As an avid runner always on the hunt for a shoe that balances comfort and performance, I was excited to get my hands on the ASICS Women’s Dynablast 5. With a reputation for delivering a responsive ride at a great value, this sneaker has been on my radar for a while.
As a neutral runner who logs anywhere from three to five miles on an average day, my ideal shoe needs to be lightweight, breathable, and able to handle the varied demands of my daily routine, from a quick tempo run to a steady, easy jog.
After unboxing the Dynablast 5, my first impression was its clean, streamlined design and the promise of a plush yet bouncy feel underfoot. The engineered jacquard mesh upper felt soft and pliable to the touch, and the shoe felt surprisingly light.
I was particularly eager to test out the highly touted FF BLAST™ PLUS cushioning, which ASICS claims provides a trampoline-like bounce. My goal was to see if this shoe could live up to the hype and become my new go-to daily trainer. Over the next few weeks, I put it through its paces to see how it performs in the real world.
As a dedicated runner with a keen eye for technical details, I’ve had the pleasure of putting the ASICS Women’s Dynablast 5 through its paces. This shoe enters a highly competitive market segment the lightweight daily trainer a category that demands a delicate balance of cushioning, responsiveness, and versatility.
My review is based on over 100 miles of running on various surfaces, including pavement, light gravel, and treadmills, and covers the shoe’s technical specifications and on-the-run performance in extensive detail.
Comparision
| Feature / Attribute | ASICS Women’s Dynablast 5 | On Men’s Cloudmonster 2 | Topo Men’s Ultraventure 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best For / Strengths | Maximalist cushioning, great shock absorption, durable, affordable for beginners | Daily training; roomy, stable, highly cushioned, strong durability | Long-distance trail & road-to-trail runs; ultra-comfortable, wide fit, refined upper, plush cushioning |
| Pros | Excellent shock absorption, high durability, breathable upper | Premium materials, spacious toe box, stable ride, excels in long runs | Plush ride, refined upper, reliable traction, highly comfortable fit |
| Cons | Lower energy return, heavier than predecessor, low-volume toe box | Needs improved breathability, thin tongue, heavy, lower energy return | Not for technical terrain, modest breathability, may absorb water when wet |
| Audience Score | N/A (insufficient data) | 89 – Great! (Top 29% road / neutral shoes) | N/A (more niche, fewer aggregated reviews) |
| Price | ~$120 | ~$180 (premium trainer) | ~$150 |
| Variants (Colors / Editions) | Multiple colorways; improved padded heelcup over Novablast; ortholite insole | Multiple colorways; but fit runs roomy some recommend sizing down half | Available in three colors; slight upper update from predecessor; same midsole/outsole |
| Technology Highlights | Engineered jacquard mesh, FF Blast Plus foam, OrthoLite X-30 sockliner, AHAR LO outsole | Dual-density EVA foam, nylon Speedboard, CloudTec® pods, high stack (35/29 mm), 6 mm drop | ZipFoam midsole (more bouncy), Vibram XS Trek EVO outsole, ultra-wide platform, 5 mm drop |
Upper Construction and Fit
The upper of the Dynablast 5 is crafted from a soft, engineered jacquard mesh. This material is a significant point of interest, as it’s designed to provide targeted zones of breathability and support without the use of excessive overlays.
When first handling the shoe, the mesh feels supple and premium, a departure from the stiffer, more structured uppers of some of its predecessors.
This pliability immediately suggests a comfortable, adaptive fit. During my runs, this proved to be true. The mesh conformed to the shape of my foot, minimizing pressure points and allowing for natural foot flexion.
The large perforations across the toebox and midfoot were highly effective, ensuring excellent airflow even on warmer training days, which is a critical factor for long-term comfort.
The tongue of the shoe is integrated into the upper and is lightly padded, which provides a comfortable buffer against the laces. This design helps to prevent any unwanted pressure on the top of the foot and contributes to a secure lockdown.
The lacing system itself is straightforward and effective, with reinforced eyelets that distribute tension evenly across the instep. I never experienced any lace bite or the need to stop and readjust my laces.\
The heel counter, while not overly rigid, provides a confident and stable hold, cradling the heel without causing irritation to the Achilles. The internal padding around the collar is sufficient, locking the foot into place and preventing any unwanted heel slip.
This secure fit is a testament to ASICS’s meticulous engineering, ensuring that the foot feels locked down and ready to perform from the first stride. The combination of the flexible mesh, padded tongue, and secure heel counter makes for an upper that is both comfortable and performance-oriented, striking an excellent balance.
