New Balance vs ASICS vs Nike: 7 Key Differences

3. Weight and flexibility characteristics

How heavy and flexible a shoe feels affects pacing, fatigue, and comfort. In independent testing, the ASICS Novablast 5 came in around 9.0 ounces (about 254 grams) for a men’s standard size and showed strong flexibility metrics. RunRepeat flagged it as both lightweight for its cushion and notably flexible through the forefoot, a balance many recreational runners appreciate. Nike manages to keep flexibility while adding responsive elements like embedded Zoom units. The Pegasus 41 tests showed above-average flexibility paired with a lively ride—useful for tempo runs and everyday mileage when you want energetic feedback. New Balance’s weight and flexibility vary greatly by model: some FuelCell racers aim for low grams and stiff plate-like responses, while Fresh Foam models favor a softer, sometimes heavier feel for stable cushioning. If you chase PRs, look at weight-to-cushion ratios and flexible forefoot designs that support quick toe-off. If comfort wins, a slightly heavier but more flexible shoe with higher midsole volume may reduce fatigue over long distances. Ultimately, model specs matter as much as brand reputation.