Details
Brand
New Balance
Heel To Toe Drop
8mm
Breathability
7.4/10
Latest Version
Yes
Terrain
Road
Type
Racing
Key Features
• ABZORB® crash pad• Lightweight Construction• Seamless upper• REVlite midsole technology• Stretch mesh upper• Ortholite insole and sock liner• Blown rubber outsole• Removable insoles
Upper
The New Balance 890 v5’s upper is constructed of stretchy mesh that ensures a snug fit and excellent ventilation. The inner liner is built into the midsole and to the black support layer with a thin rugged black mesh over the top. The shoe feels as if you’re slipping on a sock. The tongue top is open air mesh. The tongue is padded and covered in a soft lining to provide a good fit and no friction, even when wearing them without socks.;The heel is padded and covered in the same soft lining for better, softer feeling. The lightweight and breathable mesh upper from the New Balance 890 v5, will keep your feet cool and dry regardless the conditions that you encounter. An outstanding fit can be achieved thanks to the molded sock liner and the padded tongue.
Midsole
The midsole of the New Balance 890 v5 shoes contains the REVlite midsole foam technology and the ABZORB shock absorbing cushion technology. The REVlite midsole foam is made of a compound that provides the great responsiveness and durability that characterizes New Balance, but it makes it 30% lighter. On the other hand, the ABZORB technology brings extra stability.;The combination of the outsole and midsole technologies make the shoe possible to offer lightweight support without making the shoes feel restrictive in any surface condition. The midsole feels highly responsive and delivers a smooth transition from heel to forefoot. The Ortholite insole provides additional cushioning and good arch support.
Outsole
The New Balance 890 v5 incorporate a blown carbon rubber sole that provides grip even when the surface has been recently rained on. While the shoes do not have an aggressive lug pattern, making them not ideal for off-track conditions, the New Balance 890 v5 are perfect shoes for road running. The shock absorbent material and almost flat treading should make these shoes good for running if you want to develop a fast running technique, and good for training thanks to their stability.
Breathability
Nobody wants to run in a sweat-soaked shoe with a foot full of blisters. It’s necessary, even in cold conditions, to have proper ventilation. The The New Balance 890 v5 has a mesh upper that’s stretchy and lets air flow through easily.
Comfort
Thanks to the comfortable REVlite midsole technology of the New Balance 890 v5 runners will feel well-cushioned when they are training. The shoe wicks away moisture to ensure runners stay comfortable even when they start to sweat a lot. Some reviewers did find the pointy toe box a little bit uncomfortable citing its narrowness as a source of discomfort.
Style
The variety of colors and the eye-catching look of the New Balance 890 v5 are sure to make them appealing to many different runners. The casual style that characterizes New Balance products is present in the New Balance 890 v5. These shoes are great for running and training, but also great for wearing them with a casual outfit. The shoe comes in bright colorways that are sure to attract attention on the run. The shoe also features an upper with reflective bits to ensure you’re visible even in the dark.
Durability
The seamless stretchy upper of the New Balance 890 v5 provides a supportive wrap for the runner. Although the shoes are lightweight, they are still able to handle a lot of running. The outsole, made of durable rubber, makes the sole tough but light enough not to weigh the runner down. Some reviewers did find they had issues when it came to durability, though.
Protection
These shoes are perfect for newer runners. The New Balance 890 v5 give some support even to neutral runners and they also have a nice tough outsole to protect underfoot. The REVlite midsole cushioning also aids to pad the wearer’s ride.
Responsiveness
The New Balance 890 v5 fits almost like a sock and this tight fit enhances the shoe’s ride. The well designed upper, supported by synthetic panels, support the wearer. The Ortholite insole adds a slight bit of rebound as does the midsole cushion.
Support
Visit your local running shop to find out what kind of shoe you should be wearing. It’s a vital step in the purchasing process. The New Balance 890 v5 is geared towards neutral runners. The shoe does add some support via its REVlite midsole material but it’s not meant to be used by severe overpronators. Wide-footed runners may find the New Balance 890 v5 a little too tight in the front area of the shoe because it narrows at the tip.
Terrain
The New Balance 890 v5 is best used on the roads and the shoe can handle even slick pavement. The shoe also ventilates well so it’s great for very warm days. The shoe is equally well suited for gym or cross-training sessions.
Price
The New Balance 890 v5 shoes are priced a little higher than most neutral trainers.
Drop
The New Balance 890 v5 has a drop of 8mm, it’s a standard drop seen in many running shoes.
Stability
The REVlite midsole brings to the New Balance 890 v5 a great fit. That, combined with the Ortholite insole, will bring great stability while running and training. The blown carbon rubber sole ensures a smooth ride free from slips and falls. The REVlite midsole cushion is adaptable and energy-efficient. It also adds a layer of stability underfoot. On top of that, the ABZORB crash pad technology cradles the heel area medially and laterally enhancing a more stable feeling.
Flexibility
The New Balance 890 v5 is a very flexible shoe. The seamless upper is constructed using stretchy mesh material. The outsole, although made of tough materials, still have some flex to it as well. The midsole cushion, made of REVlite, also adds a bit of flexibility to the mix.
Traction
The blown carbon outsole on the New Balance 890 v5 grips very well on even off-trail conditions. Whether the conditions are wet or dry, these shoes will perform just as good. The lugs are not very deep and the outsole pattern is not aggressive, that makes them not ideal for off-track conditions. Still, the outsole pattern gives you the best traction and grip in any of the movements to any direction you want to go. That makes them good shoes for training in the gym and outdoors.
Bottom Line
Great for new runners the New Balance 890 v5 offers an adequate amount of support for the neutral runner. The shoe is great for those who are running lower mileage, keeping in mind the durability issues cited by reviewers. These are not super technologically advanced neutral category shoes but they offer the basics for beginners.;Don’t plan on taking these for runs in the woods. They are road shoes that are to be used off-trail but can handle most conditions. The New Balance 890 v5 is a great shoe for runners who also find themselves at the gym a lot, too.
