Our verdict

In our view, the New Balance Tektrel offers a fresh take on door-to-trail footwear, blending a striking design with adequate performance at an accessible price point, making it suitable for casual runners looking for a versatile option for both roads and trails. We noticed the ride was not as explosive as other models, and the outsole didn't impress us, but its unique appearance and low cost make it a viable choice for runners looking to get decent quality without breaking the bank.

Pros

  • Tough yet breathable upper
  • Ideal for easy, non-technical trails
  • Competitively priced
  • Suitable for all footstrikes
  • Versatile for hiking and walking
  • Unique design
  • Versatile
  • Enough room for toe splay

Cons

  • Bad weight/cushioning ratio
  • Outsole durability concerns
  • Unconventional lacing system
  • Lacks reflective elements

Audience verdict

85
Good!

Who should buy

We think the New Balance Tektrel is a smart choice if you:

  • Seek a budget-friendly shoe versatile enough for both road and trail—ideal for those who switch terrains.
  • Need just one shoe that covers various surfaces and offers great value for money, perfect for travel.
  • Are seeking an affordable door-to-trail shoe that doubles as casual wear—if you're okay with its unique look!

New Balance Tektrel

Who should NOT buy

We've tested the Tektrel thoroughly and found that its outsole is somewhat lacking—it shows more wear and provides less traction than expected.

While not the worst outsole by any means, we believe there are better options available if you're willing to invest a bit more. For those needing a more durable and grippy outsole, we highly recommend upgrading to the New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 or the Hoka Speedgoat 6, both featuring top-tier Vibram outsoles and more energetic midsoles.

New Balance Tektrel parts

In our experience, the Tektrel also falls short in terms of weight—it feels overly heavy for its cushioning. We think that for runners concerned about shoe weight and seeking a more agile door-to-trail option, the Hoka Challenger 7 or the Hoka Torrent 3 would be much better choices.

Breathability

At first glance, the Tektrel upper impressed us with a reinforced toe cap and engineered mesh featuring numerous ventilation holes, promising excellent breathability.

Using our smoke machine, we confirmed that New Balance has indeed created an exceptionally breathable shoe, as it earned a perfect score of 5 out of 5 in our tests.

Shining light across the upper revealed how effectively the ventilation is achieved. The toebox sports a strategically designed pattern of holes that significantly enhance airflow.

New Balance Tektrel Microscope

We then examined the mesh under a microscope and noted its typical engineered layout—featuring a thicker top layer coupled with a softer fabric underneath that supports airflow at the same time that provides a bit of comfort.

New Balance Tektrel micro v2

For a door-to-trail shoe priced under £100, the upper is great.

While it may not match the comfort of some higher-priced models we've tested here in the lab, it's crucial to consider its affordability when evaluating its features.

Test results
Tektrel 5
Average 3.4
Compared to 88 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

To evaluate the durability of the Tektrel's toebox, we fired up our Dremel tool for the first time today.

The toebox made an excellent first impression in terms of durability, achieving a robust 4 out of 5 in our initial test with the Dremel.

New Balance Tektrel Toebox durability
Test results
Tektrel 4
Average 3.1
Compared to 68 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Toebox durability
5

Heel padding durability

Riding the wave of a positive outcome, we were eager to see if the Tektrel could maintain its impressive performance.

Unfortunately, the heel padding didn't match the toebox's success, scoring a 3 out of 5. Although not a poor score, this result was slightly disappointing given our initial enthusiasm. However, viewed objectively, it still represents a good performance.

New Balance Tektrel Heel padding durability
Test results
Tektrel 3
Average 2.9
Compared to 66 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel padding durability
5

Outsole hardness

It's time to evaluate the AT Tread outsole, which is crucial for any road-to-trail shoe, particularly where durability across varied terrains is a concern.

Upon testing, we pressed our durometer into the rubber and recorded a hard formulation of 90.9 HC. This clearly indicates a focus on enhancing durability, with grip being a secondary priority.

New Balance Tektrel Outsole hardness
Test results
Tektrel 90.9 HC
Average 85.4 HC
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 111 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
72.5 HC
Outsole hardness
95.0 HC

Outsole durability

During our intensive final Dremel test, the results were underwhelming, though not completely disastrous—an indentation of 1.1 mm was observed.

While not alarming by any means, this result is also far from ideal. For those who rapidly wear down their outsole rubber, we recommend opting for a more durable option, like the Merrell Agility Peak 5.

New Balance Tektrel Outsole durability
Test results
Tektrel 1.1 mm
Average 0.9 mm
Compared to 61 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

New Balance has compensated for the AT Tread outsole's modest durability by adding a thickness of 2.5 mm, which not only enhances protection but also serves as a shield—and this really matters since this shoe does not include a rock plate.

New Balance Tektrel Outsole thickness
Test results
Tektrel 2.5 mm
Average 2.4 mm
Compared to 111 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
0.9 mm
Outsole thickness
6.5 mm

Weight

The Tektrel has performed well for its price until now, yet we found its weight is a significant drawback.

