New Balance fresh foam x balos v1

Learn more about the New Balance fresh foam x balos v1 male running shoes, including key features, performance, reviews, model updates, and more.

New Balance fresh foam x balos v1

Price

320

Rating

High

Popularity

Moderate

The New Balance Fresh Foam X Balos V1 is a lightweight and cushioned running shoe positioned as a versatile everyday trainer, bridging the gap between high-performance models and the budget-friendly options in the New Balance lineup.

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Summary

The New Balance Fresh Foam X Balos v1 is a versatile addition to the brand's running shoe lineup. It is designed to offer a perfect balance between comfort and performance, incorporating New Balance's advanced Fresh Foam X technology for a cushioned and responsive ride. The Balos v1 features a sleek, streamlined design suitable for both casual and competitive runners. Compared to other New Balance models, it is positioned as a lightweight and agile option, contrasting with more cushioned models like the Fresh Foam 1080. The Balos v1 provides a snug, supportive fit with a breathable upper that ensures comfort over longer distances, making it ideal for those who prefer a light, fast, and flexible ride.

Surface

road

Cushioning

MinLowMediumHighMax(35.5mm)

Breathability

LowMediumHigh( upper)

Weight

259g

Heel-to-Toe Drop

6mm0mm14mm

Support

NeutralLightHigh

Width options

normal

Grip

LowMediumHighMax

Suitability

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Pros & Cons

AI-powered

Fittir conducts a detailed analysis of the New Balance fresh foam x balos v1 to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the shoes features, pros, and cons based on 21 wear-tester reviews.

Summary: The New Balance Fresh Foam X Balos v1 is a highly cushioned and lightweight daily trainer that excels in comfort and is well-suited for easy and recovery runs. However, it may not provide the necessary stability and responsiveness for faster paces, leading to mixed reviews regarding its overall value, especially given its higher price point compared to other options..

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

cushion
Cushion feeling: Soft

The main concerns about the shoe's cushioning are that it can be too soft for some runners, leading to a lack of responsiveness and energy return, which may not suit everyone, especially during faster runs.

softness (3)

bounce (2)

energy return (2)

midsole (1)

responsiveness (1)

ratio (1)

rocker geometry (1)

blend (1)

Pros

"The Fresh Foam X Balos v1 offers a light and soft ride due to its unique midsole composition."

softness

protective

lightweight

"The midsole made from PEBA/EVA provides a good amount of cushioning without bottoming out."

cushioning

PEBA

EVA

"The Fresh Foam X midsole provides excellent cushioning and energy return."

Fresh Foam

PEBA

max-cushion

"The fresh foam compound provides an elevated cushioning experience compared to previous models."

cushioning

fresh foam

elevated experience

"The Balos offers excellent cushioning with a soft PEBA/EVA blend midsole."

PEBA

EVA

cushioning

"The Fresh Foam X midsole provides exceptional cushioning without sacrificing energy return."

Fresh Foam

midsole

cushioning

softness

energy return

"The shoe offers an ultra-soft and responsive underfoot feel that reshapes opinions on max-cushioned shoes."

cushioning

responsive

underfoot comfort

"The shoe provides an incredibly soft cushioning that enhances the overall comfort for the wearer."

cushioning

comfort

shock absorption

"The Fresh Foam X BOS provides an incredibly soft feel underfoot, thanks to its unique foam blend."

high-end

softness

cushioning

"The shoe features ultra-soft cushioning for added comfort during runs."

cushioning

comfort

"Reviewers appreciate the blend of softness and responsiveness in the cushioning, making it a versatile choice."

responsive

versatile

cushioning

Fresh Foam

PEBA

"The shoe offers a good cushioning to weight ratio, enhancing the overall running experience."

cushioning

weight

balance

"The shoe is designed with a large rocker geometry, facilitating an easy gait cycle."

gait cycle

shock absorption

"The blend of Fresh Foam X and PEBA foam provides a unique combination of softness and responsiveness."

