Run Oregon Reviews the new Asics Novablast 4

Once I became an official runner, (running on the regular instead of just doing the occasional race,) Asics became my brand. They have always been tried and true and consistantly reliable. I was thrilled to try the new NOVABLAST 4 and they did not disappoint.

Looks

When I opened the box to see the Oatmeal/Moonrock color combo, my first thought was “I will NEVER be able to keep these clean.” But getting your running shoes dirty is a rite of passage for any shoe, and a well-loved shoe will never stay pristine. Battle scars are cool.

“Oatmeal” is a good way to describe the creamy shade of the shoes, with some peachy undertones and hints of blue.  There are even some reflective elements in the design to help you out if you run in the dark.

Function

The NOVABLAST® 4 is a road shoe made for the typical neutral runner with normal arches. They are ranked high on the “cushion” scale, so they are meant to deliver a bouncy ride. The new midsole and the ASICSGRIP™ rubber outsole has been revised to provide a more energized ride.

Consider these shoes to be your standard, every-day “ride or die” shoes.

Construction

The tongue wing construction in the upper reduces tongue movement and improves the fit of the shoe, while also adding some stretch. In addition to that, the engineered woven upper is stretchy and breathable, with great ventilation. At least 75% of the main upper is made with recycled materials as well.

The website calls the outsole design “trampoline-inspired.” The FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO cushioning is made with 20% recycled bio-based content and you’ll feel a softer landing and a springier toe-off.  Also, the AHAR® outsole provides improves durability.

Fit

The gusseted tongue has improved the fit of this shoe throughout the midfoot and it really helps reduce any sliding that could occur. These shoes also have great stretch and they feel very soft from the first time you slide them on. I personally dislike a shoe that feels stiff right out of the box, so I like that these feel worn in without being worn out, if that makes sense.

Fit is definitely subjective and we all have different feet and strides. I typically like a shoe with good cushion and I have a wide footbed, and the NOVABLAST® 4 fits very well for these considerations.

Overall/For Consideration

The NOVABLAST 4 is a hit! They fit like a dream and the cloud-like cushion really is heaven. Somehow, they still don’t feel heavy despite the cushion, and I think these shoes will get you through most road adventures!