New Balance is one of the most well-known running shoe brands, thanks to the iconic “N” logo and an impeccable reputation since 1906. While the brand started focusing on running shoes in 1938, New Balance quickly became known for offering ample cushioning, comfort, and support. The latest versions implement state-of-the-art technologies to help runners reach their goals in style and comfort.
Our reviewers set out to find the latest and greatest running shoes from New Balance, including daily trainers, speed training shoes, the best cushioned running shoes, and more. Our mission is to help our customers find the most suitable running shoes for their needs.
We understand that the best running shoe for each individual is different, and that’s why we tested countless shoes of various styles. This guide includes the absolute best six shoes we found.
Our Review Process
The Marathon Sports review process is simple yet effective. We researched the latest and greatest New Balance running shoes, laced them up, and put them to the test.
Our reviewers are avid runners who also work at Marathon Sports, which means they love running and all the shoes and gear that enhance the running experience.
For this guide, our dedicated Marathon Sports team laced up several models from one of the best running shoe brands, New Balance, as we set out to identify the cream of the crop for 2026. From short jogs to long-distance runs, we put these shoes through their paces, gauging performance, comfort, fit, and more. We’re committed to delivering these insights to our community, ensuring you’re equipped with the best running shoes tailored to your unique needs.
The Best New Balance Running Shoes of 2026
- Best for Daily Training: New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15
- Best for Cushioning: New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v15
- Best for Speed Days: New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5
- Best for Race Days: New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5
- Best for Long Runs: New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trainer v3
- Best for Stability: New Balance Fresh Foam X 860 v15
Best for Daily Training: New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v15 is one of the best options on the market when you need a running shoe that offers neutral support and exceptional cushioning. It features a durable design and a cushioned insole, creating a responsive shoe that helps you tackle runs of any distance.
A mesh upper and blown rubber outsole work together to create a durable shoe that protects your feet from potential road hazards. The upper enhances breathability to keep feet cool and dry on every run while the outsole offers superior grip and traction on all types of surfaces.
Fresh Foam X technology in the footbed cushions feet for incredible shock absorption and all-day comfort. The midsole has a springy design that propels feet forward and bounces back into shape after each step, ensuring a smooth and responsive ride no matter how hard you train. The energetic footbed keeps you light on your feet so you can hit a new PR.
Best Cushioned Running Shoe: New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v14
The 1080 has been New Balance’s comfort trainer for a while, and v15 doesn’t really stray from that. Step in and the cushioning does most of the talking. The plushness is ideal for easy miles and recovery days, though runners who need extra stability will probably want to look elsewhere. This one is built for neutral runners who just want to feel good on their feet.
The midsole is where the biggest change happened. New Balance swapped out the previous Fresh Foam X compound for a new TPEE-based material called Infinion. It gives you all the landing compression you’d expect from a max-cushion shoe, but it rebounds faster than the old foam did, which gives it better energy overall without sacrificing the softness.
That foam switch also helped with weight. The v15 comes in around 9.2 oz for men’s and 7.3 oz for women’s. This is lighter than previous iterations, which you do notice over longer distances.
Outsole grip has quietly been a weak spot for New Balance in this category, so it’s worth pointing out that the v15 handles pavement well, including in light rain. Nothing dramatic, but it’s a real improvement. Width options cover standard and wide, and the forefoot has enough flex that different foot shapes tend to fit comfortably.
The knit upper finishes things off well. Our reviewers love the breathability, and unlike some knit uppers that fall apart after a few months of use, this one holds up beautifully. There’s a ton of reflective detailing woven throughout the shoe, which makes it a great choice for early morning or night runs.
Best for Speed Days: New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5
When you want a daily trainer that can easily help you pick up the pace, the New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5 is the shoe for you.
FuelCell foam blends EVA and PEBA cushioning for a soft yet responsive feel underfoot. This balanced midsole has a curved rocker geometry that helps propel you forward, making the Rebel a versatile option for both long runs and speed days.
