Are New Balance Good Running Shoes? Which Ones Are the Best?

We tested New Balance shoes by actually running in them to see if they are any good. Some models felt great. Some didn’t. But the right one made a clear difference in how we ran and recovered.

So, are New Balance good running shoes?

Yes, New Balance makes great running shoes. They offer comfort, support, durability, and a wide fit range—perfect for daily runs, long distances, or races, depending on the model you choose.

In this guide, we’ll show you exactly what each New Balance shoe is good for.

Key Takeaways

• New Balance makes excellent running shoes.

• Many models use Fresh Foam or FuelCell midsoles, which provide a soft yet responsive ride.

• The 1080v14 is the best pick for runners who want soft, everyday comfort

• The Rebel v4 is lightweight and works great for tempo runs or short races

• The SuperComp Elite v4 is built for race day with a fast, propulsive feel

• The More v5 offers max cushion for slow runs or recovery days

• You don’t need to guess—each model serves a different type of runner

Are New Balance Good Running Shoes? (Get the Details)

Yes, New Balance makes very good running shoes. We’ve used them for everything from short jogs to long-distance runs, and they’ve always felt comfortable and reliable. Their cushioning feels great, and the support is solid.

The best part? They come in sizes that actually fit all foot types, including wide and narrow feet.

Let’s look at all the reasons why New Balance shoes are a great choice for running:

Comfortable Cushioning

The biggest reason why New Balance shoes are good for running is their cushioning. When we first tried New Balance shoes, the cushioning stood out right away. It didn’t feel too soft or too firm. It was right in the middle.

Some of us wore the Fresh Foam 1080, and it made long runs easier on our feet. One of us took it on a ten-mile run and said their legs still felt strong at the end.

Fresh Foam works well if you want a soft, smooth ride. We’ve used it for everything from 5Ks to half marathons. FuelCell, on the other hand, feels more energetic. It’s lighter and gives you a quicker push-off. We like it for faster runs or races.

The FuelCell Rebel was a favorite for speed days. It helped us move faster without making our feet tired.

What we noticed most was how long the cushioning lasted. We’ve put over 300 miles on some pairs and didn’t feel like the foam got flat. That’s a big deal. A lot of shoes wear out fast, but New Balance has done a good job of making their cushioning last.

Support Options

Some of us deal with overpronation, which just means our feet roll in a bit too much when we run. It used to cause knee pain and sore ankles. Then we tried New Balance stability shoes like the 860 and 1540, and things started to feel better.

The 860 has some extra support built into the midsole. It helped keep our feet in place and took pressure off our knees. One of our team members with flat feet said it was the first shoe that didn’t leave their arches aching after a run.

The 1540 is even more supportive. It’s heavier, but it feels secure. One of us used it during injury recovery and felt like it gave them the confidence to run again. It’s not built for speed, but it’s a good option when you just want something steady.

Wide Sizes

This is something New Balance does better than most. We have runners on our team with wide feet, and it’s always been a struggle to find shoes that fit. New Balance makes that part easy. They offer shoes in wide, extra wide, and even narrow sizes.

One of us has extra-wide feet and had a hard time finding shoes that didn’t cause blisters. When they tried a 2E New Balance shoe, the difference was huge. No more rubbing, and their toes finally had space.

Durable

New Balance running shoes are durable. We’ve taken pairs past 400 miles, and the bottoms still had grip. 

We also tested a pair of 880s on pavement, gravel, and even some trails. After months of use, they still looked fine and felt good.

Another thing we noticed is that the shape of the shoe holds up. Some shoes start to feel sloppy after a while. New Balance keeps its structure longer. That’s made a difference on longer runs, especially when our legs are tired.

Made in USA Options

We care about where our stuff comes from. That’s why we noticed that some New Balance shoes are made in the USA. Not many shoe brands do that anymore.

We’ve tried a few of the Made in USA models like the 990 and 993. They feel solid and well-built. One of us toured their factory in Maine a few years ago and saw how much care went into each pair.

These models do cost more, but in our opinion, the quality matches the price.

Before you buy a pair, make sure you’re getting the right size. This guide explains whether New Balance shoes tend to fit true, large, or small.

