New Balance Leadville v3

A classic of the specific models for mountain running, and that pays tribute, being its official shoe, to the legendary 100 miles of Leadville (Colorado). One of the four legendary races that make up the so-called'Grand Slam' of ultra-distance running in the United States. Its third version arrives with important changes, but they do not represent a radical change. The American firm has opted for the New Balance Leadville v3 to update, updating technologies, but maintaining the essence of the successful saga for trail runners. The motto is to continue "giving continuity to the legend". So its new redesign is intended to be the reference in its category. It improves the ride, is lighter and retains the features that have made this model a legendary trail running shoe.

As in previous models, and as could not be otherwise in honor of its name, the Leadville v3 is still designed to face long off-road distances, thanks to its UL-1 last. This renewed model tries to cover all the needs for the mountain runner to stay safe and comfortable when reaching his own limits.

The most innovative details of the New Balance Leadville v3

The first new feature of the NB Leadville v3 compared to its predecessor, the Leadville v2, is the shoe's weight. This latest version is lighter, as it has been reduced by up to 15 grams. The men's model weighs 293 grams, while the women's version weighs no more than 250 grams - 248 grams to be exact. The drop is still 8 millimeters.

The Revised Post material is once again present in the inner part of the midsole, but this time it has been revised to incorporate a denser compound for stability control, which translates into a smoother transition.

Throughout the midsole, a combination of lightweight REVLite foam and a layer of N2 - injected nitrogen and TPU - results in the Leadville 3 offering premium cushioning to the runner. In addition, the N2 plate has also been enhanced in the forefoot area to provide more flexibility and smoothness in every stride.

Also present in the Leadville v2, the RockStop2 system, a molded Thermo Polyurethane plate, provides protection against stones and sharp elements. Another detail that remains the same is the Vibram outsole, although it has a new configuration to improve both grip and traction on more technical terrain, contributing to a safer run.

Asymmetric heel and renewed upper

Another of the most relevant changes in the NB Leadville v3 is located in the asymmetric heel counter (Asymm Counter), which seeks to achieve a more comfortable support, and contributes to provide greater stability from the rear area of the shoe.

The upper of this latest version of the Leadville also features a new look. Synthetic and breathable mesh, which with the FantomFit system and the Rip Stop not only gains in consistency and durability, but also allows the model to renew its aesthetics with a more attractive and modern design.

In addition, the upper of the Leadville v3 includes seamless applications, and a tongue, stitched to the sides as an effective measure to prevent small stones or other small objects from entering, improving fit. Toe Protect technology, in the form of rubber reinforcements, increases protection in the front of the shoe.

As a quick summary, the New Balance Leadville v3 is updated to continue to offer excellent cushioning, a wide last and cutting-edge technologies, which provide the model with greater stability in each step. This trail model from the Boston-based company continues to be one of the best options for runners with mild pronation and neutral footstep.