Finding a running shoe that does everything well is the dream of any popular runner and any pocket. Can you imagine being able to buy just one model that you can use for your leisurely runs, for the days of series or changes of pace, for a 10k or a marathon and all this without spending more than 150€? At RUNNEA we truly believe it's possible. It's not going to be the fastest shoe, nor the most comfortable, nor the most cushioned, but it will deliver in all those aspects. So, the challenge of this review is to find the most balanced shoe of 2025. A shoe that's good for light weekday mileage, responsive if you do a change of pace or fartlek, won't fall short on a long run, and will stand the test of time without having to buy new running shoes three months down the road. With that as a starting point, we've compared three of the most complete shoes on the market in 2025: Asics Novablast 5, Adidas Supernova Rise 2 and Nike Pegasus 41 Three daily training models that aspire to be that one shoe that doesn't force you to have more pairs in your closet.
Asics Novablast 5: a shoe with rebound, comfort and much more stability than before.
The Novablast line has been, since its launch, the most different shoe in the Asics catalogue. It has always been somewhere between the comfort of a daily trainer and the liveliness of a tempo shoe. And in this fifth version, Asics has tried to refine its approach even more. Although I think each new version is a little slower than the last. Sorry, I just fell in love with the Asics Novablast 3 .
- Cushioning: the Novablast 5 uses FF Blast+ ECO foam, a lighter and more sustainable version of the previous FF Blast+. It has a high profile (415 rear / 335 front) that offers a soft and very protective underfoot feel. Not a soft shoe, but very cushioned.
- Stability: much improved compared to versions 2 and 3. The base is wider and the heel geometry is flatter, which offers more security on landings. Still not ideal for runners with severe overpronation.
- Weight: 264 g in size 42, with a lighter feel thanks to its rebound.
- Drop: 8 mm, which gives a very natural feel.
- Upper: very ventilated, thin and with a good fit. The heel is more supportive and there is less "floating" sensation.
- Durability: good. The AHAR+ sole is not the most aggressive, but it resists intensive use well.
- Price: 150 €, and it is difficult to find it below that price because it is a very popular shoe. But at RUNNEA you can set up an alert in case it drops in price.
Ideal for: runners between 65 and 85 kg who are looking for a very comfortable, protective shoe with a reactive tread for use in all types of sessions: from light runs to fartleks or half marathons.
Not your shoe: If you prioritize a faster shoe and are not convinced by a maximalist midsole.
The Asics Novablast 5 is the closest to the concept of a single shoe for all types of use and distances, even for marathon preparation.
Adidas Supernova Rise 2: the most balanced in all respects
This is Adidas' big bet to reach the popular runner. The Supernova Rise 2 has been designed to offer a complete experience without standing out in any aspect but without detracting in any area. And that is its great virtue: it is not the fastest, nor the softest, nor the firmest, nor the most cushioned, but it delivers in all areas. To put a but, the tongue should be "fastened" on the sides and not only on the lower part of the tongue.
- Cushioning: the Dreamstrike+ foam is very pleasant, with a similar feel to Lightstrike Pro but more controlled. It is soft without being unstable. There is good protection without excessive rebound.
- Stability: excellent. The heel support system - shaped like a sort of internal cradle - adds firmness without stiffness. It is a very secure shoe at both slow and medium paces.
- Weight: 275 g in size 42. Feels balanced, neither light nor heavy.
- Drop: 10 mm. Very classic, easy to adapt for all profiles.
- Upper: technical mesh with medium padding and good fit. The heel supports without squeezing.
- Durability: remarkable. The Continental sole is a guarantee of traction and resistance.
- Price: 140 €, and it can already be found for less than 110 €.
Ideal for: Runners looking for an all-around model, without extremes, that they can use frequently and in all types of workouts with paces between 4:45 and 6:00/km.
To avoid: if you need a lot of response or you like a very lively stride.
The Adidas Supernova Rise 2 is the most balanced. It is the ideal shoe for those who just want to have a pair and forget about complications. It provides protection, control, good fit and good durability. If you like the middle ground, this is the shoe for you.
Nike Pegasus 41: the liveliest and fastest of the trio.
Nike has completely redesigned its most iconic model. The Pegasus 41 gains a new ReactX foam, which improves reactivity while reducing environmental impact. It is firmer and more reactive than the other two, and is the only one with a visible air unit in the forefoot.
- Cushioning: with 37 mm in the heel and 27 mm in the forefoot, it offers a firm yet protective ride. The feel is drier than in Novablast or Supernova, but quicker in transition.
- Stability: correct, but not outstanding. At low paces it can be somewhat demanding.
- Weight: 258 g. The lightest of the 3
- Drop: 10 mm. A classic drop that allows you to land both heel and midfoot.
- Upper: lightweight technical mesh, with gusseted tongue and ergonomic collar.
- Durability: excellent. Very resistant and uniform sole.
- Price: 140 €. But in RUNNEA you can already find it even below 100 €.
Ideal for: lighter or experienced runners who want a lively shoe for training, long series or even racing without a plate.
To avoid if: you're looking for a soft, highly cushioned or gentler shoe for quiet days.
The Nike Pegasus 41 is the one that most encourages you to run fast. It offers more responsiveness than the other two and is perfect if you already come from agile models and want to keep that sparkle point without giving up protection.
So which is the most versatile shoe?
If you want a shoe for everything and you train at moderate paces: Adidas Supernova Rise 2
It is the most versatile, stable, comfortable and with a neutral cushioning that serves for rolling, long runs or even compete at calm rhythms.
If you value comfort more and you do many kilometers: Asics Novablast 5
Softer, with more rebound and better response over long distances. The one that most resembles a mixed shoe while still being a daily trainer.
If you come from fast shoes and want something more cushioned but with spark: Nike Pegasus 41
It is the firmest, most lively, and the one that performs best at sub 4:30/km paces. It is not the most comfortable in terms of sensations, but it is the one that comes closest to a multipurpose use if you are a runner who likes livelier paces.
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