7 Best New Balance Running Shoes of 2026

The Fresh Foam 680 V8 is a long-haul legend, engineered for runners who demand relentless comfort mile after mile. What sets it apart is its precision-crafted Fresh Foam midsole—infused with 3% bio-based content—that delivers a plush, yet responsive ride without weighing you down. The no-sew knit upper contours like a second skin, eliminating pressure points and offering targeted ventilation exactly where your foot heats up most. If you’ve ever battled hot spots or mid-run fatigue, this shoe answers with a smooth, breathable embrace that keeps discomfort at bay.

On real-world pavement and treadmills alike, the 680 V8 shines with its 8 mm drop and integrated rubber outsole, promoting a natural heel-to-toe transition that feels especially kind on longer runs. The midsole’s lightweight construction maintains cushioning integrity even after 20+ miles, though it’s not built for speedwork or tempo surges—this is a stability-focused cruiser, not a racer. While it handles wet sidewalks with decent grip, its true strength lies in consistent road performance, not unpredictable terrain.

Compared to the plush but pricier Fresh Foam X 1080 V14, the 680 V8 sacrifices some high-end softness for durability and value in the long-distance category. It’s the ideal pick for neutral runners logging high weekly mileage who want reliable, low-fatigue support without chasing race-day speed. Think of it as the dependable training partner you can count on day after day—less flashy than performance models, but built to endure. For the same cushioning DNA at a leaner price, it outperforms many in its class.

Meet the Fresh Foam X Cruz V3, a featherlight daily trainer that turns mundane jogs into surprisingly joyful outings. Its standout feature is the Fresh Foam X midsole, which uses 3% bio-based materials to deliver the brand’s softest, most resilient cushioning to date—perfect for absorbing daily impact without packing on pounds. The 8 mm drop encourages a smooth stride, while the integrated rubber outsole provides enough grip for urban commutes and park loops. If your routine involves logging easy miles between life’s other demands, this shoe makes every step feel effortless.

In real-world testing, the Cruz V3 excels as a do-it-all workhorse—breathable enough for summer mornings, supportive enough for lunchtime 5Ks, and light enough to avoid fatigue on back-to-back runs. The upper’s no-frills design with adjustable lacing ensures a secure, customizable fit, though it lacks the structured lockdown of higher-end models. It’s not built for sprints or technical trails, and the cushioning can feel a bit too soft when pushing pace. But for recovery runs and steady-state miles, it strikes a rare balance of comfort and simplicity.

When stacked against the FuelCell Rebel V4, the Cruz V3 trades propulsion for plushness—making it better suited for low-intensity consistency than race prep. It’s the go-to for runners who prioritize daily comfort over explosive performance, especially those transitioning from heavier trainers. Compared to the Rebel’s energetic bounce, this model offers a mellower, more forgiving experience that’s easier on tired legs. For a lightweight daily trainer that keeps recovery runs enjoyable, it delivers more comfort per ounce than most.

The Fresh Foam Roav V1 isn’t just a sneaker—it’s a cloud-like walking companion engineered for all-day ease. Its bootie upper construction and Ultra Heel design work in harmony to cradle the foot, delivering a snug, sock-like fit that eliminates heel slip—a common pain point for casual walkers. The Fresh Foam midsole offers that same beloved cushioning New Balance is known for, making every step feel springy and supported, even after hours on your feet. Whether you’re navigating grocery aisles or exploring city sidewalks, this shoe turns walking into a genuinely comfortable experience.

Out on mixed terrain—from tile floors to cracked pavement—the Roav V1 holds its own thanks to its full-length rubber outsole with Ndurance reinforcement in the heel. This means better durability and grip where it matters most, extending the shoe’s lifespan even with daily use. The synthetic/mesh upper breathes moderately well, though it can feel a bit warm in humid conditions. It’s not built for running or fast hikes, and the lack of aggressive tread limits off-road capability. But as a dedicated walking shoe, it excels in longevity and step-in comfort.

Compared to the Fresh Foam 680 V8, the Roav V1 trades running-specific geometry for lifestyle-friendly support, making it ideal for non-runners or those prioritizing comfort over performance. It’s the kind of shoe that bridges the gap between athletic design and everyday wear—more dynamic than a slip-on, more supportive than a fashion sneaker. While it doesn’t offer the propulsion of performance models, it outshines them in all-day wearability. For walking comfort that lasts from morning errands to evening strolls, it’s unmatched in its niche.

The FuelCell Rebel V4 is a rocket in disguise—a daily runner that delivers race-day energy without the racing price tag. At its core is the FuelCell foam midsole, engineered to create a propulsive, bounce-forward sensation that turns easy runs into tempo-like bursts of speed. The geometric midsole is wider and taller than its predecessor, increasing stability without sacrificing responsiveness, while longitudinal outsole pods enhance flex and ground feel. If you’ve ever wanted a shoe that makes you feel faster, this one delivers with every stride.

