Best New Balance Running Shoes

Last Updated on July 8, 2025 by Andy Walker

Best New Balance Running Shoes (July 2025)

New Balance continues to lead the pack in 2025 with a versatile lineup of running shoes that cater to every runner—from casual joggers to elite marathoners. Whether you’re seeking plush cushioning, speed-focused designs, or stability for overpronation, New Balance offers a model tailored to your needs. Many of these shoes are also podiatrist-recommended for common foot health concerns like plantar fasciitis, shin splints, and knee pain.

Here are our top picks:

Summary: Best New Balance Running Shoes

In-depth Reviews of the Best New Balance Running Shoes

Here are our reviews of the top New Balance running shoes:

New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14

Best for: Daily training, long runs

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14 is the flagship daily trainer from New Balance—and for good reason. This shoe blends ultra-soft cushioning with a smooth, balanced ride, making it an excellent choice for neutral runners who log moderate to high mileage. The updated Fresh Foam X midsole provides a plush yet responsive experience underfoot, especially appreciated on long runs when comfort is key.

The Hypoknit upper is breathable and adaptive, offering a snug fit without pressure points. It flexes with your foot naturally, and the heel counter offers just enough structure without feeling overly restrictive. Runners who have struggled with shin splints or soreness after long efforts will benefit from the cushioning geometry that reduces impact on each stride.

The 1080v14 also transitions well into everyday wear due to its comfort and visual appeal. It is not built for speed days, but for runners seeking a soft, protective ride, it’s one of the best neutral shoes on the market as of July 2025.

Specs

• Stack height: 38 mm heel / 30 mm forefoot
• Drop: 8 mm
• Weight: 9.2 oz (men’s size 9)
• Cushioning: Fresh Foam X
• Support: Neutral

Pros

• Excellent cushioning for daily and long-distance use
• Breathable, adaptable knit upper
• Versatile enough for walking and all-day wear

Cons

• Not ideal for speed workouts
• Slightly bulky for runners preferring a minimalist feel

Men’s version | Women’s version

New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5

Best for: Speed workouts, tempo runs

The FuelCell Rebel v5 is one of the most exciting speed trainers New Balance has released in recent years. It’s nimble, ultra-light, and built for runners who want to go fast. Whether you’re hammering out a tempo run or racing a 5K, this shoe offers energetic propulsion and a fluid ride. The latest version features an updated FuelCell midsole made from PEBA blend foam, offering more bounce and a lighter overall feel compared to previous iterations.

The FantomFit upper wraps the foot securely without excess weight, and the outsole grips well even in light rain. Though it’s not a carbon plate shoe, the Rebel v4 performs surprisingly well for up-tempo efforts. It caters best to forefoot and midfoot strikers, thanks to its rocker-like geometry and minimal heel drop.

However, runners with stability needs or heavier strides might find it less supportive. It’s not a daily workhorse—it shines when used for specific high-speed efforts and race-pace training.

Specs

• Stack height: 30 mm heel / 24 mm forefoot
• Drop: 6 mm
• Weight: 7.4 oz (men’s size 9)
• Cushioning: FuelCell PEBA
• Support: Neutral

Pros

• Very lightweight and snappy ride
• Ideal for tempo runs and short races
• Highly breathable and responsive upper

Cons

• Not suitable for runners needing stability
• May wear out faster than daily trainers

Men’s version | Women’s version

New Balance Fresh Foam X More v5

Best for: Recovery runs, max cushion

The Fresh Foam X More v5 is a top-tier choice for runners prioritizing comfort and softness, especially for recovery days. It’s also a go-to option for anyone suffering from knee pain or plantar fasciitis, thanks to its deeply cushioned platform and wide base.

This model features the thickest Fresh Foam X midsole in New Balance’s lineup, creating a pillowy ride that absorbs shock and protects joints. The shoe’s engineered mesh upper keeps airflow steady while the broad outsole improves stability. Despite its bulk, the More v5 is surprisingly smooth, transitioning well for a max-cushioned shoe.

While it’s not agile enough for speed sessions, the More v5 is perfect for logging slow miles or even long walks. It’s also popular among walkers and nurses for all-day standing support.

Specs

• Stack height: 40 mm heel / 34 mm forefoot
• Drop: 6 mm
• Weight: 10.4 oz (men’s size 9)
• Cushioning: Fresh Foam X
• Support: Neutral

Pros

• Maximum cushioning for impact protection
• Supportive for those with plantar fasciitis
• Excellent choice for recovery or standing jobs

Cons

• Not suited for speed or tempo runs
• Heavier than other neutral shoes

Men’s version | Women’s version

FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4

Best for: Race day, marathons

The FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4 is New Balance’s premier carbon-plated marathon shoe. It’s engineered for serious speed and efficiency, making it ideal for race day and long-distance competitions. Built with a PEBA-based FuelCell midsole and Energy Arc technology (a carbon plate embedded within a hollow channel), the SuperComp Elite delivers propulsive energy return with every stride.

The Elite v4 fits snugly with a lightweight knit upper that locks down the midfoot without being restrictive. It’s well-ventilated and stays secure even at high speeds. The ride is smooth, explosive, and ideal for neutral runners who want to optimize energy output over long distances.

This shoe isn’t designed for daily use and may feel unstable on sharp turns or uneven terrain. However, it’s a top pick for marathoners looking to shave time off their PRs.

Specs

• Stack height: 40 mm heel / 36 mm forefoot
• Drop: 4 mm
• Weight: 7.9 oz (men’s size 9)
• Cushioning: PEBA FuelCell + carbon plate
• Support: Neutral

Pros

• Race-proven energy return and propulsion
• Lightweight and breathable knit upper
• Great for marathon and half marathon racing

Cons

• Not ideal for easy or daily runs
• High price point typical of super shoes

Men’s version | Women’s version

New Balance Fresh Foam X 860v14

Best for: Stability, daily running

For runners who overpronate or need structured support, the Fresh Foam X 860v14 is New Balance’s go-to stability trainer. It combines a soft Fresh Foam X midsole with a medial post that counters inward foot roll, making it ideal for those with IT band syndrome or mild flat feet.

Unlike older stiff stability shoes, the 860v14 balances comfort and control. It feels soft underfoot while still offering a guided stride. The engineered mesh upper provides good breathability, and the outsole has ample traction for road running.

The shoe is durable enough for daily training and light enough to handle middle-distance workouts. It’s a reliable option for runners who want long-term foot and joint health support without sacrificing comfort.

Specs

• Stack height: 34 mm heel / 26 mm forefoot
• Drop: 8 mm
• Weight: 10.9 oz (men’s size 9)
• Cushioning: Fresh Foam X with medial post
• Support: Stability

Pros

• Combines cushioning with stability
• Medial post offers arch and knee support
• Well-suited for injury-prone runners

Cons

• Slightly heavier than neutral trainers
• Less responsive for speed workouts

Men’s version | Women’s version