Saucony Endorphin Speed 3 vs ASICS Novablast 3: Which is the best daily trainer?

You've been asking us for this video for a while now. So we made it. The Saucony Endorphin Speed and the ASICS Novablast are two hugely popular daily trainer. Both upgraded with new third generations. But how do the new running shoes compare? In this video, Run Tester Kieran dives into the main design differences and puts them head to head to find out if one shoe comes out on top. Hit play for our Saucony Endorphin Speed 3 vs ASICS Novablast 3 head to head and find out if one shoe might work best for you.
JUMP STRAIGHT IN:
0:00 - Intro
0:49 - What you need to know
1:31 - New design details, price, drop, weight
2:36 - Side by side comparison
5:07 - Fit
6:10 - The Run Test
14:03 - Verdict
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[@joelmead]

Not sure there has ever been a more high performance battle as this one. Two incredible shoes.

[@TheRunTesters]

Two big hitters for sure.

[@BEASTxMODE]

Great comparison! I half-sized down on the Novablast 3 and it has been my favorite this year.

[@TheRunTesters]

Thanks. Glad you liked it.

[@jancker06]

Good review! Just ordered the Speed 3!

[@jan-ericgodfroid4731]

I ‘ve had 3 generations of Novablast. The 3 is the best for me. The mesh is durable, the shoes is quite light for a daily, very comfortable . But drawback is that is the foam which, in my opinion, quickly loses its energy return qualities. I keep them for easy days runs. Endorphin, narrower, have a « light legs » feeling. They are absolutly nice for tempo training, long repeats, threshold training. I keep them for this kind of training. Love them!

[@phylosophdotcom]

is Endorphin's foam more durable and doesn't lose the energy return as fast as NB3?

[@syedhusaini5354]

Just the battle we've all been waiting for!

[@TheRunTesters]

We aim to please.

[@Cocoyz]

You are doing it perfect in testing both shoe by using them at the same time left and right.

[@nikosnikos4959]

having used the previous versions, novablasts are more of a high-milage comfortable cruiser and endorphins more on the speedy side. A combination of both those is perfect for tough marathon preparation

[@weiss7468]

This is great, I just narrowed down my choice of daily trainer to 3 shoes and this video covered 2 of them. Thanks!

[@TheRunTesters]

What was the third?

[@weiss7468]

Triumph 20, I was looking for something more max cushioned, focused on easy days to replace my dying daily trainer, the Kinvara and pair with my Speed 2. I don't think the Speed 3 belongs into my rotation but I'm in love with the Chicago colourway. So I'm grasping at anything to justify buying the Speed 3. I will probably use it for easy, tempo and long runs.

[@grantmckay7014]

I have the Speed 2, Novablast 2 and Triumph 20. Like them all but Triumph 20 really exceeded expectations as an enjoyable cruiser. Love it. Grip is great too.

[@playwithnaufal]

thank you for the video , nice 👍👍

[@alexkhan2000]

I have both and absolutely love both.The review is spot on. It's up to personal preference when choosing one over the other but, for me, considering how many miles I put into daily running/training, it was an easy decision to get and use both. In fact, I have multiple pairs of both in different colorways. You can do everything with both but, as Kieran says, the Speed 3 is a little more nimble, faster, and less bulky. The NB3 is a little more plush, comfortable, and, for me, a little more "fun" to run in. I think these are definitely the two best daily trainers of the year. And they are quite different in the feel and ride with different strengths, so if you put in a lot of miles per week as I do (70+), then just get both and rotate them and keep & save a carbon-plated shoes for racing. You can use both for virtually everything else: speed, tempo, daily, long/easy, recovery, and even just walking around. ASICS and Saucony both nailed it with these shoes and it's really a great time to be a runner.

[@TheRunTesters]

Thanks for sharing your take on them, Orlok.

[@italiansurprise]

Good take. I also have both and agree. Personally, I find NB3 as my true daily trainer for “do anything” runs, then use Speed 3 for tempo, interval days. I’ll probably stick with the Speed 3 for half marathon/70.3 races. I briefly tried Saucony Triumph 20, but returned them because they seemed to be more comparable to Novablast than the Speed 3.

[@davidlynch9049]

Great review, but I think it's an odd comparison. IMHO, the Speed 3 is a performance trainer that some might use as a daily trainer. The Novablast 3 is more of a daily trainer, that some might use as a performance trainer. I have the Novablast 3 and would never use it as a performance trainer.

