The Novablast is a trainer designed to be versatile and have an energised ride. It's one of the most popular ASICS trainers because it's light, affordable and has a really modern design. It costs $140.

The Kayano is a top of the range stability trainer and is an ASICS classic. Runners love its high level of support, cushioning and its durability. It costs $165.

Which of these ASICS trainers is the right one for you?

The Kayano has an FF Blast+ Eco midsole but the Novablast midsole is made of FF Blast Max. The Novablast is firmer. The Novablast is more suited to uptempo runs such as tempo runs, intervals and races because it’s easier to pick up the pace in the Novablast.

The Kayano is more suited to slow runs such as easy and recovery runs because of its softer midsole. It’s also better for long runs because it has more long-distance comfort.

There’s a silicone gel pad inside the heel of the Kayano. This hidden gel is designed to absorb the shock when your feet strike the ground. The Novablast doesn’t have this gel.

The main difference between the sole units of the Novablast and the Kayano is that the Kayano has a more supportive ride. This is due to its wider base as well as its built up medial side to prevent excessive inward ankle rolling. Both trainers are supportive but the Kayano has a much higher level of support.

When it comes to outsole durability, the Kayano wins. It has a harder, more abrasion resistant version of AHAR. The softer AHAR LO of the Novablast has better traction but wears down faster.

The Novablast has a mesh upper which feels more modern than the traditional mesh on the Kayano. The Kayano has more padding in the tongue and collar which makes it feel more comfortable than the Novablast.

Both trainers have gusseted tongues that prevent them from sliding around.The fit of both trainers are true to size and they come in wide versions if the standard width is too narrow. The Novablast has a cooler upper due its thinner upper so it’s better for warm temperatures and racing.

If you are looking for a faster trainer for short distances, you should get the Novablast. It has a firmer ride which makes it easier to pick up the pace so it’s more suitable for tempo runs, intervals and races. It has a lighter build and it feels more agile than the Kayano.

If you want a supportive trainer for slow and long distances, get the Kayano. It has a wider base and it has a built up medial side to prevent overpronation. It also has a softer ride with more comfort which makes it better for easy runs, recovery runs and long runs.