I’ve always had a bit of a love/hate relationship with trail running. Don’t get me wrong, I adore the slower pace and the gorgeous views, but it’s staying upright I struggle with! Sometimes I just get frustrated at how slowly I’m moving. Send me out on technical trails and I’ll be out there all week… just trying not to faceplant!
Finding the Perfect Hybrid Running Shoe
For me, the ideal run mixes road with a touch of light trail. This way, I can pick up the pace on the road while taking it easier on the trail sections, stopping for a picture or two along the way. That’s why the ASICS Novablast 3 TR immediately caught my eye. In addition, it’s a hybrid shoe designed for runners like me who love a mix of surfaces without committing fully to trail shoes.
Introducing the ASICS Novablast 3 TR
Part of the ASICS NATURE BATHING™ Collection, the Novablast 3 TR is inspired by the Japanese practice of “shirin yoku” – or forest bathing – and its calming colourway reflects nature’s tones. Meanwhile, the trail-specific outsole makes it functional off-road, while the updated upper improves comfort and reduces weight.
Essentially, the TR is a road Novablast 3 with an upgraded outsole for off-road durability. Although it’s not a hardcore trail shoe like the GEL-Trabuco, but it sits perfectly in that road-to-trail category – which is exactly what I was after.
Key Features and Tech Specs
- Jacquard Mesh Upper: Comfortable, supportive, and breathable.
- Heel Stabilizer: Keeps your stride balanced and secure.
- Gusseted Tongue Wing Fit System: Reduces tongue sliding and improves midfoot fit.
- FF BLAST™ PLUS Cushioning: Lightweight cushioning with a springy, responsive feel.
- Trampoline-Inspired Outsole: Adds a lively bounce to each stride.
- AHAR™ Outsole: Durable, ready for varied surfaces.
- Sustainable Materials: 75% of the main upper is recycled, reducing waste and carbon footprint.
- Eco-Friendly Dyeing: Sock liner made with a process that uses ~33% less water and ~45% fewer carbon emissions.
- Reflective Details: Keep you visible in low-light conditions.
- Trail-Specific Outsole: Optimised grip for light off-road surfaces.
Testing the Novablast 3 TR
I took these shoes on a week-long running trip to Portugal, covering dusty trails, roads, and even a track session, and they performed beautifully. Back home, I put them through their paces on my local trails. Smooth, stable, and surprisingly adaptable, they transitioned easily from mud to gravel paths to pavement.
They’re definitely more of a road-to-trail shoe than a hardcore trail trainer. However, for my local parkrun, which is roughly two-thirds trail, one-third road, they’ve been perfect. Lightweight, bouncy, and supportive – exactly what I look for in a hybrid shoe.
Pros and Cons of the Novablast 3 TR
Pros
- Versatile hybrid for road and light trails.
- Reliable grip across a range of surfaces.
- Comfortable, snug fit – an upgrade from the slightly loose Novablast 2.
- Lightweight, responsive, and fun to run in.
Cons
- Slightly heavier than the road-only Novablast 3.
- Not designed for technical, rugged trails – GEL-Trabuco is better suited here.
Is the Novablast 3 TR right for you?
If you’re a runner who enjoys variety – mixing road runs with light trail adventures – the ASICS Novablast 3 TR is a brilliant choice. It’s supportive, versatile, and just the right amount of bouncy, making every run feel enjoyable. Whether you’re an experienced runner or just starting out, this shoe could easily become your go-to trainer.
Ambassador note: ASICS gifted me these shoes as part of their frontrunner programme.
