In my detailed assessment of the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav, I found it a worthwhile option for those on a budget looking for a reliable shoe for short runs and gym sessions. Its stylish design lends itself well to city wear too. However, it does lack a bit in breathability, which means it could be a bit discomforting on hotter days. While it isn’t too heavy on the feet, it underperforms in supporting longer runs. For those keen to learn more about this interesting pair, some engaging insights await you further along.

Overview

Diving right into the overview of the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav V2, it’s immediately apparent that this shoe, with its bouncy and responsive Fresh Foam midsole, offers a decent performance, despite some notable shortcomings. To start with, the shoe’s weight, at a competitive 9.1 oz for men’s and 7.4 oz for women’s, is within the acceptable range for a versatile running shoe. The 8 mm heel-to-toe drop also works well with its design, particularly for heel strikers and entry-level runners looking for a smooth switch.

It’s important to mention that the Roav V2 is a budget-friendly option. But don’t let the affordable price tag fool you into thinking it’s of lesser quality. The shoe offers a good lockdown fit, ensuring your foot stays secure even during intensive workouts. The color options available are plentiful, catering to various aesthetic preferences. However, I should note that the shoe may not be the best choice for those with wide feet. You might find it a bit snug, and in that case, I’d recommend considering the New Balance Fresh Foam More v3 instead.

The grip on wet surfaces is another area where the Roav V2 falls short. It’s not the worst I’ve experienced, but other models like the New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v11 certainly perform better. So, if you’re planning to use it for outdoor runs in wet conditions, you might want to reconsider. Overall, though, the Roav V2 impresses with its bouncy and responsive ride, making it a decent choice for a variety of activities.

Performance Analysis

Let’s take a closer look at the Roav V2’s performance, starting with its standout feature: the Fresh Foam midsole. This midsole is a remarkable blend of firmness and bounce, giving you an experience like no other. It’s responsive, able to rebound after each step, making it feel like you’re walking on clouds. However, it’s not all smiles and rainbows. The Fresh Foam midsole is on the firmer side, with a durometer measurement of 26.5 HA, which is about 10% firmer than average. This firmness can be felt especially in colder temperatures.

I’ve been using the Roav V2 for a variety of activities to really test its performance. Here are my findings:

1. The Roav V2 excels in short runs. The midsole’s bounce adds a spring to each step, making it a joy to run in.
2. With its firm midsole, it’s also suitable for gym workouts. The stability it provides is commendable.
3. Unfortunately, the Roav V2 falls short in longer runs. The firm midsole starts to feel less comfortable after a while, and it could use a bit more cushioning.
4. It’s a great shoe for city wear, though. It’s stylish, lightweight, and the midsole provides good shock absorption.

Breathability and Comfort

Shifting gears to breathability and comfort, I regret to report that the Roav V2 scores a mere 1 out of 5 in breathability, falling noticeably short of expectations. The upper of the shoe, although aesthetically pleasing, limits airflow considerably. On warm days, my feet felt uncomfortably hot, as though encapsulated in a thermal pocket. I put the shoe through rigorous smoke-pumping and transparency tests, and both confirmed its poor breathability.

However, it’s not all gloom and doom. Despite the shoe’s disappointing breathability, I found it surprisingly comfortable. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning provides a plush feel, absorbing road impacts effectively. This is particularly noticeable on dry days when you’re less likely to feel the heat build-up. The shoe’s lightweight sensation and flexible design also enhances its comfort, making it a joy to wear. I could almost forget about the breathability issue when I was strolling around town or running errands.

The shoe’s upper fabric, despite its suffocating feel, wraps the foot snugly, creating a secure and comfortable fit. I felt no chafing or discomfort, even after extended use. But remember, comfort is a subjective matter. What feels like a cloud to me might feel like a rock to you. So, I advise trying them on before making a decision.

Who Should Consider Buying

So, who exactly should consider investing in the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav V2? Well, I’ve got some insights that might help you decide if it’s the right shoe for you.

1. Budget-conscious individuals: If you’re looking for a shoe that won’t break the bank, the Fresh Foam Roav V2 is a solid choice. It’s affordable, yet doesn’t compromise on quality.
2. Short-distance runners and fitness enthusiasts: The Fresh Foam Roav V2 shines for those quick jaunts around the neighborhood or powering through your next gym session. Its responsive Fresh Foam midsole provides a bouncy feel that’s perfect for these activities.
3. Heel-strikers: This shoe’s 8mm heel-to-toe drop makes it great for those of you who tend to land on your heels when you run. It’s designed to provide a smooth shift from heel to toe, making your runs feel effortless.
4. Supportive fit enthusiasts: The Fresh Foam Roav V2 offers a secure, snug fit that hugs your foot, providing a sense of security and support during your runs or workouts.

However, if you have wide feet or frequently run in wet conditions, this shoe might not be your best option. The Roav V2 is not recommended for wide feet and its grip on wet surfaces is not its strongest feature.

Specification

Diving into the specifications, the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav V2 is a road running shoe that weighs in at 9.1 oz for men’s and 7.4 oz for women’s, with a heel-to-toe drop of 8 mm. This makes it a lightweight option for those looking to pound pavement. It’s not the lightest shoe on the market, but it doesn’t feel heavy on foot either.

The Fresh Foam midsole, a signature New Balance feature, is bouncy and responsive, giving the shoe a standout edge. It measures 26.5 HA on the durometer, which makes it about 10% firmer than average. This firmness may become more pronounced in colder temperatures, so bear that in mind.

Breathability, however, leaves something to be desired. In fact, the Roav V2 scores a disappointing 1 out of 5 on my breathability scale. I’ve found the airflow in the upper to be quite limited, making these not the best option for warm days or heavy sweaters. I’ve personally conducted smoke-pumping and transparency tests to confirm this lack of breathability.

Despite this drawback, the Roav V2 does offer a comfortable feel, especially on dry days. The shoe’s lightweight sensation and flexible design contribute to this comfort.

Conclusion

To summarize, the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav V2 is a solid pick for budget-conscious runners. Its Fresh Foam midsole delivers a bouncy ride, albeit with poor breathability. Yet, the comfort and performance deserve a nod. So, whether you’re a beginner, a heel striker, or someone looking for an affordable running shoe, this could be a viable option, as long as you’re not planning to pound the pavement on particularly hot days.