The New Balance Fresh Foam More V3 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The New Balance Fresh Foam More v3 is a maximalist daily trainer designed for runners seeking superior cushioning. With a notable **4 mm drop**, this shoe is ideal for heel strikers who prioritize impact absorption during long runs and recovery days.

The verified **30 mm stack height** combined with a firm **28 HA foam** provides a stable platform, enhancing comfort while promoting a smooth transition through the gait cycle. This combination of features ensures that runners can maintain endurance without compromising on support.


Pros

  • Insanely soft underfoot
  • Efficient stride
  • True to size
  • Accommodates wide feet
  • Stable platform
  • Should last a lot of miles
  • Max cushioned
  • No break-in
  • Good lockdown

Cons

  • Runs warm
  • Feels a bit heavy
  • Grip is subpar on loose terrain

Key Features

  • Fresh Foam X midsole foam: This technology incorporates approximately 3% bio-based content, delivering a cushioned experience that prioritizes both comfort and sustainability.
  • Toe Protect technology: A feature that safeguards your feet from rocks, roots, and debris often encountered on trails.
  • Synthetic/mesh upper: Designed for enhanced breathability, keeping your feet cool during long runs.
  • Two-piece midsole: Offers improved durability for extended use on rugged terrains.
  • 4mm drop: This design promotes natural foot movement; however, the drop measurement may be approximate due to variations in manufacturing processes.

Specifications

  • Sole material: Rubber
  • Outer material: Rubber
  • Inner material: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate
  • Closure type: Lace-Up

New Balance Fresh Foam More V3 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

New Balance Fresh Foam More v3 Brooks Glycerin StealthFit 21 Hoka Skyflow On Cloudmonster 2
Price $165 $160 $160 $180
Pace Daily running Daily running Daily running Daily running
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 10.4 oz / 296g 9.1 oz / 257g 9.9 oz / 282g 10.3 oz / 292g
Drop lab Drop brand 7.8 mm 10.5 mm 8.7 mm 6.6 mm
Strike pattern Mid/forefoot Heel Heel Mid/forefoot
Size True to size True to size True to size Slightly large
Midsole softness Soft Balanced Soft Balanced
Difference in midsole softness in cold Normal Normal Normal Small
Toebox durability - Decent Decent Good
Heel padding durability - Decent Good Decent
Outsole durability - Good Good Good
Breathability Warm Warm Breathable Warm
Width / fit Medium Medium Medium Wide
Toebox width - Medium Narrow Medium
Stiffness Stiff Moderate Stiff Stiff
Torsional rigidity Moderate Moderate Stiff Moderate
Heel counter stiffness Moderate Moderate Stiff Moderate
Rocker
Heel lab Heel brand 37.5 mm 36.9 mm 39.3 mm 37.9 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 29.7 mm 26.4 mm 30.6 mm 31.3 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season Winter All seasons Summer All seasons
Removable insole
Ranking Top 19% Bottom 36% Top 31% Top 27%
Popularity Top 41% Top 40% Top 39% Top 12%