New Balance's Light and Propulsive Fresh Foam Running Shoes Are Over 60% Off

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In This Story

Why We Love This Deal

Joe’s New Balance Outlet has become one of our favorite places to find deals on New Balance sneakers, but it might also be the best place to get a solid pair of running shoes, too. There’s one pair of New Balance running shoes, in particular, that some are calling a better pick than the vaunted 1080—it’s from the Fresh Foam family, and it’s now over 60% off.

The New Balance Fresh Foam X Balos v1 is on sale for $72, a 64% discount from its normal price of $200. It’s only available in one color, but at $72, Joe’s has the lowest price for this shoe anywhere, and more sizes as well. More importantly, runners really seem to enjoy it. On the JNBO site, it has zero 1-star ratings, a 4.3-star average, and runners are calling it a “10/10 buy” for its excellent cushioning.

New Balance Fresh Foam X Balos v1, $72 (was $200) at Joe’s New Balance Outlet

What Shoppers Should Know

• Sizes Available: 7-13
• Weight: 9.2 ounces
• Drop: 6mm
• Best For: Training runs, long runs, racing for runners who like lots of cushioning

The Balos is a unique spin on the classic max-cushion trainer. Its thick midsole is made with New Balance’s signature Fresh Foam X cushioning, but it’s blended with PEBA, a lightweight, soft, and springy material used in top-tier racing shoes like the Nike Alphafly. In addition, the Balos has a pronounced rocker sole shape (it curves up off the ground at the front and back). 

New Balance also used a hardy ground contact EVA material for the outsole, reducing the need for heavy rubber on the bottom of the shoe. The result is a lightweight shoe—over an ounce lighter than the 1080, NB’s premier max-cushion trainer—and responsive with an exceptionally smooth ride. The rocker sole helps you glide from landing to toe off, and the PEBA-blended midsole creates a balanced underfoot feel: Soft enough for comfortable training runs, but firm and bouncy enough to pick up the pace on race day. 

Related: Asics’ Legendary Gel-Nimbus Running Shoes Are $55 Off on Amazon

What Runners Are Saying

Although the Balos lacks the name recognition of other shoes in the New Balance lineup, shoppers say this dark horse is a winner. It even compares favorably to the 1080. One runner called the Balos a “1080 killer” and said it’s “softer and more responsive than the 1080.” 

Another runner said it offers “all the cushioning without all the bulk” compared to more traditional cushioned shoes. Several shoppers—I’m not making this up—proclaimed the Balos their favorite running shoe or the best shoe they’ve ever run in. That seems to be because of its balanced ride and versatility: One reviewer said its combo of cushioning and responsiveness makes it “a great training and raceday shoe.”

Cushioned and comfortable, the Balos v1 is the perfect shoe to get you stoked for running and beyond—especially at over 60% off. But snag your pair today, as sizes are already selling out. 

Shop More New Balance Running Shoes

• New Balance Fresh Foam 680v9, $41 (was $85) at Joe’s New Balance Outlet
• New Balance 520 v9, $36 (was $70) at Joe’s New Balance Outlet
• New Balance Fresh Foam Roav, $51 (was $90) at Joe’s New Balance Outlet