedy, and still with some ground feel, but the 4 was slow, clunky and a big lump.
Not the minority at all. The NB3 was one of the most popular shoes of the past 5 years. Especially as a daily trainer. I’m the minority that I didn’t get on with it.
@@MrFrescocotone believe me. there are people in reddit who formed their opinion based on the videos they've watched. It's not yet widely available so I considered you may be one of them haha. Don't take too much offense on this sir.
I can't be the only one wondering if this new version of the NB doesn't make the difference with the SB2 even smaller. Is the SB2 still worth the 25% higher price?
Just because we have a new version we don’t have to make the old version worse than it really is, and start pointing to all the defects of the Novablast 4 when we have been saying it is one of the best shoes in 2024 for more than a year now. It is still a great shoe
Thats how it goes. Things move on. I do find it ironic as I'm prepping my "best of 2024" content, of which the NB4 is part of that, talking about the Nb5 as such.
So it goes...
Love how detailed your review is! Keep it up 🔥🔥🔥
Thank you! Will do! 🤙🏻
Great video Chris! As expected! Decision made NB5 it is, waiting for the release day.
The NB4 was great in 2024… but Asics is moving in the right direction in 2025 so far.
Yes 2024 was just a “maintaining” one for their daily shoes. I bought a second Nimbus 25 instead of 26 and didn’t bother with NB4. It seems 2025 will be a better year.
As ever top rated video, bravo sir.
I've been a fan since V1. So after your recommendation I look forward to purchasing this version.
Keep up the great work. Many thanks.
Then the Nb5 should bring back many a happy memory while bringing something new and dynamic. It's a fun one!
Thank you for the kind words on the content. 🤙🏻
@SagasuRunning my pleasure. Just honest. Your the most factual and interesting guy on UA-cam. The highest compliment I can pay you is you remind me of Sir David Attenborough. Who is a national treasure here in the U.k.
Keep up the great work
Ha…I appreciate the kind words…but not NEARLY in that realm with him. Though the idea of being that type of “voice” for running shoes in 20-30 years…we will see. 💪🏻
With my "unique" shoe rotation, I'll be ready to upgrade from the NB4 to the NB5 when the NB6 is released.
Better late than never!?
I bought 2 pairs of nb4 cause they were on sale they feel great on my feet i have them on wide but after a week of running on them I got injured and was out for 3 weeks. I'm back on my feet now, but skeptical to run on them again, maybe they're just not for me maybe it has higher drop than what's marketed, I found higher than 8mm drop doesn't work for me, so I'm back to my puma deviate nitro 2, copped out a 3rd pair on 60% sale along with the ZoomFly 6 which I'm nearing to buy another pair of it since it also works for me.
@SagasuRunning indeed 😁
@metalsadman It’s good you are finding what works for you. Trail and error is a big part of it.
Trail and error - good name for a ultra marathon build series
Been using my nb4 for long runs most the year, prob my favorite long run shoe.
Stable and super light.
Will be buying the 5 but will be looking for some cheap 4s.
Once you running NB5 you’ll thank your NB4s for their service and just go NB5… it’s very good.
Very good breakdown with specific details, not just impressions.
That is what I try to do here...both actually.
So much better than „it’s wider and softer“ - thanks for your effort.
I loved version 1 and liked 2, but with 3 the spark was gone. Maybe the fire will come back with #5.
If you have been with the NB series that long... you'll enjoy the NB5 and find that spark again.
Been with the Novablast since the 2nd iteration. Loved the 2nd, didn't get on with the 3rd, loved the 4th. Based on your very thorough review (which I really truly appreciate), looking forward to the 5th.
The NB5 is quite nice…surprisingly so. Asics is starting 2025 on a very high note.
Another great video! I got serious about running this year and the NB4 has been my favorite trainer so far, can't wait to try the 5. I will say with 130 miles on my pair the outsole durability doesnt seem great to me. I'm on the heavier side for a runner at 178lbs but at this rate by 200 miles the "trampoline" area won't have any rubber left.
