New Balance Summit Unknown 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 9 experts & 100+ users
Pros
- Breathable
- Lightweight
- Reliable traction
- Drains water well
Cons
- Tongue deviates
- Narrow width
- Insole slides forward
70% say it's true to size.
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Comparison to similar running shoes
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Who should buy the Balance Summit Unknown
You will love the Balance Summit Unknown if:
- You want breathable and lightweight running shoes for runners with a neutral gait
- You want a shoe with reliable tractions to use for long-distance or marathons
Run worry-free on wet surfaces with the Balance Summit Unknown outsoles
The outsole unit of the New Balance Summit Unknown utilizes the HydroHesion rubber compound. This full-length material is specially designed to provide traction on wet surfaces. Having this layer would potentially increase confidence when tackling slippery trails and paths.
A semi-aggressive lug pattern allows this shoe to traverse different types of topography easily. Also, the multi-directional configuration of these nodes permits confident uphill climbs and downward excursions.
Reduced impact shocks while running with the Balance Summit Unknown midsole
RevLite is a lightweight material that is advertised as more responsive and sturdier than heavier midsole compounds. It’s been designed to resist early sagging or breakdown.
The Rock Stop® is a layer of dense material that’s placed in the forefoot section. Its purpose is to protect the underfoot from rough surfaces and trail debris. It also attenuates impact shock and diffuses the energy generated by such a force. A foam insole is placed above the primary midsole unit. It can be replaced or removed entirely.
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Upper
The façade is mostly made using a synthetic mesh which is a lightweight material that offers breathable coverage. It has a semi-closed construction to improve its durability.
Fantom Fit is an overlay-and-underlay system that’s composed of two materials that have been combined using a no-sew method. The goal of this add-on is to assist in providing a secure yet customizable fit.
Protecting the forefoot section of the New Balance Summit Unknown is the Toe Protect™ compound, which is a thin layer of rubber that acts as a shield against sharp objects on the trail.
The tongue and collar are padded. These two sections hold the foot in place and prevent it from wobbling inside the foot-chamber. Soft fabric lines the interior of this shoe. It’s crafted to stave off hot spots and skin irritation. A pull tab is placed on the back portion of the collar. This loop makes it easy to wear and remove the Summit Unknown.