Side by side comparison: Altra FWD VIA vs ASICS Novablast 5
Product Judgment
Solid
released 2025
Price Judgment
Reasonable
Phasing Out
Performance
Run Fitness
Pros & Cons
Roomy anatomical toe box
Stable wide platform
Comfortable plush upper
Limited energy return
Average durability
Moderate breathability
Specs
| Best for | 5:00-6:45 min/km |
| Drop | 4 mm |
| Stack | 37 mm heel / 33 mm forefoot |
| Weight | 269 g |
| Terrain | road |
| Width | wide |
| Pronation | neutral |
| Season | all seasons |
| Plate | no |
Judgment Summary
Stable, roomy daily trainer prioritizing comfort and fit over speed or bounce.
Product Judgment
Strong
released 2024
Price Judgment
Strong Buy
Widely Available
Performance
Run Fitness
Pros & Cons
Plush, soft cushioning
Lively, energetic ride
Breathable, comfortable upper
Thin toebox durability
Not for overpronators
Firm at slow paces
Specs
| Best for | 4:45–6:30 min/km |
| Drop | 8 mm |
| Stack | 41 mm heel / 33 mm forefoot |
| Weight | 254 g |
| Terrain | road |
| Width | medium |
| Pronation | neutral |
| Season | all seasons |
| Plate | no |
Judgment Summary
A top-tier daily trainer with plush cushioning and a lively ride for neutral runners.