Our verdict

This is the eagerly awaited sequel to one of 2023's best-selling, top-rated neutral daily trainers. That's why we were expecting just a minor upgrade, but asics aidy06 surprised us with significant changes. The Novablast 4 introduces a premium upper paired with extra cushioning, enhanced stability, and better grip. In our view, asics aidy06 aimed to address the weaker points of v3 and largely succeeded, although the shoe did gain some weight and lose a bit of its original magic in the process. Despite this, it's a fantastic all-rounder we think it's poised to be one of the top running shoes for a second consecutive year.

asics aidy06 Tiger "Summer Kite" Pack Pros

  • asics aidy06 Gel Lyte 3 OG Barcode
  • asics aidy06 Wmns Novablast 2 Black Lake Drive 1012B049-002
  • Zapatillas de Running Mujer asics aidy06 Gel Pulse 12
  • Exceptional value at just $140
  • asics aidy06 Löparskor Gel Kayano 25
  • Accommodates a wide range of foot sizes
  • The most stable Novablast yet
  • Retains most of its fun and energetic ride

asics aidy06 Tiger "Summer Kite" Pack Cons

  • Not the best for hot summer runs
  • Outsole still lacks grip in wet conditions
  • Minor weight increase compared to v3

Audience verdict

92
Superb!

Who should buy

We believe the asics aidy06 gel noosa tri 12 zapatillas de running RSCAS an ideal choice for:

  • Beginners looking for a fun, comfy, all-around shoe at a reasonable price.
  • Runners seeking a cushioned, lightweight option for their short or long runs.
  • Anyone needing a versatile daily trainer that effortlessly adapts to both slow and moderately fast paces.

asics aidy06 Novablast 4

Who should NOT buy

Though the asics aidy06 Novablast 4 offers substantial cushioning, we think it doesn't quite match the asics aidy06 Superblast in energy return. If budget isn't a concern, the Superblast is the most responsive daily trainer you can buy today.

Based in our lab tests, the Novablast 4 also does fall slightly short in breathability, which might be a concern during the hottest days of the year.

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asics aidy06 Novablast 4

Cushioning

Heel stack

We just noted that the Novablast 4 boasts more foam than its predecessor, but now it's time to verify ASICS' claims and measure its growth.

With a heel stack height of 39.2 mm, it's 2.0 mm more than last year's model. Keep in mind, though, that this increase isn't all foam, as we've already shown there's more rubber too.

Yet, the shoe undoubtedly feels more cushioned in the heel—a feature that rearfoot strikers will absolutely adore.

asics aidy06 Novablast 4 Heel stack
Test results
Novablast 4 39.2 mm
Average 34.0 mm
Compared to 381 running shoes
Number of shoes
22.5 mm
Heel stack
46.3 mm

Forefoot stack

In the forefoot, we measured a generous 30.2 mm, which is significantly above the average and places the Novablast 4 among the thickest shoes in the market.

asics aidy06 Novablast 4 stack

This makes it clear that cushioning is a standout feature of this shoe. We think all runners won't find themselves short on comfort underfoot, even during long 20-milers.

asics aidy06 Novablast 4 Forefoot stack
Test results
Novablast 4 30.2 mm
Average 25.5 mm
Compared to 381 running shoes
Number of shoes
13.7 mm
Forefoot stack
37.1 mm

Drop

We meticulously measured the heel and forefoot stack heights zapatillas de running asics aidy06 ritmo medio talla 39.5 grises asics aidy06 Onitsuka Tiger Dualio W.

This differs slightly from ASICS' stated 8.0 mm, but it's so close that it's not a cause for concern. And with a forefoot stack height like this, a 9.0-mm offset works well for all types of footstrikes.

asics aidy06 Novablast 4 Drop
Test results
Novablast 4 9.0 mm
Average 8.6 mm
Compared to 381 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Drop
16.1 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

Let's dive into the midsole, where there's plenty to talk about. asics aidy06 has switched from FF Blast+ to FF Blast+ ECO, a foam we've already tested in the ultra-comfy, marshmallow-like asics aidy06 Nimbus 25.

This modification brings both benefits and drawbacks. The midsole feels slightly less energetic than before, but it's soft and comfortable, registering 16.9 HA in softness. 