On the road, the Rebel V4 shines brightest during faster efforts—5Ks, fartlek sessions, or even track warmups—where its energy return truly comes alive. It’s lightweight enough to feel nimble, yet cushioned enough to handle back-to-back hard days. The gusseted tongue with no-sew overlays keeps debris out and fit secure, though the upper lacks the breathability of more ventilated models in hot conditions. It’s not ideal for long, slow distance runs where plushness is king, but as a speed catalyst, it outperforms most daily trainers.

Compared to the Cruz V3, the Rebel V4 is its high-octane sibling—less about soft landings, more about explosive takeoffs. It’s the perfect choice for runners looking to elevate their pace without stepping into a carbon-plated racer. While the Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 offers deeper cushioning for recovery days, the Rebel V4 fills the gap between training and racing with unmatched agility. For performance-focused runners who want a fun, fast daily driver, it strikes a rare balance of pop and practicality.

The 410 V8 is a rugged, no-nonsense trail runner built for those who refuse to let terrain dictate their route. Its AT Tread outsole features aggressive lugs that bite into dirt, gravel, and wet rocks, delivering confident grip whether you’re climbing a muddy hill or descending a rocky ridge. The soft BIO Foam midsole provides just enough cushion to absorb trail shocks without sacrificing ground feel—critical when navigating roots and uneven surfaces. If you’re tired of road shoes that slip on loose terrain, this model is your rugged upgrade.

In real-world trail testing, the 410 V8 proves its worth on mixed surfaces, transitioning smoothly from paved paths to forest trails without hesitation. The durable overlays and mesh upper resist abrasion from brush and debris, while the lace-up closure locks the foot down securely over technical sections. It’s not the lightest trail shoe on the market, and the cushioning is modest compared to max-cushion trail models—but that’s by design. This is a responsive, agile trail tool, not a plush cruiser.

Compared to the Fresh Foam X 1080 V14, the 410 V8 trades road luxury for trail toughness, making it ideal for runners who spend more time off-pavement. It’s less about long-distance comfort, more about confident control where the path disappears. While it doesn’t offer the same softness as road-focused Fresh Foam models, it outperforms them where traction and durability matter most. For trail runners who want reliability without excess weight, it’s a smart, focused performer.

The Fresh Foam 520 V9 is proof that premium comfort doesn’t have to cost a premium. At its core is the same Fresh Foam midsole found in higher-end models, delivering an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride that belies its budget-friendly position. The breathable engineered mesh keeps feet cool during morning jogs, while the 10 mm drop (approximate) promotes a smooth, natural stride—ideal for new runners or those seeking a simple, reliable trainer. If you’re tired of entry-level shoes that feel cheap and lifeless, this one punches far above its weight.

On pavement and treadmills, the 520 V9 delivers consistent performance with a no-frills, get-the-job-done attitude. It’s not fast or flashy, but it’s dependable—cushioned enough for 5Ks, durable enough for weekly use, and light enough to avoid slog. The synthetic upper is basic but functional, and while the fit lacks the refinement of pricier models, it’s secure with minimal break-in. It struggles on wet surfaces and offers little energy return, but for easy runs and casual fitness, it covers all the basics.

When compared to the Cruz V3, the 520 V9 offers similar cushioning DNA at a significantly leaner cost, though it sacrifices some softness and upper refinement. It’s the ideal pick for budget-conscious beginners or walkers who want real running shoe comfort without extras they won’t use. While it doesn’t match the propulsion of the Rebel V4 or the plushness of the 1080 V14, it delivers essential performance at a fraction of the price. For no-nonsense, everyday comfort, it’s a standout value.

The Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 is New Balance’s gold standard for road running, a masterclass in plush engineering and all-around performance. Its Fresh Foam X midsole, infused with 3% bio-based content, delivers the softest, most luxurious cushioning in the lineup—perfect for long runs, recovery days, or anyone who prioritizes cloud-like comfort. The gusseted tongue and no-sew overlays keep debris out and fit secure, while the synthetic and engineered mesh upper offers a blend of breathability and structure. If you’ve ever wanted a shoe that feels like a premium massage with every step, this is it.

In real-world use, the 1080 V14 excels on long, steady runs where impact protection is key. The 8 mm drop promotes a smooth transition, and the midsole maintains its softness mile after mile without bottoming out. It’s not the lightest shoe, and the cushioning can feel a bit too indulgent for fast efforts—but that’s not its purpose. It’s built for high-mileage durability and joint-friendly support, making it a favorite among marathoners and injury-prone runners. The upper breathes well, though not as aggressively as the Cruz V3.

Compared to the Rebel V4, the 1080 V14 is the yin to its yang—focused on cushioning over speed, comfort over aggression. It outclasses the 520 V9 in every performance metric, justifying its place as the best overall road running shoe in the lineup. While it’s heavier than performance models, it delivers unmatched underfoot luxury for daily training. For runners who want the most balanced mix of softness, support, and reliability, it’s the top-tier choice that justifies every upgrade.