The ASICS Novablast 4 is a $139.95 cushioned daily trainer that does one thing remarkably well: it makes running feel easier on your legs. Built on FF Blast+ Eco foam with a stack height of 41.5mm (heel) / 33.5mm (forefoot) and an 8mm drop, it handles easy days, long training runs, and moderate-pace efforts without asking much in return. If you’re a recreational runner who logs consistent mileage and wants one versatile shoe, this is one of the better options in the $140 range.
The Novablast 4 added a few millimeters of foam and redesigned its upper from the Novablast 3 — the result is a bouncier, slightly heavier shoe (9.1 oz men’s / 7.9 oz women’s) with better breathability and a tongue that finally stays in place. RunRepeat’s lab testing measured 58.3% energy return, which lands around average for daily trainers in this category — enough to keep your legs moving, not enough to confuse this with a plated race shoe.
As of March 2026, the Novablast 4 retails for $139.95 at Running Warehouse and Fleet Feet. Amazon listings show some colorways available from $112.43 — a strong value given what the shoe delivers. Check current pricing on Amazon before buying, as prices shift by colorway.
Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Run in the Novablast 4
✅ Best For
- Runners logging 20–50 miles per week who want one reliable daily trainer
- Beginners building toward a half or full marathon
- Anyone who prefers a soft, forgiving ride over a firm, fast feel
- Runners whose feet swell on long efforts — the roomy forefoot accommodates this well
- Budget-conscious buyers: at $140 (or less on sale), the Novablast 4 punches above its price
❌ Skip If
- You want a race-day shoe — this isn’t a plated trainer
- You prefer a firm, minimal ride; the stack height is substantial
- You run in heat regularly — the upper traps warmth in summer
- You run trails — the AHAR-Lo outsole is built for pavement, not dirt
- You’re chasing a PR at speed — look at the ASICS Metaspeed Sky or Saucony Endorphin Pro for race day
Quick Specs at a Glance
| Spec | Men’s | Women’s |
|---|---|---|
| Price (MSRP) | $139.95 | $139.95 |
| Weight | 9.1 oz / 258g (US 9) | 7.9 oz / 224g (US 8) |
| Stack Height (heel/forefoot) | 41.5mm / 33.5mm | 40.5mm / 32.5mm |
| Drop | 8mm | 8mm |
| Midsole | FF Blast+ Eco | FF Blast+ Eco |
| Outsole | AHAR-Lo rubber | AHAR-Lo rubber |
| Upper | Engineered woven mesh | Engineered woven mesh |
Official specs per ASICS product data, corroborated by Doctors of Running and Believe in the Run.
What the FF Blast+ Eco Foam Actually Delivers
The Novablast 4’s midsole is the heart of the shoe — and FF Blast+ Eco is what sets it apart from older ASICS foam. If you’ve run in the Novablast 3 and remember that slightly firm-yet-bouncy feel, the 4 pushes that balance further toward soft without losing the springiness. The trampoline-shaped foam under the forefoot channels toe-off energy more efficiently than a flat EVA stack would.
Energy Return and Cushioning: The Lab Numbers
RunRepeat’s physical lab testing (they literally cut the shoe in half and test the foam with standardized rigs) found the Novablast 4 delivers 58.3% energy return — around the average for neutral daily trainers in this range. Shock absorption came in at 134 SA at the heel and 124 SA at the forefoot, indicating reliable impact protection across both landing zones. According to RunRepeat’s review, those numbers make it “a fantastic all-rounder” in its category.
What the numbers don’t capture: the foam feels more alive than the figures suggest. At easy paces, it absorbs road shock quietly. Push the pace slightly and you feel a noticeable return that encourages turnover.
The Sustainability Angle
The “Eco” in FF Blast+ Eco isn’t just marketing shorthand. According to ASICS, the foam is made from approximately 20% bio-based content derived from renewable sources, which reduces the carbon footprint versus standard FF Blast+ foam. Believe in the Run and Doctors of Running both confirmed this specification in their reviews. In practice, you won’t notice any performance difference — the sustainability benefit is on ASICS’s production side, not yours.