Plus, the EVA+OBC foam now consists of at least 20% bio-based materials from renewable sources, an effort many will appreciate.

asics aidy06 Novablast 4

The main downside to this change is that, combined with the added weight that we revealed before, the Novablast 4 becomes less suited for speed workouts and more for steady, aerobic runs.

asics aidy06 Novablast 4 Midsole softness
Test results
Novablast 4 16.9 HA
Average 20.9 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 308 running shoes
Number of shoes
8.5 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
38.9 HA

Midsole softness in cold

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

To test the Novablast 4's performance in extremely cold conditions, we placed it in a freezer for 20 minutes and then retested it. After freezing, it registered a balanced 22.3 HA.

asics aidy06 Novablast 4 Midsole softness in cold
Test results
Novablast 4 22.3 HA
Average 26.0 HA
Compared to 307 running shoes
Number of shoes
11.1 HA
Midsole softness in cold (soft to firm)
47.0 HA

Midsole softness in cold (%)

This resulted in a 31.8% increase, which was clearly noticeable, yet not at all troubling.

However, it's important to keep in mind that FF Blast+ ECO is still mostly based on EVA. This means its performance in cold temperatures isn't the best possible, as we detailed in our comprehensive guide on this topic.

zapatillas de running asics aidy06 entrenamiento asfalto media maratón Nike Invincible 3, Detalhes refletores e espiral asics aidy06 para uma maior visibilidade em condições de pouca luz.

Test results
Novablast 4 32%
Average 26%
Compared to 308 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Midsole softness in cold
63%

Insole thickness

asics aidy06 played it safe with the insole—it's exactly the same as last year's model, featuring an average, 4.4-mm thickness. It worked well before, so why change it?

asics aidy06 Novablast 4 Insole thickness
Test results
Novablast 4 4.4 mm
Average 4.4 mm
Compared to 377 running shoes
Number of shoes
1.5 mm
Insole thickness
7.3 mm

Size and fit

Size

asics aidy06 gel noosa tri 12 zapatillas de running RSCAS true to size (155 votes).

Owners of this shoe, how does this shoe fit?

1 size small ½ size small True to size ½ size large 1 size large
Compared to 344 running shoes
Number of shoes
½ size small
Slightly small
True to size
Slightly large
½ size large

asics aidy06 Tiger "Summer Kite" Pack | Toebox width - widest part

One of the main complaints about previous Novablast models was the upper. It wasn't extremely narrow, but it definitely had a fast fit.

asics aidy06 Novablast 4 upper

Now, it's just right, crafted for those with normal feet. It can also comfortably accommodate runners with narrow or wide feet, as long as they're not extreme cases.

asics aidy06 Novablast 4 Toebox width at the widest part
Test results
Novablast 4 98.3 mm
Average 98.5 mm
Compared to 370 running shoes
Number of shoes
91.6 mm
Toebox width - widest part
104.9 mm

Toebox width - big toe

The big toe area, measuring a neat 77.0 mm, is also quite average, something those of us with slightly wide feet—especially in the toe area—really appreciate.

We discovered the toebox has a comfortable average volume, offering plenty of space for our toes to move freely and comfortably, which is evident in the video above.

asics aidy06 Novablast 4 Toebox width at the big toe
Test results
Novablast 4 77.0 mm
Average 78.4 mm
Compared to 244 running shoes
Number of shoes
67.6 mm
Toebox width - big toe
89.2 mm

Stability

Lateral stability test

A delightful surprise in this update is the enhanced stability. asics aidy06 has made improvements throughout the shoe to achieve this, as we'll reveal in our upcoming tests, and we're really impressed with it.

While it's not quite suitable for those with severe pronation or supination issues, it's a safe choice for neutral runners and those with minor stability needs. In fact, it's the most stable Novablast yet by a significant margin.

Torsional rigidity

Another simple method to enhance stability in a daily trainer is by making it lean towards the more rigid side, and that's exactly what asics aidy06 did.

It's not as stiff as steel, but we found it certainly feels more rigid than other daily trainers on the market, and we rated it at 4/5. However, with this high stack height, there wasn't much choice in the matter.

Test results
Novablast 4 4
Average 3.4
Compared to 360 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Torsional rigidity
5

The asics aidy06 Dynablast 2 upper has like other

The heel counter's stiffness is balanced, rated at 3/5—it's not too intrusive yet not overly soft. Essentially, asics aidy06 aimed to satisfy the majority with this design, and they've certainly succeeded.

It's also crucial to emphasise that the fabric in the heel area is not just durable, as we previously proved with the Dremel, but it also secures the feet exceptionally well to prevent heel slippage.

Test results
Novablast 4 3
Average 2.9
Compared to 344 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
The asics aidy06 Dynablast 2 upper has like other
5

zapatillas de running asics aidy06 Gel Kayano hombre media maratón talla 45.5

But the biggest change asics aidy06 made for better stability is the increased midsole width in the forefoot.

