by Lionel Brahim Brodie III
The ASICS Novablast 4, one of the most anticipated shoes of the year, made its debut in remarkable fashion. Instead of patiently waiting for its early December release date, the Novablast decided to disrupt things and commanded a “major” presence at this year's New York Marathon. It's Illuminate Green/Lime Burst (Men's) and White/Illuminate Mint (Women's) colorways, just as thunderous as the activation itself, could be seen all over the 5 boroughs. For political reasons, I shall refrain from “keeping it real” as the kids used to say, but amongst my peer group – which at times consists of runners, brand executives, and tastemakers – the Novablast ran the weekend. Yes.....that’s me being punny again. And ff you paid close attention, there were a few pairs floating around Philadelphia Marathon Weekend as well.
I don't condone the use of the term 'Sneakerhead', but for simplicity's sake.....as a Sneakerhead, one (1) month is an eternity to wait for a shoe to release. As a "Running Sneakerhead", forever seems even longer, as not only can't you wait to get the kicks on your feet and pair up with the perfect fit – you're highly anticipating and envisioning the miles you're going to crush. I knew about the new midsole coming with the Novablast, and the bounciness it would bring. I knew that the shoe was LIGHT. What I didn't know was how roomy the toe box would be. If you haven't been following along, I have fat, flat feet. I also didn't know how great the outsole grip would be. But I know now. And the aforementioned was all adding to the anticipation! (I may have happened to be in NYC for marathon weekend and able to test drive these puppies a bit early.....s/o Bandit Running for the love and high-level activation)
I'm happy to report that the wait is over friends. The Novablast 4 is in Philadelphia Runner stores and online as I'm typing, editing, and posting this article. Word on the street is that the moment folks are laying eyes on the shoe at some of our stores, they are ending up on their feet, then ending up at the cash register, and ending up being purchased. In my rotation, the Novablast is a great racing shoe for shorter races, which has become my specialty recently, and a really nice lightweight trainer for long runs, which will become my reality shortly. We need to have the training shoe vs. racing shoe debate rather soon, don't we? Because a long run could be a race, right? I mean, is there TRULY a.....another place, another time. At any rate, don't sleep on these!
The Tech Talk:
A tongue wing construction in the upper helps improve the fit while reducing tongue movement. It's complemented with an engineered woven upper that offers more stretch, ventilation, and durability.
FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO cushioning is made with 20% recycled bio–based content. This material helps create softer landings and a more energized toe–off during your training.
Trampoline–inspired outsole design helps provide a more responsive bounce back.
AHAR® outsole improves durability.
The Key Features:
At least 75% of the shoe’s main upper material is made with recycled materials to reduce waste and carbon emissions.
The sockliner is produced with the solution dyeing process that reduces water usage by approximately 33% and carbon emissions by approximately 45% compared to the conventional dyeing technology.
Reflective details help improve visibility in low–light settings.
The Specs:
Weight – 9.4oz (men’s), 7.6oz (women’s)
Heel–To–Toe Drop – 8mm
The Finish Line:
The ASICS Novablast 4 is available NOW! Our staff of experts can answer any questions you have about this shoe, ASICS, and any other product in our 4 locations (Center City, University City, Manayunk, or Glen Mills). Stop in to say hello, schedule a gait analysis, or order a pair from our online shop today!