The Asics Novablast 5 has emerged as a leading alternative to popular walking shoe brands like Hoka, Brooks, and New Balance, with many reviewers ranking it above these stalwarts. One reviewer proclaimed, “After buying and returning multiple pairs of Hokas, Brooks, New Balance and a few Asics, these are the most cushioned shoes ever, throughout the whole shoe!” Another went as far as to say, “They make my Hokas feel like wooden clogs. I love them so much. Fan for life!”
Top Running Shoe in Strava's 2025 Report
In a 2025 report from Strava, a social workout-tracking app that surveyed over 30,000 people, the Novablast 5 was named the top running shoe. Business Insider also previously reported on the Novablast’s popularity among Gen Z. The sneaker stands out for its FF Blast Max cushioning tech, described by one reviewer as “walking on a bouncy pillow.” The outsole’s design was literally inspired by a trampoline, emphasizing responsiveness.
Features and Availability
The sneaker features a breathable and stretchy mesh jacquard upper, reflective details for low-light conditions, a lace-up closure, and front and back pull tabs. It comes in 12 colorways for women and men, in women’s sizes 5-12.5 and men’s sizes 5.5-15, including wide sizing options. Available at Amazon and Zappos for $130, regularly $150.
The Novablast 5 is an older model, as the Novablast 6 launched recently. The 6 introduces a gripper outsole, slightly redesigned upper, and even bouncier trampoline pod, but is not yet widely available at major retailers. For a tried-and-true option with ample stock, the Novablast 5 remains a strong choice.
Comfort for Foot Pain and Long Days
The heel's FF Blast Max cushioning adds major height and bounce for a soft landing, providing comfort for runners, walkers, and those who stand for long periods. One shopper with plantar fasciitis said, “I can wear these all day with no issues. I feel literally like I’m walking on clouds.” Another reviewer, a surgical nurse on her feet for 10–12 hours daily, noted, “From the first shift, I noticed a huge difference in comfort and cushioning. My feet feel significantly less fatigued.”
Runners Prefer Novablast Over Other Brands
An everyday runner who owns Brooks, On Clouds, Hoka, and Nikes stated, “This Asic is my favorite by far! It’s lightweight, cushiony and has a wonderful little bounce. My Brooks are too firm, Nikes too heavy, and Hoka/On Cloud too mushy after only a little wear.” A half-marathon trainer in their 40s added, “I now look at all my other shoes in disgust. I took them straight out of the box and ran 6 miles at a tempo 8:30 pace. They were amazing and springy.”
Additional Positive Reviews
Chris Freeze, a former Hoka runner, said, “These definitely offer more cushion than what I got from my Hokas, and when running down hills my knee is much less irritated.” J. Trevino noted, “They take a little getting used to if you’re not used to these tall running shoes, but after you get used to it, they’re wonderful.” Sarra, who suffered from blisters with other brands, reported, “These shoes are the FIRST to have me blister free, even after 9 mile runs.” Beachbummama, with an injured knee, said, “The impact on my knee is so much softer and can barely feel soreness. I’ll never wear a diff set of shoes again.” ThePamdalorian, who broke their foot, wrote, “I don’t have any pain or discomfort wearing these. I’m gonna buy ALL the colors.”
More Hoka Alternatives
For additional options, consider the Nortiv 8 sneakers at $50-$54, praised as cloud-like and non-slip. Allswifit slip-ons with a wide base offer easy on-off and stability, with a reviewer saying they are “even MORE comfortable than Hokas.” Saucony Hurricane 24s provide max cushioning with better stability and durability, at $80-$90. These alternatives are available on Amazon.