Immediately upon handling them in our lab and during field tests, the shoes felt notably heavy. Our measurements in the lab—10.7 oz or 302g—reinforced our concerns. Given that the shoe lacks substantial stack height, this weight seems excessive and calls for improvements in the next version.

Test results
Tektrel 10.65 oz (302g)
Average 10.34 oz (293g)
Compared to 111 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
7.51 oz (213g)
Weight
13.37 oz (379g)

Cushioning

Heel stack

As we noted earlier, the Tektrel does not feature a maximalist design, leading us to consider it slightly overweight given its level of cushioning.

In our analysis of the heel, we measured a height of 32.2 mm, which aligns with the average and proves appropriate for a wide range of activities, distances, and overall comfort. Any additional height could have compromised the shoe's performance, so we're pleased with this aspect of the Tektrel's design.

New Balance Tektrel Heel stack
Test results
Tektrel 32.2 mm
Average 32.2 mm
Compared to 111 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
16.1 mm
Heel stack
42.4 mm

Forefoot stack

We used our digital callipers once more and measured a 24.2 mm stack height in the forefoot. This places it between minimalist and maximalist designs, aligning closely with the average trail running shoe again.

New Balance Tektrel Forefoot stack
Test results
Tektrel 24.2 mm
Average 24.6 mm
Compared to 111 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
15.2 mm
Forefoot stack
33.9 mm

Drop

We verified an 8.0 mm heel-to-toe drop, aligning exactly with New Balance's official specifications—a rare occurrence in our testing. Kudos to them for such precision.

An 8 mm drop is considered ideal for shoes designed to support all 3 footstrikes—rearfoot, midfoot, and forefoot.

New Balance Tektrel Drop
Test results
Tektrel 8.0 mm
Average 7.7 mm
Compared to 110 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
-0.1 mm
Drop
17.3 mm

Insole thickness

The insole, made of EVA, boasts a thickness of 4.7 mm. Just normal stuff.

New Balance Tektrel Insole thickness
Test results
Tektrel 4.7 mm
Average 4.7 mm
Compared to 111 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
2.7 mm
Insole thickness
9.8 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

New Balance often highlights their midsole names in their shoes—like the FuelCell Rebel v4 or the Fresh Foam X More Trail v3. However, they chose not do so for the Tektrel, and it's because it doesn’t feature any advanced materials.

In fact, this model uses basic EVA foam, which doesn't stand out in terms of energy return, a choice we find understandable given its £90 price point.

New Balance Tektrel midsole
While the foam is a run-of-the-mill EVA, New Balance has invested considerable effort into its design, which features some cool geometric angles.

Regarding comfort, the ride offered by the Tektrel is quite balanced. Our Shore A durometer recorded a score of 23.0 HA, closely aligning with the average, as it's the norm with this model.

New Balance Tektrel Midsole softness
Test results
Tektrel 23.0 HA
Average 22.6 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 87 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
9.1 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
39.0 HA

Difference in midsole softness in cold

To assess how this cheap and generic EVA foam would perform in real winter conditions, we placed it in our freezer for 20 minutes. The results from our follow-up durometer test were disappointing yet not surprising at all, showing a 37.5% uptick, which will be definitely noticeable underfoot in cold temperatures.

New Balance Tektrel Difference in midsole softness in cold
Test results
Tektrel 37.5%
Average 26.3%
Compared to 87 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Difference in midsole softness in cold
100%

Stability

Lateral stability test

The Tektrel is a neutral trail running shoe that lacks specialised stability features. But thanks to its average stack height and firmer foam, it manages to perform decently in terms of stability.

However, we do not recommend it for runners who need specific stability support, particularly heel strikers. For those requiring more rearfoot support in a door-to-trail shoe, we suggest the Dynasoft Nitrel v5 from New Balance as a superior, still-easy-on-the-wallet option.

Torsional rigidity

The Tektrel is designed for versatility, but at the same time, aiming to be comfortable, and shoes that are too stiff can ruin the experience of non-running activities. Keeping this in mind, we found it achieves a 3 out of 5 in our manual assessment.

If we were designing this shoe, we might have aimed for a touch more flexibility. However, we recognise the challenges of enhancing flexibility in trail shoes due to its rugged design.

Test results
Tektrel 3
Average 3.5
Compared to 105 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Torsional rigidity
5

Heel counter stiffness

The heel counter of the shoe struck us as fairly standard while running and testing it in the lab—not as flexible as a competition shoe, yet noticeably less rigid than a typical stability shoe. New Balance has clearly opted for a cautious approach in this area, and unsurprisingly, we assigned it a score of 3 out of 5. Yes, once again.

Test results
Tektrel 3
Average 3.1
Compared to 103 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel counter stiffness
5

Midsole width in the forefoot

Focusing on the midsole dimensions, we recorded a width of 114.8 mm at the forefoot's broadest point, reflecting a conventional design strategy that suits most runners well. In our view, this width offers a practical balance for any door-to-trail shoe.

