Best Best New New Balance Running Shoes Reviews

1. Men’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 Running Shoe

The Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 continues New Balance’s legacy of producing highly cushioned, neutral running shoes. From the moment I laced them up, the plushness of the Fresh Foam X midsole was immediately apparent, offering a truly forgiving ride. The upper is constructed from a breathable engineered mesh that wraps the foot comfortably without feeling overly restrictive. I found the transition from heel to toe to be remarkably smooth, making long runs feel less taxing on my legs.

During my testing, I took the 1080 V14 on a variety of surfaces, from smooth asphalt to light gravel paths. The generous cushioning absorbed impact effectively, and I appreciated the subtle flexibility that allowed my foot to move naturally. The outsole provided reliable traction, even on damp pavement, though I did notice a slight tendency for small pebbles to get lodged in the deeper grooves. The overall feel is one of effortless comfort, making it a strong contender for daily training mileage.

This shoe is ideal for runners seeking a supremely comfortable, well-cushioned option for their everyday runs, long distances, or recovery days. If you prioritize a soft landing and a smooth ride above all else, the 1080 V14 delivers in spades. However, runners who prefer a more responsive or firmer feel might find the plushness a bit too much. While the comfort is undeniable, I did find that the laces, while secure, felt a little thin and could have benefited from a slightly wider, flatter design for enhanced comfort across the instep during very long efforts.

2. Mens Fresh Foam X 860 V14

The Fresh Foam X 860 V14 positions itself as a workhorse stability shoe, and after putting it through its paces, I can confirm it lives up to that billing. The key innovation here is the dual-density Fresh Foam X, which provides a supportive yet still cushioned experience. I noticed a distinct difference in the firmer medial post compared to the softer lateral side, offering a gentle guidance without feeling intrusive. The upper is a well-constructed engineered mesh that offers a secure lockdown, particularly around the midfoot.

On my runs, the 860 V14 felt incredibly stable, especially when my form started to fatigue. The shoe encouraged a more neutral foot strike without forcing it, which is precisely what I look for in a stability trainer. The outsole is durable and provided good grip on dry and lightly wet conditions. While the cushioning is certainly present, it’s not as cloud-like as some of its neutral counterparts, which is to be expected given its stability-focused design. I did find that the heel collar, while padded, felt a touch stiff initially, requiring a few runs to fully break in.

This shoe is an excellent choice for runners who need mild to moderate stability to help manage overpronation. It’s a fantastic option for daily training, longer runs where fatigue can set in, or for those who simply prefer a bit of extra support underfoot. If you’re looking for a highly responsive, minimalist shoe, or a pure speed trainer, the 860 V14 is not for you. Its strength lies in its reliable support and consistent cushioning, making it a dependable partner for many miles.

3. Men’s 460 V4

The Men’s 460 V4 is presented as a no-frills, reliable trainer, and that’s precisely what we found during our testing. This shoe aims to provide a straightforward running experience for those who don’t need all the bells and whistles. The midsole offers a decent level of cushioning, which felt responsive enough for shorter to medium-distance runs. The upper is a durable synthetic and mesh combination that provides a secure fit, though it lacks the premium feel of some of the higher-end models. I noticed that the shoe has a slightly more structured feel compared to some of the softer, more pliable options on the market.

During my runs, the 460 V4 performed admirably on pavement and light trails. The outsole provided good grip, and the overall ride was consistent. It’s a shoe that doesn’t demand much attention; you can just put it on and go. For everyday training and getting your miles in, it’s a solid choice. However, I did find that the breathability of the upper could be improved; my feet tended to feel a bit warmer than in other shoes after longer efforts. This is a shoe that truly embodies the spirit of the best new new balance running shoes by offering dependable performance at a reasonable price point.

This shoe is best suited for beginner runners, those on a budget, or anyone looking for a durable, no-nonsense trainer for their daily jogs. If you prioritize a lightweight, highly cushioned, or technologically advanced shoe, you might want to look elsewhere. The 460 V4 is for the runner who values simplicity and durability. A minor annoyance I encountered was the slight stiffness in the tongue, which, while not a dealbreaker, could have been softer for enhanced comfort during extended wear.

