Verdict
Head-to-head · Best Running Shoes for High Arches

ASICS Novablast vs Brooks Ghost 18

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

Brooks Ghost 18 comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.6 vs 4.7). The gap is mostly about high-arch heel strikers wanting Brooks reliability — read the strengths below before deciding.

ASICS Novablast
Ranked #3 in Best Running Shoes for High Arches
ASICS Novablast
$140

The Novablast is the lightweight high-arch pick — ASICS's energetic trainer for high arches who run faster.

Strengths
  • Lightweight + flexible
  • FF Blast+ Eco midsole
  • Lab-tested top high-arch pick
Watch-outs
  • Less cushion than Nimbus
  • Newer model less long-term data
  • Tongue thin
Brooks Ghost 18
Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Running Shoes for High Arches
Brooks Ghost 18
$140

The Ghost 18 is the Brooks high-arch pick — 10mm drop and DNA Loft v3 deliver heavenly cushion.

Strengths
  • 10mm heel-to-toe drop favors high arches
  • DNA Loft v3 midsole — heavenly cushion
  • Brooks' best-selling daily trainer
Watch-outs
  • Higher drop not for forefoot strikers
  • Heavier than racing shoes
  • Standard width less roomy than Nimbus

How they stack up

ASICS Novablast

Lighter than Nimbus. Faster trainer. Less cushion.

Brooks Ghost 18

10mm drop best for high arches. DNA Loft v3 cushion. Less roomy than Nimbus.

Specs side-by-side

SpecASICS NovablastBrooks Ghost 18
Drop8mm10mm
MidsoleFF Blast+ EcoDNA Loft v3
UseFaster trainerNeutral daily
BrandASICSBrooks
← See the full ranking of best running shoes for high arches