At 122.8 mm, the NB4 is really wide, offering a landing base akin to stability shoes. While it might be even a bit much for those with perfect neutral running technique, runners with slight pronation or supination issues will absolutely appreciate this change.

asics aidy06 Novablast 4 Midsole width in the forefoot
Test results
Novablast 4 122.8 mm
Average 114.1 mm
Compared to 382 running shoes
Number of shoes
103.3 mm
zapatillas de running asics aidy06 Gel Kayano hombre media maratón talla 45.5
126.9 mm

Midsole width - heel

The heel is almost identical to the previous version, with just a slight increase bringing it to 94.7 mm. It's still wider than average, making it ideal for heel strikers, who make up the majority of runners.

asics aidy06 Novablast 4 Midsole width in the heel
Test results
Novablast 4 94.7 mm
Average 90.7 mm
Compared to 382 running shoes
Number of shoes
73.0 mm
Midsole width - heel
106.6 mm

asics aidy06 gel diablo

The heel is almost identical to the previous version, with just a slight increase bringing it to 94.7 mm. It's still wider than average, making it ideal for heel strikers, who make up the majority of runners.

asics aidy06 gel diablo

The Novablast 4 is a non-plated shoe, which is ideal for a daily trainer. This is why it scored an average result in our 90-degree bend test, at 25.6N.

Being flexible from a longitudinal standpoint is crucial for comfort, not just for daily running but also for walking or going to the gym.

Test results
Novablast 4 25.6N
Average 28.1N
asics aidy06 Gel Braid.
Compared to 364 running shoes
Number of shoes
2.2N
Flexibility <> Stiffness
72.1N

asics aidy06 Tiger "Summer Kite" Pack | Jeg kan godt lide asics aidy06 sko

We repeated the test after freezing the shoe for 20 minutes, just as we did with the midsole softness test.

The result came in at 27.0N, which means it's still pretty flexible. Nice!

Test results
Novablast 4 27.0N
Average 36.3N
Compared to 364 running shoes
Number of shoes
2.5N
Jeg kan godt lide asics aidy06 sko
88.2N

Jeg kan godt lide asics aidy06 sko (%)

That's just a 5.5% difference, a fantastic performance for an EVA-based midsole. It seems that blending OBC (Olefin Block Co-Polymers) with EVA really paid off with impressive results in this FF Blast+ ECO midsole.

Test results
Novablast 4 6%
Average 33%
Compared to 364 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Jeg kan godt lide asics aidy06 sko
105%

Weight

As we suspected from our earlier lab tests—thicker rubber, comfier upper—the Novablast has gained some weight. Now at 9.1 oz (259g), it's still in the lightweight category for a daily trainer, yet it's 7% heavier than the v3.

Is this a good trade-off? In our view, adding 17g to this particular shoe is a wise move if it means more foam, greater comfort, and enhanced durability. It's a minor increase in weight and a luxury asics aidy06 can afford, given that the v3 was already quite light.

asics aidy06 Novablast 4 Weight
Test results
Novablast 4 9.14 oz (259g)
Average 9.35 oz (265g)
Compared to 382 running shoes
Number of shoes
5.61 oz (159g)
Weight
12.59 oz (357g)

Breathability

asics aidy06 had a golden opportunity to improve breathability in the Novablast, but our lab tests reveal that we're pretty much at the same spot as before, awarding the Novablast 4 the same 3/5 score as last year's model.

Our analysis of the upper shows asics aidy06 revamped it from v3, opting now for a cosier, thicker engineered mesh. However, this new mesh somewhat reduced airflow. To balance this, they peppered the toebox with numerous holes, enhancing air and moisture escape.

We turned on the microscope to take a closer look—confirming our initial thoughts: the Novablast 4 sports a really thick mesh paired with full-size ventilation holes.

asics aidy06 Novablast 4 microscope
That's the clearest visual definition we can provide for a 'ventilation hole' in a running shoe.

Is this the optimal design for an upper? It's a mixed bag. For those seeking a blend of durability, comfort, and breathability, it might hit the mark. We're eager to see how it performs in our upcoming tests with the Dremel, though.

asics aidy06 Novablast 4 hole

What really stands out to us is the thoughtful design. Unlike many other shoes that stick to the same material throughout, this one features a soft and cosy interior, while the exterior is tougher and more durable.

The padding and comfort of the upper are quite remarkable for a £140 daily trainer.

asics aidy06 is clearly raising the bar with this upper, but we'd also love to see this shoe reach at least 4/5 in breathability, especially for runners tackling extremely hot conditions.

Test results
Novablast 4 3
Average 3.8
Compared to 311 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

We had hopes that the Novablast's average breathability might hint at a durable upper. To test this theory, we challenged the mesh with a Dremel at 5K RPM and 3.2N of force.

