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Bandit is stepping into new territory with its first-ever footwear collab
Novablast 5 gets the Bandit creative treatment
$150, April 3 for Bandit Members, April 4 for general release
Bandit x Asics Novablast 5
Known for gear built around the spirit of running in New York City, and after a successful NYC Marathon capsule together with Asics titled “Sound Mind Your Business,” Bandit brings a fresh take to one of Asics’ most trusted daily trainers, the Novablast 5. It continues the motif inspiration from the previous partnership, but with a new campaign from outer space.
While some collaborations stick to the design script, keeping it safe with small flairs, the Bandit Novablast 5 definitely gets some major style upgrades, including a (very Satisfy-ish) tag on the top of the toe box.
This version of the Novablast 5 keeps the reliable structure runners love but with a sharper edge thanks to Bandit’s design lens, which, in my opinion, has been the best in the game since last year. It keeps the heavy influence from Japanese American sculptor Isamu Noguchi. His presence is felt in the abstract lines and contrasts between sheer and solid textures. The shoe’s knitted upper is layered with translucent no-sew overlays shaped like Bandit’s logo, the Current, creating subtle visual depth without extra weight.
The underfoot midsole composition remains the same, providing a smooth and buttery ride through the stride. At $150 it’s only $10 more than the standard version, meaning it’s still one of the best running shoes money buy.
There’s more than looks at play here. The eyelets take on a sculptural form, flowing into laces that undulate across the upper. A seamless heel and pleated tongue introduce both comfort and movement. Even the most minor details, like the gravel-like heel texture and speckled midsole, nod to the raw, layered energy of New York City—Bandit’s home turf.
Each pair comes with a custom Japanese ripstop drawstring bag with a translucent tag carrier. This thoughtful final touch mirrors the design philosophy behind the shoe itself: considered in form, grounded in motion.
The release is set for Thursday, April 3, for Bandit Members, with a general release set for the next day on the brand’s website. The shoe will also be available at Bandit’s physical locations in New York and Los Angeles.
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Alfredo is a runner, writer, creative director, and cultural analyst based in Berlin. After years as a casual runner, his move to Berlin transformed his running into a vital practice for mental health and a source of tranquility during cold, early morning runs. His interest in clothes comes from uniforms and sportswear, combined with a love for innovation and research—which might explain why he meticulously charts his winter running gear.
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Looks so cool and love the color scheme. One question, is the tag on the toe box floppy? If I buy these, I wanna run in them.