Shoes Hunt: Discovering the Differences Between the Asics Novablast 4 and Asics Novablast 3

Asics Novablast was a real standout in the past year (2023) in the 4,000–5,000 baht running shoe category, consistently ranking among Runnercart's top sellers almost every month. Its approachable character makes it feel comfortable even for first-time wearers, requiring little to no break-in time. It is available in both standard and wide fits, featuring soft, responsive foam and a perfectly angled drop that helps propel you forward. All of this makes the Asics Novablast versatile enough for any pace—whether you run slowly or quickly. Because its characteristics appeal to most people, those who try it often choose this model. (Oh, and it is also quite lightweight.)

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Now, in 2024, Asics has released its latest offering early in the year: the Asics Novablast 4. While the Novablast 4 introduces minor changes, its overall character and feel are distinctly different from the Novablast 3.

The Asics Novablast 4 features three main changes:
- FF Blast Plus ECO (the same technology, but more eco-friendly)
- Increased stack height
- Engineered Woven Upper

First, I want to share my initial impressions of the Asics Novablast 4 and how it feels.
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After unboxing it, I have to admit that the Asics Novablast 4 definitely feels different from before, as it looks considerably thicker. The first thing I liked when putting it on was the heel collar, which makes it easier to slip on. The Novablast 3 didn't have one, making it a bit tricky to get on. Once my foot was in, the fabric felt soft and comfortable, offering more room, and the forefoot also felt slightly wider. Wide-footed runners will likely love this. Another interesting feature is the wider base, which makes the shoe more stable (ideal for city running in Thailand, where the pavement is often uneven). The most striking change is the foam, which feels noticeably softer. (However, I do wonder if this added softness comes at the expense of responsiveness. I'll need to give it a proper run to find out.) The outsole feels slightly different, but nothing particularly new; it remains similar to the Novablast 3.
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Overall, after trying the Asics Novablast 4, I feel the changes are relatively minor. The technology is still similar (with the addition of eco-friendly recycled materials), but the feel is quite different from the Novablast 3. The shoe is much softer than before. Those who love the foam in the Novablast 3 should try this model first, as it is considerably softer. If you don't like a very soft feel, you might find it tiring, but it does open up new possibilities for those who love soft shoes and want a running shoe that can help them pick up speed. I think it will be more fun to run in, and it is certainly more than just a change from 3 to 4.

Now for the Shoes Hunt: Discovering the Differences Between the Asics Novablast 4 and Asics Novablast 3

Note: The green pair is the Asics Novablast 4 / the blue pair is the Asics Novablast 3

1. Upper Fabric: The Asics Novablast 4 uses an engineered woven upper, which feels smoother and less abrasive than the Novablast 3's Jacquard Mesh. The latter feels slightly stiffer, but a closer look suggests that the Jacquard Mesh may offer slightly better breathability. The woven upper of the Novablast 4 provides a snug, smooth fit, while the Novablast 3's Jacquard Mesh excels at breathability.
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P.S. Personally, I prefer the Novablast 4; it fits my foot well and offers plenty of room.

2. Thickness: It is thicker and softer, marking a major change from the Novablast 3.
- Novablast 3: 31 mm heel / 23 mm forefoot
- Novablast 4: 41.5 mm heel / 33.5 mm forefoot
With a difference of about 10 mm and an additional 10 grams, the Novablast 4 is instantly softer and feels very different from the previous model. However, I do worry that this added thickness and softness might diminish the responsiveness it once had. (After trying it for the first time, I didn't feel much responsiveness—it felt much softer, with less noticeable energy return than the Novablast 3.) If you want a soft, comfortable shoe for everyday wear, I think it is a better choice than the Novablast 3.

3. More Stable and Wider: The Asics Novablast 4 features a wider base, making it feel more stable and secure underfoot. Personally, I think this is a great improvement, as the Novablast 3 could easily tip on uneven ground due to its unusually high drop and narrow midfoot. The wider base also creates more room for the upper to stretch, making the forefoot of the Asics Novablast 4 feel slightly wider than before. Combined with the more accommodating upper, it feels considerably more comfortable than the Novablast 3.

4. Minor Details I Like: The padded tongue is thicker than on the previous model. (Personally, I prefer a soft, padded tongue to a thin one, as a thin tongue can hurt the top of my foot when the laces are tightened.) This is just my personal preference, haha. Another point is the heel collar, which makes the shoe easier to slip on than the previous model, which lacked one.
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Final Thoughts
- The foam and outsole patterns are incredibly cool. They look much sleeker than the previous model, with sharp, bold designs.
- The laces are exceptionally long, appealing to those who like to lock their ankles. But for me, they are too long!!!

Conclusion
The Asics Novablast 4 is an excellent all-purpose running shoe for beginners, and its affordable price won't break the bank. It is definitely worth trying to start off 2024. Those who have already used the Novablast 3 should try this model first, as its character is definitely different. That way, you can make the right decision. To put it simply, it is much softer. If you are worried about sinking in, you might want to skip it and buy the Novablast 3 instead, as the current price is excellent—you'll even have 3,500 baht left over.
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Review by: Admin Chin