Quick Answer: ASICS Novablast 6 Review. The ASICS Novablast 6 is a tall, bouncy neutral daily trainer, and this version adds a pod of high-rebound FF Turbo foam under the forefoot for extra pop. It is a fun, versatile easy-day and long-run shoe with more uptempo life than before, and a grippier outsole fixes an old complaint. The trade-offs are a higher price and a little less heel bounce, which forefoot strikers will mind less. It fits true to size. Check latest price.
ASICS Novablast 6: More bounce, more range
The ASICS Novablast 6 is the latest version of ASICS’ fun, bouncy neutral trainer, and it is the biggest step for the line since the Novablast 5 introduced FF Blast Max. Most of the tall midsole is still FF Blast Max, but ASICS now adds a pod of higher-rebound FF Turbo foam beneath the forefoot, which lifts energy return where you push off.
The result is a livelier, more versatile daily trainer. It is still a comfortable easy-day and long-run shoe, but the extra forefoot pop gives it more life for steady and uptempo miles. A grippier outsole also fixes a long-standing complaint about earlier Novablast versions, though the update does come with a higher price.
Specs
| Category | Bouncy neutral daily trainer |
| Weight | ~8.8 oz / 249 g (men’s US 9); ~7.7 oz / 218 g (women’s US 8) |
| Stack height | ~41.5 mm heel / 33.5 mm forefoot |
| Drop | 8 mm |
| Midsole | FF Blast Max with an FF Turbo forefoot pod, no plate |
| Upper | Engineered mesh |
| Best for | Easy days, daily miles and long runs |
| Price | $155 USD at launch. Check current price |
Best for
Runners who want a fun, bouncy neutral trainer for easy and long runs, and forefoot strikers who will make the most of the new FF Turbo pod.
Pros
- Bouncy, fun ride with a livelier forefoot than before
- Versatile across easy, daily and long-run paces
- Tall, protective cushioning at a reasonable weight
- Grippier ASICSGRIP outsole fixes an old complaint
- Accommodating forefoot with a secure midfoot
Cons
- Price rose over the Novablast 5
- A little less heel bounce, which heel strikers will notice
- Tall stack can feel tippy for some at slow paces
- Still a neutral trainer, not a support shoe
What’s new in the ASICS Novablast 6
The biggest change in the Novablast 6 is under the front of the foot. ASICS still uses FF Blast Max foam through most of the midsole, but it adds a section of bouncier FF Turbo foam under the forefoot. In simple terms, that means the shoe feels more responsive when you push off, which can help make running feel a little smoother and more energetic.
ASICS also uses grippier ASICSGRIP rubber on the outsole, improving traction compared with earlier versions. For a first time Novablast buyer, the main things to know are that the Novablast 6 should feel livelier under the forefoot and more secure on the ground. The trade-offs are a slightly higher price and a little less bounce at the heel than the Novablast 5. To learn more about the cushioning, see our ASICS FF Blast foam guide.
Who is the ASICS Novablast 6 for?
The Novablast 6 is a strong choice if you want one comfortable, energetic shoe to handle most of your weekly running. It has enough cushioning for easy runs and longer efforts, but it does not feel dull or overly soft. The updated forefoot adds a more responsive feel when you push off, which helps the shoe work for steady runs, short pickups and strides as well as relaxed mileage.
Beginner runners may especially like it because it is versatile. You do not need a separate shoe for every type of run, and the Novablast 6 gives you enough cushioning for building mileage while still feeling lively as your pace improves. Forefoot and midfoot strikers should get the most from the added bounce up front, but heel strikers can still benefit from the shoe’s overall cushioning and smooth transition through each step.
It is best suited to neutral runners who want a soft, springy ride rather than a firm or highly structured shoe. If you are looking for a daily trainer that can grow with you as your running progresses, the Novablast 6 makes a lot of sense.
Who should avoid it
The Novablast 6 may not be the best choice if you are a heavy heel striker who prefers a lot of rebound under the back of the foot, since this version puts more emphasis on forefoot responsiveness and slightly reduces heel bounce compared with the Novablast 5. Runners who need added stability may also want a more supportive option, as the Novablast remains a neutral shoe with a relatively tall, lively platform.
It may also feel like too much shoe if you prefer a firmer, more grounded ride, especially at slower paces. And if you already own the Novablast 5 and are happy with it, the changes may not be significant enough to justify upgrading right away.
Fit and sizing
The Novablast 6 fits true to size, in line with previous versions, with an accommodating forefoot and a secure midfoot. Most runners can order their usual size. The roomy front end suits runners who like a little wiggle room on long runs.
Upper and step-in comfort
The engineered-mesh upper is comfortable and breathable, with a secure midfoot hold and a relaxed forefoot. Step-in comfort is good, and the fit strikes a nice balance between everyday comfort and enough lockdown for faster efforts.