[@blueaoki1]

Great comparison! I own both shoes and use the Novablast 3 as my daily trainer and Speed 3 as my fast shoe. I prefer the Novablast 3 for comfort though Speed 3 is clearly a more comfortable shoe than Speed 2. For my use (interval training and fast long rund) the Speed 2 might be an even better solution than Speed 3

[@joshbrown6125]

I’m a big fan of the stone collector wedge on the bottom of the Speed 3! Apart from that it’s an epic shoe!

[@MrJdub905]

I normally wear a 10.5 but went down to a 10 in the Novablast 3 and its perfect

[@93siguy]

I’d buy the speed 3 mainly for that blue colour wave. I love it

[@maximilianklein2062]

Finally someone who adresses the "you don't roll issue"... there are so many running shop guys out there who roll their eyes when I want to buy a slightly smaller shoe and keep telling me that - in doubt - I should go one size up.

[@glnmgbn1]

I think you also forgot to mention that speed has a nylon plate that makes it stiffer and definitely helps. I would say novablast as a daily trainer and speed for tempo days. But YES both shoes are great! Great review!

[@rolandmaatouk712]

Have the NB3 - confirming they're a bit long in the toe box. Have ordered a half size down to see if that helps. Due to the extra length, the shoe feels a little long when running, but fantastic underfoot nonetheless. Would love to try the ES3 - I also have its bigger brother in the Pro 3 which I ran the Melbourne Half Marathon in. All I can say is WOW - the shoe is brilliant in every way!

[@CraigSutton]

Just ordered the Endorphin Speed 3 to use as a daily trainer when I want to pick up the pace a little.

[@adamrush5729]

Just took my speed 3 for a 20km slow run this evening. The show is good for anything you throw at it. The novablast looks big and clumsy but I have not had it on my feet.

[@calvinkuhn2289]

Great Videos! I really enjoy watching them. Could you also make a review for best recovery shoes aswell as best flats for training on track?

[@TheRunTesters]

Thanks Calvin. We’ve got a long list of videos. Wish there was more time!

[@hipeilon]

Thanks for the review Actually your review helps me today to choose which one of them to replace my nike zoom fly 4 after 500km runs

[@sustainf]

Saucony Endorphin Speed 3 is my favorite run shoe overall thus far. It’s got everything you need in a run shoe.

[@selaconte]

I love Speed 1 love it, I tried Speed 2 runs ok but Exchange for NB More V3. I like more plush shoes so yesterday I decided to buy the NOVABLAST 3 🙏

[@str8up50]

S3 coming in tomorrow. Man that NB looks HUGE and LOOONNNGG!

[@TheRunTesters]

Nice, let us know how you get on with them.

[@ants_idea6140]

The surprise over sizing on the Novablast 3 I find a bit strange as I thought it was pretty common that the Novablasts fit long since V1. I just tried V1 & 3 back to back & the US11 in the 3 fits length wise like the 1 in US10.5. Plus I find the width a bit narrower on the Nova3 at midfoot & my little toe, plus the toe feels a touch lower so all up the 11 is good. I also have the Speed 3 in US11 (I ended up with the Speed 1 in US11.5 as it was squeezing my little toe too much) and that feels nice in that size but if I had to criticise anything there I feel like it has a touch too much volume in the general forefoot area as compared to the Nova. I do like both though 😄

[@steveflor9942]

It took me a while to warm up to the wings on nylon plate of the Endorphin Speed 3. Overall, it's a delightful shoe.

[@TheRunTesters]

Hi Steve (Kieran here), would tend to agree it’s a very accomplished shoe.

[@Bradsworld2]

I agree with you on the Novablast. I had the 1 and I didn’t like it at all. Love the Endorphin Speed.

[@kennethmonroe6939]

I have not tried the Novablast 3, but I have both the Speed 1 and Speed 2 as well as the Novablast 2. I agree the Novablast feels too long and bulky. I use it sparingly for slow/recovery runs I use the Speed 1/2 for all paces and distances up to the 1/2 Marathon. The Speed series is my go-to shoe. Thank you for the comparison review.

[@TheRunTesters]

Hi Kenneth (Kieran here), do you think you’ll try the Novablast 3?

[@kennethmonroe6939]

@@TheRunTesters I will possibly try the Novablast 3. It is getting a lot of positive reviews.