Fresh Foam

PEBA

softness

responsiveness

energy return

"Its foam design delivers effective cushioning that adapts to different stride styles and paces."

cushion

forefoot

performance

"The bounciness of the shoe enhances the running experience."

bounciness

ease of running

energy return

"The shoe offers a soft and springy ride, enhancing the running experience."

soft

springy

enjoyable

"The cushioning is exceptionally soft and feels luxurious underfoot, enhancing the running experience."

cushioning

softness

feel

"The cushioning in the shoes contributes to a smooth heel-to-toe transition, enhancing the running experience."

smooth

transitional

comfort

"The shoe maintains a smooth and cushioned feel throughout long runs."

long run

cushioned

easy feel

"The shoe provides plush, cloud-like cushioning that enhances the overall running experience."

cushioning

comfort

support

"Ideal for long runs and recovery days, the shoe excels in providing comfort over extended distances."

long runs

recovery

endurance

"The NB Balos features exceptional cushioning with the Fresh Foam X technology, enhancing comfort for long distances."

cushioning

long distance

comfort

"The shoe provides a soft initial step-in feel, described as 'squishy'."

soft

squishy

PEBA foam

Cons

"The cushioning is described as too soft, resulting in a loss of snappiness during runs."

loss of snappiness

too soft

"The shoe may be too soft for certain runners, especially for faster-paced runs."

soft

fast runs

"The shoe may lack adequate cushioning for every type of run."

cushioning

support

rocker

"The softness of the foam leads to poor energy return."

softness

energy return

bounce

"The energy return in the shoe might be lacking due to its squishiness."

energy return

squishiness

cushioning

"The shoe can feel squishy and sloppy at faster speeds."

squishy

speed

"The midsole may feel too firm for some runners."

midsole

firm

cushion

"The shoe lacks a full-PEBA midsole, which is recommended for better energy return and cushioning."

cushioning

bounce

"The shoe lacks densely-packed foam which some users may prefer for more feedback from the ground."

feedback

density

responsiveness

comfort
Breathability: More breathable

The main points to note are that breathability and comfort are frequently highlighted as pros, while issues with the tongue's feel and support are common cons.

overall (3)

support (3)

tongue (2)

upper (1)

breathability (1)

padding (1)

initial comfort (1)

cushioning (1)

Pros

"The plush upper provides a comfortable feel for the foot."

comfort

plush

upper

"The shoe features a vented cushioning pattern that aids in breathability, improving comfort in warm conditions."

vented

breathability

comfort

"Breathability of the shoe is good, keeping feet comfortable on hot days."

temperature control

"The upper's materials are breathable, keeping feet cool during workouts."

breathable

heat management

training

"It has a breathable upper designed for summer running."

summer running

cooling

lightweight upper

"The breathable and moisture-wicking upper keeps feet dry and comfortable throughout the run."

breathability

dry

comfort

"The padding around the ankle opening enhances the comfort level significantly."

ankle padding

premium

comfort

"The upper provides exceptional initial comfort and fits securely."

upper

fit

premium

"The cushioning feels amazing, adding to a strong sense of comfort."

cushioning

comfort

"Reviewers found the shoe to have a lightweight feel, making it suitable for both everyday use and energetic runs."

daily trainer

versatile

lightweight

comfortable

"The shoe provides a super soft and plush feel for daily runs."

softness

daily trainer

luxury feel

"The cushioning in the midsole is particularly noted for providing great comfort during walking and running."

comfort

cushioning

joint support

"The shoes offer a superior level of comfort that stands out significantly."

comfort

feel

fit

"The New Balance BOS V1 offers excellent comfort during runs."

soft

fresh foam

daily trainer

"The materials used in the shoe's construction provide excellent breathability, making it comfortable for prolonged use."

breathability

comfort

design

"The knitted tongue adds to the overall comfort and stability of the shoe."

knitted tongue

gusseted

comfort

"The overall comfort of the Fresh Foam X models is impressive, with the BOS being personally favored."

personal preference

most comfortable

BOS

"The tongue comfort and ease of slipping on the shoes make them convenient for daily use."

ease of use

comfortable

design

"The shoe is enjoyable for long easy runs, enhancing motivation for training."

motivating

enjoyable

long runs

"The design offers a new silhouette that enhances comfort for road runners."

design

comfort

"The Fresh Foam X Balos excel at providing a smooth experience for road runners, making long runs less taxing on the legs."

road running

comfort

long runs

"The Balos features a lightly padded stretch knit tongue for added comfort."

comfort

padded

gusset

"The shoes provide exceptional comfort and feel very light on foot."

