Details
Brand
New Balance
Breathability
7/10
Latest Version
Yes
Terrain
Road
Type
Neutral
Key Features
• Rapid Rebound Foam gives the shoe a springier, more responsive experience• Dual foam cushioning of the midsole (N2 foam cushioning and RevLite foam) makes this a more durable shoe than others in this category• Blown rubber outsole gives the shoe a lighter, more cushioned feel
Upper
The air mesh upper of this shoe is what provides the most breathability. This shoe is unique in the technology that is used to provide added security. The Vazee 2090 is designed using welded overlays made from TPU on the upper to give the foot a secure feel inside the shoe without feeling constricting. The upper is more structured which provides that support that many runners are looking for. This is a good tool to help guard against added friction and unwanted movement. In addition to this, many runners noted that the upper material of the Vazee 2090 is much more durable than it’s cousin shoe, the Vazee Pace and this material helped keep the 2090 looking and feeling newer, longer.
Midsole
The Vazee 2090 uses a foam called the RevLite midsole foam. This foam offers a lightweight and responsive feel to improve the rapid movement of runners. While some midsoles are designed to offer more stability for the overpronator or more arch support, the lightweight material of this midsole is designed for speed. In addition to the RevLite foam of the midsole, this shoe also offers a low-profile N2 cushioning foam to add extra cushioning and comfort. The dual foam also provides added durability to the shoe and helps it keep its form for an extended amount of time.
Outsole
The outsole on the Vazee 2090 is made of blown rubber. This means that during the production of the rubber, air was added, which allows for a lighter, more cushioned feel. Though not as dense as a carbon rubber, the blown rubber outsole still provided durability and some added traction. This outsole is actually quite structured and feels thick, adding to the overall durability of the Vazee 2090.
Breathability
Thought the upper is made of an air mesh material, it is only featured in a small section of the upper. The rest of the upper is covered with thicker, denser materials for overlays. While this is good for added support, protection and durability, the shoe does lose some points when it comes to breathability. Runners reported that their feet tended to feel slightly “suffocated” due to the lack of mesh and open airways in the upper.
Comfort
There are a few different things to consider when you think about the comfort of this shoe. Many runners appreciated the multi-foam midsole and the added comfort that this offered. In addition to that, the outsole is made of a blown rubber which tends to be more cushioning. The design also offers a roomy toe box. However, the upper is made of a dense material that cuts down on the breathability. This creates a hotter run for the runner. Many runners commented on hot spots and eventual blistering because of this issue.
Style
The Vazee 2090 comes in a variety of color options (firefly with black, black with hi-lite, black with steel), but here is the cool part: regardless of which color option you choose, you will still get a unique “fade” effect running along the outside of the shoe. This feature affords this shoe a uniquely stylish look for the runner who is looking to stand out from the crowd.
Durability
The Vazee 2090 is designed using two different types of foam in the midsole. The dual foam creates a more durable shoe and reduces the risk of premature breakdown. Overall, this shoe received high marks for durability from many runners. One reason for this is the material of the upper. Runners found this material supportive and structured and it was able to stand up to wear and tear better than some other upper materials which tend to be flimsy. The outsole is also extra durable. It too had a more structured feel, and while it is a blown rubber instead of a carbon rubber, it can stand up against high mileage.
Protection
The saddle of the shoe that embraces the entire upper is durable and offers the runner added protection. Runners even reported that when running in the rain, the water did not come in the shoe easily, thanks to the overlays. The added rubber of the outsoles helps this shoe maintain its form and function mile after mile and even protect runners from jagged or uneven road surfaces.
Responsiveness
For the runner who is looking or responsiveness and snappiness in your shoe, you may have just found your new favorite training buddy. While some highly responsive shoes tend to be bulky and feel too heavy on the foot, the Vazee 2090 feels light and flexible while still giving you the snap and responsiveness you are looking for.
Support
The Vazee 2090 offers a good amount of support. In the upper, the diamond design and saddle offers great support and structure. This material provides a shell around the foot and hugs it tightly. In the outsole, the runner can expect to find added rubber and a bit of a thicker feel.
Terrain
This is a shoe that was designed for the roads and the track. Whether you are putting in the miles in an urban environment or running along the quiet backroads of the country, this is definitely a road running shoe. The outsole of this shoe does have lots of durable rubber so it can be taken on a groomed trails or mild hikes, but it is certainly not suggested for rugged terrain.
Price
This is a great shoe, but if you are looking for a bargain priced shoe, this is not your best choice. New Balance is a trusted, high-quality brand, and the price tag that comes along with the Vazee 2090 is a reflection of that quality. There are many great shoes that can be purchased at a more cost-effective price, but the Vazee is not a shoe for the runner looking to pinch pennies.
Drop
The Vazee 2090 have a 6mm heel drop. This is a good choice for those looking to transition away from a thicker soled, heel striking running shoe. It is also important to remember that even if you are a runner who wants to try a minimal shoe, it is not advised that you go straight for a higher heel drop to a zero drop. You should move down slowly to train your gait and eliminate the risk of injury. In this case, the Vazee 2090 is a great transition shoe.
Stability
This is a shoe that is best suited for the neutral runner or slight overpronator. When we talk about the neutral runner, we are addressing the lucky 20%-30% percent of the running population that has a healthy gait that absorbs the shock of each foot sticks without the ankle rolling too far in or outward. The neutral runner is less likely to be injured due to their gait, and therefore, they can run in a wide variety of shoes. This is a great choice because it offers limited support, but doesn’t skimp on comfort, style, and cushioning.
Flexibility
Runners like the responsiveness of this shoe and while it did feel flexible in parts of the shoe, other parts did tend to feel clunkier and less flexible. The unique upper of this shoe received high ratings in certain areas, but flexibility is not one of them. The material is denser and doesn’t offer much breathability. For that reason, runner reported that it felt more like a shell and lacked flexibility.
Traction
There is a high amount of rubber coverage along the outsole of the Vazee 2090. While some runners reported that this gave the shoe a clunkier feel, it also gives the shoe higher traction than others in its class. While this isn’t a shoe that you will want to take on off-road adventures, it is a great shoe, with added traction, to take on your runs around town.
Bottom Line
This is a great shoe for the neutral runner. The multiform material of the midsole offers added durability and comfort without being overly plush or cushioned. The upper offers a uniquely stylish look and a secure saddle that hugs the foot and offers added support. I if you are looking for added rubber and durability in an outsole, this is a great shoe for you. While the price is certainly on the high side, the durability makes up for it. This is a shoe you can feel good about putting long hard miles on, and you can rest assured that it will hold up and keep looking great.
