Novablast 6 vs Novablast 5: How One of the World's Best-Selling Shoes Is Evolving

The shoe that captivated thousands of runners raises the bar again

To speak of the Novablast saga is to speak of one of the greatest success stories in modern running.

What began as a daring and different proposal has become, over the years, one of the most beloved daily training shoes by runners of all levels. And it's no coincidence. Few shoes have managed to combine fun, cushioning, and versatility as successfully as the Novablast family.

That's why the arrival of the new version has generated so much expectation. The question is inevitable: Novablast 6 vs Novablast 5, is it worth changing?

The short answer is yes.

But the reality deserves a much deeper explanation, because the Novablast 5 is still a true benchmark in the market and one of the best training shoes of recent years.

ASICS didn't want to revolutionize a winning formula. It preferred to do something much smarter: improve exactly what was already working.

And the result is a Novablast 6 that feels more mature, more stable, and even more fun.

Novablast 6 vs Novablast 5: the main differences

Feature	ASICS Novablast 5	ASICS Novablast 6
Main foam	FF Blast Max	FF Blast Max + FF Turbo2
Rebound feel	Very high	More explosive and reactive
Stability	Good	Good
Outsole	AHAR LO	ASICSGRIP + AHAR LO
Upper	Engineered Mesh	Engineered Woven
Weight	Very competitive	Slightly lower
Ideal use	Daily training	Daily training and fast paces

 

At first glance, it may seem like a continuous evolution. But just run a few kilometers to realize that there is a lot of work behind it.

If there is one element that makes the difference in this Novablast 6 vs Novablast 5 comparison, it is the incorporation of FF Turbo2 foam in the forefoot area.

It's the first time a Novablast has used this technology, inherited from more ambitious models of the brand. The intention is clear: to further enhance that trampoline effect that made the saga a benchmark. And it succeeds.

The Novablast 5 was already a tremendously fun shoe, but the new version provides an extra boost of liveliness that is especially noticeable when we increase the pace or make intensity changes.

The transition is smoother, the response is more immediate, and the feeling of propulsion is clearly superior. The best part is that all of this comes without sacrificing the comfort that characterizes the family.

Stability that many runners will appreciate

If there was a small weak point in previous generations, it was stability. It was never an unstable shoe, but it did require a bit more technique than other options on the market.

ASICS seems to have listened to runners. The new widened geometry of the midsole and the greater support in the central area make the Novablast 6 convey much more confidence. Especially on long runs or when fatigue begins to set in.

We are not talking about a corrective shoe or a specific model for pronators, but rather an evolution that considerably expands the range of runners who can enjoy it.

Is it worth upgrading from Novablast 5 to Novablast 6?

This is probably the most searched question right now. And the answer depends a lot on where you are.

If your Novablast 5 still has few miles on them and you continue to enjoy them, there is no urgency to change. They remain one of the best daily training shoes you can find.

However, if it's time to renew, the recommendation is clear. The Novablast 6 represents a logical and very well-executed evolution.

It improves stability, gains traction, offers a more reactive feel, and maintains the essence that made this saga a global phenomenon. In other words: all the good things are still there, but improved.

What type of runner do we recommend each for?

The reality is that both shoes share a very similar profile. They are tremendously versatile models, capable of accompanying you in practically any training session.

The Novablast 5 is still perfect for runners looking for comfort, cushioning, and a fun stride to rack up miles.

The Novablast 6, however, adds an extra touch of dynamism that makes it even more attractive for those who enjoy introducing pace changes or want a unique shoe to do almost anything. From a 10K to complete marathon preparation. And that is probably one of its greatest virtues.

According to our expert Jesús Sepulcre…

"The Novablast has always been a shoe that conveys very good sensations from the first workout. The fifth version already seemed an absolute reference in daily training, but the sixth manages to go a step further."

A shoe that continues to enchant runners of all levels

The most interesting thing about this comparison is to see how the same shoe can continue to evolve without losing its identity. Because the Novablast has never wanted to be the most radical or the most technical. It has wanted to be fun. And that is something tremendously difficult to achieve.

Running with a Novablast always conveys a certain feeling of joy underfoot. That rebound point, that softness, and that ability to adapt to almost any workout explain a good part of its success. The sixth generation does not change that philosophy. It simply perfects it.

Traction improves more than it seems

Another important change comes in the outsole. The incorporation of the ASICSGRIP compound represents a very interesting improvement over the previous generation.

It may seem like a minor detail, but those who frequently train in wet areas or on somewhat more challenging asphalt will notice the difference. Safety increases and the feeling of control is greater.

It is one of those changes that probably won't make headlines, but that greatly improve the runner's daily experience.

The new upper also evolves

ASICS has worked on a cleaner, lighter, and better ventilated upper. The overall feeling is that of a more refined shoe.

The fit remains comfortable, but now it is somewhat more adaptable and pleasant on long runs. Especially during the warmer months, something that runners in cities like Murcia, Elche, Valencia, Cartagena or Alicante will greatly appreciate.

Because when you accumulate kilometers in the middle of a Mediterranean summer, any improvement in breathability makes a difference.

The best of each model

The best of Novablast 5

• One of the best training shoes in recent years.
• Excellent cushioning.
• Very fun sensations.
• Great versatility.
• A fantastic purchase if it's on discount.

The best of Novablast 6

• More stability.
• Greater energy return thanks to FF Turbo2.
• Better traction.
• More refined upper.
• More capacity to adapt to different paces.

Frequently asked questions about Novablast 6 vs Novablast 5

Is Novablast 6 better than Novablast 5?

Yes. The evolution is clear, especially in stability, dynamism, and traction. However, the Novablast 5 is still an excellent daily training shoe.

Is it worth upgrading from Novablast 5 to Novablast 6?

If it's time to replace your shoes or you're looking for the best possible experience within the saga, then yes, it's worth making the leap.

What changes in Novablast 6?

The main novelties are the incorporation of FF Turbo2 foam in the forefoot, the new ASICSGRIP outsole, a more stable geometry, and an improved upper.

Is Novablast 6 suitable for preparing for a marathon?

Of course. Its cushioning, comfort, and versatility make it an excellent option for preparing for anything from 10 kilometers to full marathons.

Which one to choose if I find the Novablast 5 on sale?

It is still a magnificent purchase. But if the budget allows, the Novablast 6 offers a more complete and refined experience.

If you want to discover it firsthand, you can now find the new ASICS Novablast 6 on the Be Urban Running website and in our stores in Elche, Valencia, Murcia, Alcoy, Villena, Cartagena, Yecla, and Torrevieja, where our team of specialists will be happy to help you choose the shoe that best suits your goals and your running style.