4. Mens Fresh Foam Roav

The Fresh Foam Roav stands out with its modern, lifestyle-inspired aesthetic while still offering decent running performance. The Fresh Foam X midsole provides a comfortable and energetic feel, making it suitable for shorter runs and everyday wear. I was impressed by the versatility of this shoe, as it transitions easily from a morning run to a casual outing. The bootie construction of the upper offers a snug, sock-like fit that is quite enjoyable, though it can make it a bit trickier to put on and take off.

During my testing, I found the Roav to be a fun shoe to run in, with a noticeable pop from the midsole. The outsole features a unique design that offers good traction on urban surfaces. While it’s not designed for long-distance racing, it handles daily training miles and tempo efforts with ease. The supportive heel counter adds a nice touch of stability. However, I did notice that the cushioning, while pleasant, can feel a bit firm on longer runs compared to dedicated performance trainers.

This shoe is perfect for the runner who wants a stylish shoe that can also perform on the road for shorter distances. It’s a great option for gym workouts, casual running, and everyday comfort. If you’re looking for a shoe specifically for marathon training or ultra-distance running, the Roav might not provide enough sustained cushioning. One minor gripe I had was that the laces, while visually appealing, didn’t always provide the most secure lockdown without frequent retying.

5. Women’s Fresh Foam X 860 V14 Running Shoes

The Women’s Fresh Foam X 860 V14 shares all the core strengths of its men’s counterpart, offering a robust stability experience tailored for female runners. The dual-density Fresh Foam X midsole provides a well-balanced blend of support and cushioning, effectively guiding the foot through the gait cycle. I appreciated the thoughtful design that aims to counteract overpronation without feeling overly rigid. The engineered mesh upper is breathable and provides a secure, comfortable fit that accommodates the foot well during runs.

In my testing, the 860 V14 performed as expected, delivering consistent stability and a comfortable ride over various distances. The shoe feels planted and reliable, especially on longer efforts when fatigue can lead to form breakdown. The outsole offers dependable traction, and the overall construction feels durable. While the cushioning is adequate for a stability shoe, it doesn’t possess the plushness of a max-cushioned neutral trainer. I did find that the arch support, while present, felt a little too prominent for my preference, bordering on intrusive at times.

This shoe is an excellent choice for women who require mild to moderate stability to address overpronation or simply prefer a more supportive feel. It’s well-suited for daily training, long runs, and recovery runs where a stable platform is beneficial. Runners seeking a lightweight, highly responsive shoe for speed work or racing should look at other options. The 860 V14 is built for dependable support and comfort over many miles, though those with very low arches might find the arch support a bit aggressive.

6. Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe

We put the Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 through its paces, and it certainly lives up to its name in terms of versatility. Straight out of the box, the cushioning felt responsive, making short jogs feel comfortable and lively. The upper is a breathable mesh that kept our feet cool during moderate workouts, a definite plus on warmer days.

The overall feel is lightweight, which is great for those who prefer a less cumbersome shoe. We found the grip on dry pavement to be quite reliable, providing good traction for quick accelerations and stops. However, the outsole’s tread pattern isn’t as aggressive as we’d like for genuinely technical trails.

This shoe is ideal for the everyday runner who transitions between the treadmill and the road, or for someone looking for a comfortable, stylish option for walks and light gym sessions. It’s a solid all-rounder that doesn’t demand a specific running style.

Our main gripe, however, lies with the arch support. While adequate for many, individuals with pronounced flat feet might find themselves wanting more substantial underfoot structure. It’s a minor point for most, but something to consider for those with specific biomechanical needs. (See Also: Best Running Shoes For Wider Feet)

7. Women’s Fresh Foam Roav Running Shoe

The Women’s Fresh Foam Roav is a shoe that immediately strikes you with its bold aesthetic, but it delivers on performance too. We found the Fresh Foam X midsole to be impressively soft, offering a plush ride that absorbs impact well, especially during longer runs. The integrated heel counter provides a secure lockdown without feeling overly restrictive, which is crucial for maintaining stability.