comfort

lightweight

"Runners who need additional support can find the shoe helpful with its slight arch support providing a comfortable roll forward."

arch support

comfortable

rolling motion

Cons

"The tongue of the shoe can feel scratchy against the skin."

scratchy

comfort issue

"The tongue design may not be preferred by all users due to its style."

tongue design

preference

comfort

"The upper may feel thinner than expected compared to other models."

upper material

thinner

high-performance

"The contrasting padding at the heel might feel off to some runners."

heel padding

stark contrast

comfortable

"The knitted tongue absorbs sweat, making it uncomfortable in warm conditions."

sweaty

warm conditions

"The mesh upper may not provide enough structure for some runners, leading to less support."

support

mesh upper

thin

"There may be difficulty balancing on the soft foam when putting on the other shoe."

soft foam

balance

"The breathability is somewhat reduced by the knit tongue material."

breathability

knit tongue

absorption

"The shoe might not be suitable for long-distance runners requiring extra support."

long-distance

support

comfort

"Some runners might prefer a more supportive feel from the foam."

structure

support

foam

"The shoe may not provide enough support for runners with certain conditions like plantar fasciitis."

plantar fasciitis

support

"The Mor v5 is described as too bulky and chunky for some users."

chunky

comfort

personal preference

"The shoe may not be suitable for long runs, especially 20 miles, due to concerns about the foam's support."

foam support

long runs

"Runners with Achilles issues might find it problematic due to its lower drop and rocker design."

achilles issues

drop

rocker design

"The shoe's rocker and squishy foam could lead to divide in opinions among runners."

comfort

runner feedback

divisiveness

durability

The main points to note are that the shoe is frequently praised for its lightweight design, which appears in 6 out of 8 pros, while concerns about the outsole's durability are highlighted in 6 out of 8 cons.

outsole (4)

weight (3)

wear (2)

lightweight (1)

longevity (1)

long-lasting (1)

material (1)

Pros

"The outsole provides above-average durability, allowing the shoe to withstand more mileage without significant wear."

durability

mileage

rubber coverage

"The shoe's outsole features a combination of soft and durable rubber compounds enhancing durability."

soft rubber

durable compound

high wear areas

"It is lightweight, making it suitable for everyday training without weighing the runner down."

lightweight

daily training

"The shoe is designed to be lightweight, making it suitable for various types of runs."

lightweight

versatile

daily training

"The shoe maintains a lightweight profile, making it easy to wear during long runs."

lightweight

durable

running

"The shoe is lightweight, making it easy to wear for long durations."

lightweight

easy to wear

durability

"The shoe maintains its cushioning performance well even after extensive use."

durability

sustainability

performance

"Durability is highlighted by the performance of the materials, particularly during long-distance runs."

durable

performance

heavy use

Cons

"The potential durability of the outsole is in question due to the materials used."

durability concerns

materials question

"There is uncertainty about the durability of the softer rubber used on the outsole."

durability

rubber

wear

"Wear on certain parts of the outsole was observed after one month of frequent use."

wear

durability

"Durability concerns arise from the minimal rubber coverage on the outsole."

wear

longevity

"The lightweight design sacrifices some durability in high wear areas."

durability

lightweight

high wear

"The shoe's exposed foam may wear down quickly, leading to potential durability issues."

exposed foam

durability concerns

"There are concerns about the shoe's durability, hinting at potential longevity issues."

durability

longevity

"The outsole grade EVA might affect durability when pushing the shoe to its limits."

EVA

durability

midsole

performance
Distance suited: Long (>20km)
Rocker: More rocker

The most common pros highlight the shoe's rocker design, which enhances the running experience and promotes smooth transitions, while the main cons indicate that the shoe struggles with speed and responsiveness, particularly at faster paces.

rocker (5)

speed (5)

responsiveness (3)

lightweight (2)

ride (2)

versatility (2)

pace (2)

rolling sensation (1)

Pros

"The shoe's rocker geometry enhances the running experience by encouraging quick push-off."

rocker

quick

responsive

"The shoe incorporates a unique rocker design that helps with smooth transitions during running."

rocker design

smooth transitions

midfoot

"The shoe's pronounced rocker design enhances performance during runs."

rocker

performance

run efficiency

"The rockered design contributes to a pleasant running experience without excessive propulsion."

rocker

dynamic

performance

"The rocker geometry helps in effortless leg turnover during runs."

