The New Balance Dynasoft Nitrel V5 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The New Balance DynaSoft Nitrel v5 is a versatile budget-friendly hybrid shoe suitable for both roads and easy trails. With its design, it is ideal for runners seeking a reliable option that performs well across different terrains. The shoe's lightweight construction makes it a practical choice for those with limited packing space.

The upper material may not provide the highest durability, but the overall performance remains noteworthy. This model's features and adaptability make it a strong contender in the budget footwear category.


Pros

  • Unbeatable price
  • Handles roads and light trails
  • Comfortable for daily runs
  • Suitable for various distances
  • Surprisingly lightweight
  • Offers good stability
  • Breathable upper

Cons

  • Poor upper durability
  • Limited energy return
  • Weak traction on wet surfaces

Key Features

  • DynaSoft midsole foam: Approximately 3% bio-based content enhances responsiveness while providing plush cushioning.
  • Engineered mesh upper: Offers breathability to keep your feet cool during runs.
  • No-sew overlays: Contributes to a sleek fit and feel, reducing irritation during movement.
  • EVA foam insert: Increases overall comfort, making long runs more enjoyable.
  • AT Tread outsole: Provides versatile traction suitable for both on-road and off-road activities.

Specifications

  • Fabric type: 100% Textile
  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole material: Rubber
  • Outer material: Mesh

New Balance Dynasoft Nitrel V5 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

New Balance DynaSoft Nitrel v5 Brooks Catamount 3 New Balance 510 v6 New Balance DynaSoft Nitrel v6
Price $75 $170 $90 $75
Trail terrain Light Light Light Light
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 9.8 oz / 279g 9 oz / 255g 11 oz / 312g 10.3 oz / 291g
Drop lab Drop brand 6.7 mm 6.8 mm 8.2 mm 2.5 mm
Strike pattern Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot Heel Mid/forefoot
Size Slightly small True to size True to size True to size
Midsole softness Balanced Balanced Balanced Balanced
Difference in midsole softness in cold Normal Normal Small Small
Plate Rock plate
Toebox durability Very bad Very bad Decent Decent
Heel padding durability Bad Good Bad Decent
Outsole durability Good Decent Good Good
Breathability Moderate Warm Moderate Moderate
Width / fit Narrow Narrow Narrow Medium
Toebox width Wide Wide Medium Medium
Stiffness Stiff Stiff Stiff Moderate
Torsional rigidity Moderate Moderate Moderate Flexible
Heel counter stiffness Flexible Flexible Moderate Moderate
Lug depth 2.9 mm 2.9 mm 2.9 mm 2.7 mm
Heel stack lab Heel stack brand 29.8 mm 28.3 mm 33.8 mm 22.7 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 23.1 mm 21.5 mm 25.6 mm 20.2 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Season All seasons All seasons All seasons All seasons
Removable insole
Orthotic friendly
Ranking Bottom 7% Top 23% Bottom 3% Bottom 4%
Popularity Bottom 24% Bottom 33% Bottom 13% Bottom 48%