New Balance 1500 Review

Kredy
New Balance 1500
New Balance 1500

You’re on New Balance 1500 and still can’t run fast, it means that you just can’t run fast. This shoe is specifically designed for speed and is a perfect choice for any day, let it be a race day or a simple morning jog.

Specifications:

Heel height: 17mm

Forefoot height: 11mm

Heel drop: 6mm

The 1500 is built on the same VL-6 last that debuted with the Fresh Foam models. The Fresh Foam model uses computer-generated impact analysis to create constant impact cushioning throughout the gait cycle. A high-density medial post provides light stability in the instep, along with a plastic T-BEAM under the arch and maintains torsional stability at mid-stance.

This makes the shoe your best companion for performance running. The 1500 opts for a fused-on Fantom fit design over a breathable and supple mesh base which helps it loose a considerable amount of physical bulk without compromising structural integrity. New Balance pulled off a masterstroke here, the shoe weighs only 233 grams.

Fantom Fit upper
Fantom Fit upper

The interior surface is seamless in the rear foot, and is attached to the mid-foot via thin vertical stitching that could potentially cause irritation in some users. Areas like the toe bumper, midfoot and heel are reinforced with additional components. The medial post makes 1500 a mild motion control shoe.

People who are looking for a pure neutral running shoe experience will have to cut this off from their list. A small, effective medial post of harder density is a part of the midsole. It also has a single density layer of New Balance’s ‘Revlite’ EVA foam. The huge plus in the design is that the underfoot comfort is quite good considering the low stack height of 1500.

Revlite EVA midsole base
Revlite EVA midsole base

The toe box tapers into a point somewhat early for runners looking for full toe splay. This can be a very uncomfortable for some runners. Flexibility is good on the 1500, but it stays in the sweet spot of flex and stiffness. The tension is held very well with the traditional lacing system.

A secure fit is seen during frequent cornering and even at high speeds. The amount of heel cushioning took me by a slight surprise. There is plenty of heel padding without much squish. The insole maintains a consistent padding feel on top of a really smooth ride. It has an incredibly smooth and responsive midsole.

Toe box tapers early
Toe box tapers early

The 1500 is highly responsive, thanks to its super lightweight design. Shallow forefoot lugs on the outsole easily grab the road / track, thereby further increasing the responsiveness. Traction is another plus on the 1500, the small micro outsole lugs providing stellar grip on road and synthetic track.

The 1500 feels smooth with or without socks. The toe bumper has a reflective strip to light things up at night.

New Balance brought all the right ingredients to this shoe. On the whole, it’s good for short, long, slow or fast runs. Most important part is that it doesn’t break your bank balance. The US retail being $110 roughly 6600 to 7000 INR. For that price range, this is one of the best shoes available. Availability in India is TBA.

Images and specifications via SoleReview

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Edited by Staff Editor