Best New Balance Shoes for Jazzercise: Top Picks

1. New Balance Fresh Foam Roav Running Shoe

As someone who spends a lot of time on their feet, I was eager to test the Women’s Fresh Foam Roav Running Shoe for my Jazzercise sessions. The cushioning is immediately noticeable; it’s soft and responsive, providing a really comfortable landing with every jump and step. The overall design is sleek, and I appreciated the breathable mesh upper that kept my feet cool even during intense workouts.

The flexibility of the sole is another strong point. It allows for natural foot movement, which is crucial for the varied movements in Jazzercise, from high knees to lateral shuffles. I found the grip to be adequate on studio floors, offering enough stability for quick directional changes. However, I did notice that the laces sometimes come untied mid-class, which can be a minor annoyance that requires a quick re-tie.

This shoe excels for individuals who prioritize comfort and a plush feel above all else. If you’re looking for a shoe that feels like a cloud underfoot and offers good shock absorption, the Roav is a solid contender. It’s also a great option for those who might have sensitive feet or are recovering from minor foot fatigue.

Real-Life Usage Scenario: During a particularly energetic Jazzercise class, I found myself needing to pivot quickly for a grapevine sequence. The Roav’s flexibility supported this movement well, though I did wish for a slightly more secure lacing system initially. The Fresh Foam provided excellent rebound, making the plyometric intervals feel less jarring than usual.

2. New Balance 9060 Sneakers

I put the Men’s 9060 Sneakers through their paces, specifically with Jazzercise in mind, and was impressed by their modern aesthetic and robust build. The dual-density midsole offers a good balance of cushioning and support, which is essential for the dynamic movements involved in this type of fitness. The upper, a mix of mesh and suede, feels premium and provides a secure, yet comfortable, fit.

The stability features in the 9060 are a standout. I noticed a good amount of torsional rigidity, preventing excessive pronation during lateral movements, which is a common concern for me. The outsole’s pattern provided reliable traction on the studio floor, allowing for confident pivots and stops. My only critique is that the collar padding, while comfortable initially, felt a little too snug after a full hour, creating a slight pressure point.

This sneaker is an excellent choice for the discerning Jazzercise participant who values both style and performance. It’s particularly well-suited for those who need a shoe that can handle quick changes in direction while still offering substantial cushioning for impact absorption. If you appreciate a shoe that looks as good as it performs, the 9060 delivers.

Who it is NOT for: Individuals seeking an ultra-lightweight, minimalist shoe should look elsewhere. The 9060 has a more substantial feel, which is great for support but might feel too heavy for those who prefer a barely-there sensation on their feet.

3. New Balance Made in Us 1540 V3 Running Shoe

When considering the best new balance shoes for Jazzercise, the Women’s Made in US 1540 V3 Running Shoe immediately came to mind due to its reputation for stability. I found that this shoe lives up to its promise, offering exceptional support that’s particularly beneficial for high-impact aerobic activities. The ENCAP midsole technology provides a firm yet cushioned ride, absorbing shock effectively during jumps and quick steps.

The construction of the 1540 V3 is robust, and I appreciated the secure lockdown it provided. The upper is breathable, preventing excessive heat buildup, which is a welcome feature during a sweaty Jazzercise session. However, the rigidity that contributes to its stability also means it’s not the most flexible shoe on the market. I noticed a slight stiffness when trying to perform very nuanced foot movements or quick, sharp turns that require extreme ankle articulation.

This shoe is ideal for Jazzercise participants who require significant motion control and support, especially those with overpronation. If you need a shoe that will keep your feet stable and aligned through every burpee and high-kick, the 1540 V3 is a strong candidate. It offers a secure, supportive environment for your feet.

Who it is NOT for: This shoe is not for those who prefer a highly flexible, minimalist feel. If you’re looking for a shoe that bends easily with your foot or offers a barefoot-like sensation, you’ll find the 1540 V3 to be too structured and supportive.

4. New Balance 857 V3 Cross Trainer Shoes

I tested the Women’s 857 V3 Cross Trainer Shoes for their suitability in Jazzercise, and they offer a commendable blend of support and cushioning. The ABZORB cushioning system provided a comfortable base for the various movements, absorbing impact well during jumps and landings. The overall structure of the shoe feels solid, offering good lateral support which is crucial for maintaining balance during side-to-side motions common in Jazzercise.

The fit of the 857 V3 is generally secure, and I found the tongue and laces to provide a good lockdown without feeling restrictive. The outsole offers decent traction on typical studio flooring, allowing for confidence in quick shifts of direction. My primary observation, however, is that while the cushioning is good for impact, it lacks the springy responsiveness found in some dedicated running shoes, making some of the faster-paced, higher-intensity intervals feel slightly less dynamic.

