The Asics Novablast 5 is on sale for $129 — should you get it over the newer Novablast 6?

(Image credit: Future) One of the best ways to find value when buying running shoes is to check the price of older models when the latest version comes out, because new launches usually prompt discounts on their predecessors.The Asics Novablast 6 just came out, which means the time is ripe to hunt for deals on the Asics Novablast 5, which has been reduced to $129 in the Amazon sale.However, I love the Asics Novablast 6 and I do consider it one of the best running shoes available and an upgrade on the older model.So the question is which is the better buy; the Asics Novablast 6 at its full price of $155, or the Asics Novablast 5 for $129 in sales?Asics Novablast 5 vs Asics Novablast 6: what are the key updates? (Image credit: Future)The most important update to the the Novablast 6 is the addition of FF Turbo Squared foam into the midsole of the shoe, with a puck of this energetic material added under the forefoot.This is the foam also used in the excellent (and wildly expensive) Asics Megablast, and it creates a livelier ride than the FF Blast Max foam used in the Novablast 5.The Novablast 6 also uses FF Blast Max foam for the rest of its midsole, but the FF Turbo Squared in the forefoot means it delivers more energy return than the older shoe, and works better for faster runs in particular, while still being equally comfortable for easy efforts. (Image credit: Future)Furthermore, using this mix of foams makes the Novablast 6 around half an ounce lighter than its predecessor in my US men’s size 10.The other notable update to the new shoe is the new outsole, which uses a mix of rubbers to create better grip in wet conditions than you get from the Novablast 5. (Image credit: Future)During my testing of the Novablast 6 I did do a short run wearing it on one foot and the Novablast 5 on the other, and I did feel the benefit of the updated midsole in particular.For me, the Novablast 6 is a strict upgrade on the Novablast 5, because it’s just as comfortable and stable on easy runs as the old model, while being lighter and better for fast runs. Then you get better grip as a bonus.Should you buy the Asics Novablast 5 or Asics Novablast 6? (Image credit: Future)This is a tough call because I normally always recommend going for the older model in sales with running shoes. On this occasion, however, Asics has made some telling updates to the Novablast 6 that do make it a better shoe.That said, the Novablast 5 is still a great running shoe itself, especially for easy and long runs, and will now be a more or less permanent fixture in sales. (Image credit: Future)At the current prices available, with the Novablast 5 only reduced to $129, I do think it’s worth stumping up the extra $26 to get the Novablast 6 for its improved performance.However, if the Novablast 5 drops to around or under $100, then the equation changes and I’d be inclined to make the saving by picking up the older model.Shop more deals Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. Nick Harris-Fry is an experienced health and fitness journalist, writing professionally since 2012. He spent nine years working on the Coach magazine and website before moving to the fitness team at Tom’s Guide in 2024. Nick is a keen runner and also the founder of YouTube channel The Run Testers, which specialises in reviewing running shoes, watches, headphones and other gear.Nick ran his first marathon in 2016 and became obsessed with the sport. He now has PBs of 2hr 25min for the marathon and 15min 30sec for 5K. Nick is also a qualified Run Leader in the UK.Nick is an established expert in the fitness area and along with writing for many publications, including Live Science, Expert Reviews, Wareable, Coach and Get Sweat Go, he has been quoted on The Guardian and The Independent.