How the Novablast 4 Rides Across Different Runs
Most daily trainers claim versatility. The Novablast 4 actually earns it — though with a ceiling on the faster end.
Easy and Recovery Runs
This is where the Novablast 4 shines. The 41.5mm heel stack absorbs road shock effectively on hard pavement, making it forgiving on tired legs after hard efforts. Runners rebuilding from injury or logging their first high-mileage weeks will find the cushion generous without being mushy. The heel-to-toe rocker geometry keeps the ride feeling smooth rather than like you’re sinking into a mattress.
Long Runs (10+ Miles)
A solid choice for long training blocks, including marathon prep. The foam holds its shape through extended efforts — no notable dead-leg feeling at mile 16 reported by multiple testers. Amanda Brooks, a certified running coach at Run to the Finish, reviewed the Novablast 4 as a “max cushion daily trainer” well-suited for long runs from 5K to marathon distance.
Moderate-Pace and Tempo Runs
Manageable at faster paces, but you’ll feel the weight. At 9.1 oz, the Novablast 4 isn’t slow — but if you’re consistently running sub-7:30 pace, a lighter plated trainer will serve you better for quality sessions. Think of the Novablast 4 as your workhorse for the 80% of training that isn’t race-specific intensity.
Wet Weather and Traction
The AHAR-Lo rubber outsole holds up well on dry pavement. In wet conditions, Laura Fountain of Women’s Running UK tested the Novablast 4 over 10 miles in rain and reported dependable grip throughout — a useful data point for runners in wetter climates. The standard cautions apply: painted road lines, metal grates, and manhole covers remain slippery in any shoe. For dedicated trail running, the tread pattern isn’t designed for off-road terrain — look at the ASICS Gel Trabuco series instead.
Upper Comfort and Fit: What to Expect
The Engineered Woven Mesh
The Novablast 4’s upper is a noticeable upgrade from the Novablast 3. The engineered woven mesh is flexible and breathable under normal running conditions, with no major pressure points reported across multiple testers. The one consistent caveat: summer heat. The upper traps warmth in high temperatures, and runners who run hot will feel it on longer efforts above 70°F. In cooler weather — fall, winter, spring — this isn’t a concern.
The redesigned winged tongue is a practical improvement. It stays centered through the run without slipping to one side, which was a minor irritant on the previous model.
Sizing and Fit Notes
The consensus across Fleet Feet, Gearist, Run to the Finish, and Women’s Running UK: the Novablast 4 fits true to size. The forefoot is roomy — a plus for runners whose feet splay on long runs or who have wider feet.
- Narrow-footed runners: may find a half-size down creates a snugger feel
- Wide feet or bunions: standard sizing typically works without needing a wide variant
- Swelling on long runs: the roomy forefoot gives you room to expand without going up a size
How the Novablast 4 Stacks Up Against the Competition
| Shoe | Price | Weight (M) | Stack H/F | Drop | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ASICS Novablast 4 | $139.95 | 9.1 oz | 41.5/33.5mm | 8mm | Cushioned daily trainer, long runs |
| ASICS Novablast 3 | ~$100–120 (discounted) | 8.8 oz | ~39/31mm | 8mm | Budget daily trainer |
| ASICS Gel Nimbus 26 | $160 | 10.2 oz | 43/33mm | 10mm | Max-cushion long runs, higher drop |
| Saucony Endorphin Speed 3 | $185 | 8.6 oz | 39/33mm | 8mm | Tempo/plated speed work |
| Brooks Hyperion Max | $200 | 9.3 oz | 38/32mm | 6mm | Speed + cushion combo |
Novablast 4 vs. Novablast 3
The Novablast 3 is still a capable shoe — and if you find it on clearance for $100 or less, it’s excellent value. But the 4 is a genuine upgrade: more foam, better upper breathability, an improved tongue, and a livelier forefoot ride. The tradeoff is a small weight increase (roughly 0.3 oz). For most runners, the 4 is worth the extra $20–30 over a clearance Novablast 3.