Novablasts in general aren't super high volume outsoles, though that seems excessive. I started to see minor wear on the NB4 by 50mi, especially on my high wear areas (lateral forefoot, especially my right foot). But with the NB5 I'm seeing none, not even the slightest. That impressed me. Thus far the outsole on the NB5 is proving to be VERY good for me.
very much agree with the performance of the Nova 4s, it just struggles around half marathon/10k pace. Really good for easy/steady efforts.
This shows how shoes are different for everyone, i personally hold marathon pace super easy in the novablast 4, even over some of my other shoes that should be faster.
@@MsPietpaaltjes I can definitely hold MP in the Nova 4. But HMP not so much even on progression runs, the shoe just feels very bulky and heavy towards the end of a long run (about ten miles or so). Maybe the 5s will do a better job in this regard.
It was such a good easy run cruiser...but beyond that, I agree... a struggle.
This is why runner shoes are so fascinating. Everyone responds differently to them.
The NB5 is so much more dynamic and has multiple gears, while the NB4 had one big gear and could be pushed out side of that range a little bit.
Would love to see a review of the Glideride Max also! Thoughtful analysis as always, thank you
Unlikely to happen. Not my type of shoe. Honeslty, unless it is a Novablast, Superblast or Meta-something...I'm unlikely to cover it from Asics.
Thanks very much for the expert, detailed review. Will be getting the Novablast 5.
When you get them...enjoy them...they are excellent!
Softer foam and less heel foam is probably a deal breaker for me, the 4 was one of the only non-stability shoes I could wear. It wasn’t a brick like a stability shoe but also I didn’t totally demolish the heal in a few runs
I’d still try them on if you can. You might be surprised. All the heel structure and support is still there in the NB5 but in a much smoother transition.
Softer AND more resilient is also the key. Soft and spongy is a no go for me. Soft and resilient is totally different. Again, you might be surprised.
Looking forward to getting a pair. Thank you for the thorough video 👍🏼👍🏼
Enjoy them. Thank you for watching. 🤙🏻
Very nice comparison and sounds like the Novablast 5 is the type of shoe I’d enjoy.
Also on a side note, I finished my 2 weeks to “Make Super Shoes Great Again” challenge. Went out yesterday in the Endo Pro 3 and ripped a 21:17 5K. Not quite the sub 21 I was going for, but realized how much I don’t like the 5K. The pain cave is real. Haha
Nice. How did the EP3s feel though.
Ya, 5k pain cave is a special place.
The NB5 is very good. You know the type of shoe I normally like (and don't like). For me to like this one, as much as I do, says something about it.
@ The EP3 still feels pretty good as I’m approaching 100 miles. I still struggle a bit with the lacing and how much the lateral edge tapers in the forefoot.
I’m getting SN Rise vibes from your excitement around the NB5. I have around 109 miles I’m in my Rise and they still feel as good now as on the first run. Really consistent shoe.
@@mattbeier The SNR is a a special one for sure. Very different than the NB5 but similar excitement.
How good is an Asics running shoe rotation now? Clear, understandable and complimentary.
NB + MS/S4 + SB + MSP
Agree...even though I'd change it to NB5 + HS4 + SB2 + MSP...though most would be fine with NB5 + SB2/MSP...
Awesome comparison!! I agree I’ve liked the Novablast 4 for easy days and maybe some tempo, but didn’t quite have the fun and versatility I was expecting for a Novablast. Really looking forward to the Novablast 5! What would you say is the best use case for the 5?
All around daily trainer...ha! The shoe literally can do anything, though as my performance matrix points out... steady to threshold running is it's sweet spot.
fair point! 😆
I have enjoyed both the 3 and 4. The 3 wore out much quicker. I replaced them just shy of 400 miles but they felt dead much sooner than that. I’m just over 300 miles in the 4s and won’t be surprised if I go over 400. Like you said, 4 is much more consistent. I also didn’t realize they added so much more foam to the 4 though. I’ll definitely be replacing my 4s with the 5s when the time comes.
Great review and great comparison video!
I'm very curious how consistent FFBlastMax is over the long term. I can't wait to see some longer term reviews of it. I'll be back in late winter/early spring with an update on durability as well.
