New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo v5 review
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all running shoes.
Verdict from 10 experts & 100+ users
Pros
- Stable and comfy
- Secure fit
- Excellent lockdown
- Breathable
- Well-cushioned
- Great heel security
- Durable bottom
Cons
- Not for runners with bunions
- Heavy
- Too stretchy










76% say it's true to size.
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Rankings
- Top 16% in road running shoes
- Top 9% in New Balance running shoes
- Top 29% most popular running shoes
Comparison to similar running shoes
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Who should buy the New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo v5
The New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo v5 is a solid option if:
- A shoe ideal for slow-pace everyday running is what you are looking for.
- You are after a running companion suitable for marathons.
- You have moderate to severe overpronation.
New Balance Vongo v5: Generous cushion with maximum support
The Fresh Foam Vongo v5 is an update to the acclaimed line of stability shoes from New Balance. Touted as a supportive counterpart of the NB 1080, it offers a max-cushioned ride with a high level of arch support.
Unlike other stability shoes, the Vongo v5 is not "slappy." Thanks to its rockered design, it transitions "smoothly." It's also got a "nice balance" of spring, comfort, and stability.
A novel approach to stability in the Vongo v5
Calling it Gradient Stability, the brand introduces denser foam pellets on the inner side of the sole. They seamlessly blend in with the FreshFoam cells, making arch support less intrusive than the previously common medial post. Contributing to a steady ride is the broader midfoot. It is 5 mm wider compared to the previous edition.
Plush goodness of the FreshFoamX
New Balance puts a lavish layer of soft FreshFoamX midsole to keep the foot pampered for many miles at a time. It is a premium technology from the brand that impresses with its weight-to-cushion ratio.
Upon step-in, the foot is welcomed with a plushness that's as good as a "memory foam mattress." The New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo v5 is also padded and there are no reports of slips or irritation.
Secure and breathable upper
The upper is stretchy, conforming to the foot. Although the tongue is not gusseted, it does a "great job" of keeping the foot in place and it doesn't move around.
According to testers, it's secure from the rear to the midfoot and opens up in the forefoot.
Runners claim that the upper is breathable, soft, and luxurious. Everything about it just screams premium.
Outsole durability
50 miles in, multiple reviewers still see very "little" wear on the outsole. They say its sturdiness is "identical" to the NB 1080 v11.