When I first started running over 15 years ago, I purchased a pair of ASICS Running shoes as that seemed to be the go to brand back then. And I did what most runners do when they are new to running, I found something that worked and I stuck with it. I am very much a creature of habit, and if the shoes feels right, there is no need to overcomplicate things.
For me, choosing running shoes can feel stressful so I tend to stick with what works. After a while I noticed that I kept poking a hole in the toes of the shoes so I decided to try other brands, New Balance, HOKA and Brooks. All of them served their purpose well, and I never had any major issues. I still poked holes in the toes so the problem was me not the shoes!
Currently, I am back running in ASICS. I feel like I have come full circle and am loving my ASICS Novablast. In today’s market of high priced running shoes, I believe they offer a good, affordable option. In this ASICS Novablast review, I will discuss what I think of these running shoes and why you should give them a go.
Join Our Mailing List
The Changing Scene of Running Shoe Technology and Brands
Over time, I do think ASICS slipped a little down the list in terms of preference for a lot of runners. It was not that the brand suddenly became worse, but more that the market around it changed quite quickly. New brands, new technology and the choices multiplied.
Brands like HOKA introduced much softer, more cushioned shoes that felt very different to the traditional firmer models many of us were used to. At the same time, companies like Nike and Adidas began investing heavily in new midsole foams and performance technology, which completely changed expectations around energy return and comfort.
As running shoe technology became more refined, with lighter materials and more responsive cushioning, runners naturally became more open to trying different brands. That meant ASICS was no longer the automatic go to for as many people as it once was.
However in recent years, ASICS has clearly responded and introduced many new models, adding in more modern cushioning and bounce, while still producing a reliable shoe.
Coming Back to ASICS Running Shoes
A few years ago I found myself needing a new pair again and ended up coming back to ASICS, partly because I came across a good deal and partly because my daughter recommended them. That alone made the whole process of choosing new shoes so much easier, which is half the battle with so many options out there. And she was right.
Since then I have been back in ASICS, and I have to say I have been genuinely impressed with how much their shoes have evolved. The biggest standout for me has been the ASICS Novablast.
ASICS Novablast
The ASICS Novablast feels very different from the ASICS shoes I used to run in years ago. The first thing I noticed was how light and bouncy they were. They felt good over the longer distances and equally on shorter, faster runs. I don’t tend to race in them as I have my ‘Race day shoes’, but they are my go to choice for most of my runs. The majority of my runs are on road or trails and the Novablast suits both surfaces. I wear a half size up from my normal shoe size and that works well.
I get a good level of comfort, but I also feel like I can pick up the pace when I want to. It is not a full-on racing shoe, but it is versatile enough that I do not feel restricted to one type of run.
One thing I have noticed, and this comes up quite a bit in reviews as well, is that earlier versions had a reputation for being slightly unstable. I have been running in the Novablast 3 and while it is not a stability shoe, I do feel supported when I am running.
In terms of weight, it is light enough that it never feels like hard work to run in. This is probably why it has become such a regular choice for me. I am still running in the Novablast 3, as I purchased a few pairs, even though newer versions like version 6 are now available.
Running is a big part of life in our house, and interestingly the Novablast has become popular across the family as well. That probably says more than any technical review. We are all different runners with different styles but we find the ASICS Novablast definitely has a place in the shoe rotation. When it comes time to replace my Novablast 3, I will have to move up to another model. Buy my daughter has moved up a few versions and is still happy with hers, so I will take that as a good sign to stay with these shoes.
ASICS Gel-Excite 11
Alongside the ASICS Novablast, I also have a pair of ASICS Gel-Excite 11, and this is a completely different type of shoe but just as useful in its own way. It is an excellent everyday running shoe, and I would highly recommend it to beginners.
One of the biggest advantages of the Gel Excite 11 is its price point. Running shoes can get expensive very quickly, and when you are just starting out it is easy to spend a lot of money on something that might not suit you. I always think it makes more sense to start with something affordable and reliable and see where that takes you.
In terms of feel, it is comfortable and easy to run in. It does not have the same level of bounce or energy as the Novablast. Weight is 250g versus 225g with the Novablast. It is also a neutral shoe which suits me as I have a higher arch. Again, I wear a half size up from my normal shoe size. These are good shoes for walking also.
Looking at reviews more broadly, the Gel Excite range is often described as a solid, no-nonsense option. So if you are a beginner runner looking for a shoe to get you on your way the ASICS Gel-Excite 11 are perfect. Or if you would like to add another pair to your rotation so you can get some more miles out of your more expensive runners, these fit the bill too.
ASICS Novablast or Gel- Excite 11 Worth Adding to Your Rotation
The combination of the ASICS Novablast for my regular training and the ASICS Gel-Excite 11 as a more affordable, straightforward option covers everything I need. I have even been known to hold onto running shoes that are falling apart just to avoid the hassle of buying a new pair, which probably says everything about how much I dislike the whole decision process.
For now though, I feel confident that the Novablast will keep me running comfortably for some time to come. It takes away that need to constantly search for something better. You can easily get bogged down in shoe reviews for weeks, comparing every detail and second guessing your choice, but in reality some of the best recommendations come from the people you know.
Talk to the runners around you, borrow a pair if possible and take them for a short test drive. ASICS Novablast are definitely worth a try.
For more running advice feel free to contact us on Achieve Running Club
We are happy to share what we have learned works and maybe what doesn’t work so well too.
#RunningShoes #ASICS #ASICSNovablast #GelExcite11 #RunningGear #DailyTrainer #RunnerLife #MarathonTraining #BeginnerRunners #RoadRunning #RunningCommunity #RunHappy #RunnersOfInstagram #FitnessRunning #LongDistanceRunning #EasyRuns #RunTips #RunningJourney #ASICSRunningshoesreviews #ASICSNovablastreview #beginnerrunningshoe #affordablerunningshoes