forefoot rocker

effortless turnover

smooth transition

"The shoe's lightweight design makes it a suitable option for easy runs and recovery sessions."

easy runs

recovery

daily trainer

"It has a lightweight feel that contributes to a propulsive running experience."

lightweight

performance

transition

"The shoe delivers a pleasant and rolling sensation while running, enhancing the overall experience."

performance

bouncy

rolling

running experience

"The midsole offers a smooth and enjoyable ride during daily runs."

daily running

joyful experience

"The shoe shines during slower-paced runs, offering comfort and support."

rocker

smoothness

"The shoe combines both softness and responsiveness for an enjoyable run."

responsive

soft

enjoyable

"The shoe has a propulsive and bouncy quality that enhances the running experience."

propulsive

bouncy

running experience

"The Balos offers a rolling sensation that propels runners forward, enhancing their running experience."

forward momentum

bouncy

peppy

lightweight

"It provides a smooth experience with foot movements during runs, thanks to its design."

roll

landing

toe-off

"The shoe incorporates a rocker motion that supports a natural transition from heel to toe during movement."

natural feel

smooth transition

"The ground contact EVA foam contributes to a lightweight and responsive feel during runs."

lightweight

performance

EVA

"The shoe offers a lively and enjoyable ride for various running styles."

lively

fun

easy runs

"The shoe provides an enjoyable and bouncy running experience."

fun

daily shoe

running experience

"The shoe is versatile enough for different paces, making it suitable for easy to more intense runs."

versatile

easy

progression

"Its rockered geometry promotes a smooth transition during strides, making it suitable for easy runs and recovery."

rocker

stride

smooth transition

"The overall balance of comfort and performance is highlighted as a key feature of the shoe."

versatility

performance

comfort

"The defined rocker shape of the shoe aids in achieving a quicker toe-off and improves speed."

speed

toe-off

bounce

"The shoe is designed to provide speed while also being suitable for long training runs, making it versatile for various workouts."

training

long runs

speed

Cons

"The shoe may cause knee pain due to its rockered design."

knee pain

performance issue

biomechanics

"The shoe does not perform well for faster efforts."

performance

slow responsiveness

"The shoe may not be suitable for the fastest-paced runs."

performance

speed

fast runs

"The shoe's performance may not satisfy runners looking for speed due to its cushioning and design."

performance

speed

"It does not perform well at faster paces, limiting its functionality as a versatile trainer."

not responsive

limited

tempo

"The balance and responsiveness of the shoe could improve as it may not be fast enough for some runners."

speed assistance

performance

"The ride of the shoe is underwhelming and doesn't meet expectations."

underwhelming

expectations

performance

"The shoe feels chunky and ponderous, lacking a smooth ride."

chunky

ponderous

smoothness

"The forefoot feels lifeless and lacks responsiveness during runs."

lack of responsiveness

dead feel

"The shoe has a narrow sweet spot for optimal pace, making it hard to maintain speed."

narrow sweet spot

speed maintenance

"The shoe performs better at slower paces than at faster ones."

slow pace

fast pace

performance

"The overall road feel is described as unexciting when compared to competitors."

uninspiring

unexciting

"The shoe doesn't effectively transition into faster paces and feels sluggish."

sluggish

ineffective transition

"The shoe is not versatile enough for faster paces."

pace

super trainer

versatility

"Runners may find the shoe's performance lacking on varied terrains due to its design."

10K run

performance

terrain

"The shoe tends to sap energy during longer runs."

energy

leg turnover

performance

"There are concerns regarding the responsiveness when comparing it with other high-performance shoes."

responsiveness

comparison

softness

"The soft foam may degrade responsiveness during fast-paced runs."

lack of plate

fast pace

"The Mor v5 is described as having less responsiveness due to its design."

soft

max cushioning

performance

"Some aspects of the shoe may not be suitable for runners who prefer a minimalist design."

minimalist preference

cushioning

"Running at slower paces results in increased midfoot squish, slowing cadence and producing a longer, lazy stride."

cadence

slow pace

"The shoe may not provide adequate support during high-speed runs."

high speed

performance issue

"The midsole foam can feel like hard work during prolonged speed runs, which may affect performance."

speed runs

foam

effort

"The energy return from the EVA outsole is insufficient for a shoe of this price range."

