Upcoming Running Shoes Worth Watching: Nike, Asics and Hoka Preview

Introduction

A fresh batch of upcoming releases is on the horizon, with two new Nike iterations, a new Asics daily trainer and the next Hoka Mach. Here is what each one brings, and whether it earns a place on the watch list.

Nike React Miler 3

The React Miler series has always carried a thick slab of React foam underfoot, but the weight has been the sticking point: 321 grams in a UK size 9 is hefty. Version 3 brings plenty of upper changes, including a clip around the back of the heel, a removed pull tab, simplified last eyelets and a padded tongue. The overall upper appears closer to the Invincible Run, overlays on the lateral side included, and the outsole looks switched up to something nearer the Infinity Run approach.

The big unknown is which React formula Nike has chosen here, since some React shoes run very soft and others very firm. If it leans softer, this could make for a reliable, if weighty, long-run cruiser with a slightly higher drop than other current React shoes.

Nike React Infinity Run 3 Flyknit

This one feels like a spot-the-difference exercise. The Infinity Run 3 Flyknit keeps the same midsole and the same plastic heel clip wrapping through to the arch on both sides as previous versions, with a slightly more sculpted foam slab and a more arch-hugging Flyknit upper with flywires on either side.

The pitch is more foam and support around the heel, but in practice the update looks minimal beyond some tongue tweaks. That said, the previous versions worked well as solid daily shoes, so a tentative thumbs up to complete the trilogy.

Asics Novablast 3

The Novablast has a history of growing on you: the first version felt skeptical at first, then earned appreciation with mileage. Version 3 reportedly drops to around 245 grams for the men’s sample size, a significant weight reduction, while keeping the midsole stack and drop largely the same. The FF Blast foam is light enough that Asics can add foam around the back of the foot for stability without turning the shoe into a clog.

The carved midsole look leans into a cyberpunk aesthetic, and the mock-up profiles look genuinely striking, particularly the frosty white colorway and the red and orange alternative. Note that availability was expected around September 2022, so patience is required. The main question is whether the weight figures are accurate, since the midsole looks similar and the savings would have to come largely from the upper.

Hoka Mach 5

The Mach 5 builds on the Mach 4 with a more durable layer of EVA and a more responsive ProFly Plus layer on top. That new foam is the make-or-break element: whether it is meaningfully softer or springier than the original ProFly remains to be seen. The rubberized EVA in the Mach 4 was also a problem, starting to disintegrate after around 50 miles, so durability is another thing to watch.

The Mach 4 was a jack of all trades that did everything okay and nothing brilliantly, and at the UK launch price of £125 it faced stiff competition from more engaging shoes at similar or lower prices. Until the new foam proves itself, this looks like a very small incremental update.

Overall Buying Advice

If you want a cushioned long-run workhorse and prefer a softer ride, the React Miler 3 is the one to keep an eye on, with the caveat about weight. Loyal Infinity Run fans will likely be happy with version 3, though there is little new here. The Novablast 3 is the most intriguing update on paper thanks to its reported weight drop and striking design. The Mach 5 is the hardest call: if the Mach 4 suited you, it will probably continue to, but shoppers after excitement at that price point have alternatives.

Conclusion

Each of these four shoes serves a clear purpose: the Miler 3 for cushioned long miles, the Infinity Run 3 Flyknit as a dependable daily option, the Novablast 3 for a lighter bouncy ride, and the Mach 5 for Hoka faithfuls. Match the shoe to how you actually run, and wait for hands-on impressions where the foam formulas remain the open question.