New Balance 411v3 reminds me of the New Balance Roav. Both have simple but attractive uppers with exposed outsole rubber for superb comfort. Based on appearance, the Roav has a more sporty look than the New Balance 411 v3.

Like the Roav, New Balance 411 is also a budget-friendly running sneaker, yet reliable and durable beyond its price tag.

New Balance 411v3 has a Decent Upper Design 

New Balance 411v3 does not have a fancy design and detailing, but it is decent enough. For instance, the upper design comprises a single piece and highly perforated fabric with a thick sock-like inner lining. The TPU printed New Balance logo on both sides, and TPU detailing on the lace loops reinforce the upper to give it structure the needed support. Additionally, the collar has enough. Hence, there is guaranteed comfort. The heel counter is rigid enough to hold the heel in place when running.

The soft inner lining cradles the foot and combines with the padded tongue and collar to enhance overall comfort. New Balance also placed a removable insole to make the footbed comfortable.  

New Balance 411v3 fits true to size, but someone with extra normal feet should consider going half size up.

Overall, the upper exudes simplicity all-round but possesses the New Balance DNA.

New Balance 411v3 Midsole Design, Ride, and Performance

The upper layer sits on the EVA midsole foam. Though it is not the most cushioned and flexible midsole foam, it does enough to provide comfort, especially for those who prefer moderate cushioning. The sidewalls of the midsole foam have web-like engravings to make it give in to impact.

However, it lacks a rocker-shaped midsole, the forefoot tappers upwards, and it combines well with the beefed-up heel area to create a smooth heel-to-toe transition. Additionally, the exposed midsole foam makes the ride soft but, not with significant bounce.

Instead of the full-length robust outsole rubber, the designers placed hard rubber strategically on the toe and heel areas. This outsole design exposes the EVA midsole foam to abrasive ground contact. Therefore, New Balance 411v3 cannot withstand excessive daily use. It cannot also handle a variety of terrain. I use my pair for jogging and as lifestyle sneakers to make them last longer. Besides, New Balance 411 v3 feels.

I also love the reduced weight. It weighs about 220g my size, and it is because of a lack of the outsole rubber and overlays in the upper.

Who Should Buy New Balance 411 v3?

• It fits someone looking for budget-friendly casual sneakers or running shoes for casual running.
• A beginner looking for a budget-friendly running shoe for casual running

Who should not Buy New Balance 411v3?

New Balance 411 v3 is unsuitable for someone looking for shoes for racking daily miles.

• Someone looking for highly cushioned budget friendly sneakers
• Someone is looking for stability shoes because the New Balance v3 lacks stability features

Things to like about New BALANCE 411v3

The two things that caught my attention are relative breathability and absolute comfort. The reason is that below the outer mesh is a thick and soft-like sock lining. It cradles the foot as the highly perforated outer mesh and regulates the aeration. Secondly, this shoe is favorably affordable for its superb comfort and lightweight. They also look nice on my feet, even though they do not pop out like the New Balance Roav models.

Reviewed by Tom Oliver

Tom Oliver is a regular runner and a shoe enthusiastic.