New Balance launched the first iteration of the 1500 in 2015. That was a good running shoe, but that did not stop New Balance from making it even better. New Balance announced the second iteration in Q4, 2015. This time around, New Balance wanted to create a perfect running shoe. Therefore, it even took inputs from its athletes while designing the 1500 v2. New Balance made the 1500 v2 available for retail purchase in January 2016.
Let us dive in deeper with this running shoe and find out what it has to offer.
Specifications:
Heel height: 22mm
Toe height: 16mm
Heel-to-toe drop: 6mm
A size 9 men’s running shoe weighs around 222g. This running shoe is true to its size and offers a snug fit. With a heel-to-toe drop of only 6mm, expect good amounts of ground feel with this shoe. It offers good support and is ideal for road running.
Coming to the styling, New Balance did not do anything out of the ordinary here. 1500 v2 for men comes in two exciting launch colorways. It will definitely stand out in the crowd, thanks to these bright and exciting colorways. New Balance may also launch additional colorways as the year progresses. Let us wait and watch for that.
Coming to the upper, we see Fantom Fit construction. Fantom Fit is a combination of two materials that are super-light and at the same time offer great strength. The no-sew process makes sure that you shall always experience a supportive fit. For better breathability, New Balance designed this shoe such a way that the Open Mesh construction covers most of the upper (we all love dry feet). Scientifically placed synthetic overlays wrap your foot precisely, ultimately giving you a supreme fit. We also see a TPU skin upper that offers additional comfort.
We see New Balance’s revolutionary RevLite compound in the midsole region. This innovative compound delivers soft and responsive cushioning, even with only 6mm heel-to-toe drop. T-Beam offers additional arch support. T-Beam is a TPU shaft engineered specifically to offer better torsional stability. The midsole also has a multi-density foam that helps in correcting mild over pronation. If you are looking for a true support shoe, try Nike’s Air Zoom Structure 19.
Looking at the outsole, blown rubber in the forefoot area offers added cushioning. The durability levels of this running shoe are great. With proper care, these running shoes can last for over 500km.
Overall, the 1500 v2 is even better than the first one. New Balance addressed all the issues that were present in the first generation. There is no more tongue slide, thanks to the semi-gusseted tongue. 1500 v2 fits better and is even more durable. If you are looking for a running shoe under 8,000INR and want to try something other than Nike or Adidas, give 1500 v2 a shot.
New Balance’s 1500 v2 retails at $110 i.e., around 7,500INR. Availability in India is TBA.
Bottom-line: A much-needed update.
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