New Balance Fresh Foam X More Trail v3

Those of us who like to run comfortably and quietly in the mountains have some reference shoes that are perfectly suited to these characteristics, and the New Balance Fresh Foam X More Trail v3 is one of them. Although it has been on the market for a few months now, we have had the opportunity to test and analyse them in depth. The truth is that we have enjoyed them very much.

The New Balance Fresh Foam X More Trail v3 is one of the most outstanding trail running shoes of the Boston brand and is designed to run long distances comfortably in the mountains and reminds us, in those easier terrains, of all the good things that its sister shoe for asphalt has.

First impressions and features: New Balance Fresh Foam X More Trail v3

The truth is that we felt very comfortable already from the first kilometres, after the first strides you realize that you are guaranteed great cushioning. We have tested them on different mountain terrains, easier and more complicated, flat and with steep slopes, both uphill and downhill, to test them to the maximum. Unfortunately, as has become customary in recent months here in sunny Spain, we have not been able to test the shoe on wet or muddy terrain. If we do in the future we will tell you our impressions here.

The maximalist profiles are perfectly adapted to heavier and slower runners, although we were pleasantly surprised in those areas where you can push and run a little faster, where the shoe responded quickly and agile.

We are not going to discuss in this review all the benefits of the Fresh Foam X compound in the midsole: you know in advance that you are guaranteed great cushioning and comfort at all times with the shoes that have this compound.

One of the aspects that surprised us most about the shoe is the improved stability when running. When we run with high profile shoes we always run the risk of not having good stability while running on more technical, unstable and steeper terrain and, the truth is that we have not had any problem in this regard during the kilometres of testing. On the contrary, we have felt protected and confidently on all types of terrain.

The raised sides of the midsole, combined with the structure of the heel, keep our ankles firm and protected, giving us greater security and confidence when going down more complicated and technical terrain.

The Vibram Ecosport compound of the shoe guarantees good grip and traction, especially in the most difficult and steepest areas. In addition, the lugs helps us in this aspect. Of course, if there were more rubber, the shoe would gain much more in this aspect- although it is clear that it would penalise the weight.

What kind of runners are the New Balance Fresh Foam X More Trail v3 good for?

They are clearly designed for runners who prioritise comfort and cushioning over more minimalist, more reactive shoes with lower profiles that allow you to be more in contact with the surface.

Thanks to their versatility, they are suitable for a wide range of runners. They can be used by fast runners who need a shoe for longer distance or recovery runs, where this shoe can fit them perfectly.

What distances do we recommend for the New Balance Fresh Foam X More Trail v3?

They are great for longer distances. We can run with them, whenever we want to run at medium and easy paces, distances such as the marathon (or longer) with the guarantee that they will offer us great comfort. In any case, being shoes with great durability and performance, they respond perfectly in shorter distances.

What we liked most about the New Balance Fresh Foam X More Trail v3

We were pleasantly surprised by the stability we experienced. They are very comfortable shoes that have great cushioning, but these are aspects that we already knew we were going to like because they are the most prominent, but the security with which we run with the shoes delighted us, especially in those more technical descents in which our ankles have not resented- at any time.

We must also highlight the brand's commitment to the use of recycled materials, including in the upper and the sole, which contribute to the quality and performance of the shoe.

Opportunities for improvement in the New Balance Fresh Foam X More Trail v3

We miss a system that many current trail running shoes already have: a system that allows us to store or secure our laces while running to improve safety, and more so in an environment where we usually run on narrow paths and trails where we can suffer a mishap.

With which models can we compare the New Balance Fresh Foam X More Trail v3?

Arguments for getting the New Balance Fresh Foam X More Trail v3

The New Balance Fresh Foam X More Trail v3 is one of the reference trail shoes of the American brand, ideal for running long distances comfortably in the mountains. It improves in stability and guarantees great durability of the sole, as well as adapting perfectly to a wide variety of terrains.

It is one of the models that represent an excellent option for runners who want to start in the long and ultra distances. The new version will soon be on the market, and we will see if it improves even more this version that is positioned as one of the benchmark shoes of maximalism and great cushioning on the market today.