The Run TestersVideo · Mar 21, 2026INFERRED
A smashing and special trainer that offers a joyful and protective ride, serving as a versatile all-rounder for the majority of training runs.
New Balance
Fresh Foam X Balos
Super trainer · Neutral · 252 g · 6 mm drop · MSRP $200
$14.99 at eBay - ronnyschultz8$20093% off today
Critic consensus
from 6 reviewsThe New Balance Fresh Foam X Balos is an exceptionally soft, bouncy, and lightweight trainer designed primarily for easy, daily, and long recovery runs. While most runners appreciate the smooth rocker and plush ride, the high price tag and rapid outsole wear on exposed foam draw consistent criticism. It best suits runners seeking maximum impact protection at relaxed paces who do not mind paying a premium.
Reviewers agree
The two-hundred dollar retail price is excessively high.6/6
Midsole provides a remarkably soft and well-cushioned ride.6/6
Outsole foam suffers from premature wear due to minimal rubber.4/6
Smooth rocker geometry promotes fluid forward transitions.3/6
Reviewers disagree
Versatility for uptempo and faster paces3 vs 3
Toe box volume and overall sizing3 vs 3
What reviewers use it for
Easy6 of 6
Long run5 of 6
Tempo3 of 6
Race0 of 6 · no tag
A shoe earns a tag as soon as one reviewer recommends it for that kind of run; the count shows how many agree. Mentions include synonyms, so “recovery”, “zone 2” and “conversational” all count toward Easy.
Critic reviews
6 reviews · 5 scores inferredRUN-AREVideo · Mar 21, 2026
While it's let down slightly by its price and the weird fit of the upper, the ride is absolutely amazing.
Believe in the RunVideo · Mar 21, 2026INFERRED
Primarily suited for easy day, recovery, and steady long runs where comfort and soft cushioning are prioritized.
KofuziVideo · Mar 14, 2026INFERRED
A very fun, comfortable, bouncy, and lightweight shoe that excels in cushioning and versatility, though foot pain arose on longer runs.
jogoncragoVideo · Mar 21, 2026INFERRED
The Balos is a pleasant daily trainer, but it doesn't quite live up to its super shoe marketing or price point.
Fordy RunsVideo · Mar 21, 2026INFERRED
The New Balance Balos is expensive and not necessary, and New Balance missed with the Fresh Foam X setup in this shoe.
EasyWatch review