Asics Novablast 3 vs Saucony Triumph 20: Maximalist Trainers Compared

Introduction

When two premium trainers sit at the top of the same category, the differences come down to how each one wants you to run. The Asics Novablast 3 and the Saucony Triumph 20 are both maximalist trainers with tall cushioning stacks, but they are built for noticeably different days on the roads.

The Novablast 3 comes in at 8.9 ounces, with 38 millimeters of heel stack and 30 millimeters in the forefoot, riding on Asics’ FF Blast Plus midsole. The Triumph 20 weighs 9.7 ounces, offers 37 millimeters of heel and 27 millimeters of forefoot stack for a 10 millimeter drop, and uses Saucony’s PWRRUN+ midsole. Both keep you high off the ground with plenty of cushion underfoot.

Two Maximalist Trainers, Two Personalities

Both shoes share a nice bit of bounce and a good amount of give, and both sit well above the ground with generous cushioning. The real question is what kind of running you want them for. The Novablast 3 feels more performance-oriented, while the Triumph 20 leans into daily training and comfort.

The deciding factor is pace. One of these shoes is happiest when your long run drifts a little faster than usual. The other is at its best when the plan says easy miles and time on your feet.

Asics Novablast 3: The Lighter, Bouncier Option

The FF Blast Plus midsole in the Novablast 3 feels a little firmer than its predecessor, but it keeps plenty of poppy bounce through the forefoot. Combined with a beveled heel and slight toe spring, and rigidity up front without a plate, the shoe delivers a lot of propulsion feel when you push the pace. It is also about a full ounce lighter than the Triumph, and that shows in the ride.

The upper is thinner and more synthetic feeling, with limited stretch, but it remains comfortable and dials in well. A slightly stretchy tongue locks down effectively through the whole shoe, and the width runs normal with a possibly slightly narrow toe box. Overall, everything about the Novablast 3 feels more performance-esque than its stack might suggest.

Saucony Triumph 20: The Plush Daily Trainer

The PWRRUN+ midsole gives the Triumph 20 a softer feel underfoot than the Novablast’s foam, though it does not quite match the forefoot rebound. The higher 10 millimeter drop contributes to a more balanced ride that feels distinctly daily-training rather than race-day.

The Triumph line has long occupied the premium trainer space, and this version is plush all around while still feeling a bit more streamlined through the midfoot. Small pieces along the lacing system pull the material in for a more locked-down fit. The outsole carries more rubber coverage with good traction, which makes it feel great for long mileage runs and extended time on your feet, without fully giving up its bounce.

Which One Should You Buy?

If your day includes up-tempo work, such as a steady-state long run or a long aerobic effort at slightly faster than easy paces, the Novablast 3 is the better match. Its lighter weight and forefoot pop reward anything above a recovery shuffle.

The Triumph 20 is the pick for easy, relaxed miles and long time on your feet. It can pick up the pace over the final stretch of a run, but it is not the ideal choice for threshold sessions or long tempo days at significantly faster paces.

Conclusion

Both of these maximalist trainers deliver plenty of cushion and a fun, bouncy ride. Choose the Asics Novablast 3 if you want a lighter shoe with more energy for quicker efforts, and the Saucony Triumph 20 if plush, balanced comfort for everyday miles matters most.