New release shoes
ESSENTIAL KIT
Putting your next trainers through their paces
|| There are no words to describe the comfort of these shoes. They feel as though you’re wearing nothing!||
BEST IN TEST NEW RELEASE SHOES
NEW BALANCE Fresh Foam X Balos
£200
|
W
eight
206.7g
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D
rop
6mm
|
newbalance.co.uk
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T
ester
Kate
New Balance can be a bit Marmite, with many of us loving the legendary plushness, while others are after a bit more structure. The X Balos wants to be all things to all people. Does it deliver?
The fit I already know that New Balance shoes fit my feet well and these were no exception. They feel as suited to my foot as a pair of well-worn-in slippers. I love the knitted tongue, which is sewn into the upper, as it gives a seamless fit. I also appreciate the chunky heel grab, as it makes them easy to put on, without rubbing anywhere.
The comfort There are no words to describe the comfort of these shoes. They feel as though you’re wearing nothing! They are so light, and soft underfoot, and nothing rubs or digs in. Some runners may prefer to feel a bit more structure in their shoes.
Who and what they’re for I would say these shoes are ideal for runners looking for something comfortable and easy to wear through training miles. Due to the rockered design, I’d recommend them more for heel strikers, and I think they’re a great option for runners who love the look of a maximalist shoe, but who don’t want the height. The design of these is quite max, but they have noticeably less foam than the Fresh Foam X More, for example.
On the run The first time I slipped these on, I forgot I was testing a pair of shoes! Granted, I was having a hectic day, but regardless, this speaks volumes for the comfort of these shoes. I didn’t even need to stop and adjust the fit with the laces.
They have a pronounced rocker, which gives me a pep in my step, without propelling me forward too intensely like a carbon plate would. I can also notice the difference between the Balos and more maximalist shoes currently in my rotation. You feel much closer to the ground with these, and they’re much more responsive. The exposed EVA outsole gives loads of feedback from the terrain underfoot.