Performance

Lightness
8
Cushioning
9
Flexibility
8
Responsive
9
Stability
10
Grip
9

Details of Fresh Foam X Vongo v5

Gender Men , Women
Men weight 280 gr
Women weight 222 gr
Drop 8 mm
Cushion High
Runner weight Medium , Strong
Running gait Overpronation , Neutral
Surface Road
Use training , Racing
Pace Medium , High
Distance 10K , Half-marathon , Marathon
Colour Blue , Orange
Year 2021

Perfect support and softness for both training and competing over long distances are what the Boston-based company aims to provide with its new offering, the New Balance Fresh Foam X Vongo v5. After a two-year hiatus, New Balance has updated this line, targeting medium/heavy weight pronators seeking stability during their runs. It's worth noting, however, that they also cater well to neutral runners needing extra protection after logging many kilometers.

New Balance Fresh Foam X Vongo v5: main features

The aesthetic overhaul of these running shoes is significant, but the true value of the Vongo v5 lies in its technological and functional advancements. The Fresh Foam X, prominently featured in the midsole, especially in the arch area with its high density, pairs with EVA foam to ensure not only superior protection but also a more dynamic and cushioned run. Visually, the Vongo v5 departs from its predecessor, the Vongo v4, adopting a look closer to the New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v11, but with added support. The stretch Knit fabric and Hypoknit upper enhance the snug, bootie-like fit, offering more cushioning and improved safety and protection for the runner.

Visually, the Vongo v5 departs from its predecessor, the Vongo v4, adopting a look closer to the New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v11, but with added support. The stretch Knit fabric and Hypoknit upper enhance the snug, boot-like fit, offering more cushioning and improved safety and protection for the runner.

The outsole has been refreshed to improve upon the previous model, featuring rubber material with several grooves and a central space that enhances direct surface contact, thereby softening each step.

New Balance Fresh Foam X Vongo v5: technical specifications

Joining New Balance's lineup of running shoes for pronator runners, the Fresh Foam X Vongo v5 stands out. The brand is increasingly incorporating specific technologies to prevent injuries and ensure safety with every step, akin to other models like the FuelCell Prism and the 860v11.

These shoes promise fit, stability, and dynamism, along with superior cushioning and comfort for long-distance competitions and training. They are particularly suited for medium and/or heavy runners who value comfort and fluidity with each stride.

In terms of technical specs, the men's version weighs 280 grams, and the women's version comes in at 222 grams. They feature an 8mm drop, with double the density compared to the Vongo v4, ensuring a blend of performance and protection.

Review of New Balance Fresh Foam X Vongo v5

11 May 2023

Support, comfort and lightness, the 3 defining characteristics of the New Balance Fresh Foam X Vongo v5

Over the years, with the democratization of running, new groups of runners emerge who demand products that suit their particular circumstances. And when those circumstances become a large enough group to become an important part of the market, brands launch ad hoc products.

And this is where these new New Balance Fresh Foam X Vongo v5 come in. A very versatile shoe that, despite what it may seem, can be used both by runners with pronator footprint and those with neutral footprint who feel more comfortable with greater protection and security of the foot in the race.

What profile of runner are these New Balance Fresh Foam X Vongo v5 for?

We are talking about a model with maximum cushioning, but still with a remarkable lightness. Under 300 grams in a 95 uses. A model that you will be able to use in your runs at easy paces, but that responds very well when you are looking for more lively rhythms. Its main virtue is the balance between support, support and protection of the foot during running, with a comfort rarely seen in models aimed at avoiding overpronation.

Its design, with a classic cut, stands out for a rocker model that provides greater inertia in the race, facilitating the transition of the footprint. The foam in the midsole is reinforced with a higher density of material on the inner side, which ensures that the foot does not collapse if we suffer from overpronation or if we lose running technique as the kilometers go by.

For what kind of distances do we recommend the New Balance Fresh Foam X Vongo v5?

These shoes are ideal for running a half marathon or a marathon, if you are looking for good cushioning, support and dynamism. The good balance between comfort and support makes them a great ally for long runs for those of us who lose running technique due to fatigue and accumulation of kilometers. Or for those who tend to overpronate from the first kilometer.

You will also be able to use them as an all-round shoe. It is a lightweight model, well ventilated (with an upper that is one of the best on the market right now), comfortable (taking into account that we are talking about a supportive shoe ), and aesthetically very "wearable". These are enough arguments for you to use these New Balance Fresh Foam X Vongo v5 for both training and competition.

What we liked the most

Clearly the balance of the model. This is a shoe that you will be able to use whether you are a pronator or not. Whenever you are looking for safety, protection, cushioning and comfort for long distances, you should think of Vongo.

Its design is New Balance's trademark. Despite being a more classic concept, the use of materials and the combination of colors make this model one of the ones we have liked the most in its category. Although as we always say, there is nothing written in taste.

Possible points for improvement

The tongue is only stitched at the bottom and if you do not adjust the lace well the lacing can move with the passage of kilometers.

Who are the rivals of the New Balance Fresh Foam X Vongo v5?

This season's main rivals for the New Balance Fresh Foam X Vongo v5 are:

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