New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2

The New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 features an engineered knit upper that is both lightweight and breathable. The design includes a sleek heel construction that tapers away from the Achilles, aiming to minimize irritation in that area. The upper's secure fit is enhanced by a grippy internal mesh material and a padded tongue, which together provide a locked-down feel. Despite these positives, some runners have reported a sloppy fit in the forefoot, suggesting that while the upper excels in breathability and heel lockdown, it may not offer the best support across all foot shapes.

At the heart of the New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 is the Ground Contact Fresh Foam midsole, which is engineered to deliver a soft underfoot feel while maintaining a lightweight profile. This cushioning is designed to absorb shock and provide a responsive ride, though some runners may find it firmer than expected. The midsole's thickness eliminates ground feel, which can be a trade-off for those who prefer a more plush sensation during their runs.

The outsole of the New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 is primarily made of exposed Ground Contact EVA foam, with strategically placed blown rubber in high-impact areas to enhance durability. This design choice is common in lightweight cushioning shoes to save weight. The outsole offers adequate traction on various surfaces, making the Beacon v2 a reliable option for road running.

The New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 is reported to fit true to size, providing a comfortable fit for runners with average foot width. The shoe's design ensures a secure fit, although some runners have noted a less-than-ideal fit in the forefoot area, which could affect overall comfort during runs.

Comfort is a standout feature of the New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2, with many runners praising the shoe's cushioning and step-in feel. The combination of a breathable upper and responsive midsole contributes to a comfortable running experience, suitable for a range of distances and running styles.

The cushioning of the New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 is a balance between softness and responsiveness. While the Fresh Foam midsole provides a cushioned ride, some runners have found it to be on the firmer side, which may affect the perceived plushness of the shoe. However, the cushioning is well-regarded for its durability and versatility across different types of runs.

The engineered knit upper of the New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 ensures excellent breathability, making the shoe a good choice for runs in warmer conditions. The material allows for ample airflow, helping to keep the feet cool and dry during exercise.

Durability is a strong point for the New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2, with many runners noting that the shoe holds up well over time. The outsole's strategic rubber placement helps to extend the shoe's lifespan, particularly in areas prone to wear and tear.

Yes, the New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 is suitable for marathon training due to its combination of lightweight design and responsive cushioning. It provides a comfortable ride for long-distance runs.

The New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 fits true to size with a secure and breathable upper. However, some runners have noted a less secure fit in the forefoot compared to other models.

Yes, the New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 can be used for speed training. Its lightweight and responsive cushioning make it a good choice for faster workouts.

The main updates in the New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 include a redesigned engineered knit upper for improved comfort and a new heel design to reduce Achilles irritation, while maintaining the same Fresh Foam midsole cushioning.