[@i.p2088]

I have the Speed 2 and 3 and Novablast 2. Novablast 2 is clunky and I just don't feel any energy return. Speed 2 is a pepy shoe for Tempo runs and racing. Speed 3 at first was disappointment. Soft, plush.. Lazy day shoe.. So comfortable.. But then I did a hard long run in the Speed 3 and my results were on par with the Alphafly and Vaporfly.. Amazing shoe.

[@mr.h.9103]

I am getting very close to being able to run again after an achilles injury and this seems to be the battle of the TITANS right now in 2022. I loved the Speed 2 and with a wider foot the Speed 3 is an improvement. However, when i started running it was in Asics and I have a bit of nostalgia. I also prefer a more cushioned daily trainer, but the Speed series is really good. It's going to be a tough choice!

[@TheRunTesters]

Treat yourself to both 😉

[@mr.h.9103]

@@TheRunTesters Right! Now to convince the wife 🤣

[@albertosampaio7683]

After I recovered from the tendon I start using novablast 3 and I dis like it very much. Comfort is very important for the tendon. However, with nb3 I’m also able to run relatively fast.

[@kirknelson9842]

Good review. I’d be curious to see if anything about your review would change if you went down half a size in the Novablast 3. I’ve always been an ASICS person as I like the way they fit my feet and they tend to be the most comfortable shoe of any brand I’ve tried. I only ran off and on for most of my life but became a little more serious during the pandemic. Ran three half marathons in the past year (1st one in Cumulus 23, second two in Novablast 2). I downsized from 10 to 9.5 for Novablast 2. Just got Novablast 3 a few days ago. The decision to downsize was not quite as obvious but I did for the Novablast 3 as well and I think that was the right call. Only done one run in them so far and got a 10K PR. My default daily trailer now is Cumulus 24 (and I still throw the Novablast 2 which are at 398 miles into the mix a little bit too). Planning to use Novablast 3 for my first marathon (CIM) in December. Anyway, you should try the Novablast 3 a half size smaller and let us know what you think!

[@kevinwalker93]

Mach 5 too and we have a gnarly battle

[@ianfraser747]

Great post! I would`nt say that the two shoes are really comparable as the Speed is almost a race ready shoe whereas the Nova is a daily trainer IMO.

[@TheRunTesters]

Thanks Ian. (kieran here) I think the Speed can happily do it all, while the Novablast 3 have a top limit and better suited to easy. Definitely put the Speed 3 in daily trainer territory but it can happily step up to racing.

[@TheHutchRuns]

I think that if you can afford it, then buy both but, if you can only afford 1, it's got to be the Speed 3 as it will do everything the Novablast 3 can do and much more

[@joshtiffin1963]

I own both and i completely echo your comments. Novablast 3 for me is a perfect daily trainer (I have sized 1/2 size down) and is brilliant for easy days and daily miles. The speed is a more "faster feel" shoe on foot (true to size) and you can feel that "response" so perfect for tempo/moderate efforts. I think you can easily own both in a rotation. Also certain websites now sell the Novablast 3 for under £100 so thats a steal.

[@Kaisersozze]

How does the Speed 3 feel for slow runs? Something like 7min/km.

[@thomasjgamble3865]

this is my 2 shoe rotation also (unless i’m going trail running). faster days in the speed, everything else in the asics… for my next 5k i’ll probably wear the takumi sen 8 but I think the Speed would also work totally fine for racing.

[@thomasjgamble3865]

@@Kaisersozze it doesn’t feel bad per se, but the Novablast feels better at slower paces… the Speed really opens up when im pushing it, the Novablast is fantastic for just setting a easy to moderate tempo and eating up miles

[@joshtiffin1963]

@@Kaisersozze I agree with Thomas. I haven't ran that pace personally (my easy runs are about 5-5:15min/km) but the Novablast feels inherently more "cushioned" compared to the speed. Whether thats purely midsole, or the mixture of midsole/more padding around the heel, that's probably personal to the runner. It eats up miles. The speed almost makes you want to run that little bit faster.

[@joshtiffin1963]

​@@thomasjgamble3865 I am a Vaporfly Next% 2 guy for any race at the moment. Nothing else comes close. Although in the Endorphin Speed 2, I was only 22 seconds slower than in Vaporflys over a 5km TT which demonstrates the Speeds can be used for a race shoe if you only want 1 or 2 shoes in a rotation.

[@Gws525]

Great review. Subscribed

[@TheRunTesters]

Welcome to The Run Testers, Shane. Good to have you.

