New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo

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LeighAnn GanzarSion Lupowitz

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New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo: Review

“A stability shoe for overpronators with plush cushioning.”

Overview


The New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo is a running shoe designed to provide stability and comfort for runners who overpronate (experience excessive inward rolling of the foot during walking or running). This shoe is part of the New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo family, known for its innovative approach to stability and cushioning.

Key Features:

  • Fresh Foam Midsole: Provides a plush, cushioned ride while maintaining responsiveness.
  • Varus Wedge: Offers stability by correcting pronation without the need for traditional medial posts.
  • Breathable Upper: Ensures comfort and ventilation during runs.

The New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize stability and cushioning for daily running. Its unique midsole design offers a smooth ride, making it suitable for both training and longer runs.

Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently in the most expensive 10% of running shoes today.

Verdict

The consensus on the New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo


The New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo is a well-rounded stability shoe that excels in providing a cushioned and stable ride for overpronators. The Fresh Foam midsole offers a plush underfoot feel, making it comfortable for daily training runs. The Varus Wedge design effectively corrects pronation without adding bulk, resulting in a smooth and lightweight ride. However, some runners may find the upper to be less breathable and the fit not as secure as desired. The shoe's low drop height of 4 mm encourages a more natural foot strike, which can be beneficial for strengthening the posterior chain muscles. Overall, the Fresh Foam Vongo is a solid choice for runners seeking a balance of stability and cushioning. Its combination of innovative design and comfort makes it a valuable addition to any runner's rotation.

Comparable Shoes


The Hoka Gaviota 5 is a good comparison to the New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo. Both shoes provide a soft, max-cushioned underfoot experience and perform well at slower paces. The Vongo v6 is softer with better arch support, whereas the Gaviota 5 is more stable thanks to its more structured upper design.

The New Balance 860 v13 offers a well-balanced midsole feel with pronation control, similar to the Fresh Foam Vongo. The Vongo v6 feels more protective and smoother through the gait cycle. For a more everyday, around-town experience, the 860 v13 is recommended, but for daily runs and longer efforts, the Vongo v6 is a better choice.

9 New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo Pros & Cons


5 Pros

Comfortably snug, breathable upper
Ample, responsive cushion
Stable shoe without the bulk
Lightweight, encouraging a quick turnover
Smooth ride

4 Cons

Could take some getting used to
Upper can cause hot spots
Cushioning can feel heavy and sluggish at faster paces
Fit may not be secure for all runners

In Depth


Upper

The upper of the New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo is designed with a breathable mesh material that provides a comfortable and snug fit. The synthetic mesh slides on easily and hugs the foot, offering support without causing irritation. Perforated overlays add structure and enhance breathability, making it suitable for long runs. However, some users have reported that the upper can cause hot spots, especially where the tongue attaches to the shoe. Despite this, the adaptable material accommodates various foot shapes, ensuring a comfortable fit for most runners.

Midsole

The Fresh Foam midsole of the New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo is the highlight of this shoe. It provides a plush, cushioned ride that is both soft and responsive. The Varus Wedge design offers stability by correcting pronation, making it ideal for overpronators. The midsole's balanced feel ensures a smooth transition from heel to toe, making it suitable for daily training runs. However, some runners may find the cushioning to be a bit heavy, resulting in a slightly sluggish ride at faster paces.

Outsole

The outsole of the New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo features a dense rubber compound that provides reliable traction on both wet and dry surfaces. The hexagon pattern from toe to heel ensures good grip and durability, making it a consistent performer for accumulating mileage. The outsole's design also includes a central groove in the rearfoot area, which enhances flexibility and provides a smoother transition during runs. While the dense design adds some weight to the shoe, it offers excellent protection and durability.

Size/fit

The New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo fits true to size and accommodates a variety of foot shapes. The upper material is very adaptable, providing a comfortable on-foot feel. However, some runners have reported issues with heel slippage and hot spots, particularly during longer runs. It is recommended to try the shoe on first to ensure it meets individual fit preferences. The shoe is also available in wide widths, offering additional options for those with broader feet.

Comfort

Comfort is a key feature of the New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo. The plush Fresh Foam midsole provides a soft and cushioned ride, making it ideal for daily training runs. The breathable upper ensures ventilation, reducing the risk of irritation during long runs. However, some runners may find the upper to be less breathable and the fit not as secure as desired. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall comfort of the shoe makes it a popular choice among runners.

Cushioning

The cushioning in the New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo is provided by the Fresh Foam midsole, which offers a plush and responsive ride. The cushioning is soft yet supportive, making it suitable for daily training runs and longer distances. The low drop height of 4 mm encourages a more natural foot strike, which can help strengthen the posterior chain muscles. However, some runners may find the cushioning to be a bit heavy, resulting in a slightly sluggish ride at faster paces.

Breathability

The breathable mesh upper of the New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo ensures good ventilation during runs. Perforated overlays add structure and enhance breathability, making it suitable for long runs. However, some users have reported that the upper can cause hot spots, especially where the tongue attaches to the shoe. Despite this, the overall breathability of the shoe is adequate for most runners, ensuring a comfortable and cool experience.

Stability

Stability is a key feature of the New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo, making it an excellent choice for overpronators. The Varus Wedge design corrects pronation without the need for traditional medial posts, resulting in a smooth and lightweight ride. The wide base of support and flared medial forefoot enhance stability, providing a secure platform for runners. The stability support is unnoticeable underfoot, ensuring a natural and comfortable running experience.