Midsole and cushioning
The Novablast 6 uses two different foams to create its soft, energetic ride. FF Blast Max makes up most of the midsole and provides the generous cushioning and bounce the Novablast line is known for. ASICS then adds a pod of FF Turbo foam under the forefoot, giving the shoe extra responsiveness as you push off.
Independent lab testing shows that this forefoot section delivers strong energy return, while the heel feels a little more controlled than in the previous version. The result is a ride that feels soft, springy and lively without becoming overly firm. Runners who enjoy a cushioned shoe with a noticeable sense of bounce should find the Novablast 6 especially appealing.
Ride and running performance
On the road, the Novablast 6 feels lively without being difficult to manage. The cushioning has plenty of bounce for easy and everyday runs, but the shoe is responsive enough to handle faster efforts when you want to pick up the pace. That makes it a useful option for runners who want one shoe to cover most of their weekly mileage.
The added FF Turbo foam under the forefoot gives toe-off more energy, so the shoe feels especially good when you start moving a little quicker. Heel strikers may notice slightly less rebound on landing than in the Novablast 5, but the overall ride remains smooth, cushioned and energetic. For beginner and intermediate runners, it strikes a good balance between comfort for slower miles and enough responsiveness to make faster running feel more enjoyable.
Stability and support
This is a neutral shoe with no posting or guidance, and its tall, soft platform can feel a little tippy for some runners at slow paces. It will not correct a gait, so runners who need real support should choose a stability model. A secure midfoot helps keep the foot centered, but this is a bouncy trainer first and foremost.
Outsole, grip and durability
The move to ASICSGRIP rubber at the forefoot is a genuine improvement, addressing the area where earlier Novablast outsoles drew criticism. Grip on dry and damp roads is now dependable. Plan on the usual 300 to 500 miles of useful life as a broad guideline rather than a guaranteed figure.
Is the ASICS Novablast 6 good for walking?
Yes, for cushioned walking and travel the Novablast 6 is comfortable, thanks to its tall, soft foam and light weight. It is forgiving for long walks and time on hard floors, and the improved grip helps on smooth surfaces. The main caveat is the tall, bouncy platform, which is less steady on uneven ground than a lower, firmer walking shoe, so those who want maximum stability may prefer something flatter.
ASICS Novablast 6 vs the Novablast 5
Feature | Novablast 6 | Novablast 5 |
Forefoot | FF Turbo pod, bouncier toe-off | FF Blast Max only |
Outsole | Grippier ASICSGRIP | Less grippy |
Heel feel | A little less bounce | Bouncier heel |
Price | Higher | Lower |
ASICS Novablast 6 Alternatives
The Novablast 6 is the better choice if you want a soft, bouncy daily trainer with a livelier forefoot and improved grip. The new FF Turbo Squared pod adds more energy as you push off, while ASICSGRIP rubber improves traction compared with the previous version.
The ASICS Novablast 5 (check price | read review) remains worth considering if you find it at a good discount. It has the same advertised 8 mm drop and delivers a softer, comfortable ride, but the Novablast 6 has the advantage in forefoot responsiveness and grip.
For runners who want a more performance-oriented ASICS shoe, the ASICS Superblast 2 (check price | read review) offers more underfoot protection, stronger energy return and a firmer, more rolling ride that suits faster workouts and long runs.
The Nike Pegasus 42 (check price | read review) is another alternative if you prefer a more traditional daily trainer with less emphasis on a tall, highly bouncy platform. The Novablast 6 offers more cushioning and bounce, while the Pegasus takes a more conventional approach to everyday mileage.
Price and value
The Novablast 6 costs more than the version it replaces, which is the main thing to weigh. In return you get a livelier forefoot and a better outsole, so the value is still good for a fun, versatile daily trainer. Runners happy with the Novablast 5 can wait for a deal, while new buyers get a genuinely improved shoe. For current pricing, use the button below.
Final verdict
Best for: runners who want a fun, bouncy neutral trainer for easy and long runs, especially forefoot strikers who will use the new FF Turbo pod.
Avoid if: you are a heavy heel striker who wants maximum heel bounce, you need stability, or you dislike a tall, soft platform.
Verdict: the ASICS Novablast 6 is a livelier, more versatile version of a fan favorite, with a bouncier forefoot and better grip. The price is up and the heel is a touch calmer, but it is still one of the most fun daily trainers around. It fits true to size.
Frequently asked questions
It adds a pod of high-rebound FF Turbo foam under the forefoot for more pop, and moves to grippier ASICSGRIP rubber, while keeping FF Blast Max through most of the midsole.
Yes. Its cushioned, forgiving ride and versatility make it a friendly everyday trainer, though its tall platform feels bouncier than a firmer, lower shoe.
Yes. It fits true to size with an accommodating forefoot, so most runners can order their usual size.
No. It is a neutral trainer with no support features, so runners who need stability should choose a guidance or stability model instead.
Yes. Its soft, tall cushioning makes it comfortable for walking and travel, with the caveat that the bouncy platform is less steady on uneven ground.