[@tomrichardson5433]

Agree that the Speed feels more natural. Only at 350 miles on Novablast. Rubber wore through on Speed just under 500 miles after a 20 miler on gravel. oops. Both are really comfortable and cushioned. My test is can I run without a metatarsal pad without experiencing pain, and both pass that test with flying colors. Both seem pretty versatile. I don't have any super race shoes, and I haven't raced in either of these. Lately I have been racing in a pair of Speed 2s. I would choose Speed 3 over Novablast for 5K race.

[@garygallagher5571]

I have the Novablast 3 now about 2 weeks . I find they seem to take some of the energy from your stride ( feel a little more drained after using them )... I strike in the midfoot and don't feel the same cushion and when I walk in the shoe... thinking of buying the speed 3 to be honest .

[@briantimson1397]

I have the V2 in both and I feel the same. The Novablast feels like such a big shoe compared to the Speed which is much more of an agile shoe IMO. Tempo runs and higher is a Speed shoe for me.

[@TheRunTesters]

Yeah, there’s just less shoe.

[@Thomasrice07]

Great review. I think you were generous in your review of the ASICS Novablast 3. I agree that it is the best version of the Novablast. But for me, it was no contest. The Speed is on a different level all around. I love the comfort and the ride of the Speed 3. Saucony has done an incredible job of improving their shoes this year.

[@TheRunTesters]

Hi Thomas (Kieran here), Personally I'd still favour the Speed 3 over the Novablast 3 for all round versatility.

[@TheoPhysics495]

After doing 250km in the Speed 3, I’ve actually moved back to using the Speed 2 as the Speed 3 just doesn’t give that superb ride and energy return that I get from the Speed 2. Stocking up on the Speed 2s while I still can, under £100 now in sale.

[@sneakpick129]

Same here

[@TheRunTesters]

Hi (Kieran here), I'd agree. I think the Speed 2 are a punchier, livelier shoe.

[@MichaelCrum65]

I have both shoes. The Novablast 3 is the best NovaBlast to date by far (I've had all three versions) but the Speed 3 is a better shoe and the one I would pick if I could only have 1. The Speed 3 is a terrific shoe (I've had all 3 Speed versions) and the shoe of the year IMHO. It just doesn't get the same press because it is the 3rd version. The Speed 3 with the Pro 3 is a great combination of trainer and racer.

[@ciluguitars]

I purchased the Novablast 3 a month ago. In my impatience, I tried them on the same day I bought them. I ran 8km and to my surprise, I wasn't very excited because I was expecting something more... But after that I decided to run 21km. After 11km, I started to feel a pain in my right leg, in the sole in the front area, at the pads of the toes. I continued though and finished 21km in one hour and 35 minutes. But, Novablast 3, left a serious blister on my sole. Disappointment. I decided to use thinner and tighter socks on my foot to give them another chance... Bottom line: Novablast 3, not wow! I mention that I also have the Novablast 2, size 44 (EU) and the Novablast 3, 43.5.

[@jds4300]

Agreed 100%.

[@wesw6787]

Interesting review, though not entirely sure if they are in the same category (plated vs non-plated). How would you compare the Mach5 against the NB3?

[@lesliedykstra4014]

The Nova blast is very large and I don't care for the fit through the middle, and toe box is shallow cannot go down half a size, you end up rubbing top of toes. When I first put them on they were really bouncy and I felt the trampoline effect, they were a fun. But the next time I put them on they felt like a regular shoe, just big. The speed feels much lighter much more nimble, although I had a harder time getting a lockdown seems wider through the ankle. Also know the blast upper does not feel as breathable and I live in a hot area so I preferred the speed overall.

[@pbubu313]

I think better comparison would be the Speed 3 and Asics Superblast, both of those have super critical foams. Comparing Saucony PBAX vs FF Blast+ isn't exactly fair.

[@jennypenny7243]

The Endorphin Speed 3 is much more expensive than the Novablast 3. Interesting comparison, but I prefer the Max Cushion feel of the Novablast for normal days, and Quick feel of the Speed 3 for race days

[@MsCMR80]

I’m looking at both shoes for my third marathon (5 weeks from now) and also adding the Hoka Mach 5 and Mach X as contenders into the mix. I loved the Mach 5 for last year’s marathon for the roomy toe box and lightness. Of the 4 choices, which would be a good move for this year’s race? Aiming for a 4 and a half hr finish, so not fast but average

[@bettinapoulos7891]

1000 miles 🤯🤯 I too found the nova blast 3s long!

