Model comparison
ASICS Novablast vs. New Balance 1080
Pick Novablast for a livelier soft daily ride. Pick the 1080 for plush cushioning and stronger width coverage.
Last reviewed:
We may earn a commission from Amazon links. Disclosure
Side-by-side comparison
| Spec | ASICS Novablast 4 | New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 |
|---|---|---|
| Exact model / version | ASICS Novablast 4 | New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 |
| Best suited for | Recreational runners who want a bouncier daily ride | Runners prioritizing soft cushioning and multiple width options |
| Intended use | Energetic daily training and easy long runs | Cushioned daily road running and easy recovery miles |
| Typical fit | Standard volume; check listings if you need wide | Often available in multiple widths; roomy options for wider feet |
| Available widths | Standard, Wide (select versions) | Standard, Wide, Extra Wide, Narrow (select) |
| Manufacturer-published weight | Approx. 8–9 oz depending on version | Approx. 9–10 oz depending on version |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 8 mm (typical recent Novablast) | 6–8 mm depending on version |
| Cushioning description | Soft, energetic stack | Soft, plush daily cushioning |
| Surface | Road | Road |
| Notable strengths | Fun daily energy for recreational miles; Strong comparison alternative to Clifton; Often discounted previous generations appear on Amazon | Excellent width coverage on many Amazon listings; Comfort-forward daily trainer; Strong fit alternative for wide or roomy preferences |
| Important tradeoffs | Bouncier ride may feel less stable for slower walk-run segments | Plush ride can feel less snappy for faster efforts |
| Amazon availability | Check ASICS availability | Check New Balance availability |
Specs are based on manufacturer-published information for the versions named above. Availability and listing details can change on Amazon.
ASICS Novablast 4
Recreational runners who want a bouncier daily ride
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13
Runners prioritizing soft cushioning and multiple width options
Advantages and tradeoffs
ASICS Novablast 4
Strengths: Fun daily energy for recreational miles; Strong comparison alternative to Clifton; Often discounted previous generations appear on Amazon
Tradeoff: Bouncier ride may feel less stable for slower walk-run segments
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13
Strengths: Excellent width coverage on many Amazon listings; Comfort-forward daily trainer; Strong fit alternative for wide or roomy preferences
Tradeoff: Plush ride can feel less snappy for faster efforts
Choose the ASICS Novablast 4 if you want:
- You want energetic soft cushioning
- You like a playful daily trainer
- Standard widths fit you well
Tradeoff: Bouncier ride may feel less stable for slower walk-run segments
Choose the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 if you want:
- You need multiple width options
- You want a plush, comfort-first daily shoe
- Fit assortment is a deciding factor
Tradeoff: Plush ride can feel less snappy for faster efforts
Amazon availability
Confirm your size and preferred width on the live listing. Prices change and are not hardcoded on this page.
Research methodology and sources
Our comparisons are based on manufacturer specifications, available widths and sizes, intended use, current Amazon availability and other verifiable product information. We do not claim to have personally tested a shoe unless explicitly stated.
- Last reviewed
- Amazon availability checked
Frequently asked questions
Which should beginners buy?
If fit and widths are uncertain, 1080 is often safer. If you already like springy daily foam and standard widths work, Novablast is a strong pick.
Bottom line
Novablast emphasizes bounce; 1080 emphasizes plush comfort and widths.
Related Running-Shoe Guides
Author: My Running Pair Editorial
Last reviewed: 2026-09-15
We may earn a commission from Amazon links. Disclosure