ASICS Novablast 6 vs adidas EVO SL: Which Running Shoe Is Right for You?
ASICS Novablast 6 vs adidas EVO SL are both versatile running shoes designed for runners looking for a pair that is comfortable enough for daily training while still delivering the energy and responsiveness needed to run faster. Notably, neither shoe uses a carbon plate, yet both offer an energetic ride. The Novablast 6 stands out with its thick cushioning, lively bounce, and versatility across different paces, while the lighter EVO SL uses Lightstrike Pro foam and shows its strengths in tempo runs, speed workouts, and even race day. So, between these two shoes that balance everyday training and speed so well, which one is the right choice for you?
Quick Comparison
| Criteria | ASICS Novablast 6 | adidas EVO SL |
|---|---|---|
| Positioning | Versatile running shoe that balances cushioning, bounce, and comfort | Versatile running shoe focused on speed, suitable for daily training and racing |
| Weight | 215g (women's) / 253g (men's) | 188g (women's, UK 5.5) / 224g (men's, UK 8.5) |
| Midsole | FF BLAST MAX + FF TURBO² | 100% Lightstrike Pro |
| Carbon Plate | No | No |
| Ride Feel | Cushioned, bouncy, natural, and adaptable to different paces | Light, responsive, and feels faster when picking up the pace |
| Easy Run | Very suitable | Still suitable, but not where it shows its strengths most clearly |
| Daily Run | Very good | Very good |
| Tempo | Good, with enough versatility for faster running | Shows a clear advantage in lightweight feel and responsiveness |
| Long Run | Thick cushioning provides a soft, comfortable ride for longer distances | Light and cushioned enough for long runs, especially if you want to add faster sections |
| Race | Can be used for racing if comfort is the priority, but racing is not its main strength | Better suited to racing thanks to its light weight, high bounce, and ability to maintain a fast pace without a carbon plate |
| Upper | Secure, breathable upper with a slightly tapered toe box | Thin, highly breathable upper with a lightweight feel; wider at the forefoot but gradually tapers toward the toes |
| Fit | Fairly snug and secure fit | Snug fit with a relatively roomy forefoot, while the toe area remains slightly tapered |
| Stability | More stable and secure underfoot | More flexible, but feels less secure underfoot |
| Best For | Runners who want a cushioned, bouncy shoe that works well for most training sessions | Runners who want a lightweight, fast shoe for everything from daily runs to speed workouts and races |
Ride Feel: Novablast 6 Is Cushioned and Versatile, While EVO SL Is Light and Fast
According to testing data from RunRepeat, both shoes offer good energy return but deliver noticeably different ride experiences.
ASICS Novablast 6 feels cushioned, bouncy, and natural across different paces. Its FF TURBO² foam in the forefoot adds extra bounce when picking up the pace while maintaining a comfortable ride for daily runs.
adidas Adizero EVO SL is lighter and feels more responsive and flexible thanks to Lightstrike Pro. It still performs well on easy runs, but its speed advantage becomes more noticeable when runners pick up the pace or move into tempo runs.
In short, Novablast 6 strikes a good balance between cushioning and bounce, while EVO SL is more clearly geared toward speed and a faster ride.
Easy Runs and Daily Runs: Novablast 6 Feels More Comfortable at Slower Paces
For easy runs and daily training, Novablast 6 feels more comfortable thanks to its generous cushioning, smooth transitions, and enough bounce to keep your legs from feeling sluggish. It works well for easy runs, recovery sessions, or days when you simply want to build mileage comfortably.
EVO SL also performs well for daily runs, but its personality becomes more apparent as the pace picks up. At slower paces, it still feels comfortable and lightweight, while the bounce and flexibility of Lightstrike Pro become more noticeable when you accelerate.
If most of your training consists of easy and daily runs, Novablast 6 may feel more approachable. If you want a daily trainer with plenty of room to pick up the pace, EVO SL may be a better fit.
Tempo and Speed Workouts: EVO SL Shows a Clearer Advantage
When moving into tempo runs, intervals, or workouts that require a faster pace, adidas EVO SL stands out with its lightweight design and highly responsive Lightstrike Pro foam. The shoe feels quick through transitions, making it easier to maintain your rhythm and suitable for runners looking to push their pace during training.
Novablast 6 still handles tempo runs well thanks to its good forefoot bounce, but its overall ride is more focused on balancing speed and comfort rather than pure performance.
If your goal is to run faster while still using one shoe for a variety of workouts, EVO SL has an advantage for these types of sessions.
Long Runs: Novablast 6 Focuses More on Comfort
For long runs, Novablast 6 benefits from its generous cushioning and softer feel as the mileage increases. It is well suited to steady-paced long runs where comfort and reduced foot fatigue are priorities.
EVO SL is lighter and still provides enough cushioning for long runs, but it is better suited to longer sessions with a speed focus, such as progression runs or sections around marathon pace. Its low weight and responsive ride help maintain a lively feel as the run gets longer.
If your long runs are mainly about building mileage, Novablast 6 may feel more comfortable. If you want to combine long-distance running with faster sections, EVO SL offers more responsiveness.
Should You Race in Novablast 6 or EVO SL?
Both Novablast 6 and EVO SL can be used for racing, especially for runners who are not necessarily focused on achieving a specific time and instead prioritize completing the distance with a comfortable and stable ride.
Novablast 6 is suitable for first-time racers or runners who want a familiar feel similar to their daily training. Its generous cushioning and comfortable ride can help keep your feet feeling good as the distance increases.
EVO SL may be a better fit if you want a lightweight shoe with plenty of bounce and a faster feel on race day. It is also a versatile option for runners who want to use the same shoe for both training and racing without moving to a carbon-plated racing shoe.
If comfort and easy handling are your priorities, Novablast 6 offers a more familiar ride. If you want a lighter shoe with more speed-focused characteristics, EVO SL may suit you better.
Read more: Running Shoes for Your First Race: How to Choose by Distance
Should Beginners Choose Novablast 6 or EVO SL?
For new runners, Novablast 6 is generally easier to get used to thanks to its generous cushioning, comfortable ride, and versatility across different types of runs. You do not need to run fast to appreciate what the shoe offers.
EVO SL can also work well for beginners, especially if you prefer a lightweight feel and want to start exploring tempo or faster runs. However, its strengths become more noticeable as your pace improves.
If comfort and ease of use are your priorities, Novablast 6 may feel more approachable. If you prefer a lightweight, fast ride and want more room to increase your pace, EVO SL is worth considering.
Read more: Running Shoes for Beginners: How to Choose the Right Pair
Conclusion
In short, if you want a cushioned, easy-to-run, and versatile shoe, Novablast 6 is a solid option. If you want something lighter, faster, and more speed-focused, EVO SL may suit you better.
Whether you prefer the cushioned, versatile ride of ASICS Novablast 6 or the lightweight, fast feel of adidas EVO SL, choosing the right running shoe should come down to your training goals, pace, and the fit that works best for your feet.
Shop Authentic Running Shoes at Supersports
At Supersports, you can explore authentic running shoes from ASICS, adidas, and many other leading sports brands. Discover options suited to daily runs, long runs, tempo sessions, or races to find the right pair for your running journey.
Supersports is a leading retailer and distributor of authentic sports footwear, apparel, and accessories in Vietnam, part of Central Retail, a leading retail group from Thailand. Supersports offers products from more than 30 well-known sports brands, including Nike, adidas, Crocs, and Puma. Supersports is also an official and exclusive distributor of Under Armour, HOKA, and Columbia in Vietnam, committed to bringing authentic, high-quality products to sports enthusiasts across the country.