Problems With New Balance Running Shoes

Even though we like a lot about New Balance, no shoe is perfect. We’ve run into a few issues. Here are the two biggest ones we think you should know.

Heavier in Some Models

Some New Balance shoes are on the heavier side. It depends on the model, but we noticed it with the 860 and 1540 series. These shoes offer a lot of support, but you can feel the weight after a few miles.

We used the 860 for daily runs and liked the support. But when it came time to do speed workouts, it felt like we were working harder than usual. The weight slowed us down. It’s not a dealbreaker for easy runs, but we wouldn’t wear them for a race.

Style Isn’t for Everyone

This one’s personal, but still worth mentioning. Some New Balance shoes just don’t look that great. The designs can feel a little dated. One of us called them “shoes your dad would wear.” And to be honest, they weren’t wrong.

That said, New Balance has improved in this area. The FuelCell line, for example, looks more modern.

Running shoes pick up a lot of dirt over time. Learn the right way to clean your New Balance 574s without damaging the material.

Best New Balance Shoes for Running

We tested a bunch of New Balance running shoes for several weeks. We ran on roads, trails, and treadmills. We tested different paces—from recovery jogs to faster runs. We paid close attention to comfort, support, and how our feet felt after a few miles.

Below are our top picks:

New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14 – Best for Maximum Cushioning

Fresh Foam X 1080v14 is one of the best New Balance shoes for running. Why? Well, the midsole has a soft feel but doesn’t sink. We also noticed the cushioning helped take pressure off our knees and heels. After longer runs, our feet didn’t feel sore or beaten up.

Plus, it fits securely around the heel and midfoot. However, this shoe is not built for speed. It’s for runners who want comfort over pace.

Total Score: 4.5 / 5

• Comfort: 5

• Durability: 4

• Breathability: 4.5

• Versatility: 4

Key Features

• Fresh Foam X Midsole: Offers soft cushioning underfoot without sinking or losing shape.

• Mesh Upper: Lets air in and doesn’t trap heat. Helps keep your feet dry.

• Roomy Toe Box: Leaves space for toes to move and helps prevent pressure during long runs.

• Supportive Heel Fit: Keeps the heel in place and reduces foot movement inside the shoe.

• Stable Ride: Feels steady with every step, even when legs are tired.

• Comfortable Out of the Box: No break-in needed. We used it for a full run on day one.

• Works for Wide Feet: Available in wide sizes that actually fit right.

• Good for Walking Too: Soft cushion and smooth feel make it easy to wear all day.

Pros and Cons

New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4 – Best for Racing

We wore the SuperComp Elite v4 for speed-focused sessions and race simulations. It’s light, springy, and built to help you move faster. The carbon plate creates a rolling feeling underfoot that makes it easier to hold a steady pace. It didn’t feel stiff. It just helped us move forward with less effort.

The foam is soft but very responsive. We ran a half marathon in these and noticed less fatigue in our legs afterward.

Total Score: 4.6 / 5

• Comfort: 4.5

• Durability: 4

• Breathability: 4.5

• Versatility: 5

Key Features

• PEBA FuelCell Foam: Feels light and bouncy, helping you run faster without pounding your legs.

• Carbon Plate: Adds forward roll with every step. Makes pacing smoother and helps you push.

• Race-Ready Fit: Upper hugs the foot without squeezing. No need for special lacing tricks.

• Snappy Ride: Midsole responds fast when you pick up the pace.

• Lightweight Feel: Feels fast without being flimsy.

• Stable Platform: Didn’t feel wobbly, even on curves.

• Good Grip: Outsole stuck well to the road in both dry and damp conditions.

• Best for Longer Races: Performed best for us between 10K and full marathon.

Pros and Cons

New Balance Fresh Foam X More v5 – Best for Daily Training Cushioning

We used the More v5 on our easiest run days and when our legs needed a break. It has one of the thickest midsoles we’ve worn, but it didn’t feel clunky. The ride was soft, steady, and very forgiving.

It works best at slow to moderate paces. We didn’t feel any push, but that’s not the point. This shoe is made to absorb impact and let your legs rest.