[@zoher2zoh]

I think at some point we need a Speed 3 vs Novablast 3 vs Rebel 3 vs Deviate Nitro 2

[@FWFWFWF]

I switched from my Novablasts after about 550 miles to some Speeds I bought in the sale and immediately noticed they were much narrower, nimbler and race oriented. Personally I find the Speeds slightly too narrow but the midsole is great and the upper doesn't feel too constricting, although for ultra running I would have thought the toe box might be a bit too narrow, versus the Novablast which is roomier and allows for more foot swelling. That said I think the Gliderides are better than both of the above for the long, slow haul!

[@mr.h.9103]

So for a person that prefers a more cushioned ride, would you still recommend the Glideride 3? I have heard nothing but great things about the Glideride 3 from friends.

[@FWFWFWF]

@@mr.h.9103 The Novablast is more cushioned/springy. The Glideride 'rolls' - it has an aggressive rocker so it rolls you on to the next stride whilst being very supportive around the ankle. I once ran a 100 mile week in the Glideride and I felt the shoe tech helped a lot.

[@mr.h.9103]

@@FWFWFWF Yea I am coming back from a long layoff after an achilles injury and can use all the support I can get. Going to be a lot of easy miles for the foreseeable future. The Glideride 3 has been recommended by 2 friends as my first shoe coming back.

[@jaymueller2418]

@@mr.h.9103 The more rockered the better as you come back from achilles. Best of luck to you.

[@carlosangalang]

Match up of the daily trainer heavyweights!

[@JohnBirtchetSharpe]

Hmm sound to me that you could just as easily put the nova blast 3 against the shift3, put 20 miles in the latter this week and my feelings on the shoe are closer to what you described for the latest nova blast (however the shift does have a quite pronounced speed roll )

[@vladankostevski5749]

Saucony the Best 😊👏

[@lp3761]

I don't have the speed and therefore can't compare but do have the Novablast 3. It's by the far the best daily trainer I've ever worn, you cannot go wrong. Speed 2 must be outrageous to win this battle.

[@TheRunTesters]

Lots of Novablast fans out there who agree with you on that one.

[@tonybowen455]

I'm still on the first gen of both. Love the novablast. Speed I'm meh about. Wish I could try something like the hyperion tempo instead. For the price and how long they last they're both great buys at full price for the third gens. Keeping my eye on the novablast trail.

[@TheHutchRuns]

I've got gen 1 Speed and Hyperion Tempo and, IMHO, the Speed is a better shoe

[@jonasnix]

I really love the Speed 3, I feel it performs at all paces, and it is super comfortable. Because of the price, however, I prefer to save the Speed 3 for my speed sessions. I haven't tried the Novablast 3 yet, I was wondering if it would be a good shoe for easy runs and recovery? To me it kinda looks like that kind of shoe. Regarding size, I don't know if the same applies to the Asics Novablast 3, but in the Asics Gel Nimbus 24, i had to go half a size down compared to my regular EU size 41. The size 41 was working ok, but felt too long in the toe box, and even after I had used it for a couple of runs the store was kind enough to let me swap it for a EU 40.5, and it feels so much better. Based on this video I'm thinking going half a size down for the Novablast 3 might be a good idea also.

[@TheRunTesters]

Hi Jonas (Kieran here), I personally think the Novablast could work as an easy day shoe.

[@seanbolger7371]

The only draw back I'd have with the Endorphin speed line is the grip in wet conditions but apart from that they are a superb do it all shoe, the Novablast is more of a daily trainer but really good also.

[@brunofracalossi]

novablast grip in wet conditions is really bad in this new version too.. so it is a problem that both have, unfortunately...

[@caseypetty4721]

I have tried all three versions of both shoes and the grip on wet surfaces for the Novablast 3 has got to be the worst of anything I've tried to date. That's my only complaint though, great shoe otherwise.

[@UnaiSainzdelaMazaGamboa]

Does anyone have discomfort with the upper part of the instep? I can't find the tightening point without it bothering me.

[@jimoconnor8597]

For a daily trainer, I'd lean NB 3. Most runners do their easy runs far too fast and the Speed 3 will definitely make you want to go quicker completely defeating the easy run day.

[@TheRunTesters]

Interesting point, Jim. Do we need shoes to make us go slower but also working at lower intensity? Shoes that put the breaks on?

[@stoicrunner2757]

I have not tried either of these two, however I have both in the second iterations. I would review them the same way as you have here. I don't really like the big-shoe feel of the NBs. I will stick with the Speeds.

