Our verdict
Upon the launch of the Novablast 3, lots of positive reviews are gained. And now the shoe line is broadened by the addition of a “trail” version that retains all of its many qualities. The Novablast 3 TR is a superb daily trainer, adept to slow and moderate paces, but it can pick up the pace and is even more versatile than the standard iteration. Definitely one of the best choices for running on roads, urban parks, and light trails, no matter the season.
Pros
- Do-it-all shoe
- Bouncy ride
- ASICS Gel Excite 7 Piedmont Grey Piedmont Grey Black 1011A657-020
- Next-level comfort
- Roomy toe box
- Superior softness underfoot
- Secure lockdown
- Stable
- zapatillas de running ASICS talla 45 naranjas
- Recycled materials
Cons
- Lacks protection
- A bit expensive
Who should buy the ASICS Novablast 3 TR
With all its positives, the Novablast 3 TR is a shoe that can appeal to a lot of runners. If you need a model that can do a bit of everything, which means short, long, easy, tempo runs, and even marathons, with a grippy rubber that keeps you upright even on some easy or wet trails, then this shoe is for you.
Who should not buy it
It’s not ideal if you:
- prefer less pricey shoes. Check out the HOKA Challenger 6 ATR instead
- want a proper trail running model. In that case, the ASICS Trabuco 9 is a better choice for you.
ASICS Novablast 3 TR vs Novablast 3
When testers compared the two versions, they didn’t notice much difference. “Essentially they are exactly the same shoe,” said one of them. Even the price doesn’t change.
Basically, there are only two things that set them apart: the outsole, which is now more rugged, and the weight, which has increased a little bit.
A superior all-rounder
According to those who tested the shoe, it’s so versatile that for many runners it could be the only one they need. It’s at home on easy and tempo runs alike, plus it can handle long efforts without compromising on comfort and protection underfoot.
As a tester stated, “with this shoe they’ve nailed it.”
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Judging from what testers said, except for mud and technical trails, the outsole is perfect on gravel, wet grass, wet tarmac, woodland trails, and city parks. As they said, the outsole “gives you so much confidence” and is “an absolute dream.”
This ASICS hugs your foot
Reviewers had no doubts about this, it’s an extremely comfortable shoe. The step-in feel is very pleasant, the toe box is roomy, and while the heel collar is quite rigid, is also well-padded, and no issues were reported in this department.
An expert reported that “the lockdown is great” and he could feel the “lovely fit of the upper,” while another runner noticed that the shoe hugged his “wider foot nicely with no irritation whatsoever.”
The midsole borders on perfection
The FF Blast Plus foam is soft and bouncy and the ride is described as being fun by wearers. Testers perfectly put it:
- “Asics Lenkkitossut Contend 7 PS”
- “ASICS Tartheredge 3 Lightweight Breathable Cozy Orange 1012B067-800”
- “it’s just a fantastic running shoe.”
Novablast 3 TR is not for rough trails
Despite the “TR”, the shoe is categorized in the road running category, and that’s because, indeed, this is not a trail running shoe.
This is clearly noticeable not only from the rather flat lugs of the outsole but also from the overall protection that the shoe offers, especially at the toe bumper. According to testers, it cannot be an effective shield against rocks or roots.
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The platform is rather wide and this certainly adds to the stability of the shoe, which does not wobble around when running.
Novablast 3 TR is heavier, yet more durable
With the addition of more rubber underfoot, the TR version is heavier than the Novablast 3. It weighs 9.7oz (275g), so there was an increase of nearly 0.7oz (22g). Yet, it’s still rather light and what’s more, the shoe is now even more durable.
Wow looks
As happened with the standard version, reviewers appreciated the design and colors of this shoe. An expert stated, quite simply, “I think it looks awesome.”
What’s more, it’s made with some recycled materials.
Slightly pricey
The price has remained the same as the standard iteration, $145, which is another great reason to consider the Novablast TR. It is a little on the more expensive side though, considering that the average for a road running shoe is $123.