Durability

The New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo is designed to be durable, with a dense rubber outsole that provides reliable traction and protection. The hexagon pattern from toe to heel ensures good grip and durability, making it a consistent performer for accumulating mileage. The upper material is also designed to withstand wear and tear, ensuring the shoe remains in good condition over time. While the dense design adds some weight to the shoe, it offers excellent protection and durability.

Grip

The grip of the New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo is provided by the dense rubber outsole, which features a hexagon pattern from toe to heel. This design ensures reliable traction on both wet and dry surfaces, making it suitable for various running conditions. The outsole's central groove in the rearfoot area enhances flexibility and provides a smoother transition during runs. Overall, the grip of the shoe is dependable, ensuring a secure footing for runners.

Flex

The flexibility of the New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo is enhanced by the central groove in the rearfoot area of the outsole. This design feature allows for a smoother transition during runs, providing a more natural and comfortable experience. The breathable mesh upper also contributes to the shoe's flexibility, accommodating various foot shapes and ensuring a comfortable fit. While the dense rubber outsole adds some weight to the shoe, it does not significantly hinder its overall flexibility.

Who should buy the New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo?


The New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo is ideal for runners who overpronate and need a stability shoe with ample cushioning. It is suitable for those who prioritize comfort and support during daily running. The shoe's breathable upper and adaptable fit make it a good choice for runners with various foot shapes. Additionally, runners who appreciate a low drop height and a more natural foot strike will find value in this shoe. The Fresh Foam Vongo is also a great option for those looking to strengthen their posterior chain muscles while maintaining stability.

Who should not buy the New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo?


Runners who prefer a highly responsive and lightweight shoe may not find the New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo to be the best fit. The cushioning, while plush, can feel heavy and sluggish at faster paces. Those who require a more breathable upper or a secure lockdown may also want to consider other options. If you have high motion control needs or prefer a roomy toe box, this shoe may not be the most suitable choice. For these runners, models like the ASICS Kayano or Brooks Transcend might be better alternatives.

New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo: What's it good for?


The New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo is well-suited for daily running and everyday training. Its stability features make it ideal for runners who overpronate, providing the necessary support without compromising on comfort. The shoe's cushioning and breathable upper ensure a comfortable experience during long runs. Additionally, the low drop height encourages a more natural foot strike, making it suitable for those looking to strengthen their posterior chain muscles. Overall, the Fresh Foam Vongo is a versatile option for various running activities.

5 New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo FAQs


Is the New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo suitable for overpronators?

Yes, the New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo is designed specifically for overpronators. It features a Varus Wedge midsole that corrects pronation without the need for traditional medial posts, providing stability and support.

How does the Fresh Foam Vongo compare to other stability shoes?

The Fresh Foam Vongo offers a unique combination of plush cushioning and stability. Unlike traditional stability shoes that use medial posts, the Vongo uses a Varus Wedge design, resulting in a lighter and smoother ride. It is comparable to models like the HOKA Gaviota and ASICS Kayano.

Is the Fresh Foam Vongo good for daily running?

Yes, the Fresh Foam Vongo is well-suited for daily running. Its cushioning and stability features make it comfortable for everyday training runs, and the breathable upper ensures ventilation during long runs.

What is the heel-to-toe drop of the Fresh Foam Vongo?

The New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo has a heel-to-toe drop of 4 mm, which encourages a more natural foot strike and can help strengthen the posterior chain muscles.

Is the Fresh Foam Vongo available in wide widths?

Yes, the Fresh Foam Vongo is available in wide widths, making it a good option for runners with broader feet. The adaptable upper material also accommodates various foot shapes.

New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo alternatives

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Released
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productAthletes
Pro athlete users

LeighAnn GanzarSion Lupowitz

Rebecca Mehra
Weight
Weight
M: 301 g
W: 249 g
M: 269 g
W: 224 g
M: 275 g
W: 232 g
M: 298 g
W: 244 g
M: 227 g
W: 193 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
M: 24 mm
W: 23 mm
28 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
4 mm
3 mm
5 mm
5 mm
5 mm
Heel
Heel
M: 29 mm
W: 28 mm
33 mm
Brand
Brand
New Balance
NewtonNewtonHokaNew BalanceHoka
Strike Type
Strike Type
Fore/Midfoot strike
Fore/Midfoot strikeFore/Midfoot strikeFore/Midfoot strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
Low drop
Low drop
MaximalistComfortableLightweightMaximalist
Breathable
Breathable
Orthotic friendly
Orthotic friendly
Removable insole
Removable insole
Rocker
Rocker
Techs
Techs
New Balance Fresh Foam
New Balance Fresh Foam
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
Vegan Ⓥ
Vegan Ⓥ
Vegan Ⓥ
0

New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo: what the experts say (1 review)

New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo: 1 Expert video review

New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo characteristics and specifications

Characteristics
SportsRunning (+2049)
TerrainRoad (+1362)
UsagesDaily running (+1132)
BrandNew Balance (+125)
Support TypeStability (+209)
Pronation TypeOverpronation (+195)
Strike TypeFore/Midfoot strike (+1116)
Arch TypeLow arch (+201)
Shoe TypeLow drop (+277)
TechsNew Balance Fresh Foam (+63)
Events10k (+711)Half marathon (+711)Marathon (+711)
Environmental CharacteristicsVegan Ⓥ (+250)
ColorwaysBlack, Red, White / Black, White / Red
Specificationsvs Average
Released
Jul 2016
Measurements
Weight
M: 301 g
W: 249 g
Heel to toe drop
4 mm

Evolution of the New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo product family

2 pro athletes who've used New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo

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AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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Tom Green
December 18, 2024 at 9:55 AM
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