This high-performance shoe is also one of the lightest in New Balance’s lineup, weighing in at only 8 oz for men’s and 6.3 oz for women’s. This lightweight construction is, in part, due to the sleek mesh FantomFit upper. Along with hugging the foot, this upper is sleek and streamlined to keep you feeling light on your feet as you take on track workouts or faster intervals.
Our reviewers really loved how versatile the Rebel v5 is. The foam feels soft and springy underfoot, with enough cushioning and impact absorption to support you through daily miles. But with a lightweight design and dynamic foam, the shoe really shines during faster runs and can tackle any workout you throw at it.
Best for Race Days: New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5
The SC Elite v5 is New Balance’s flagship race-day shoe. Everything about it feels dialed in for performance. The underfoot is lighter, it transitions nicely, and it’s plenty responsive for sprinting.
One thing our reviewers talk about a lot is the roomier toe box. At 74.5mm, it’s wider than many competition shoes and even roomier than some daily trainers.
Underfoot, the shoe carries a 39.3mm heel stack, placing it right up near the 40mm limit allowed for competition racing shoes. That thick slab of FuelCell cushioning gives you the kind of protection and energy return you expect from a modern super shoe while still keeping the ride surprisingly smooth.
The shoe is also much lighter than previous versions. New Balance swapped traditional outsole rubber for Ultra Light VPU, which removes a lot of the bottom-heavy feel earlier SC Elite models had.
The midsole carbon plate was redesigned and is slightly more flexible than you’ll find in many other carbon-plated super shoes, helping the shoe roll forward more naturally. The outsole was also reworked. There’s a wide cutout around the Energy Arc plate, but New Balance still added plenty of rubber coverage for grip.
Up top, the lightweight engineered upper is highly breathable and flexible, with just enough structure to hold the foot in place during faster efforts. We like that the tongue is attached to the sides of the shoe to create that semi-gusseted design that keeps it from sliding around and helps the shoe stay centered on the foot during a run.
Best for Long Runs: New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trainer v3
New Balance knows long-distance running, and the new FuelCell SuperComp Trainer v3 is proof. As one of the best long distance running shoes on the market, this trainer has a layer of lightweight FuelCell cushioning combined with a carbon fiber propulsion plate. This creates a highly responsive and propulsive shoe with optimal cushioning for logging numerous miles at top speeds.
Our reviewers named the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trainer v3 one of their favorites on our list for its unrivaled comfort that doesn’t sacrifice speed. The breathable, flat knit upper also keeps feet cool and air circulating from the first mile to the last.
Best for Stability: New Balance Fresh Foam X 860 v15
Built for all distances, the New Balance Fresh Foam X 860 v15 combines comfort and durability to create a reliable running shoe for everyday use. Lace up these shoes whether you’re getting in a training run or preparing for race day so you’re ready to beat your PR or tackle the competition.
A revolutionary Stability Plane provides incredible underfoot support. It sits underneath premium dual-density Fresh Foam X cushioning and offers energetic support so you get springier steps with more efficiency. The extra underfoot cushioning enhances shock absorption so you stay comfortable on both long and short runs. And while the stack height increased in the newest iteration, the wide base and low offset keeps you feeling stable and supported.
Reliable and versatile, the New Balance Fresh Foam X 860 v15 features a durable construction. The mesh upper improves breathability and keeps feet comfortable on long runs, and the rubber outsole grips various surfaces securely and gives you better traction so you can feel confident whether you’re getting in a short training run or competing in a marathon.
The Finish Line
Our reviewers set out on a mission to help you find the best New Balance running and walking shoes for your needs. After extensively evaluating a variety of the brand’s models, they found clear strengths that set these eight pairs apart from the rest.
Our team members often emphasize the importance of considering your running style, preferences, and needs when choosing the right pair of running shoes for you. They’re always available in our stores to help you locate the most ideal running shoes for your foot shape, gait, experience, and more.
Investing in the right running shoes will put you one step closer to achieving your running goals. Shop our complete selection here at Marathon Sports or at our online store today!