Total Score: 4.5 / 5

• Comfort: 5

• Durability: 4.5

• Breathability: 4

• Versatility: 4.5

Key Features

• Thick Fresh Foam X Midsole: Absorbs shock and gives your feet a break from impact.

• Stable Base: The wide platform keeps you balanced and helps reduce foot fatigue.

• Soft Upper: Breathable mesh that doesn’t rub or press down on the foot.

• Ideal for Recovery Days: Keeps pressure off tired joints and muscles.

• All-Day Wearable: Works well for people who walk or stand for long periods.

• Smooth Transitions: The rocker shape helps keep your stride steady.

Pros and Cons

New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v9 – Best for Trail Running

Hierro v9 is another great New Balance shoe for running. The grip stood out the most. The Vibram outsole gave us traction on both dry dirt and wet rocks. It didn’t slip once.

The cushioning feels softer than most trail shoes. It helped reduce impact on long downhill runs. One of us used it for a 12-mile trail loop and didn’t feel beat up afterward.

Total Score: 4.4 / 5

• Comfort: 4.5

• Durability: 4.5

• Breathability: 4

• Versatility: 4

Key Features

1. Vibram Outsole: Gave us great traction on rocks, roots, and steep climbs.

2. Fresh Foam X Midsole: Soft enough to handle long miles without bruising feet.

3. Protective Toe Cap: Helped avoid stubbed toes when hitting rocks or roots.

4. Drainage-Friendly Upper: Didn’t hold water after stream crossings or rain.

5. Stable Feel: Wide base helped on uneven ground.

6. Trail-Ready Fit: Enough space for trail socks and foot swelling.

Pros and Cons

If you have low arches or overpronate, you’ll want to explore the top-rated running shoes for flat feet—many New Balance models perform well in this area.

Final Thoughts

If you’re wondering whether New Balance is worth your money, here’s what we learned from real use:

• Go with 1080v14 for comfort on daily runs

• Choose Rebel v4 if you want a fast, light shoe

• Pick 860v14 if you need extra support and stability

• Try SuperComp Elite v4 if you're racing or training hard

• Use Hierro v9 if you run off-road or on trails

We’d run in New Balance again.

We tested New Balance shoes by actually running in them to see if they are any good. Some models felt great. Some didn’t. But the right one made a clear difference in how we ran and recovered.

So, are New Balance good running shoes?

Yes, New Balance makes great running shoes. They offer comfort, support, durability, and a wide fit range—perfect for daily runs, long distances, or races, depending on the model you choose.

In this guide, we’ll show you exactly what each New Balance shoe is good for.

Key Takeaways

• New Balance makes excellent running shoes.

• Many models use Fresh Foam or FuelCell midsoles, which provide a soft yet responsive ride.

• The 1080v14 is the best pick for runners who want soft, everyday comfort

• The Rebel v4 is lightweight and works great for tempo runs or short races

• The SuperComp Elite v4 is built for race day with a fast, propulsive feel

• The More v5 offers max cushion for slow runs or recovery days

• You don’t need to guess—each model serves a different type of runner

Are New Balance Good Running Shoes? (Get the Details)

Yes, New Balance makes very good running shoes. We’ve used them for everything from short jogs to long-distance runs, and they’ve always felt comfortable and reliable. Their cushioning feels great, and the support is solid.

The best part? They come in sizes that actually fit all foot types, including wide and narrow feet.

Let’s look at all the reasons why New Balance shoes are a great choice for running:

Comfortable Cushioning

The biggest reason why New Balance shoes are good for running is their cushioning. When we first tried New Balance shoes, the cushioning stood out right away. It didn’t feel too soft or too firm. It was right in the middle.

Some of us wore the Fresh Foam 1080, and it made long runs easier on our feet. One of us took it on a ten-mile run and said their legs still felt strong at the end.

Fresh Foam works well if you want a soft, smooth ride. We’ve used it for everything from 5Ks to half marathons. FuelCell, on the other hand, feels more energetic. It’s lighter and gives you a quicker push-off. We like it for faster runs or races.

The FuelCell Rebel was a favorite for speed days. It helped us move faster without making our feet tired.

