Getting excited about running shoes is a common thread among runners, whether seasoned or casual. The New Balance Fresh Foam Balos—marketed as a premium daily trainer—has hit the shelves, blending fresh design elements with impressive technology. We saw it first at TRE last fall and the heavy rocker and aesthetic had us curious and at first glance, it promises the comfort and support needed for those daily miles. But does it deliver on that promise? And the price tag?
Technical Specs
- Weight – 9.2oz or 261g for a US Men’s 9, 7.3oz or 207g for a US Women’s 7
- Cushion – 42mm of cushion and a 6mm heel/toe drop
- Pricing – $199.99 USD
- Colors – 1 color
Weight and Stack Height
First off, these clocks= in at a respectable 9.2 oz (259 g) for a US M9 and a lighter 7.3 oz (206 g) for a US W7.5. This makes it suitable for a range of runners without feeling like additional baggage on those longer runs. The stack height Is kind of all over the place depending on who you ask which is very strange. The bottom line is, this is a well cushioned shoe and where you take the measurement from while it is typically consistent, not sure why no one can agree, but we are going with the published retail spec.
Upper Construction
The upper of the Balos is noteworthy not just because of the aesthetic, but also because of the material choice. Constructed with a semi-transparent creel mesh and extending into a knit tongue, the upper blends support with a breathable, lightweight feel. The soft padding along the collar adds to the comfort, fitting snugly without feeling restrictive. The design is subtly retro yet contemporary, making it not just functional but also aesthetically pleasing. However, one should note that runners with wider feet might find the toe box slightly snug. Additionally, the creel can retain water so on wetter days these things definitely get a little heavier and take longer to dry.
Midsole and Cushioning
What sets the Balos apart is its midsole and its rocker. Featuring a Peba-based Fresh Foam X, it delivers a uniquely squishy and responsive feel. The pronounced rocker geometry assists in smooth transitions and keeps the legs turning over efficiently, yet it might require some getting used to for those unaccustomed to this style. This is not the plushest max-cushioned trainer out there; instead, it aims to blend cushion with performance.
Outsole Durability
The outsole of the Balos is notably minimalist. The exposed EVA with strategic rubber placements in high-wear areas may draw some skepticism regarding durability. However, during runs, this layout performed admirably, providing adequate grip and stability on paved surfaces. For midfoot strikers, the design might seem precarious, but it surprisingly holds up without excessive wear in the middle regions.
On the Run
The Fresh Foam Balos delivers a notably smooth and peppy ride. The rocker geometry coupled with the bouncy foam makes cruising through daily miles enjoyable. For easy runs extending up to 10 miles, the shoe maintains its responsiveness and comfort without feeling overly squishy. Yet, for speedwork sessions, the plushness might feel a touch too soft; thus, it falls more into the category of a versatile daily trainer rather than a specialty speed shoe.
Conclusion
In summary, the New Balance Fresh Foam Balos is an intriguing addition to the lineup of premium daily trainers. It combines a lightweight feel, innovative midsole foam, and an eye-catching design. While not geared towards competitive speed sessions, it excels in daily mileage, delivering a smooth, responsive ride. The question as to whether it is worth $200 is tough to answer. Performance wise and design, it definitely shouldn’t, but it is premium in material and a one off from New Balance so these tend to always draw price premium. Bottom line, it’s a solid shoe and if you have the money and want to try it, you will be pleasantly surprised.
Learn more on the New Balance website
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Check Out Other Reviewers Thoughts
As always, we gather together some of our favorite reviewers so you can get a well-rounded view of the shoe. Here are our favorites.