Fantastic review
Thank you for watching. 🤙🏻
Thank you for the review! Debating between this and Adizero SL 2. Comparison to Adizero SL 2 and Pegasus Plus coming up?
Peg Plus yes, SL2 maybe but not in a stand alone video. Still thinking about it.
Since superblast 2 is always sold out globally, might just opt for the new nb5. Not as responsive as sb2 but it is responsive, better than nb4
The NB5 is the better shoe for 95% of runners anyway... video on it tomorrow.
I have more than enough shoes to keep me going until the Spring, which is unfortunate because so many good shoes have come out in recent months in general, especially from Asics and Adidas. It feels like a golden age.
It definitely does. 2025 looks to continue that even more-so.
Please do an Asics Novablast 5 vs NB Rebel v4 vs Adidas Evo SL. When you do, please advise on the toe box width of the Adidas Evo SL. Great Indepth reviews you are doing.
This won't be happening. I've talked a lot about my feelings on the NB Rebel v4 and why it's not on the channel and I don't have a Evo SL and don't expect to get one until the spring at this point. However, as soon as I do get a Evo SL I will be doing a NB5 vs Evo SL video...I just can't say when that will be.
@ perfect and I look forward to that showdown review.
I am too…. As soon as I can get a Evo SL I’ll be on it!
Great video! What is your opinion between supernova rise and novablast 5?
Different shoes. If I want a shoe to maximize easy runs… SNR. If I want a shoe to do a little of everything… NB5.
Thanks Chris. Thoughts on the NB vs the SL 2? It seems like, apart from the stack/weight they check the same boxes
I'd say the SL2 is still more performance oriented. LSP, even the core of it, is still a better foam overall that FFBlastMax (which is great). I could go either way though. I'd probably lean to the Nb5 as it's more versatile, but if i needed something more speed focused I'd go SL2. If I'm just going to grab a shoe for easy running it would be the NB5 as it's just more fun for that.
@SagasuRunning fair enough, makes sense. Whether FFblastmax or LSP, at least we can be glad it's not called Incredirun
FFBlastStrikeMaxPro?
Ya, some Saucony product manager lost a bet with that name… no one could have actually tested that one with consumers and found it wasn’t laughed at.
Great video!
Glad you enjoyed it. Thank you for watching.
I didn’t know the left and right shoe does not weigh the same. Is it on purpose?
Manufacturing tolerances. Often it happens. It’s actually rare that both shoes you buy will be the exact same weight.
The softer and wider Novablast 5 seems more like an agile Cumulus 26 now. Guess people will only pick Cumulus over Novablast if they need a shoes for walking
Asics gutted the Cumulus in 2024. Putting that silly rubberized roam outsole on, what used to be, a daily trainer was a dumb move. I like a rubberized foam outsole, but not on a daily trainer. It made more sense on the Nimbus.
The Novablast is the de facto daily trainer from Asics now…
So, for Easy can I get NB4 and NB 5 for the rest? or ignore both and just purchase a SB2? wondering how SB2 will go with NB5? next video content?
NB5 does easy just. I'd just go for the NB5 at this point. Unless you find a great deal on the NB4 and can't resist.
Next video up will get into the NB5 + SB2. Stay tuned.
How’s the arch support? Because I tried on the NB4 and it felt like there was negative arch and I’m wondering if it feels the same in the NB5. Awesome review by the way😤
I'm going to be totally honest. I have high and developed arches from yers of barefoot running and rarely notice arches in shoes unless they are extreme (too much or too little). I haven't noticed anything in the NB5. My guess is that if they NB4 gave you issues the NB5 too will as I think they are the same (or similar) lasts. The softer foam in the NB5 might change it but it will be minimal.
I have seen reviews saying NB4 is better for speed work, any comment regarding that?
I cannot imagine that at all. I liked the NB4 but only found it good for easy running. The NB5 has much more range… night and day difference.
Thanks for great video, I am interested in novablast as my daily trainer. However, novablast 4 went on sale by 35%. Should get novablast 4 or 5?
Both are great...but the NB5 is better. I'd go that and enjoy them for most of 2025.