What we noticed most was how long the cushioning lasted. We’ve put over 300 miles on some pairs and didn’t feel like the foam got flat. That’s a big deal. A lot of shoes wear out fast, but New Balance has done a good job of making their cushioning last.

Support Options

Some of us deal with overpronation, which just means our feet roll in a bit too much when we run. It used to cause knee pain and sore ankles. Then we tried New Balance stability shoes like the 860 and 1540, and things started to feel better.

The 860 has some extra support built into the midsole. It helped keep our feet in place and took pressure off our knees. One of our team members with flat feet said it was the first shoe that didn’t leave their arches aching after a run.

The 1540 is even more supportive. It’s heavier, but it feels secure. One of us used it during injury recovery and felt like it gave them the confidence to run again. It’s not built for speed, but it’s a good option when you just want something steady.

Wide Sizes

This is something New Balance does better than most. We have runners on our team with wide feet, and it’s always been a struggle to find shoes that fit. New Balance makes that part easy. They offer shoes in wide, extra wide, and even narrow sizes.

One of us has extra-wide feet and had a hard time finding shoes that didn’t cause blisters. When they tried a 2E New Balance shoe, the difference was huge. No more rubbing, and their toes finally had space.

Durable

New Balance running shoes are durable. We’ve taken pairs past 400 miles, and the bottoms still had grip. 

We also tested a pair of 880s on pavement, gravel, and even some trails. After months of use, they still looked fine and felt good.

Another thing we noticed is that the shape of the shoe holds up. Some shoes start to feel sloppy after a while. New Balance keeps its structure longer. That’s made a difference on longer runs, especially when our legs are tired.

Made in USA Options

We care about where our stuff comes from. That’s why we noticed that some New Balance shoes are made in the USA. Not many shoe brands do that anymore.

We’ve tried a few of the Made in USA models like the 990 and 993. They feel solid and well-built. One of us toured their factory in Maine a few years ago and saw how much care went into each pair.

These models do cost more, but in our opinion, the quality matches the price.

Before you buy a pair, make sure you’re getting the right size. This guide explains whether New Balance shoes tend to fit true, large, or small.

Problems With New Balance Running Shoes

Even though we like a lot about New Balance, no shoe is perfect. We’ve run into a few issues. Here are the two biggest ones we think you should know.

Heavier in Some Models

Some New Balance shoes are on the heavier side. It depends on the model, but we noticed it with the 860 and 1540 series. These shoes offer a lot of support, but you can feel the weight after a few miles.

We used the 860 for daily runs and liked the support. But when it came time to do speed workouts, it felt like we were working harder than usual. The weight slowed us down. It’s not a dealbreaker for easy runs, but we wouldn’t wear them for a race.

Style Isn’t for Everyone

This one’s personal, but still worth mentioning. Some New Balance shoes just don’t look that great. The designs can feel a little dated. One of us called them “shoes your dad would wear.” And to be honest, they weren’t wrong.

That said, New Balance has improved in this area. The FuelCell line, for example, looks more modern.

Running shoes pick up a lot of dirt over time. Learn the right way to clean your New Balance 574s without damaging the material.

Best New Balance Shoes for Running

We tested a bunch of New Balance running shoes for several weeks. We ran on roads, trails, and treadmills. We tested different paces—from recovery jogs to faster runs. We paid close attention to comfort, support, and how our feet felt after a few miles.

Below are our top picks:

New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14 – Best for Maximum Cushioning

Fresh Foam X 1080v14 is one of the best New Balance shoes for running. Why? Well, the midsole has a soft feel but doesn’t sink. We also noticed the cushioning helped take pressure off our knees and heels. After longer runs, our feet didn’t feel sore or beaten up.

Plus, it fits securely around the heel and midfoot. However, this shoe is not built for speed. It’s for runners who want comfort over pace.

Total Score: 4.5 / 5

• Comfort: 5

• Durability: 4

• Breathability: 4.5

• Versatility: 4

Key Features

• Fresh Foam X Midsole: Offers soft cushioning underfoot without sinking or losing shape.

• Mesh Upper: Lets air in and doesn’t trap heat. Helps keep your feet dry.

• Roomy Toe Box: Leaves space for toes to move and helps prevent pressure during long runs.

