Running has always been a part of my DNA. Since high school, I’ve been clocking in miles and speed training on “sprint Thursdays.” But no matter how much R&R I get, my shin splint pain always finds a way to creep up during high-impact exercises, leaving my shin muscles and bone tissues feeling tender and sore.
When my shin splint pain first began in high school due to improper footwear, my cross country coach said that a supportive pair of kicks couldn’t be overstated and gifted me a pair of Asics to pound the pavement with. He said that Asics designed some of the best kicks for long-distance running, and his advice sticks with me to this day. After running in dozens of shoes and testing more than 10 brands over the years, he couldn’t have been more right. So eventually, I returned to the brand to test out the Asics Novablast 3LE.
My experience wearing Asics Novablast 3LE
The Novablast 3LE is the ultimate do-it-all type of shoe. While the 3LEs are primarily intended for running, I’ve found them to offer unparalleled comfort and support during walks, sprints, and upper body lifts. From the moment I put them on, I was captivated by the brand’s proprietary FF-Blast cushioning. Constructed out of foam, the shoe delivers a bouncy and responsive ride that injects energy back into each step, making workouts feel effortless. The cushioning is emphasized throughout the shoe, but especially on the forefoot; it feels like there’s a pocket of air beneath my feet. As a forefoot runner, I prefer to run on the upper part of my feet, so these kicks provide the perfect blend of cushioning and shock absorption. After six to eight sprints, my shins don’t feel numb, and I can continue walking and doing other activities like stretches and core sans aches and pains. Shin splint pain is basically non-existent with this pair.
- Asim Qureshi, DPM, Chicago-based podiatric surgeon at Michigan Avenue Podiatry
It’s no wonder podiatrists approve of them. “Asics running shoes are distinguished by their GEL cushioning system, which offers exceptional shock absorption and comfort,” Asim Qureshi, DPM, a Chicago-based podiatric surgeon at Michigan Avenue Podiatry, previously tole W+G.
Like other running shoes I’ve tested, the Asics Novablast 3LE’s upper is designed of mesh, so it doesn’t trap heat or keep feet sweaty. More to call out, the shoe is designed with a tongue gusset to prevent it from sliding during movement and has a foam collar to prevent rubbing and irritation in high-friction areas like my Achilles heel area. I’ve taken these kicks out for a spin during treadmill runs, outdoor walks, sprints, and 12-3-30 workouts, and can attest that this pair kept up with me through it all. Might I add? No shin splint pain afterward. These shoes really are a big deal.
Another major selling point is the shoe’s thick, trampoline-like sole. The grippy bottoms offer traction on treadmill belts, ellipticals, and the weight room floor. Each step I take is made out of trust because I know that the rigid soles have got me covered. I also have no doubt that they’d be an asset during outdoor and trail runs.
What activities are the Asics Novablast 3LE best for?
The brand recommends the Novablasts 3LE for running, and I agree that these shoes were designed for racking up the miles. However, that’s not to say you can’t do other activities. These kicks offer ample cushioning and support for walks, jumping rope, HIIT workouts, and more. Because of this, I’d recommend these shoes for long-distance runners, people who battle shin splint pain, and walkers.
Final thoughts
Shin splints can feel like a chronic condition if not properly taken care of, but these shoes give shin splint prevention a whole new meaning. The air-like and bouncy sole absorbs shock, the midsole offers ample support, and it’s lightweight, so you don’t feel like this pair will ever bog you down. Runners and fitness enthusiasts will appreciate having a pair like the Novablast 3LE in their closets because you’ll get to run without the vexing pain. Since sliding these puppies on my feet, they’ve made movement more enjoyable and worry-free, and I’m beyond grateful for that.