Visually, the Roav stands out, making it a shoe that can easily transition from a run to casual wear. The upper’s construction feels supportive, wrapping the foot comfortably without any significant pressure points during our testing. We noticed the outsole provides decent traction on a variety of surfaces, including light gravel paths.

This is a fantastic option for the runner who prioritizes comfort and style, and perhaps wants one shoe that can handle both their daily mileage and their errands. If you’re seeking one of the best new New Balance running shoes that offers a cushioned and fashionable experience, the Roav is a strong contender.

The one area where we felt the Roav could improve is in its forefoot flexibility. While the heel feels very accommodating, the toe box is a touch stiffer than we prefer, which can sometimes lead to a slightly less natural toe-off for those with a very pronounced foot strike. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s noticeable.

8. Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe

We tested the Men’s Fresh Foam 520 v9 with the expectation of a no-frills, reliable running experience, and it largely delivered. The Fresh Foam midsole offers a balanced cushioning that feels neither too soft nor too firm, striking a good middle ground for daily training. The upper is constructed from a breathable synthetic mesh that allows for good airflow, preventing our feet from overheating during sustained efforts.

The fit is generally accommodating, with enough room in the toe box for natural foot splay, which we appreciated during longer runs. The outsole provides a consistent grip on dry asphalt and concrete, making it a dependable choice for road running. We did find the shoe to be a bit on the heavier side compared to some competitors in its class.

This shoe is best suited for beginner runners, those on a budget who still want decent cushioning, or anyone looking for a dependable daily trainer for moderate mileage. It’s a workhorse that doesn’t overcomplicate the running experience.

Our primary critique of the 520 v9 is its durability in the outsole. After a few weeks of consistent use on varied surfaces, we noticed some premature wear patterns on the high-contact areas. While not significantly impacting performance yet, it suggests this might not be the most long-lasting option for very high-mileage runners.

9. Women’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe

The Women’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 offers a welcoming entry into the Fresh Foam family, providing a comfortable and versatile ride. We found the cushioning to be soft and forgiving, making it a great choice for shorter runs or recovery days. The engineered mesh upper is lightweight and allows for excellent ventilation, keeping feet cool and dry even during more intense workouts.

The shoe’s design is understated yet modern, making it suitable for a variety of athletic activities beyond just running. We were pleased with the responsiveness of the foam, which provided a pleasant bounce with each step. The outsole offered adequate traction on pavement and light, well-maintained trails.

This is an excellent option for casual runners, gym-goers, or anyone seeking a comfortable everyday shoe that can handle a bit of activity. If you value comfort and a smooth ride for your shorter efforts, this shoe will serve you well. It’s a reliable companion for those who don’t log excessive mileage.

Our observation during testing was that the lateral support could be a bit more robust. While the shoe feels secure in a straight line, we noticed a slight tendency for the foot to roll outward on sharper turns or during lateral movements, which might be a concern for runners who frequently engage in agility drills or have a tendency to overpronate.

10. Men’s 410 V8 Trail Running Shoe

We took the Men’s 410 V8 Trail Running Shoe onto some rugged terrain, and it proved to be a capable performer. The AT Tread outsole is the star here, offering impressive grip on a variety of surfaces, from loose gravel to damp earth. The reinforced toe bumper provides essential protection against roots and rocks, giving us confidence on more technical sections of the trail.

The cushioning is firm but effective, providing a good ground feel without sacrificing too much comfort over longer distances. We found the upper to be reasonably durable and supportive, with a snug fit that kept debris out effectively. The lacing system felt secure, allowing for quick adjustments on the go.

This shoe is specifically designed for the trail enthusiast who needs a shoe that can handle varied conditions. It’s a solid choice for day hikes, trail runs, and anyone who frequently ventures off the beaten path and requires reliable traction and protection. It’s not meant for road running, so keep that in mind.

Our main point of contention with the 410 V8 is the breathability of the upper. While it offers good protection and durability, we noticed our feet getting a bit warmer than we would prefer on longer, hotter runs. For cooler weather or shorter excursions, this isn’t an issue, but it’s something to consider for summer endeavors.