[@michaeltran2743]

U mean ASICS

[@stoicrunner2757]

@@michaeltran2743 NBs = Novablasts

[@JAY.POT.502]

I go up half size when using Asics,so if you saying these could be abit long,depending on preference ect,would you stay at your actual fit size,or being asics and allow abit of flex for running ect-would you still go up an extra half inch from your normal normal size,on these Novablast 3 ? Thanks Jay

[@TravelsWithTony]

Great video. Any suggestions for a wide toe box. I have those “triangle feet” from years of high jumping.

[@mazz4149]

I have slightly wide feet, and sometimes goes for the wide version of shoes. I found the Speed 3 perfect for me.

[@TravelsWithTony]

@@mazz4149 thx. I’ll try them

[@Eon0007]

Great review as usual. Shame both lack grip in wet conditions so not an option for me.

[@Kaisersozze]

Thought its just the Novablast 3 that's getting bad reviews in terms of wet conditions. Haven't heard anything bad about the Speed 3, the outsole has grooves unlike the flat surface of the Novablast. Some people are recommending the Novablast TR.

[@etbrown94]

That’s where the Novablast TR comes in, exact same shoe but much better outsole in terms of grip

[@normrubio]

Can you do a video with recommendations for flat feet?

[@Unknown-pq4rt]

I'm looking for a cushioned daily shoe for everything but speed work, and considering the nova 3's or Invincible's, but winter running is about to start and not too sure on the outsole grip. Any other recommendations for a cushioned trainer with a better outsole, or would they work okay? Thanks!

[@TheRunTesters]

Maybe Puma Velocity Nitro?

[@williamwallace3713]

Great comparison Kieran! I currently own the Novablast 3 and have been using it mainly as a daily trainer. Really enjoying the cushion for those easier runs. Do you think both these shoes could work together in a rotation (the Speed 3 as a tempo shoe), along with a race shoe? Keep up the good work!

[@TheRunTesters]

Thanks William. Glad you enjoyed it. When you say would they work in a rotation, do you mean having both shoes? I think they’re arguably a bit similar and you might be better off adding something a bit different. They said I think the Speed 3 can do it all.

[@williamwallace3713]

Yeah, that's what I meant to say...I might see if I can find a good deal on something like the Takumi Sen 8 for my tempo shoe then. Thanks for the advice!

[@palmyarmyswim]

I have both- I think you are better off with the speed 3 and a more recovery shoe. I hoped the novablast would do better than my invincibles but it doesn't do recovery speeds as well- you sort of 'clop' along. Novablast perfect for someone doing all their paces and building volume from scratch

[@JackCastle]

Would a cloudmonster do the trick as a slower / easy shoe to complement either of these? What do you recommended? Just bought speed 3

[@cmo3]

@@williamwallace3713 That Takumi Sen 8 is a burner of a racing shoe for 5K /10K and more. Not just intervals.

[@RebsGuarina]

So a choice between a Honda Accord (Novablast3) vs a Subaru WRX (Speed 3)? Nice one

[@CautionBeforeCoffee]

Recently got the Novablast 3s and I’ve gotta say I’m not a fan. Also get a half size down as they run long. Novas feel super slow and don’t seem to absorb much impact. Haven’t tried the speed 3s but love the 2’s.

[@palmyarmyswim]

I felt the same- couldn't go down a size as the toe box was tapered

[@davidlundy9142]

I agree with you here

[@youngrevival9715]

I got the Novablast 3 tr basically same shoe just has a little extra traction

[@seeleftyrun9845]

I have the Speed 3 & if I could only have 1 do it all shoe, it would be the speed 3. I have the 1 & the 2 (which I also loved), but I think the 3 is the best. Not as stiff as the 2. I couldn’t agree more about the NovaBlast, although I haven’t tried the 3. I felt like the 2 was floppy, just too much shoe. Felt like a clown shoe. It ran me, I didn’t run it. I hated it, so I won’t be trying it. I got the Nike ZoomX Invincible instead & it does the job that I would want the NovaBlast to do. I don’t run in the speed all of the time b/c I don’t want it to lose its magic.

[@pasieniepl7196]

I had issues with Saucony shoes to rubs the heels. Does this thin heel on Endorphine cause any trouble to you runners?

[@Jgunner2011]

Pretty much every reviewer has said to size down with the NB3. Even after doing that it is still long.

[@m.ch4rmaland3r10]

I got the novablast 3 tr on sale for AUD150. Hope it rides the same.

[@TheRunTesters]

Let us know how you get on.

[@liionelbooon]

which is better for a slow runner?