Midsole Technology and Ride
The heart of the Dynablast 5 is its FF BLAST™ PLUS cushioning, a supercritical foam engineered to provide a soft, yet highly energetic ride. Unlike traditional EVA foams, FF BLAST™ PLUS is created by injecting gas into the material, which results in a lighter, more responsive, and more durable midsole.
This technology is the source of the shoe’s “trampoline-inspired bounce” and is what gives the Dynablast 5 its unique character.
On the road, this feels less like a cushion and more like a propulsion system. With each footfall, the foam compresses and then quickly rebounds, providing a noticeable pop-off the ground. This energy return feels lively and encourages a quicker cadence, making it easy to pick up the pace when desired.
The stack height of the Dynablast 5, combined with its 8mm heel drop, contributes to a well-balanced and versatile ride. The cushioning is substantial enough to absorb impact and protect the joints, but it’s not so high that it feels unstable or disconnected from the ground.
The 8mm drop facilitates a more natural midfoot strike, which can be beneficial for reducing strain on the knees and hips.
In practice, the shoe provides a smooth heel-to-toe transition that feels efficient and fluid. The ride is firm yet forgiving, offering a level of comfort that extends well into double-digit mileage.
For a shoe that is so focused on responsiveness, its ability to maintain a high level of comfort over longer distances is truly impressive. It’s a testament to the engineering of the FF BLAST™ PLUS foam.
The use of the OrthoLite™ X-30 sockliner further enhances the experience, providing an immediate step-in comfort that feels luxurious and inviting. This initial plushness is a welcoming touch that sets the stage for the dynamic ride to come.
Outsole and Durability
The outsole is constructed from AHAR™ LO (ASICS High Abrasion Rubber with a low density), a durable compound designed to withstand the rigors of road running. The strategic placement of this rubber on high-wear areas ensures longevity without adding unnecessary weight.
The traction pattern features a series of grooves and lugs that provide reliable grip on both dry and wet pavement. I tested this on a variety of surfaces and found the grip to be confident and secure, even when navigating slick, rain-soaked asphalt.
The rubber itself is flexible enough to work in tandem with the midsole, allowing the shoe to bend and flex naturally with the foot.
After more than 100 miles, the outsole shows minimal signs of wear. The high-abrasion rubber is living up to its name, and the traction pattern is still intact. This is a crucial detail for a daily trainer, as it directly impacts the shoe’s lifespan and overall value.
The durability of the outsole, combined with the resilient FF BLAST™ PLUS foam, suggests that the Dynablast 5 is a shoe that will hold up well over hundreds of miles, providing consistent performance run after run. This longevity is a key selling point for runners who want to get the most out of their investment.
Performance Analysis
The Dynablast 5’s true strength lies in its versatility. It excels as a daily trainer, providing a cushioned and comfortable ride for easy, conversational-paced runs. The lively FF BLAST™ PLUS foam makes these routine miles feel effortless and enjoyable.
For tempo runs and faster-paced workouts, the shoe truly shines. The responsive nature of the midsole provides the necessary pop to push the pace, and the lightweight design prevents any feeling of being bogged down.
I found that I could easily transition from a steady jog to a faster pace and feel confident in the shoe’s ability to keep up.
For long runs, the Dynablast 5 provides a surprising amount of protection. While it doesn’t have the maximal cushioning of a shoe like the GEL-Nimbus, its responsive and protective midsole is more than sufficient for half-marathon distances and beyond, depending on the runner’s preference.
The comfort of the upper and the lightweight feel of the shoe also make it an excellent choice for longer efforts, as it helps to reduce foot fatigue.
The shoe’s overall performance profile makes it a one-stop-shop for a runner’s training week, capable of handling everything from a recovery day to a fast-finish long run. This versatility makes it a valuable asset in any runner’s shoe rotation.
Comparison to Competitor
When placed alongside its competitors, the Dynablast 5 carves out a unique niche. It’s often compared to shoes like the Brooks Launch and the New Balance FuelCell Rebel, all of which fall into the lightweight, responsive daily trainer category.
Compared to the Brooks Launch, the Dynablast 5 offers a more cushioned and energetic ride, as the Launch tends to be firmer and more traditional in its feel.
Against the New Balance FuelCell Rebel, which is known for its aggressive responsiveness, the Dynablast 5 feels a bit more structured and stable, making it a more versatile and forgiving option for daily training.
