Top Two Running Shoes For Training: Which One Is For You?

Table of Contents

• ASICS Novablast Running Shoe: Features, Fit, and Downsides
• HOKA Clifton Running Shoe: Features, Fit, and Downsides
• ASICS Novablast vs HOKA Clifton: Key Differences
  

Why These Running Shoes Stand Out

When comparing the ASICS Novablast vs HOKA Clifton, it’s easy to see why they’re so popular. Both are highly cushioned running shoes designed for comfort, making them ideal for beginner runners, long-distance training, and daily mileage.

Despite their cushioning, both shoes remain lightweight running shoes, so they won’t feel heavy during longer runs. However, they are best suited for everyday training rather than speed or race-focused performance.

If you’re deciding between the ASICS Novablast vs HOKA Clifton, the biggest difference comes down to bounce versus stability.

Below, we break down the features, fit, and key differences so you can choose the best running shoe for your needs.

ASICS Novablast: Bouncy and Energetic Running Shoe

The ASICS Novablast is known for its bounce and high energy return, making it a great choice for runners who want a responsive and energetic ride. It performs especially well on pavement and road running routes.

This neutral running shoe is ideal for daily training, long runs, and runners who want a springy feel underfoot.

Features

Bouncy, lightweight, and energetic, the Novablast delivers a responsive ride that is quite literally a blast to run on. This is largely thanks to its “trampoline-inspired” outsole and FF BLAST MAX foam midsole, both of which deliver stellar energy return. Comfort is paramount with this running shoe, and with all that cushioning, it’s clear why. Whether heading out for a short jog or to log some serious miles, your feet and joints will be supported.

• High energy return running shoe: The FF BLAST MAX foam midsole rebounds quickly after each step, creating that springy, propulsive feel. This high energy return helps keep you moving forward with less effort, especially on longer runs.
  
  
• Lightweight cushioning: Despite its max cushioning, the Novablast feels surprisingly lightweight underfoot. The Novablast 5 weighs just 7.9 ounces in a women’s size 7, making it easy to stay comfortable without feeling weighed down.
  
  
• Bouncy and responsive ride: The combination of the rubber outsole and FF BLAST MAX foam delivers a noticeable bounce with every step. This “trampoline-inspired” feel adds energy to your run and makes everyday training feel more dynamic.
  
  
• Comfort for long runs: Built for both short jogs and extended mileage, the Novablast provides consistent cushioning and support to help reduce impact on joints over time.

Fit and Construction

Everything from the foam midsole to the tongue wing construction has made the Novablast the beloved running shoe it’s come to be. For this specific breakdown of fit and construction, we’ll be referring to the Novablast 5 model. 

• FF BLAST MAX foam midsole: This is ASICS’ midsole foam technology (FF stands for FlyteFoam) that delivers cushioning and high energy return. The Novablast 5 uses FF BLAST Max, which is soft, stable, and super comfortable.
  
  
• AHAR LO rubber outsole: You guessed it: more bounce! The outsole is made of AHAR LO rubber, which also excels in traction and durability.
  
  
• Tongue wing construction: Lots of stretch prevents the tongue from moving around too much, keeping your foot more secure.
  
  
• Engineered jacquard mesh upper: Made with at least 75% recycled materials, the mesh upper is breathable and stretchy.
  
  
• 8 mm Drop: The Novablast 5 has a pretty significant 8 millimeter heel-to-toe drop. This helps reduce strain on your calves and Achilles tendon.
  
  
• Weight: 7.9 ounces (225 grams) for a women’s size 7.
  
  
• Neutral support: Considered a neutral support running shoe, the Novablast is also suitable for those with underpronation, meaning weight is distributed more to the outer edge of the foot when walking or running.

History 

ASICS created the first Novablast in 2020, using FF BLASTS foam for the midsole. This was their first super bouncy running shoe. From there, they made tweaks to stability, width, and their signature foam, resulting in the Novablast 3, which is what put the running shoe on the map. Fast-forward to the Novablast 5, which uses the latest FF BLAST MAX foam and is the most cushioned and bouncy model yet. 

ASICS also created a broader Blast series of shoes, which includes the Novablast, Sonicblast, Superblast, and Megablast.

