Novablast 5 vs Wave Rider 29

The Novablast 5 is Asics at its most fun: a bouncy, do-it-all daily training shoe that turns easy miles into something you actually look forward to. It sits in the high-stack daily trainer bracket, with an 8mm drop and a springy ride that rewards a relaxed cadence. At 135 pounds RRP and around 255g it is not the lightest in its class, but the energy you get back more than pays for the weight on everyday runs. This is a versatile running shoe rather than a one-trick pony. It will cover recovery jogs, steady long runs and the odd faster session without complaint, even if it is happiest cruising. If you want something firmer and more locked-down for tempo work, the Asics Superblast 2 is the pricier, sharper sibling. But for most runners after one shoe to carry the bulk of their training, the Novablast 5 is an easy shoe to recommend. We rate it as one of the most enjoyable daily trainers you can buy.

The Wave Rider 29 is Mizuno at its most dependable: a neutral daily training shoe built to soak up mile after mile without drama. This is the workhorse of the Mizuno road range, and version 29 leans softer and smoother than the firm, snappy Riders longtime fans remember. At 258g with a 37.5mm heel stack it sits right in the middle of the daily trainer market, cushioned enough for long runs but stable and grounded enough that it never feels wobbly or vague underfoot. You get a versatile running shoe that handles easy days, steady miles and the occasional longer effort with the same unfussy composure. It will not win you a personal best and it is not trying to. What it offers instead is comfort, consistency and the kind of build quality that racks up big weekly mileage. If you want one road shoe to do the bulk of your training, the Wave Rider 29 is an easy shoe to recommend and an easy one to live with.