New Balance Fresh Foam X Cruz V3

SPECS

Shoe Type: Neutral Running Shoe

Heel Drop: 8mm

Weight:  163.8g (5.8 oz) for women – 204g (7.2oz) for men

Width:  Standard, Wide

Price: $89.99

Introduction

Year after year, New Balance  redefines excellence in running footwear, continually evolving to stay ahead in the fast-paced world of athletic innovation.  The Fresh Foam X Cruz V3 line is at the heart of these developments, a compelling addition to the New Balance daily trainers.  Not only is it comfy, sleek, and pocket-friendly, but it is also versatile and can even be incorporated into casual wear. The upper, midsole, and outsole have been revamped to make the shoe more comfortable, whether you are simply starting your running journey or an experienced athlete.

New Balance Fresh Foam X Cruz V3 Upper Design and Fitting

The upper of the Fresh Foam X Cruz V3 is a one-of-a-kind, featuring a premium textile and heathered mesh fabric that is both lightweight and highly breathable, keeping my feet cool and dry even after hours of pounding the pavement. The air holes adequately permeate the mesh, while the material provides the right degree of stretch for a snug and comfortable fit. On my first test run, the Cruz V3 did not disappoint, unlike many daily trainers, which stretch to the point of feeling sloppy.  

The lacing system on the Fresh Foam Cruz V3 is a delightful upgrade and features a slip-in construction allowing you to fit into the shoes hassle-free. As a person who is always on the go, I appreciate this new feature, which offers a locked-in, adaptable fit.

The upper of the Fresh Foam X Cruz V3 also comes fitted with a premium plastic saddle at the midfoot embedded with the famous “N” logo. While the saddle is designed to provide a more secure fit in conjunction with the lacing system, I found that upon logging 40 miles, there was some rubbing in the area. As such, I would not recommend this pair for long runs.

The tongue and heel collar of the Fresh Foam X Cruz V3 is sufficiently padded, offering an extra touch of comfort. The tongue is not too thick, and I found that it gave me a more comfortable instep, even in diverse terrains. Its semi-rigid heel counter provides adequate heel lockdown and minimizes slippage. Lastly, the large loop protruding at the heel collar makes it easier to slip into the shoes.

New Balance Fresh Foam X Cruz V3 Midsole

The midsole of the Fresh Foam X Cruz V3 is crafted from New Balance’s premium Fresh Foam X, and at the first test, it is evident why this is a game-changer. It offers a plush, cushioned feel that extends throughout the length of the midsole, providing consistent comfort whether I’m tackling treadmill sessions or embarking on simple road runs.

 Fresh Foam X used in this version is the latest evolution of New Balance’s foam technology, and it doesn’t disappoint. It’s lighter and softer than the popular Fresh Foam and feels spongier underfoot.

The heel drop is 8mm, and the shoe itself is incredibly lightweight, with the women’s version weighing 163.8g (5.8 oz) and the men’s version weighing 204g (7.2oz). This is a significant difference from the Cruz V2, which weighed 294g (10.4 oz) for the men’s version. Moreover, it comes in various sizing options, so if you feel intimidated about having extremely wide feet, you can easily find the perfect size that suits your needs. All in all, I found that the pair fits true to size for me as a size 9.

New Balance Fresh Foam X Cruz V3 Outsole

The Fresh Foam X Cruz V3 outsole features a durable rubber compound that provides excellent traction on diverse surfaces, from roads to park trails. The tread pattern is intricately designed to offer ample grip without adding unnecessary weight, enhancing the shoe’s overall lightweight feel. After putting them through 200 miles of various terrains, I found that they hold up quite well, hardly showing any signs of wear.

 Fresh Foam X Cruz V3 Ride

The shoe offers a smooth and energetic ride. One of the best aspects of the midsole is the ease of toe-off. Since it is neither too flexible nor too stiff, it allows for a smooth transition from heel to toe, improving my overall running experience.

Why You Should Buy Fresh Foam X Cruz V3

It is the perfect daily trainer that offers a remarkable blend of lightweight build and cushioned comfort for everyday runs.

Why You Should Not Buy

This pair may not be ideal for those with anything other than neutral pronation. If you are looking for stability, the New Balance Fresh Foam X Vongo V6 would be better.

It is not ideal for races or long runs.

What to Expect From the Fresh Foam X Cruz V3

• Comfort
• Lightweight
• Affordability
• Durability
• Lack of stability (It is a neutral running shoe)
• Neutral colorways - they are not too flashy

By Kyle Parker

Parker is a gym trainer, runner, and shoe lover who enjoys everything to do with fitness and shoes. He deeply understands the relationship between wearing a good running /training shoes and excellent training. He is also a shoe lover.