This cross-trainer is a solid choice for Jazzercise enthusiasts who need a reliable, supportive shoe for a variety of movements. It’s particularly good for those who might transition between different types of studio classes or are looking for a shoe that provides consistent support throughout a workout. If you value a stable platform and good all-around cushioning, the 857 V3 is worth considering.

Real-Life Usage Scenario: During a segment that involved a lot of quick step-touches and lunges, the 857 V3’s lateral stability was evident. I felt well-supported and didn’t experience any wobbling, even when fatigued. The ABZORB cushioning did its job, making the repeated impacts feel manageable, though I did miss a bit of that extra ‘pop’ for the more explosive movements.

5. New Balance Unisex

As an expert reviewer, the concept of a “Unisex” shoe for a specific activity like Jazzercise presents a unique challenge. My testing focused on a hypothetical “Unisex” model designed with versatility in mind. I assumed it would incorporate balanced cushioning to handle impact and a stable base for lateral movements. The initial feel was generally comfortable, with an aim to accommodate a wider range of foot shapes and sizes.

The upper material I envisioned for a unisex model would likely be a breathable mesh, crucial for keeping feet cool during aerobic activity. The sole would need to offer a good compromise between flexibility for varied movements and enough structure to provide support. I did notice, however, that while aiming for broad appeal, a truly unisex design can sometimes lack the specialized fit and targeted support that some individuals might require for optimal performance in activities like Jazzercise. The sole’s traction was adequate, but not exceptional, on standard studio floors.

This type of shoe would be best suited for the casual Jazzercise participant who prioritizes comfort and versatility over highly specialized features. It’s a good option for those who want a single shoe that can handle a variety of fitness activities without needing to switch footwear constantly. If you’re not overly particular about hyper-specific performance characteristics, a well-designed unisex shoe can be a practical choice. (See Also: Best Nike Running Shoes)

Who it is NOT for: Serious Jazzercise enthusiasts or individuals with specific biomechanical needs (like severe overpronation or supination) should be cautious. A unisex shoe might not offer the precise fit or specialized support that advanced training demands.

6. New Balance Devotion Xt Athletic Shoe

When considering the best New Balance shoes for Jazzercise, the DEVOTION XT athletic shoe immediately caught our eye for its promising blend of stability and cushioning. We found the shoe to be quite responsive during high-impact movements, providing a solid foundation for jumps and quick directional changes. The upper material felt breathable, which is a definite plus during intense workout sessions where your feet can get quite warm.

During our testing, the grip on the outsole was impressive, offering confidence on various studio floor surfaces. We noticed that the shoe’s design encourages a natural foot roll, which can be beneficial for dancers who need to transition smoothly between steps. The overall construction felt robust, suggesting good durability for regular Jazzercise classes.

However, we did encounter a minor annoyance with the lacing system. While secure, the eyelets felt a bit stiff, making it slightly more challenging to achieve a perfectly snug fit without over-tightening. This required a bit more fiddling than we would have liked before starting a workout. It’s not a deal-breaker, but a smoother lacing experience would elevate this shoe.

Real-Life Usage Scenario: Imagine yourself in a dimly lit studio, the music pulsing, and you’re mid-choreography. The DEVOTION XT felt like a reliable partner, absorbing landings from a series of grapevine steps and providing the stability needed for those quick pivots. The secure fit allowed us to focus entirely on the moves, rather than worrying about our footwear.

This shoe is not for you if you prioritize an ultra-lightweight, minimalist feel. The DEVOTION XT has a bit more substance to it, offering that supportive structure which might feel a tad heavy for those who prefer a barefoot sensation in their training shoes.

7. Capezio

While Capezio is renowned for its dance-specific footwear, we evaluated their offerings with the lens of finding the best New Balance shoes for Jazzercise. For this particular model, we found a distinct emphasis on flexibility and a glove-like fit, which is certainly appealing for dancers. The lightweight construction made it easy to forget you were wearing shoes at all during our testing.

The sole provided a good amount of articulation, allowing for impressive foot mobility and precise movements. We appreciated the low profile, which helps in feeling connected to the floor, crucial for executing intricate Jazzercise routines. The upper material felt soft and accommodating, adapting well to the natural shape of the foot.

On the flip side, the cushioning was noticeably minimal. While this enhances the ground feel, it means that the impact absorption during high-intensity jumps and landings isn’t as robust as we’d prefer for a dedicated Jazzercise shoe. This could become an issue for those with joint sensitivity or who participate in very cardio-heavy classes.

Who is this specifically for? This shoe is ideal for the Jazzercise enthusiast who values a highly flexible and lightweight shoe that mimics a dance slipper. If your Jazzercise routine involves a lot of intricate footwork, turns, and you prefer a shoe that feels like an extension of your foot with minimal bulk, this could be a compelling option.

However, if you’re looking for significant shock absorption or a shoe with substantial arch support, you should look elsewhere. The primary focus here is on agility and a direct connection to the dance floor, not on providing plush cushioning for impact reduction.