bounce

efficiency

"The shoe may not be ideal for runners with a forefoot or midfoot strike."

rocker

forefoot strike

midfoot strike

"The shoe may feel too squishy for faster runs, impacting energy return."

squishiness

fast runs

energy return

fit
True to size: True to size
Toebox width: Narrower
Heel width: Wider
Orthotic friendly: No

The most common issues with the shoe are that the toe box may feel too high or too snug for some runners, and the fit may not accommodate wider feet effectively.

width (4)

upper (4)

lockdown (3)

breathability (2)

true to size (2)

comfort (2)

lightweight (2)

toe box (2)

Pros

"The shoe is designed with a wide forefoot, accommodating runners who need additional space in that area."

wide forefoot

space

comfort

"The shoe has a wider base which contributes to a more stable feeling when worn."

stability

fit

comfort

"There are wide versions available, catering to runners who need extra space."

wide

fit

options

"The MORE V5 is noted for its exceptional width, making it a good option for wide-footed individuals."

wide fit

more spacious

toe box

"The shoe's upper offers good lockdown and security with its elastic tongue design."

secure

gusseted

comfort

"There is a good lockdown with the shoes, accommodating various sock thicknesses well."

lockdown

fit

sock-thickness

"The gusseted tongue enhances the shoe's lockdown and alleviates pressure on the foot."

gusseted

pressure relief

"The mesh upper provides a sleek and breathable fit, improving comfort during runs."

mesh upper

breathable

fit

comfort

"The mesh upper provides a sleek and breathable fit."

mesh

locked-down fit

breathable

"The shoe fits true to size and offers a secure hug around the foot for a comfortable feel."

fit

secure

hug

comfort

"The Balos fits true to size, providing a secure and confident fit across a variety of foot shapes even though some fit issues may arise."

secure fit

trusted sizing

comfortable fit

personalized fit

"The Balos fits true-to-size, ensuring a consistent fit across various foot shapes."

fit

true to size

comfort

"The structured heel collar provides effective heel lockdown."

heel counter

support

"The shoe has a smooth mesh upper that provides a streamlined and breathable fit for the runner."

mesh upper

breathability

locked-down fit

comfort

"The upper design is breathable and lightweight, drawing inspiration from racing shoes."

breathable

lightweight

racing inspiration

"The fit is comfortable with a supportive upper construction."

supportive

fit

mesh

"The shoe has a premium upper with a well-padded heel collar."

premium feel

breathability

gusseted tongue

"The shoe’s upper hugs the foot securely and comfortably, improving the overall fit."

hugs snug

comfortable

fit

"The knit tongue provides a comfortable fit and reduces the chance of irritation during runs."

fit

comfort

design

"The toe box provides ample room for comfort during longer runs."

toe box

comfort

long runs

"The laces are well constructed and stay tied during runs."

lacing system

secure fit

durable

"The shoe fits true to size, which provides a reliable fit for buyers."

true to size

fit

"All three models fit true to size, providing a consistent fit experience without the need for wide versions."

fit

true size

standard width

"The fit is roomy and comfortable, with a nice toe box."

roomy toe box

comfortable fit

true to size

"The shoe is lightweight, which contributes positively to the overall running experience."

light

agile

comfortable

"The NB Balos has a lightweight design, making it easy to wear for extended periods without feeling heavy."

lightweight

comfortable

easy to wear

"The seamless fit enhances the overall wearing experience of the shoes."

fit

ease

"The design includes features that help secure the foot, such as a lightly padded heel collar and minimal tongue slipping."

heel collar

tongue design

secure fit

Cons

"The upper has a lower volume toe box that may cause discomfort."

toe box

discomfort

fit issue

"Some runners may find the fit to be slightly short."

snug fit

size issue

"The toe box may feel high for some runners."

toe box

low volume

walking

"The shoe has a limited toe box which may not be suitable for those with black toenails."

black toenails

narrow fit

"The fit may not be suitable for runners with a high instep."

high instep

snug fit

running

"Runners needing to adjust their sock thickness to achieve comfort might face issues."

sock thickness

twinge

insole

"Wearing thicker socks might exacerbate the snug feeling for those with a high instep, potentially hindering comfort."

sock thickness

insole

"Some reviewers felt the toe box was too high for their foot shape, leading to discomfort."

