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A soft, supple shoe with a roomy toe box kind of says it all. The New Balance Fresh Foam technology certainly ranks right up there when it comes to cushioning. Perhaps, for any potential gazelles out there, they might be a bit clunky but that bulk is a definite advantage when it comes to putting in some serious miles.
This is version 6 and it’s radically different to version 5 thanks to a complete redesigned upper and the inclusion of New Balance’s superb cushioning system, Freshfoam. Heavier (at more than 11oz), well cushioned – soft and supple. As a neutral shoe, it takes on the Nike Pegasus pretty well, but is a little slower.
First Impressions? Nice but average; not good, not bad. It does feel a little bulky so you might be dubious about taking it out initially, but persevere. It’s worth taking for a spin. It’s very comfortable in a relaxed sort of way and there’s plenty of cushioning to iron out any niggles. It’s obviously not a racing shoe; first look will tell you that, first run will confirm it.
They feel snug and the breathability is very good. There is also plenty of room in the toe box. The fabrics are good, they look and feel like a quality shoe.
Interestingly it has an 8mm heel to toe drop but such is the cushioning it feels a little easier than that number, so that’s good news! There’s a blown rubber outsole which is fairly standard and relatively hard wearing – we’ve only just written off the v5 – but there’s an all new Fresh Foam midsole which this shoe really needed in all the previous versions. It works really well with the data-designed outsole flex grooves and although more than one tester noted the shoe’s bulky feel, it does actually respond quite nicely when you choose to pick up the pace.
Synthetic upper and a stretchy fit so it’ll take any shape foot; that’s a plus. Super soft ride thanks to the sock liner, so that’s another tick, but our testers did have one or two issues with exact fit. It does feel a little loose around the heel largely because it’s such a comfortable (but loose) upper. Dare we say it, heavier runners will probably love these shoe, it’s so accommodating.
Perhaps, for any potential gazelles out there, they might be a bit clunky but that ‘bulk’ is a definite advantage when it comes to putting in some serious miles. Flexibility is good, stability is perfectly acceptable and for most runs (be wary off-road), these will do a great job thanks not least that the responsive flexibility the construction provides. They are the kind of shoe that won’t let you down. Good looking, retro sort of style will make it popular with runners of a certain age.
How was it for you? Why don’t you tell us?
Fantom Fit - A skeletally engineered upper that provides ultralight support.
Mesh Upper - Provides a breathable environment, keeping the wearer cool and dry.
Asymmetrical Heel Counter - Secures the heel and works to correct over-pronation.
Bootie Construction - Delivers a soft, irritant free fit.
Fresh Foam - Innovative midsole technolgoy that provides a plush feel, adapting to ever-changing conditions.
NDurance - Provides maximum outsole durability generating a longer lasting shoe.
Blown Rubber Outsole - Supplies a supreme purchase underfoot with increased traction.
Flex Grooves - Allows for pliability in the forefoot.
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Gender | Mens |
Year | 2016 |
Season | Autumn |
Current model | |
Release date | 2016 |
MSRP | $ |
Heal Drop | 8mm |
Weight | 10.3oz. / 294g |
Shoe Type | |
Neutral | |
Surfaces | |
Road | |
Light Trail | |
Weight | |
Light | |
Regular | |
Heavy |