Shop ASICS Women’s Novablast 5 Running Shoes Shop ASICS Women’s NOVABLAST 5 ATC Running Shoes Shop ASICS Men’s NOVABLAST 5 Running Shoes

HOKA Clifton: Soft and Stable Running Shoe

Next up is the HOKA Clifton, which is revered for its extreme comfort and support. Though not wildly different from the ASICS Novablast, the Clifton is absolutely its own running shoe with its own set of perks, such as its rear-focused foot support and super smooth feel. Perfect for runners and walkers alike, you can’t go wrong with this model from HOKA.

Features

Softness and stability define the Clifton, making it a reliable everyday running shoe. Due to the compression-molded EVA foam midsole and Active Foot Frame, you’ll never have to worry about being uncomfortable in this running shoe. Though we’re highlighting this shoe for running (and it’s sure great for that!), it’s also loved by those who have to be on their feet all day, so you’re in luck if both of those apply to you. 

• Soft cushioning running shoe: The Clifton’s CMEVA foam midsole delivers a soft, cloud-like feel underfoot while effectively absorbing impact. This makes it a great option for reducing stress on joints during both short runs and long-distance training.
  
  
• Stable and supportive ride: HOKA’s rearfoot-focused Active Foot Frame cradles the heel and supports the arch, helping guide your foot through each step. The result is consistently soft yet stable landings, especially helpful for everyday running or long hours on your feet.
  
  
• APMA Seal of Acceptance: The Clifton has earned the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance, meaning it is recognized for promoting good foot health and providing reliable support for a wide range of runners and walkers.

Fit and Construction

The Clifton is known for its MetaRocker design, Active Foot Frame, foam midsole, and so much more. For this specific breakdown of fit and construction, we’ll be referring to the Clifton 10. 

• CMEVA foam midsole: The Clifton has a compression-molded EVA midsole, which is a type of foam that gives this running shoe its cloud-like feel.
  
  
• Rearfoot-focused Active Foot Frame: HOKA’s signature Active Foot Frame keeps your foot stable, as it functions as a sort of cradle. It’s been compared to a bucket seat in a race car. The frame on the Clifton is rearfoot-focused, which means it supports your heel and arch.
  
  
• MetaRocker design: This is HOKA’s rocker sole design that helps propel you forward. It allows for a smooth feel when running and is easy on joints.
  
  
• Breathable knit and reflective upper: The upper is made of breathable jacquard knit. There are also reflective details, keeping you just a bit safer when running in low light.
  
  
•  8 mm Drop: Like the Novablast, the Clifton has an 8 millimeter heel-to-toe drop.
  
  
• Weight: Clocking in at 8.8 ounces, the Clifton is slightly heavier than the Novablast.

History

The Clifton, which hit the market in 2014, is now HOKA’s best-selling running shoe. That’s because it combines their signature cushioning with a lightweight construction, making it perfect for running. Over the years, the shoe has improved its durability and has gotten even more lightweight, with the Clifton 9 being the first model to use the current CMEVA foam. For the Clifton 10, HOKA used a new “last,” which is the foot form that shoes are based on. Due to that, they increased the drop and created a wider toe box.

Shop HOKA Women’s Clifton 10 Running Shoes Shop HOKA Women’s Clifton 10 Wide Running Shoes Shop HOKA Men’s Clifton 10 Running Shoes Shop HOKA Men’s Clifton 10 Wide Running Shoes

ASICS Novablast vs HOKA Clifton: Key Differences

When choosing between the ASICS Novablast and HOKA Clifton, it comes down to feel and preference:

• Choose ASICS Novablast if you want a bouncy, energetic running experience
  
  
• Choose HOKA Clifton if you prefer soft cushioning and added stability
  
  
• Both are excellent daily training running shoes for beginners and experienced runners

Final Thoughts

With their ultra-comfortable fit and supportive design, both the ASICS Novablast and HOKA Clifton are among the best running shoes for everyday training.You can shop both models of running shoes online or visit a Sun & Ski Sports store, where an Outdoor Expert can help you find the right fit based on your running style, gait, and goals.