Verdict from 4 experts and 13 user reviews
6 reasons to buy
- Several users have sworn that the Furon 2.0 Pro Firm Ground is one of the most comfortable shoes they have ever worn.
- The hybrid mesh used is favored by most of the reviewers as it provided more flexibility and less stiffness as opposed to its original version
- Some of the wide-footed players were thankful to New Balance for releasing a wide variation of the Furon 2.0 Pro Firm Ground.
- Some of the reviewers felt that the open lacing system provided a generous amount of adjustability that caters to their preferred fit.
- Given that this is considered to be one of NB’s high-end shoes, a lot of purchasers still feel it is a bang for their buck due to the numerous benefits it provides.
- The non-removable sock liner cushioned with RevLite padding was noticeably soft to the heels and the soles according to a couple of reviewers.
2 reasons not to buy
- Few users felt discomfort in the toe box area; they described it as tight and narrow.
- One reviewer thinks that the 2-stud configuration in the heel area did not provide enough stability.
Bottom line
New Balance did a great job in producing a much wiser and bolder patent of the original version with the release of NB Furon 2.0 Pro FG. It is apparent with the user feedback that changes to the second version of the New Balance Furon Pro Firm Ground (FG) are well-received by soccerers. The significant revamp of the upper material is perceived as an improvement to its predecessor. Retained features are also appreciated.
Tip: see the best soccer cleats.
Good to know
- The upper of the New Balance Furon 2.0 features FantomFit technology and TPU (Thermoplastic polyurethane) hybrid mesh. FantomFit is New Balance’s distinct upper material that does not involve any sewing. It is a fusion of premium materials that are ultimately designed to create a thin and light feel. The goal of this technology incorporated in the hybrid mesh is to offer foot support that blends to the shape of the foot, a quality that was particularly missing from Furon 1.0 Pro. The same material is also incorporated in New Balance Furon 4.0 Pro Firm Ground.
- Other notable features from the original version were still retained such as the RevLite insole padding. This non-removable insole innovation is engineered to be much lighter than the other New Balance internal cushioning. With this extra lightness, the underfoot experience is likely to feel comfortable and responsive.
- Another feature included in this cleat is the ultra-directional stud configuration. Retaining this nylon bio-mechanical stud pattern sets the pace for a better upper and outsole combination. It is specifically constructed to gain aggressive traction. The triangular studs similar to the ones found in Adidas Predator 18.1 Firm Ground, also allow fast acceleration.
- Aiming to mimic the shoe mechanism in sprinting, New Balance engineered a low-cut ankle collar that is shaped to allow more freedom for feet movement that involves the ankles. Ankle sprains are quite common in soccer and having this unique component can certainly help prevent unwanted injuries. Extra cushion is seen below the joint ball and is bordered with a thin synthetic material fused together to provide more room for movement. A cleat made for speed should definitely have this handy.
The New Balance Furon 2.0 Pro Firm Ground is available in men’s sizes, from 7.5 to 13. Standard and Wide fit variations are both available.
Like the original version, the Furon 2.0 Firm Ground cleat has a bio-mechanical stud configuration. Also known as ultra-directional studs, the shoe has two triangular heel studs and eight forefoot studs. Four of the forefoot studs are situated at the tip of the toes to produce solid ground penetration.
In the nylon soleplate are also the textured studs. From the lateral view, they look like miniature studs designed for the same purpose.
The Furon 2.0 Pro FG upper material is a hybrid mesh made from polyester and TPU. These are yarns that are woven together to produce a knitted cleat look. It comes with a water-resistant layer that makes this soccer cleat’s texture smoother and softer. The lack of synthetic layer brings about a much thinner sensation giving a sock-like feel when touching the ball.
- The Spanish professional player Jesus Navas is the main endorser for this soccer cleat. In one of his interviews, he said that he finds this cleat flexible especially for a winger like him whose style of game is based on pace and speed.