Novablast 4 vs. Gel Nimbus 26
The Nimbus 26 has more stack height (43mm heel) and a higher drop (10mm), making it the better pick for runners who specifically want maximum cushion and a more structured, stable platform. It’s also heavier and $20 more expensive. The Novablast 4 is bouncier and feels more energetic underfoot — the Nimbus leans more toward “plush protection” than “lively ride.”
The Bottom Line on the ASICS Novablast 4
Jane McGuire, fitness editor at Tom’s Guide, ran over 100 miles in the Novablast 4 and still calls it her favorite ASICS shoe even after the Novablast 5 launched — noting that buyers are better off saving money on the 4 rather than paying full price for the 5. That kind of endorsement from someone whose job is testing running footwear carries real weight.
The Novablast 4 won’t win any awards for being the lightest, fastest, or most advanced shoe in the $140 bracket. But it does what everyday trainers are actually supposed to do: show up reliably, go mile after mile, and leave your legs feeling decent enough to go again tomorrow. That’s not a small thing.
If you want a padded, forgiving, versatile road shoe at a fair price — and you’re not training for Olympic trials — the Novablast 4 is a safe, well-earned pick.
Frequently Asked Questions — ASICS Novablast 4
Is the ASICS Novablast 4 good for marathon training?
Yes. The Novablast 4 handles long training runs well — multiple testers logged 10+ mile sessions without foot fatigue complaints. It’s not a race-day shoe (no carbon plate), but for easy long runs and moderate training efforts, it’s a strong choice. Pair it with a plated shoe on race day if you’re targeting a time goal.
How does the Novablast 4 compare to the Novablast 3?
The 4 adds approximately 2mm of stack height, redesigns the upper for better breathability, and adds a winged tongue that stays in place better. The ride is slightly bouncier. Weight increased by roughly 0.3 oz. If you loved the 3 and can find it on clearance, that’s still a good shoe — but the 4 is the better version across the board.
Is the Novablast 4 true to size?
Yes. Across Fleet Feet, Gearist, Run to the Finish, and Women’s Running UK — all reviewers confirmed true-to-size fit. The forefoot runs roomy, which benefits wider-footed runners but may feel loose on narrow feet. If you have narrow feet, consider trying a half-size down.
Is the Novablast 4 good for wide feet?
The standard sizing accommodates wider feet and feet that swell on long runs without needing a wide variant. Multiple reviewers specifically noted the roomy forefoot as a positive for runners with broader feet or bunions.
Can beginners use the ASICS Novablast 4?
Absolutely. The forgiving cushion, true-to-size fit, and smooth heel-to-toe transition make the Novablast 4 a natural fit for runners just starting out or building mileage for a first race. The 8mm drop is accessible — not extreme in either direction.
Is the ASICS Novablast 4 worth $140?
For most recreational runners, yes. The combination of FF Blast+ Eco cushioning, AHAR-Lo outsole durability, and versatile ride character is competitive at $140. Tom’s Guide recommends buying the 4 over the newer Novablast 5 specifically because of the value proposition. And with select colorways available on Amazon below MSRP, you can often do better than $139.95.
How does the Novablast 4 compare to the Gel Nimbus 26?
The Gel Nimbus 26 is heavier (10.2 oz), more expensive ($160), and has a higher stack (43mm) and drop (10mm). It’s the better pick if you specifically want maximum cushion and a structured, stable feel. The Novablast 4 is lighter, bouncier, and more energetic — better for runners who want a lively daily trainer rather than a pure-cushion protection shoe.
Does the Novablast 4 have good traction in wet weather?
The AHAR-Lo outsole performs reliably on wet pavement. Women’s Running UK tested the shoe over 10 miles in rain with no traction issues. Standard wet-surface hazards apply (painted lines, metal grates) — those are slippery in any shoe. For trail running or technical terrain, the Novablast 4 isn’t the right tool.
Check Current Prices
The Novablast 4 is available at multiple US retailers. Prices vary by colorway and change frequently — especially on Amazon, where select versions are available below MSRP.
- ASICS Novablast 4 on Amazon — check for current deals and colorway availability
- Running Warehouse — specialty running retailer with free returns
- Fleet Feet — in-store fitting available if you’re unsure of sizing
