Verdict from 1 expert and 23 user reviews
5 reasons to buy
- A lot of runners state that the New Balance Sigma Aria increased their speed.
- Several purchasers observe that the shoe is very durable.
- The track spike generates excellent traction, claimed many users.
- A few wearers laud its flexibility.
- Several reviews claim that its composition is very light.
2 reasons not to buy
- It does not fit comfortably, expressed some buyers.
- The platform does not have sufficient lockdown, remarked a few.
Bottom line
The Sigma Aria is touted as a running spike from New Balance that combines both speed and endurance. With its componentry, this track shoe is definitely designed for smooth yet aggressive transitions. Taking inspiration from the Sigma Harmony, New Balance Sigma Aria is engineered for a good balance of rigidity and comfort, enabling propulsion and a plush running performance.
Tip: see the best tracking shoes.
Good to know
Use - With its featherlight composition, the Sigma Aria is designated to last in short-distance running competitions. These can range from 200 meters to 400 meters. The track spike can also accommodate both short and long hurdles.
Spike Type - The short-range track shoe has an 8-spike configuration. The spike pins that are attached to its plate are pyramid spikes that are ¼ inch in length. These spikes are removable to aid to the varying needs of the contender.
Spike Plate - A Pebax® plate runs full-length in the outsole of the running shoe. It delivers surface traction for a stable and grippy performance. It is also recognized for keeping an ultra-light design while maintaining a durable fashion.
The spike plate design of the New Balance Sigma Aria takes after the plate style of the Sigma Harmony. However, it features a more forgiving engineering with its incorporation of a less rigid material. This is to accommodate athletes who would want to test their skills over longer sprints.
Although the spike plate of the shoe already generates sufficient grip, a rubber outsole is also added to the componentry of the spike. This is to heighten the strength and traction of the track and field shoe.
Finally, the upper composition of the running platform consists of an engineered knit that allows a sock-like fit to the foot.
The New Balance Sigma Aria is available in unisex sizing in standard width. It follows men’s regular sizing measurements. Thus women are advised to deduct 1.5 from their usual size. This is to help secure an accurate fit and size.
There are several materials integrated into the shoe’s construction that are responsible for its fit. One of them is the engineered knit upper. It acts like a second layer of skin, wrapping the foot comfortably and securely. Second, the classic lace-up closure of the short-distance spike gives a dialed-in fit. It disables the possibility of unwanted shoe removal.
Similar to the makeup of other track and field spikes, the New Balance Sigma Aria is equipped with a full-length Pebax® plate. This outsole element permits featherlight yet aggressive surface traction. Moreover, its rigidity keeps a fair balance of comfort and propulsion.
The same spike plate is present in the Nike Zoom Victory Elite 2 and Adidas Adizero MD.
Complementing the Pebax® plate is the rubber material implemented on the outsole. This maximizes not only the grip of the shoe but also its sturdiness.
Since the spike plate of the Sigma Aria is engineered with less rigid materials, no midsole component has been integrated within the platform. This is also to keep the weight down to maximize speed.
As mentioned, the upper of the New Balance Sigma Aria consists of an engineered knit. It is made of synthetic materials that wrap snugly around the contours and shape of the foot. It gives a sock-like, breathable fit for a more healthy in-shoe environment.
The traditional lacing closure of the sprint spike allows for a customizable fit.