Asics Novablast 5 vs Asics Noosa Tri 16:
Which to Choose

The clearest split is the platform. The Novablast 5 stacks 41.5mm at the heel and 33.5mm at the forefoot on an 8mm drop, with FF Blast Max foam that gives it that soft, trampoline-like rebound; the Noosa Tri 16 sits far lower at 34.5mm heel and 29.5mm forefoot on a 5mm drop, using firmer, snappier FF Blast+. That's roughly 7mm less stack underfoot in the Noosa, which translates directly into ride feel: the Novablast is plush and springy with a slightly floaty, protective roll, while the Noosa is connected, firm, and low to the ground, feeding back more of the road. Weight reinforces the difference — the Noosa is about 215g versus the Novablast's 255g, a noticeable ~40g gap you feel most when turnover gets quick. Their optimal pace windows barely overlap: the Novablast is tuned for easy-to-steady running (roughly 4:45–5:45/km) and only comes alive at tempo, whereas the Noosa is sharpest at genuine tempo-to-race pace (around 3:40–4:20/km) and feels busy and firm if you slow it down. Neither has a plate, so in both cases the energy comes from the foam itself, and both are neutral with moderate, no-added-support stability. On fit, the Novablast's engineered mesh gives a more everyday, structured wrap, while the Noosa's bright, airy triathlon mesh is more breathable but offers looser lockdown. Durability also tilts toward the Novablast's more substantial build and outsole coverage, though its tall exposed foam asks for some care; the lighter Noosa is simply a leaner, more race-focused construction.