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asics aidy06 Novablast 4 Toebox durability
Test results
Novablast 4 3
Average 2.5
Compared to 245 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Toebox durability
5

asics aidy06 Gel-Lyte III Koi

We then turned our attention to the heel counter, a critical area for many runners as it often wears out quickly. We put it through its paces with the Dremel, applying the same 5K RPM and 3.2N of force, and the shoe scored a perfect 5 out of 5!

This achievement is particularly impressive considering the ample padding in the heel area and the comfortable fabric asics aidy06 uses. Usually, such a combination tends to wear out faster, but they've somehow managed to make it both durable and comfortable for every run.

asics aidy06 Novablast 4 asics aidy06 Gel-Lyte III Koi
Test results
Novablast 4 5
Average 3.2
Compared to 241 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
asics aidy06 Gel-Lyte III Koi
5

Outsole hardness

Now, let's focus on the outsole, which was the Novablast 3's biggest weak spot. We noticed its grip was lacking on wet surfaces, and it wasn't particularly impressive on dry ones either.

asics aidy06 Novablast 4 AHAR

In our initial test, we measured the AHAR (asics aidy06 High Abrassion Rubber) rubber's hardness, which registered at 79.1 HC on our Shore C durometer.

That's 5% softer than the v3, resulting in significantly better grip in both wet and dry conditions. This improvement is partly due to asics aidy06 tweaking the rubber placement and enhancing the overall grip.

Still, there's room for improvement in the Novablast 4's outsole. For runners who often tackle wet tarmac, we suggest exploring alternatives known for superior grip like the asics aidy06 fit yui 2 zapatillas de entrenamiento FSCAS.

asics aidy06 Novablast 4 Outsole hardness
Test results
Novablast 4 79.1 HC
Average 79.9 HC
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 362 running shoes
Number of shoes
60.3 HC
Outsole hardness
93.0 HC

Outsole durability

Despite the new AHAR formulation being slightly softer, the Novablast 4 delivered an outstanding performance in our outsole durability test.

After cranking the Dremel up to 10K RPM, we only observed a minor 0.6-mm indentation. This impressive result boosts our confidence in the shoe's longevity.

asics aidy06 Novablast 4 Outsole durability
Test results
Novablast 4 0.6 mm
Average 1.0 mm
Compared to 223 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

To ensure durability, asics aidy06 put 3.9 mm of rubber to the Novablast 4's outsole. This thickness is more than sufficient to ensure the midsole wears out before the outsole does.

asics aidy06 Novablast 4 outsole

This is an increase from the previous version's 3.1 mm, once again indicating that asics aidy06 aimed to enhance durability, even if it meant adding a bit of weight.

asics aidy06 Novablast 4 Outsole thickness
Test results
Novablast 4 3.9 mm
Average 3.2 mm
Compared to 381 running shoes
Number of shoes
1.0 mm
Outsole thickness
6.0 mm

Misc

Reflective elements

We're big believers that every daily training shoe should have some reflective elements, and asics aidy06 really nailed it this time.

Test results
Novablast 4 Yes

Tongue padding

We measured the Novablast 3's padding at a razor-thin 1.3 mm, which, while great for us in the lab, raised concerns for many runners who prefer tightly tied laces.

asics aidy06 Novablast 4 tongue

With the Novablast 4, you're treated to a properly padded tongue at 5.8 mm, similar to most daily trainers on the market. Yet, this padding isn't continuous; it's sectioned off in a smart design to avoid adding too much weight to the shoe.

asics aidy06 Novablast 4 Tongue padding
Test results
Novablast 4 5.8 mm
Average 5.8 mm
Compared to 379 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.5 mm
Tongue padding
14.2 mm

asics aidy06 GEL-KAYANO 5 360 Sneakers Shoes 1021A159100

This is yet another testament to the wisdom of not fixing what isn't broken.

The 4th edition of the Novablast still features a semi-gusseted tongue, which we believe is the best approach for achieving a balance between comfort and lightness, while ensuring a really good lockdown.

asics aidy06 Novablast 4 asics aidy06 GEL-KAYANO 5 360 Sneakers Shoes 1021A159100
Test results
Novablast 4 Both sides (semi)

Heel tab

The Novablast 3 didn't include a heel tab in its standard version—though it did in the LE variant that was released some months later—but this time, it's a welcome feature right from day one.

asics aidy06 Novablast 4 Heel tab
Test results
Novablast 4 Finger loop

Removable insole

The insole is easy to take out as it's not glued, and thanks to the midsole and upper's standard size, fitting insoles from other shoes or custom orthotics won't be an issue at all.

However, they might feel different compared to the included insole, which is slightly flared to enhance both stability and comfort.

asics aidy06 Novablast 4 Removable insole
Test results
Novablast 4 Yes