@ Thank you for your comment 😁👍
Does this feel like a true 8mm drop? The 4s i have feel like it's around 9/10mm which doesn't work for me :(
As stated in the video. The NB5 feels like a true 8mm, maybe a bit lower due to the compression in the foam. The NB4 feels 8-10, definitely a 8, if not more.
@@SagasuRunningyeah sold my 2 pairs of NB4 just doesn't work for me. Thanks
I want nb4 and zoomfly6. 😢
The two shoes don't compete with one another... but you might see the ZF6 on this channel next month...
Bro I have the novablast 4 and ordering novablast 5.
Which should I use for my long run shoes?
Either one would be fine. But I've moved over to the NB5 completely. The NB4 is officially retired for me.
@ thanks man!
Which one would u personally choose nb5 for 140usd or nb5 for 110?
NB5 without a doubt.
Plasticky for the upper should be better; the upper in the Nimbus 26 tore after 250 kms :)))
In my review for the NB5 I commented that it was "plasticy" and rougher...but when I compared them again I found the opposite. The NB5 upper is plasticy, but its soft and flexible (as you saw in the video). I always thought of the Nb4 upper as soft and flexible...but it's nothing compared to the NB5. It should be very durable as well. I'm sure when RunRepeat gets a pair they will confirm that.
Do you know if FF Blast Max remains resilient in cold temperatures? I assume it is not PEBA based but I'm not sure.
Love the platform comparison diagram from below, and the shot from above. I am looking for a long easy cruiser, as I already have long workout shoes. Yet I will probably get the NB5 because of its more streamlined shape and upgraded foam.
FFblast is a blended EVA of some sort… I don’t know the exact makeup of FFblastMax though. I’m sure that will be out soon.
Eva’s do stiffen in cold but it also depends on what the blend is here.
Regardless, the coldest temp I really ever see is around 5c (41f), even that is very rare, so I can’t really say.
4 is 30% cheaper then 5, should I wait? Or get the 4 first
Wait…. The NB5 is a much better shoe. Unless you need a shoe right now.
Finally the NB5 is released, I can now buy NB4 😂
Enjoy them. 🤙🏻
@@SagasuRunning Sadly, NB4 is still being sold at MRP in India. Waiting for discounts.
@prasadpappu23 Is the NB5 out there yet?
@@SagasuRunning Not yet but it'll be launched soon here as NB4 is being sold with discounts now. Just ordered NB4 at 130 USD, 20% over MRP of 165 USD.
Hopefully it'll be fun and durable for the price 😅
How are some people buying this shoe so early?
Asics Japan is very good to Taiwan. They do 1-2 day early drops here. We got the Metaspeed Paris and Superblast 2 early here the same way. They are only in one or two stores and just for a short time then they are gone. Asics does similar drops in Japan.
Loved the 3, hated the 4, finger's crossed for the 5.
other way around for me!
Despised the 3, enjoyed the 4 really having fun in the 5...
@@SagasuRunning I know it does seem like I'm in the minority, but I thought the 3 was fun, speedy, and still with some ground feel, but the 4 was slow, clunky and a big lump.
Not the minority at all. The NB3 was one of the most popular shoes of the past 5 years. Especially as a daily trainer. I’m the minority that I didn’t get on with it.
4 is way better than 5. 5 is too soft
Based on experience? Or based on videos you’ve watched?
@cmjr13 what do you think?? Of course based on experience, how can someone judge without trying 🤔
Soft and spongy = bad... soft and resilient = dynamic. The NB5 is definitely the later. The NB4 was a great shoe, but very much a one trick pony.
@@MrFrescocotone believe me. there are people in reddit who formed their opinion based on the videos they've watched. It's not yet widely available so I considered you may be one of them haha. Don't take too much offense on this sir.
plus your opinion is opposite to what most credible reviewers said. So I had to make sure you did try it.
I can't be the only one wondering if this new version of the NB doesn't make the difference with the SB2 even smaller.
Is the SB2 still worth the 25% higher price?
You are asking the right question. My video launching today, in four hours, is about this very question. Stay tuned. 🤙🏻