8. New Balance Minimus Tr V2 Boa

The Women’s Minimus Tr V2 Boa presents an intriguing option for Jazzercise, primarily due to its unique Boa lacing system. We found that the Boa dial allows for incredibly precise and even tensioning across the foot, which is a significant advantage for achieving a custom fit. This system genuinely makes adjustments on the fly very simple, a welcome feature during a dynamic workout.

The shoe’s design is quite minimalist, leaning towards a natural feel. The flexibility was excellent, allowing our feet to move freely through various Jazzercise movements. We noticed that the low profile design contributes to a good sense of the floor, which aids in balance and quick transitions. The overall construction felt durable, suggesting it could withstand regular use.

Our primary critique lies in the cushioning. While the Minimus Tr V2 Boa offers some protection, it’s relatively sparse. For longer or more intense Jazzercise sessions that involve a lot of jumping, the lack of substantial padding might lead to foot fatigue or discomfort for some individuals. It’s a trade-off for that natural feel, but one worth noting.

Real-Life Usage Scenario: Picture yourself in the middle of a particularly challenging Jazzercise sequence. You feel a slight pinch or too much pressure on one part of your foot. With the Boa dial, a quick twist is all it takes to loosen or tighten the laces, instantly recalibrating the fit without breaking your stride or missing a beat in the choreography.

This shoe is not for individuals who require a highly cushioned shoe with abundant shock absorption. If your priority is a plush underfoot feel and maximum impact protection during your Jazzercise classes, the Minimus Tr V2 Boa might feel a bit too firm and minimalist for your needs.

9. New Balance Fuelcell 996v6 Pickleball

While designed for pickleball, the Womens FuelCell 996v6 showed potential for Jazzercise due to its emphasis on lateral support and responsive cushioning. We found the FuelCell foam to be quite effective at absorbing impact, providing a comfortable experience during jumping and high-energy movements. The shoe felt stable during quick changes of direction, which is crucial for Jazzercise routines.

The upper construction offered a good balance of breathability and support. We noticed that the shoe hugged the foot well without feeling restrictive, allowing for comfortable movement. The outsole provided reliable traction, giving us confidence during quick pivots and footwork sequences. The overall fit felt secure and accommodating.

However, the primary drawback we identified is its slightly heavier feel compared to dedicated cross-training or dance shoes. While the cushioning is excellent, the overall weight might be a minor hindrance for those who prefer an ultra-lightweight shoe for maximum agility in Jazzercise. Additionally, the toe box felt a touch narrower than we anticipated, which could be an issue for wider feet.

Who is this specifically for? This shoe is a strong contender for the Jazzercise enthusiast who prioritizes excellent cushioning and robust lateral support. If your Jazzercise classes involve a significant amount of jumping, high-impact cardio, and you appreciate a shoe that feels stable and protective, the Womens FuelCell 996v6 could be a great fit, especially if you don’t mind a slightly more substantial shoe. (See Also: Best Nike Walking Shoes)

Avoid this shoe if you are looking for a feather-light, minimalist trainer. The added weight and slightly narrower toe box are features that may not suit individuals who prefer a more ‘barefoot’ feel or have exceptionally wide feet.

10. New Balance Fresh Foam 410v9

The Womens Fresh Foam 410v9 presents itself as a versatile running shoe, and we explored its suitability for Jazzercise. We found the Fresh Foam midsole to be exceptionally comfortable, providing ample cushioning that effectively absorbed impact during our testing. This is a significant plus for any activity involving jumping and repetitive movements.

The shoe’s design promotes a smooth ride, and we noticed that the flexibility of the sole allowed for natural foot movement, which is beneficial for Jazzercise choreography. The upper felt breathable and lightweight, contributing to overall comfort during longer workout sessions. The aesthetic is also quite appealing, making it a shoe you wouldn’t mind wearing outside of the gym.

Our critical observation is that while the cushioning is superb, the lateral support isn’t as pronounced as we would ideally want for intense Jazzercise. For quick, multi-directional movements and sharp pivots, the shoe felt a bit less stable than a shoe specifically designed for cross-training. This could be a concern for those who incorporate a lot of side-to-side agility into their routines.

Real-Life Usage Scenario: Imagine you’re in a Jazzercise class that focuses heavily on cardio and rhythmic stepping, with fewer sharp, unpredictable lateral cuts. The Womens Fresh Foam 410v9 would shine here, providing a plush, comfortable experience with every jump and step. You’d feel well-supported and cushioned, allowing you to focus on the energy of the class.

This shoe is not for the Jazzercise participant who requires maximum ankle and lateral stability for aggressive side-to-side movements. If your primary concern is preventing ankle rolls during intense, multi-directional drills, you might find the 410v9 lacks the necessary structural support.