REVIEW: ASICS NOVABLAST™ 3 TR

The ASICS NOVABLAST™ 3 TR draws inspiration from a geometric origami feature for both the upper and the midsole. After making the shoe approx. 30g lighter than the previous version, ASICS have also equipped this style with improved comfort.

Part of the NATURE BATHING Collection, this shoe is inspired by the Japanese phrase, "shirin yoku." Its colourway is inspired by the calming hues found in nature. At least 75% of the shoe’s main upper material is made with recycled materials to reduce waste and carbon emissions.

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Our SportsShoes x ASICS athlete Olivia Tsim, has been busy putting the ASICS NOVABLAST 3 TR to the test;

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I’m a huge fan of the ASICS NOVABLAST 3, so was super excited when I was asked to test and review the trail version of the shoe. I’ve started incorporating more off-road running into my training, so the timing was perfect!

On unboxing the shoe, I wasn’t disappointed. I love the unique style of the NOVABLAST 3, so was glad to see this same design replicated in the trail version of the shoe, but with a different, yet equally aesthetic colourway. I find the fit true to size, so didn’t have size up or down in this shoe. It’s supportive around the heel and midsole, with a roomy toe box which is a feature I personally like in a running shoe.

The mesh upper is made from 75% recycled materials which is great to see! That doesn’t by any means hinder the capabilities of the shoe though, the fabric is lightweight, breathable and very comfortable from the first wear, something that isn’t always a given when it comes to running shoes as I’ve often found it takes me a fair few outings to ‘wear shoes in’.

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The tongue of the shoe is gusseted which helps to keep dirt and debris out - super useful when it comes to trail running! It’s worth noting here that the tongue isn’t padded, but this hasn’t caused me any issues when it comes to protection of my foot from the laces. The shoe has a traditional lacing system and extra loopholes at the top of the shoe to allow a more snug and personalised fit to those who want it.

The NOVABLAST 3 TR have the same 8mm drop as featured in the standard NOVABLAST 3. There is no carbon plate in these shoes, so it's more suited to everyday training rather than fast performance and racing. The midsole is made from the ASICS FF Blast+ foam which gives a perfect combination of cushion and responsiveness.

Whilst the shoe is slightly heavier than the NOVABLAST 3, because of the addition of the hard rubber outsole which make the shoe more durable, it’s still very lightweight so a great multi-purpose trainer, which lends itself not only to long, easy paced multi-terrain running, but also performs well on quicker tempo or progression sessions. I’d say the shoe is best suited to light trail running so would opt for something different on more challenging trail surfaces. It's also the perfect hybrid shoe for a mix of road-to-trail surfaces and suitable for a beginner trail runner.

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In summary, I love this shoe and use it regularly in my shoe rotation across a wide variety of training runs from long runs, progression sessions.

• A perfect everyday trainer

• Light and responsive enough for racing

• Comfortable and durable

• Feels really stable

• Roomy toe box

• Suitable for a wide range of athletes, from beginner to elite

• Ideal for light trail running or road running in wet and slippery conditions

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SHOP ASICS NOVABLAST 3 TR NOW

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Olivia Tsim is an elite SportsShoes x ASICS athlete, based in Wales. Her road PB's include 16:20 for 5K, 33:48 for 10K and 73:38 for Half-Marathon distance.

You can follow all of her running adventures here

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