ASICS Novablast 5 Running Shoe vs New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v14 Running Shoe
What owners say · Updated October 2026
Owners describe the New Balance model as a soft, highly cushioned recovery cruiser that feels heavy and bulky. Meanwhile, owners find the ASICS model offers plush comfort and high stack cushioning, though midsole longevity varies based on runner weight.
ASICS
ASICS Novablast 5 Running Shoe
“The ASICS Novablast 5 delivers plush comfort and high stack cushioning for daily miles, but lighter runners get significantly more longevity out of the midsole than heavier ones.”
Choose it if you are a lighter to average-weight runner looking for a comfortable, highly cushioned trainer.
New Balance
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v14 Running Shoe
“The New Balance 1080v14 delivers plush, highly cushioned daily comfort, though its bulk and lack of energy return make it strictly a recovery cruiser.”
Choose it if you seek a soft daily trainer for easy recovery miles and long, slow runs.
At a glance
| ASICS Novablast 5 Running Shoe | New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v14 Running Shoe | |
|---|---|---|
| Cushioning and ride complaints | 40% of reports | 40% of reports |
Share of each model's owner reports raising cushioning and ride; the category average is 27%.
Where owners report a difference
| ASICS Novablast 5 Running Shoe | New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v14 Running Shoe | |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Owners report that midsole foam loses bounce and flattens out prematurely for heavier runners. | Owners report a durable outsole with reliable traction. |