Asics Novablast 2 Review Analysis (2023)

Discover the latest version in the series: Asics Novablast 3

Published on: 12/18/2022

The Asics Novablast 2 is a very good running shoe with a rocker for smooth and comfortable daily runs.

The Consensus

Asics Novablast 2 Complete Review Analysis

Introduction

Seth James DeMoor, the winner of the Pikes Peak Marathon in the United States, is a huge fan of the Asics Novablast 2. He already liked the original Novablast, which he used to train in regularly, and he decided on the second version of the shoe, the Asics Novablast 2, to continue his training and even compete.

Its stylish design and versatility quickly convinced him that this trainer was the one for him. But is he right to praise this shoe? Let’s review the different tests we have and see if this running shoe deserves its reputation.

Cushioning

The Asics Novablast 2 running shoes are the second model of the brand to be equipped with the Flytefoam Blast. This technology was used on the Asics Novablast 1 and revolutionized the Asics cushioning, usually relatively firm. It’s also found on the excellent carbon-fiber plated Asics MetaSpeed Sky.

With the inclusion of this soft midsole cushioning foam, the shoe offers excellent shock absorption and better bounce during the run. The underfoot feel is softer than with the first edition, which offered a fairly firm cushioning. The ride is significantly improved, whether for short or long distances and at any pace. According to many testers, this foam shows its full potential during training sessions at moderate to faster paces.

This shoe provides comfortable and smooth cushioning. The shoe’s heel-to-toe drop is lower than the previous model, contributing to a more stable ride. It was 10 mm on the first iteration, and it’s now 8 mm on the Asics Novablast 2.

Also, despite its somewhat bulky look, the stack is not that massive, with 30 mm under the heel.

Additionally, there’s more cushion under the forefoot to absorb shocks better. It also helps to increase stability and provide a more plushy feel, although the toe-off is less snappy as a result.

Foot lockdown (upper)

Just a quick look at the many reviews is enough to make one thing clear: the upper was the weakest point of the first Novablast. The Novablast 2 does much better on this front. Asics revised the mesh upper: less loose for a snugger fit and combined with a wider platform and the higher walls on the lateral and medial sides; it offers more stability and comfort.

Then, in the heel, the new TPU heel counter provides a better foot lockdown and contributes to the shoe’s stability. Runners note that the heel cup is almost more sturdy than on the original Novablast.

The Novablast 2 upper uses a double jacquard mesh upper that provides excellent foothold and breathability. The gusseted tongue is practical and easy to adjust. Overall, the shoe fits true to size and should even be suitable for runners with wider feet (of course, it’s still better to try it in-store if you can).

Grip and durability

The sturdy rubber AHAR+ is still here to protect the most wear-prone areas. You can run long distances without any worry that the tread will fall apart. Testers didn’t see any noticeable wear even after a few long sessions. Are you entering marathon preparation? You can be confident that it can take the beating.

However, the grip is, according to some reviews, questionable. The outsole design of this shoe is not textured, which can be a problem on wet dirt roads and pavements.

The Ride

Most testers, even those who didn’t like the Novablast 1, find the Novablast 2 a good shoe for daily running. It cushions shocks effectively, and the shoe is responsive with good energy return.

Even if it’s a little heavier than the first version, the Novablast 2 still delivers a smooth and cushioned ride. However, some runners notice that the weight is not necessarily well distributed, with the heel being a bit heavier.

Heel-to-toe transitions work well, as the accommodating toe box on this model feels better. It’s not wider than previously, but it’s softer and more comfortable. Reviewers also welcomed the extra forefoot cushioning.

The Novablast 2 features a rocker to propel the runner forward with a trampoline effect. Ultimately, it’s a very personal thing. While most runners enjoyed it to ease their daily workouts, some runners found it unpleasant and reported that it was detrimental to the ground feel.

All in all, the Novablast 2 is a versatile shoe and can quickly become the go-to shoe in any daily run rotation. It’s suitable for short, medium, and long distances. Also, its comfortable cushion makes it an exciting option for recovery runs at slower paces when the legs are tired. Even if it’s less of an agile and fun shoe than the original (the rocker is milder), it remains a good choice for split training, even if it’s not its primary objective. Essentially, the N2 is best for comfortable long cruises with a kick.

Conclusion

The Asics Novablast 2 is a clear upgrade from the first version, even though it gains weight. It keeps the winning points and corrects the problems that surfaced, especially the upper fit.

Comfortable, with soft and balanced cushioning, good shock absorption, and an innovative midsole geometry, the Novablast 2 is aimed at beginners and experienced runners.

It’s a good, responsive daily trainer that can handle many training scenarios. However, its platform is still narrow, which can be a problem for overpronators, even if the stability is better than the first version.

As for runners with a need for speed, they should find this shoe an enjoyable option even though its weight prevents it from being a real competition model.

Last but not least, the Novablast 2 is quite affordable (especially for its premium quality) with a base price of $130.

Facts

Technical Specs

Cushioning

Technologies

Use

Reference: Asics’ official site

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