The latest iterations of two of Asics’ most popular neutral running shoes – the Superblast and the Novablast 4 – offer runners updated technologies and improvements.
But how do these two cushioned, flexible shoes compare when it comes to fit, feel, and performance? Read on for an in-depth comparison of the key features and real-world benefits of the Asics Superblast and Novablast 4.
Similarities And Differences Between Asics Superblast and Novablast 4:
| Feature | Asics Superblast | Asics Novablast 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Launched In | 2023 | 2023 |
| Stability | Neutral | Neutral |
| Flexibility | Moderate | Moderately flexible |
| Sizing | Men’s 7-13, Women’s 5-12 | Standard |
| Weight | 9.9oz (men’s), 8.8oz (women’s) | 9.1oz (men’s), 7.9oz (women’s) |
| Cushion | FlyteFoam Blast+ | FlyteFoam Blast+ Eco |
| Outsole | AHAR+ rubber | AHAR-Lo |
| Midsole | FlyteFoam Blast+ | FlyteFoam Blast+ Eco |
| Upper | Engineered mesh | Engineered mesh |
| Retail Price | $200 | $140 |
Features Comparison:
Materials:
The Superblast uses a full-length FlyteFoam Blast+ midsole for responsive cushioning, while the Novablast 4 uses FlyteFoam Blast+ Eco made from recycled materials.
Both shoes have breathable engineered mesh uppers, though the Superblast’s upper provides a more secure fit. AHAR+ rubber on the outsole of the Superblast is designed for durability and grip, while the Novablast 4 uses a lighter AHAR-Lo outsole. The Novablast 4’s materials are focused on delivering an environmentally-friendly shoe without sacrificing performance.
Durability:
Testers found the Superblast to be highly durable, with the AHAR+ rubber outsole showing minimal wear after 150+ miles. The FlyteFoam Blast+ midsole also retained its bounce over time. In comparison, the Novablast 4’s AHAR-Lo outsole doesn’t provide quite as much durability, with some wear being visible after 100 miles.
However, the FlyteFoam Blast+ Eco midsole is just as durable as the Superblast’s standard Foam Blast+, maintaining its energetic cushioning for many miles. Overall, the Superblast seems to have the edge for long-term durability.
Fit:
The Superblast runs true to size for most runners, with an anatomical toe box and secure midfoot wrap from the engineered mesh upper. Its medium-volume fit works for many foot shapes.
The Novablast 4 has a roomier toe box than previous versions to accommodate wider feet. Its engineered mesh upper is softer and allows more flex, suiting runners who prefer a more forgiving upper.
Both shoes suit neutral runners without pronation issues. The Novablast 4 will fit a slightly wider range of foot shapes thanks to its more accommodating upper and extra room in the toe box. The Superblast has a more dialed-in fit through the midfoot.
Stability:
With its 10mm drop, FlyteFoam Blast+ midsole and neutral platform, the Superblast is designed for efficient forward movement without compromising support. Testers noted the Superblast provides a stable ride despite its bouncy cushioning.
The 8mm drop Novablast 4 is also a neutral shoe, but ASICS added a wider platform and discretely placed midsole sidewalls to provide mild stability without impeding transitions.
This makes the Novablast 4 a good option for neutral runners who occasionally need a bit of guidance late in long runs when form breaks down. Both deliver mile after mile of support, but the Novablast 4 has a slight advantage for stability thanks to its cleverly engineered platform.
Cushioning:
The full-length FlyteFoam Blast+ midsole of the Superblast provides exceptional softness underfoot without feeling too mushy or unstable. Testers were impressed with its energetic bounce and shock attenuation on both slow jogs and uptempo runs.
The Novablast 4 uses FlyteFoam Blast+ Eco, resulting in a slightly firmer ride than the standard Blast+ foam in the Superblast, but with the same responsive cushioning properties.
The Novablast 4 encourages smoother transitions from heel to toe thanks to its foam formula. Both deliver plush cushioning mile after mile, though the Superblast wins out for pure softness thanks to its standard FlyteFoam Blast+ compound.
Value:
At $200, the Superblast commands a premium price tag typical of a shoe packed with the latest performance technologies. Despite the price, the Superblast delivers excellent value through its durable outsole, responsive FlyteFoam Blast+ midsole, and supportive engineered mesh upper. It’s built for serious training miles day in and day out.
The Novablast 4, at $140, is much more budget-friendly while still offering a comfortable, cushioned ride in a lightweight package. For runners seeking high-performing features at an accessible price, the Novablast 4 is the clear value pick. Overall, it comes down to budget – the Superblast for top-level features or the Novablast 4 to save money without sacrificing cushioning and comfort.
Performance Comparision:
Walking:
The flexible sole and responsive cushioning of the Superblast provide a comfortable walking shoe, though some testers found the bouncy foam tiring after long periods on feet.
The Novablast 4 has a more stable feel for walking, with testers appreciating the light stability features that prevent rollover and support transitions. Both have breathable uppers that keep feet cool on walks.
For all-day wear, the Novablast 4 is the better pick for its mild stability, while the Superblast is better for short fitness walks where cushioning takes priority over support.
Running:
Testers found both the Superblast and Novablast 4 to be highly effective for daily running training, with the energetic foam and smooth transitions keeping feet feeling fresh mile after mile.
The Superblast excels at faster paces thanks to its softer Blast+ Foam compound that provides a snappy, propulsive toe-off. The Novablast 4 is equally adept at moderate paces, where runners can take advantage of the full ground contact time to harness the foam’s bounce.
The Novablast 4 might suit recovery runs a little better, as the slightly firmer Blast+ Eco foam provides good shock absorption when legs are feeling more fatigued. For race day and speedwork, the Superblast gets the win for its snappy cushioning.
Plantar Fasciitis:
The soft cushioning and supportive arch of the Superblast helps absorb shock that can aggravate plantar fasciitis. However, some found it exacerbated heel pain due to the 10mm drop.
The Novablast 4’s 8mm drop and firmer Blast+ Eco foam provide a more guided heel-to-toe transition that avoids overstretching the plantar fascia. Mild stability features also prevent the foot from rolling inward excessively. For plantar fasciitis sufferers, the Novablast 4 seems the safer choice.
Standing All Day:
The Novablast 4 is the preferred choice for all-day standing comfort. The roomy toe box allows toes to spread out while the firmer Blast+ Eco foam reduces fatigue. The external plastic heel clip also helps lock the heel in place.
While the Superblast’s soft cushioning feels good at first, testers reported soreness and instability after long periods on their feet compared to the Novablast 4. For workers who stand for hours, the Novablast 4 has better all-day support.
Final Verdict:
For runners seeking an ultra-cushioned, soft yet lively ride, the Asics Superblast delivers responsive propulsion ideal for faster paces thanks to its innovative FlyteFoam Blast+ midsole.
For a more affordable neutral trainer with mild stability, the Asics Novablast 4 provides a cushioned, flexible platform for daily miles. It also gets the nod for plantar fasciitis and all-day wear.
Choose the Superblast if you want luxurious cushioning for faster running, and the Novablast 4 if you need a daily workhorse with moderate support features to prevent injury. Both are excellent neutral shoes, but cater to different needs depending on your foot, running style, and priorities.