The New Balance Fresh Foam X More V5 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The New Balance Fresh Foam X More v5 is a maximalist running shoe designed for runners seeking substantial cushioning. With a drop of 12 mm, this shoe is ideal for heel strikers, providing support and comfort during longer runs.

The notable cushioning features a foam density of 31.5 HA, which translates to a stable platform while running. Although the shoe offers significant cushioning, it provides lower energy return, which may affect performance in faster-paced scenarios.

Additionally, the upper construction enhances overall comfort; however, the toebox is somewhat tapered, indicating a need for increased volume to accommodate different foot shapes more effectively.


Pros

  • Exceptional all-around comfort
  • Ultra-plush cushioning
  • Ideal for slow long runs
  • Great cushion-to-price ratio
  • Remarkable stability for its size
  • Superb lockdown
  • Durable and high-grip outsole
  • Well-designed rocker geometry
  • Lots of improvements from v4
  • Dependable grip

Cons

  • Heavier than its predecessor
  • Snug fit
  • Maybe even too plush!
  • A bit stiff for casual wear

Key Features

  • Fresh Foam X midsole foam with approximately 3% bio-based content for exceptional cushioning and comfort.
  • Engineered mesh upper for breathability and a snug fit, promoting airflow and reducing sweat buildup.
  • Adjustable lace closure allows for a custom fit, accommodating different foot shapes and sizes.
  • 4 mm drop provides a balanced feel; please note this is an approximate measurement due to manufacturing variances.

Specifications

  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole material: Rubber
  • Outer material: Rubber
  • Inner material: Cotton

New Balance Fresh Foam X More V5 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

New Balance Fresh Foam X More v5 New Balance Fresh Foam X More v6 Hoka Skyflow Puma MagMax Nitro
Price $155 $155 $160 $180
Pace Daily running Daily running Daily running Daily running
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 10.9 oz / 308g 10.7 oz / 302g 9.9 oz / 282g 10.3 oz / 291g
Drop lab Drop brand 7.8 mm 3.3 mm 8.7 mm 9.6 mm
Strike pattern Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot Heel Heel
Size Slightly small True to size True to size True to size
Midsole softness Soft Soft Soft Soft
Difference in midsole softness in cold Normal Big Normal Big
Toebox durability Decent Decent Decent Decent
Heel padding durability Decent Good Good Decent
Outsole durability Good Good Good Decent
Breathability Breathable Warm Breathable Moderate
Width / fit Medium Medium Medium Medium
Toebox width Narrow Medium Narrow Medium
Stiffness Stiff Stiff Stiff Stiff
Torsional rigidity Stiff Moderate Stiff Stiff
Heel counter stiffness Stiff Moderate Stiff Moderate
Rocker
Heel lab Heel brand 42.1 mm 41.8 mm 39.3 mm 42.9 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 34.3 mm 38.5 mm 30.6 mm 33.3 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season Summer All seasons Summer All seasons
Removable insole
Ranking Top 46% Top 34% Top 31% Top 9%
Popularity Top 1% Top 3% Top 39% Top 46%