toe box

low volume

discomfort

"The top of the shoe can feel too snug for those with a high instep, causing discomfort during runs."

snug fit

high instep

discomfort

"Wearing thicker socks and insoles may cause discomfort due to the shoe’s fit."

socks

insoles

discomfort

"The shoe may not accommodate different foot shapes well, leading to varied fit experiences."

true to size

foot shape variation

"Some users found the toe box to be too high for their low volume feet, affecting comfort during walking."

low volume

toe box

"The top of the shoe may feel snug for those with a high instep, leading to discomfort during longer runs."

high instep

snug fit

"The shoe does not provide enough security compared to speed-oriented models."

fit

security

"The stretchy tongue design can make the shoes difficult to put on."

tongue

design

ease of wear

"Some users may prefer a more traditional fit, as the current design requires adjustments."

traditional

convenience

"The 1080 v13 is noted as being the most narrow shoe compared to the others."

narrow

fit

comparison

"Some runners may not find the fit to accommodate wider feet comfortably."

fit

width

"The fit might be problematic for runners with wider feet due to the snugness."

snug

fit

mono mesh

"The shoe's wide platform may not suit all runners, particularly those who strike differently."

wide

poor fit

striking style

"The toebox is shallow, which may cause discomfort for some runners."

cramped

fit issue

"The shoe has a low-volume toebox that may not accommodate all foot shapes effectively."

space

shape

"The shoe lacks sufficient midfoot space for those who may need it, especially compared to other models."

fit

comfort

midfoot space

stability
Stability level: Less stable

The main concerns about the shoe's stability are that it often lacks sufficient stability and has an unsteady base, which were mentioned frequently in the reviews.

wide base (2)

rocker (2)

softness (2)

base (1)

structure (1)

midfoot (1)

heel striking (1)

platform (1)

Pros

"The shoe's wide base contributes to a stable feeling during runs, even with a tall stack height."

stability

stack height

wide base

"Reviewers appreciate the tall stack height of the shoe while still maintaining a sense of stability, especially on turns."

stack height

stability

turning

wide platform

"A wide base contributes to the overall stability of the shoe."

wide base

stability

"The shoe has a wide and stable base that enhances overall stability when running."

wide base

stability

grounded

"Higher sidewalls enhance stability by preventing foot tilting during runs."

stability

sidewalls

prevent tilting

"The shoe features a smooth rocker design that aids in transitioning from heel to toe while running."

smooth

transition

natural

"Designed superbly for midfoot strikers, the shoe caters well to this specific running style."

midfoot

stability

performance

"The shoes are particularly well-suited for heel strikers, enhancing stability during runs."

stability

heel striker

"The wide platform of the shoe provides a stable feel during runs."

wide platform

stability

heel bevel

Cons

"The extreme rocker geometry is not suitable for all running styles."

stability

rocker geometry

biomechanics

"The rocker effect of the shoe is weak and ineffective during transitions."

weak rocker

ineffective

"The shoe may overwork the intrinsic foot muscles."

intrinsic muscles

stability

overuse

"The shoe lacks stability, requiring extra effort to maintain balance during runs."

lack of stability

balance

"It may not provide sufficient stability for runners."

stability

insufficient

"The shoe has an unsteady and unstable base that affects performance, especially at faster paces."

unstable

performance

softness

"The shoe feels too soft during turns, making it difficult to navigate without slowing down."

softness

confidence

slow

"The shoe features a soft and squishy midsole that could compromise stability for some runners."

stability

softness

squish

"The foam seems softer than other models, which may affect stability."

soft foam

stability

New Balance

"Potential instability when standing for long periods due to the rocker profile."

rocker

long usage

"The shoe lacks sufficient stability without the use of a plate."

stability

plate issue

support

"The softness of the shoe leads to some instability, especially for heel strikers after extended wear."

heel striking

instability

"The shoe may not offer enough stability during relaxed paces, particularly on tired legs."

relaxed pace

stability

"The shoe has limited usage as a lifestyle shoe because of its design."

lifestyle use

walking

"The shoe lacks stability which may affect performance for some runners."

stability

performance

support

"The shoe may feel less stable for some runners due to its pronounced forward roll."

stability

forward roll

"The shoe may not provide sufficient stability for those needing a firmer feel."