[@axellopez9400]

What socks do you run in and why.

[@iosifkovalenko8364]

Have you tried the evoride 3 or noosa tri 14? I have a feeling you would enjoy those shoes more then the nova 3

[@TheRunTesters]

Hi Iosif (Kieran here), I've not had the pleasure of those shoes yet.

[@fletch9210]

I've used the speed 3s for everything including a 10k race and love them. I now have vaporfly 2s for my fastest workouts and races. What shoe could I add to those 2 for easy paced runs? Would the Ride 15s be a good addition to my rotation or something else?

[@kalvin.]

If you want something super cushioned for recovery and long runs go with NB More V4. Only $10 more than the Ride but way more cushioned

[@florianwimmer5740]

Ride 15 ist not „exciting“, but very reliable. I retired my Cliftons for the Novas 3 and love them. I did easy runs up to 25k in the Novas and some uptempo runs as well - no problem. Only downside - grip could be better.

[@Prisoner-973]

The Ride 15 is a great shoe for easy -> Tempo. I just retired mine after 500K+ and dearly miss them. Just started in the Novablast 3 and love them as much. Much more plush but have a great zip about them for Easy -> Tempo pace.

[@seeleftyrun9845]

I love my Ride 15s. One of my favorite shoes. Can pick up the pace easily.

[@Fit-simplelife]

I feel like out of the box the speed 3 feels like there is some support missing from the in step I feel like I’m running on the outside of my foot. I’m not sure if that’s just cushioning but feels kinda awkward. Does anybody else feel that way?

[@TimGrose]

I got the Novablast 3 in my normal size UK 13 and largely hated it as just seemed too much shoe as you said - bit long and for my narrow feet too wide. I then measured the insole and found it was basically 0.5 cm longer than they normally are in all other brands. So basically, for me at least, it is actually literally at least 0.5 size bigger than you think. I then got a UK 12 (there is no 12.5) and that is much better. Still feel it is a recovery/easy day shoe only for me but for that probably better the Speed 3. As such I think both have their place. So be interested if you pull out both insoles and compare them then I suspect you might find your Novablast is literally 0.5 size bigger which it sounds from what you are saying.

[@ki55tbh]

Spot on. I noticed exactly the same when I measured the insoles after I've been getting some mild heel slip. Amazing how many people say the Novablast 3 is true to size when it clearly is half a size bigger. It would be great if these measurements were noted in reviews.

[@TimGrose]

@@ki55tbh yeah I need to in my review. I first wanted to see if the “smaller” size was better and it is as it basically fits me better.

[@ki55tbh]

@@TimGrose That's great, thanks. I'll check out your updated review when available :) Obviously shoe reviews are often pretty anecdotal at times so it would be good to see these kind of measurements included. Strange this is I've got 2 pairs of the Novablast 1 in my normal size 9, which fit me fine and I've ran nearly 2000km in those combined. With the Novablast 3 in a 9, I kinda feel like I'm not at one with the shoe and I'm pretty sure that's down to the sizing and also the redesigned heel cup area. I might try an 8.5 then.

[@tiaan75]

Is it a fair comparison? Plated shoe vs non plated shoe? Not really the same type shoe right?

[@TheRunTesters]

People often choose between these two shoes. Hence the comparison. And want to know the differences.

[@youngrevival9715]

Like you ram 1000 miles in the same exact shoe or you got a new one at some point

[@jason.rams4]

I was already planning on purchasing the Asics Novablast 3 but now you just made my decision harder lol I don't know whether to go through to size anymore or half a size down. Have you had a chance to try the half a size down yet?

[@teewaikay]

I went TTS (TTS in the v1 as well). However if you could try them on at a running store, you definitely should as everyone's feet is different.

[@jason.rams4]

@@teewaikay And that's what I usually do but no running shoe store near me carries that shoe. That's why I've been searching all over for different people's opinion.

[@albertosampaio7683]

i have the novablast 3 and it is my true size. Possibly differences among people feet explains different opinions about size.

[@teewaikay]

@@jason.rams4 I see. I'd say go with your usual size for ASICS, unless you prefer a more snug fit.

[@edjoultz9678]

Novablast 4 the win!

[@hamoudalnasser]

Is the purpose of the Endorphin Speed 3 to be a daily trainer? I thought it was more of a pace runner, speed trainer. A sort of lesser Endorphin pro, to ease your way into running with a plate.

[@LIVINGSTON6]

speed 3 are ok for 85kilos runners for 5m/km or slightly faster for 10/15km trainings?