New Balance Tektrel Midsole width in the forefoot
Test results
Tektrel 114.8 mm
Average 112.1 mm
Compared to 111 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
102.1 mm
Midsole width in the forefoot
126.0 mm

Midsole width in the heel

The heel of the Tektrel is narrower than usual at 85.0 mm, which led us to feel less stability, and that's why we do not recommend it for heel strikers concerned with stability. However, for neutral runners, it's just fine and offers significant agility for maneuvering corners, particularly on downhill runs.

New Balance Tektrel Midsole width in the heel
Test results
Tektrel 85.0 mm
Average 89.9 mm
Compared to 111 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
77.2 mm
Midsole width in the heel
109.3 mm

Flexibility

Stiffness

We secured the Tektrel to our workbench and flexed it to 90 degrees, just like we do with every shoe here in the lab. The result was a 21.8N reading, indicating it's highly flexible, which is excellent for comfort.

We expected this level of flexibility since the shoe lacks any kind of plate or significant stack height.

Test results
Tektrel 21.8N
Average 28.0N
We use an average of four tests. The video shows one of those tests.
Compared to 111 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
10.5N
Stiffness
54.5N

Grip / Traction

Lug depth

We've mentioned before that this shoe falls into the "door-to-trail" category—meant for both road running and light trail use, making it a versatile choice for those who frequently transition between different surfaces during training or travel.

New Balance Tektrel outsole
The Tektrel has triangular lugs that seamlessly integrate with the overall shoe design. Additionally, we discovered an X-shaped cut that enhances torsional flexibility.

The lugs on these shoes meet the necessary criteria too. At just 2.4 mm, they are quite small, which is crucial for ensuring the shoe performs well on road sections. However, this advantage comes with a drawback: the shoe is not suitable for technical or even moderately challenging trails.

New Balance Tektrel Lug depth
Test results
Tektrel 2.4 mm
Average 3.5 mm
Compared to 111 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1.7 mm
Lug depth
5.8 mm

Size and fit

Toebox width at the widest part

After measuring the widest part of the upper at 99.5 mm, we discovered that New Balance adopted a straightforward, conservative approach with the Tektrel's toebox, aiming to provide a comfortable fit for a broad range of runners.

Regarding vertical space, the upper presents no issues whatsoever, offering ample room for those going for extended journeys.

New Balance Tektrel Toebox width at the widest part
Test results
Tektrel 99.5 mm
Average 98.9 mm
Compared to 111 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
92.0 mm
Toebox width at the widest part
104.9 mm

Toebox width at the big toe

Our initial thoughts were confirmed after a second measurement in the toebox showed 79.7 mm, indicating a very average taper that should accommodate most runners comfortably.

New Balance Tektrel taper

This typical dimension should suit most individuals comfortably. However, for those requiring additional space, New Balance provides a Wide size in select markets.

New Balance Tektrel Toebox width at the big toe
Test results
Tektrel 79.7 mm
Average 79.1 mm
Compared to 73 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
70.5 mm
Toebox width at the big toe
92.1 mm

Tongue: gusset type

Regrettably, the Tektrel does not include a gusseted tongue—a notable drawback for a hiking and trail shoe, as it permits debris to enter. However, expecting such a feature at its price point under £100 was perhaps overly optimistic.

New Balance Tektrel Tongue: gusset type
Test results
Tektrel None

Comfort

Tongue padding

We discovered the tongue of the Tektrel to be quite comfortable, hitting a great balance between plushness and weight with its 5.5 mm thickness. New Balance couldn't consider a thicker tongue anyway, as the shoe is already on the heavier side.

New Balance Tektrel tongue tab

Additionally, the tongue features a finger-loop tab that's extremely handy for slipping your feet in and fine-tuning the fit. It also includes multiple loops to keep the tongue centred and secure, preventing any shifting during use—a crucial detail given the absence of a gusset.

New Balance Tektrel Tongue padding
Test results
Tektrel 5.5 mm
Average 6.5 mm
Compared to 111 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1.5 mm
Tongue padding
12.2 mm

Lacing system

The Tektrel has a new kind of lacing system that's pretty unique. It uses regular eyelets and three extra wires on each side designed to spread out the pressure evenly on the foot and add a touch of stability. But honestly, it feels a bit strange, and you might need a little time to get used to this rare setup.

New Balance Tektrel Lacing system

Heel tab

The heel of the Tektrel includes a handy finger-loop heel tab, a feature we found especially useful and interesting since many budget-friendly shoes often omit such convenient details.

New Balance Tektrel Heel tab finger loop
Test results
Tektrel Finger loop

Removable insole

The insole is not glued to the midsole, making it fully removable—this allows you to effortlessly swap it out for third-party footbeds if desired. And swapping might be worthwhile, as the stock footbed is fairly basic and not of the highest quality.

New Balance Tektrel Removable insole
Test results
Tektrel Yes

Misc

Reflective elements

It's not surprising for us that the Tektrel lacks reflective elements. Expecting advanced features at such a budget-friendly cost often isn't realistic.

New Balance Tektrel Reflective elements
Test results
Tektrel No