• Supportive Heel Fit: Keeps the heel in place and reduces foot movement inside the shoe.

• Stable Ride: Feels steady with every step, even when legs are tired.

• Comfortable Out of the Box: No break-in needed. We used it for a full run on day one.

• Works for Wide Feet: Available in wide sizes that actually fit right.

• Good for Walking Too: Soft cushion and smooth feel make it easy to wear all day.

Pros and Cons

New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4 – Best for Racing

We wore the SuperComp Elite v4 for speed-focused sessions and race simulations. It’s light, springy, and built to help you move faster. The carbon plate creates a rolling feeling underfoot that makes it easier to hold a steady pace. It didn’t feel stiff. It just helped us move forward with less effort.

The foam is soft but very responsive. We ran a half marathon in these and noticed less fatigue in our legs afterward.

Total Score: 4.6 / 5

• Comfort: 4.5

• Durability: 4

• Breathability: 4.5

• Versatility: 5

Key Features

• PEBA FuelCell Foam: Feels light and bouncy, helping you run faster without pounding your legs.

• Carbon Plate: Adds forward roll with every step. Makes pacing smoother and helps you push.

• Race-Ready Fit: Upper hugs the foot without squeezing. No need for special lacing tricks.

• Snappy Ride: Midsole responds fast when you pick up the pace.

• Lightweight Feel: Feels fast without being flimsy.

• Stable Platform: Didn’t feel wobbly, even on curves.

• Good Grip: Outsole stuck well to the road in both dry and damp conditions.

• Best for Longer Races: Performed best for us between 10K and full marathon.

Pros and Cons

New Balance Fresh Foam X More v5 – Best for Daily Training Cushioning

We used the More v5 on our easiest run days and when our legs needed a break. It has one of the thickest midsoles we’ve worn, but it didn’t feel clunky. The ride was soft, steady, and very forgiving.

It works best at slow to moderate paces. We didn’t feel any push, but that’s not the point. This shoe is made to absorb impact and let your legs rest.

Total Score: 4.5 / 5

• Comfort: 5

• Durability: 4.5

• Breathability: 4

• Versatility: 4.5

Key Features

• Thick Fresh Foam X Midsole: Absorbs shock and gives your feet a break from impact.

• Stable Base: The wide platform keeps you balanced and helps reduce foot fatigue.

• Soft Upper: Breathable mesh that doesn’t rub or press down on the foot.

• Ideal for Recovery Days: Keeps pressure off tired joints and muscles.

• All-Day Wearable: Works well for people who walk or stand for long periods.

• Smooth Transitions: The rocker shape helps keep your stride steady.

Pros and Cons

New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v9 – Best for Trail Running

Hierro v9 is another great New Balance shoe for running. The grip stood out the most. The Vibram outsole gave us traction on both dry dirt and wet rocks. It didn’t slip once.

The cushioning feels softer than most trail shoes. It helped reduce impact on long downhill runs. One of us used it for a 12-mile trail loop and didn’t feel beat up afterward.

Total Score: 4.4 / 5

• Comfort: 4.5

• Durability: 4.5

• Breathability: 4

• Versatility: 4

Key Features

1. Vibram Outsole: Gave us great traction on rocks, roots, and steep climbs.

2. Fresh Foam X Midsole: Soft enough to handle long miles without bruising feet.

3. Protective Toe Cap: Helped avoid stubbed toes when hitting rocks or roots.

4. Drainage-Friendly Upper: Didn’t hold water after stream crossings or rain.

5. Stable Feel: Wide base helped on uneven ground.

6. Trail-Ready Fit: Enough space for trail socks and foot swelling.

Pros and Cons

If you have low arches or overpronate, you’ll want to explore the top-rated running shoes for flat feet—many New Balance models perform well in this area.

Final Thoughts

If you’re wondering whether New Balance is worth your money, here’s what we learned from real use:

• Go with 1080v14 for comfort on daily runs

• Choose Rebel v4 if you want a fast, light shoe

• Pick 860v14 if you need extra support and stability

• Try SuperComp Elite v4 if you're racing or training hard

• Use Hierro v9 if you run off-road or on trails

We’d run in New Balance again.