[@atheosmachina]

I ran my fastest half in the Speed 2 at a very similar weight, but I find time and again that after about 15km in them my lower legs become very fatigued. From what I gather the 3 is a more forgiving and comfortable shoe. So yeah, 85kg in 15km or less should be absolutely fine 👍🏻

[@ganeshsontakke1954]

Endorphin shift 3 Vs Novablast 3, Which is good for flat feet.? Please reply🙏🏼

[@atheosmachina]

Neither are really catered to flat feet, which tend to need motion control shoes to help them, like the Saucony Omni for example, although that is a very heavy shoe.

[@reigaterobot4965]

Just picked up the speed 3 for £89.99 on sportsshoes

[@menjackim]

If u wanna buy novablast 3 go one size down if u wear saucony in EU46 take asics 45. Trust me :)

[@zackywacky112]

finally !!!

[@TheRunTesters]

Sorry we kept you waiting 😉

[@bbnd5476]

Why is there so much variation in the reported stack of the Novablast? Runrepeat and Doctors of running say it's 38mm, which is far off your 31mm

[@xaviergutierrez1331]

31 mm is foam alone. The extra 7 mm comes from insole and outsole height

[@bbnd5476]

@@xaviergutierrez1331 doesn't check out. The same sources say the speed 3 is 36mm which is the same as this video. Stack should always include insole and outsole anyway. At minimum, measure both shoes the same way in a comparison. This video suggests Saucony has way more stack but is actually the same

[@philbrown9901]

You really need to size down and i think you would find the comparison a lot closer. I started in the Nova 2 in my regular size and it did feel too long and wallowy. Sizing down half a size and it felt more compact quicker. Have done the same with the Nova 3 and the same applies. 👍

[@TheRunTesters]

Hi Phil, (Kieran here), that’s definitely a possibility though I still think there’s a lot more shoe generally even with the heel, heel collar etc. But might see if I can get some half size for our full review.

[@ki55tbh]

@@TheRunTesters That would be great, I'd love to see this as I'm pretty sure this is why many people (including myself) are saying the shoe in our normal size feels kind of cumbersome / too much shoe at times. If you measure the insoles compared to my Speed 1 shoes for example, it's actually over half a cm longer so no wonder it feels 'big' :)

[@MattD86]

NB3 need to go half size down just like the 2. Solves your boaty long problem instantly

[@TheRunTesters]

Next time!

[@palmyarmyswim]

Length wise you 'can' but since the toebox is tapered it presses on your toe. Should put the noosa tri toebox on it

[@toneem169]

it's like comparing 🍎's and 🍐 's...NB3 doesn't have a plate.. designed for different types of running, you'd have to bring in the metaspeed sky for a like for like.. its good to see the NB3 hold their own in the review though..

[@TheRunTesters]

Some people want help deciding if they want an apple or a pear though. 😉

[@Kaisersozze]

Man the Novablast 3 looks like a full size longer. I really don't like shoes that run long, feels bad and looks weird. Will definitely be trying half a size smaller when it comes out in Canada and hopefully that will work. I tried the Speed 3 in store and it fits great. Looks like you're pronating a bit with the Novablast. Speed 3 definitely looks more stable. I bet grip on wet conditions will be better on the Speed 3 like you said, there's been complains that the Novablast 3 is not great in the wet. Thanks for the review. For doing my first marathon next year would the Speed 3 be a good choice (I don't want the Pro), is there enough cushion for such long runs? I run in the More V3.

[@TheRunTesters]

Speed 3 are definitely marathon friendly.

[@palmyarmyswim]

I found i couldn't downsize as the toebox is tapered

[@Kaisersozze]

@@TheRunTesters thanks

[@TheHutchRuns]

Are all the other Run Testers having a week off? Seems to have only been you recently Kieran 🤣

[@andrewpark9612]

As a massive endorphin speed fan and someone who hated the nova blast 2 . The NB 3 for me personally was much better than the ES 3. That being said I’m a very casual runner doing 3 miles per run about 5 days a week at around 8:45 -9 minute per mile pace . The NB Is great anywhere from 10 minute a mile pace to 5 minute pace if I’m pushing at the end and my legs feel great when I’m done. The speeds are no doubt faster and it felt like it took effort to even run slowly in them. Like they said both great shoes but for an average or below average runner like myself the NB will make it easier to log miles all week .

[@marcoc2706]

Hope Saucony would evolve their logo somehow...