Verdict from 100+ user reviews
4 reasons to buy
- Almost all of the New Balance Ralaxa purchasers were impressed with how comfortable it was for long periods of walking.
- Many owners marked the trainer as having a perfect fit.
- The lightweight nature of the footgear delighted multiple testers.
- Several people raved about the supportive upper.
1 reason not to buy
- A few folks recommended replacing the insole for better arch support.
Bottom line
The New Balance Ralaxa was commended for the comfort it delivered. It was also lauded for its lightweight nature and supportive build.
Tip: see the best walking shoes.
Good to know
Men and women looking for a walking shoe with an athletic vibe would be pleased with the New Balance Ralaxa. This trendy trainer was released under the brand’s Everyday Comfort Collection, a line that aims to diminish foot discomfort while walking.
The footgear is equipped with the Cush+ platform. It is softer and lighter than conventional ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam but works just as effective in reducing shock.
The New Balance Ralaxa uses a Ground Contact EVA outsole. It is crafted to be durable to tolerate treading on rough surfaces. It has flex grooves at the forefoot to promote flexibility and natural foot bending.
Hard-wearing areas such as the heel and the toe sections are reinforced with a layer of rubber. This element prevents the early deterioration of the protected areas and also enhances the traction of the outsole.
The New Balance Ralaxa uses the Cush+ midsole technology. This platform is made to be lighter and softer than other foam units. It is also designed to be responsive, preventing foot fatigue.
Inside the shoe is the Soft+Supportive insert which is made of polyurethane (PU) material. This element provides maximum underfoot coverage that enhances the shock attenuation properties of the midsole.
The upper of the New Balance Ralaxa uses a synthetic textile material. The tightly woven fabric ensures that ample support is delivered to the foot. The back panel uses neoprene which offers better foothold.
No-sew overlays are found on the toe box, the eyestay, and the rear part of the quarter. They reinforce the fabric without introducing stitches inside the footwear that could cause skin irritation.
At the midfoot, a traditional lacing system can be seen. This structure allows users to modify the fit at the middle to achieve a snug and comfortable feel.
As for comfort, various parts of the upper are lined with a cushiony material. It not only helps in delivering a cozy fit, but it also prevents chafing and blistering.