stability

rocker control

varied runner types

grip

The main points to note are that good traction and grip are frequently mentioned as pros, while inadequate traction in wet conditions is a significant con.

outsole (2)

feedback (2)

traction (1)

quiet ride (1)

performance (1)

durability (1)

wet conditions (1)

Pros

"The outsole's design helps enhance the midsole feel, providing more springiness underfoot."

outsole

springy

rubberized EVA

"The ground contact outsole design enhances comfort and stability during runs."

ground contact

soft feel

stability

"The shoe provides good traction, performing reliably in terms of grip."

traction

outsole

grip

"The shoe has good traction on various surfaces, handling wet conditions well."

wet conditions

durability

"The design includes various rubber densities that enhance traction and grip during runs."

traction

grip

design

"The outsole material contributes to a quiet running experience."

outsole

softness

"Good grip performance on various surfaces, even in humid conditions."

humidity

excellent grip

rubber coverage

"The shoe maintains good grip on various surfaces, performing well on light trails without undue wear after extensive use."

grip

trail

durable

"The EVA outsole provides excellent ground feedback, enhancing the connection between the runner and the surface."

ground feel

grip

performance

"The feedback from the exposed EVA outsole enhances the connection to the terrain."

outsole

terrain

grip

Cons

"The traction on the outsole is inadequate, particularly in wet conditions, affecting confidence while running."

not great

squeaky

confidence

"The Ballos are reported to provide the weakest traction among the three models."

traction

comparison

performance

other

The main concerns about the shoe are its high price, which is mentioned frequently, and the complexity of its tongue design, which may make it less convenient to wear.

price (4)

value (3)

versatility (3)

aesthetics (2)

safety (2)

weight (1)

quality (1)

visibility (1)

Pros

"The Balos is relatively lightweight, making it a good choice for daily training."

lightweight

daily

training

"The lightweight design of the shoe allows for an effortless running experience without added bulk."

lightweight

comfortable

performance

"The use of premium materials in the upper enhances the shoe's overall quality."

premium materials

"The reflective accents on the shoe provide added visibility for safety during low light conditions."

safety

reflective details

"The shoe's design includes aesthetic features that enhance its visual appeal and make it stylish."

visual appeal

design

"The overall aesthetic of the shoe is appealing, with a favorable colorway."

style

colorway

design

"Reflective elements on the shoe enhance visibility for safety during runs."

reflective

visibility

safety

"The shoe features 360-degree reflectivity, enhancing visibility during low-light conditions."

reflective

safety

visibility

"The BALLO is noted for its excellent breathability, making it suitable for warm conditions."

breathable

summer

comfort

"The pricing of the MORE V5 at $155 is recognized as an incredible value for its features and comfort."

affordable

excellent price

value for money

"It combines features of popular models such as the Mach 5 and the 1080 effectively."

comparison

mix of models

effective

"Versatile enough to be suitable for walking too, demonstrating its practicality beyond just running."

walking

versatile

practicality

"The shoe is suitable for endurance and recovery runs, making it versatile for various training regimes."

endurance

recovery

versatility

"The NB Balos offers a stylish and breathable design that appeals aesthetically while remaining functional."

stylish

breathable

functional

Cons

"The premium price makes it hard to justify the purchase."

premium

justification

cost

"The shoe's price point is considered high at $200, which may deter some buyers."

expensive

retail

cost

"The price point of $200 may be considered high for some consumers."

expensive

value

"The shoe is overpriced compared to alternatives offering better value."

expensive

value

comparison

"The price point may not justify the shoe’s features when compared to the more versatile 1080 model."

price

versatile

value for money

"The price of the shoe feels excessive considering its performance and materials used."

cost

premium

"The price of the shoe may not be justified relative to performance compared to cheaper options."

price

comparative value

cost

"The upper material may not provide enough protection against elements."

upper material

protection

transparency

"The Ballos have a more complex tongue design that makes them less easy to put on quickly."

ease of use

design

quick access

"The weight might be a concern for those seeking lightweight footwear."

lightweight

shoe weight

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Wear-tester reviews (21)

4.3/5

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New Balance fresh foam x balos v1

New Balance fresh foam x balos v1

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Pros & Cons

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cushion

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durability

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performance

Pros

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fit

Pros

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grip

Pros

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other

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4.3/5

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