The New Balance Fresh Foam X Balos v1 is an everyday running shoe that blends race foam into the midsole foam to provide a fun and bouncy ride. The step-in feel and overall experience is aggressively soft—this is probably the softest shoe we've tested in 2024. Runners who want an elevated everyday running shoe and walking shoe with a pillow-soft feel will love the Balos. Those who benefit from extra support and structure may prefer one of the options listed below that have a firmer ride (Nike Zoom Structure 25, Brooks Ghost Max 2, Asics Novablast 4). The price is quite steep at $200, so we recommend the New Balance More v5 ($155) for most people over this. Runners logging big mileage who enjoy soft shoes will get the most value out of this at full retail price.
Category
Daily trainer
Release Date
August 2024
Plated?
No
Type of Plate
None
Foam
Fresh Foam X
Foam Compound
EVA & PEBA Blend
Ride
Soft, Bouncy, Smooth
Heel Stack (mm)
38.5
Forefoot Stack (mm)
32.5
Drop (mm)
6
Weight (mens size 9)
9.2
Support
Neutral
Fit
True to size
Alternatives
Here are some other options to consider. To find the best shoe for you, take the quiz linked below for personalized matches
Max comfort
Brooks Ghost Max 2
Top pick for bigger runners who want a comfortable and bouncy ride
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