Asics Novablast vs Nimbus - Which is Best for Neutral Runners?

The Asics Novablast is a neutral running shoe designed for runners who prioritize energy return and cushioning in their daily training. It features the FLYTEFOAM Blast midsole, which is known for its high responsiveness and bouncy feel.

With the Nimbus, you receive a premium design known for comfort and support. It is also for neutral runners, placing a priority on comfort and support during their training sessions.

Since both designs are well-suited for daily training and long-distance runs, a closer look at the specific features of each series can let you decide if one is better than the other for your focused needs.

Looking at the Outsole

Asics uses high-abrasion rubber for the Novablast design, offering high traction levels in different environments for a safer running experience. You receive a smooth transition from the heel to the toe, even if the street or track is a bit wet from a recent rain.

The outsole of the Nimbus is constructed from the same durable rubber, offering excellent traction and durability. It includes flex grooves to promote a natural running motion, enhancing the flexibility runners receive on various surfaces. You are left with a secure grip in a stable shoe, contributing to a fantastic training session.

Midsole Comparison

Asics uses FLYTEFOAM Blast technology for the Novablast midsole. It creates an energy return with each step because of its exceptional cushioning. For runners wanting responsiveness, it delivers consistent outcomes. Moderate arch support is present.

Gel technology is part of the Nimbus wearing experience for runners. It is strategically placed throughout the shoe to improve shock absorption, with FLYTEFOAM added in the midsole for a softer ride. It stays smooth and comfortable on the longest runs, especially for those with a neutral gait.

Comparison of the Upper

With the Novablast, an engineered mesh is used for the upper to ensure proper airflow around the foot. You stay cool and dry, even on the longest runs. It is meant to be snug without being uncomfortable, with reinforcements in critical areas to ensure it can withstand regular use.

The Nimbus uses a seamless engineered mesh to enhance breathability without creating irritation. It is designed to adapt to your foot’s shape, creating a custom fit that improves the comfort of each run. Asics incorporates strategic overlays for additional stability and support to ensure a secure fit.

Intended Use Comparison

The Novablast is an option for daily training. Its focus is delivering an energy return with its cushioning structure. Runners looking for an energetic ride with above-average responsiveness will find what they need with this flexible design.

As for the Nimbus, its focus is on comfort. Long-distance runs can be a shock to the system, so this shoe works to reduce the pressure placed on a runner’s joints by absorbing the impacts as much as possible. It has the durability to be a daily trainer, even if you venture off the street or track for the occasional training session.

Style and Design Comparison

The Novablast delivers an energetic aesthetic that matches its performance expectations. It is more dynamic in its visual appearance compared to the Nimbus and other designs from Asics. With colour gradients, bold hues, and unique combinations, there is a style for virtually every fit out there.

Asics gives the Nimbus an appeal that tends to be more of a classic look within the company’s overall collection. You’ll find more shades of dark blue, white, or black with metallic accents. Some pastels are included for some colourways, delivering a sense of quality and refinement.

Both shoes deliver a polished look with subtle patterns that contribute to a sleek overall appearance. There isn’t a bad design out there in either series, which is a testament to the consideration Asics puts into this area.

Final Thoughts

Although there are plenty of features and structural components to consider with both designs, the final decision for runners could rely on the product weight.

The Novablast is approximately 260g for men and 221g for women. In comparison, the Nimbus comes to the scale at 309g and 258g, respectively.

That is a significant difference for runners who want a lightweight training experience. However, the Nimbus makes up for that issue by providing superior comfort and support with each foot strike, so you don’t necessarily notice the extra weight.

Both designs offer a 10mm drop, so the shoes feel balanced for a wide range of runners. There is enough structure to support slight overpronation, especially when fatigue sets in on a longer run.

If you seek a bouncy, energetic ride with moderate cushioning, the Novablast is a great option with its lightweight design. With the Nimbus, you receive maximum comfort and that extra touch of support you might want