While the Rebel is a fantastic shoe for speed, the Dynablast 5 is arguably a better all-arounder. The Dynablast 5’s FF BLAST™ PLUS foam is a standout feature that gives it a distinct advantage in terms of energy return and cushioning-to-weight ratio.
Within the ASICS family, the Dynablast 5 is often considered the more dynamic alternative to the plush GEL-Nimbus. While the Nimbus is the king of comfort and protection for long distances, the Dynablast 5 offers a more lively and fun ride.
It’s also a great stepping stone from the more traditional GT-2000 or GEL-Kayano, offering a taste of modern foam technology in a neutral, lightweight package.
Sizing and Fit
The ASICS Dynablast 5 fits true to size, which simplifies the purchasing process. I recommend ordering your usual running shoe size. The toe box is accommodating and provides enough width for natural foot swelling during longer runs without feeling sloppy.
The midfoot and heel are secure, locking the foot into place and preventing any unwanted movement. The shoe’s lacing system allows for a customizable fit, and runners with slightly wider feet may find the mesh upper flexible enough to accommodate them without needing to size up.
Sustainabilit
ASICS has made a conscious effort to incorporate sustainable practices into the Dynablast 5. The shoe’s main upper material is made with at least 50% recycled materials, which helps to reduce waste and carbon emissions.
Additionally, the sockliner is produced with a solution dyeing process that significantly reduces water usage and carbon emissions compared to conventional dyeing methods.
While these are just small steps, they are important ones and show a commitment to environmental responsibility that is becoming increasingly important to consumers.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Lively and Bouncy Ride
- Lightweight and Versatile
- Excellent Breathability
- Durable Outsole
- Great Value
Cons:
- Not a Stability Shoe
- Cushioning Preference
Why should choose ASICS Women’s Dynablast 5
The ASICS Women’s Dynablast 5 stands out as a top choice for a daily trainer because it perfectly balances comfort, energy, and versatility in a lightweight package.
Unlike some shoes that sacrifice responsiveness for plushness, the Dynablast 5’s FF BLAST™ PLUS cushioning provides a lively, bouncy ride that makes every run feel more energetic and fun, all while offering excellent protection from impact.
Its durable and grippy outsole ensures it can handle high mileage, while the breathable engineered mesh upper keeps your feet cool and comfortable from the first mile to the last.
This combination of a dynamic ride and reliable durability makes it an exceptional value, serving as the ideal workhorse for your daily training, tempo runs, and even long distances without weighing you down.
FAQs
How does the shoe’s breathability hold up on a warm day or during an intense workout?
The engineered mesh upper provides excellent breathability. Even during intense workouts on warmer days, the shoe does a great job of venting heat and keeping your feet feeling cool and dry. The material allows for air to flow through freely, which is a major comfort benefit.
How secure does the shoe feel around the heel and midfoot? Is there any noticeable slippage?
The fit around the heel and midfoot is very secure. The lacing system and the snug-fitting upper lock the foot in place, preventing any heel slippage. This secure fit helps contribute to the shoe’s overall stability and efficient energy transfer.
Who is the ideal runner for the ASICS Dynablast 5? What is their fitness level and running style?
The ideal runner is a neutral runner who wants a versatile shoe for a variety of workouts. They could be a beginner looking for a comfortable and responsive first shoe or an experienced runner seeking a lightweight daily trainer for easy runs and tempo efforts. They likely appreciate a lively, bouncy feel over a maximalist, plush ride.
What is the single most compelling selling point of this sneaker?
Its single most compelling selling point is its incredible balance. It perfectly marries lightweight design, energetic cushioning from the FF BLAST™ PLUS foam, and reliable comfort, making it a go-to choice for almost any run.
Final Thought
In a crowded market, the ASICS Women’s Dynablast 5 stands out as a top-tier lightweight daily trainer. It’s a shoe that doesn’t just promise a lively ride it delivers one.
The combination of its lightweight design, responsive FF BLAST™ PLUS cushioning, and durable outsole makes it a reliable and fun shoe for any runner’s arsenal. It’s the perfect choice for the runner who wants a versatile, energetic shoe that can handle a variety of paces and distances.
Whether you’re a new runner looking for a comfortable and responsive entry point or a seasoned veteran seeking a dynamic daily workhorse, the Dynablast 5 is a compelling option that lives up to its name and reputation.
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