New Balance 5000

When it comes to ultra- light racing, shoes like the New Balance 5000 should be on top of your shopping list. This new collection of racing flats from New Balance takes the cake when it comes to speed work and racing on the track, gravel and road. The shoe is designed in a light packaging with minimal features to promote a barely- there feel. It offers a combination of the snug fit, durable traction and breathable environment that would surely keep the runner happy and comfortable on the road while conquering miles. The New Balance 5000 is available in two versions: the spike- less model and the spiked one. When the two are compared, there are more similarities than differences. One of its differences is the weight measurements. Due to the presence of spikes, the New Balance 5000 Spike is 17 grams heavier than the spike- less version. The spikes are measured at ¼ inch, so the forefoot height is also different between the two. Fortunately, the spikes are designed to be removable so runners could customize their own running experience.

Arch Support and Pronation Control

The New Balance 5000 is considered as a minimalist or barefoot shoe. It offers no arch support, like a medial post, since it only has minimal features. However, its outsole can control supination or under pronation to reduce the risks of pain or injury for the runner.

Terrain

The outsole of the New Balance 5000 is engineered to tackle the track and road well. Its midsole cushioning is adequate to provide a responsive ride on hard surfaces.

Use

The New Balance 5000 is designed for speed work and racing. Its featherweight platform and outsole work together to provide a barely- there feel to keep the runner swift on his feet. The shoe is also used to track workouts.

Durability

The New Balance 5000 has a low durability threshold because of its minimal features. In addition, some spikes on the shoe’s undersurface are already showing up on the sides. This might be a sign of poor quality or low durability after excessive use.

Outer Sole

The outsole of the New Balance 5000 is not as aggressive because it is only designed for the track and road. It has enough cushioning to minimize the landing impact on hard surfaces, so the underfoot is well- protected from the shock during mid-foot and forefoot striking. The main outsole material of the shoe is the Dynaride outsole. For the spiked version, there is an additional TPU Plate and TPU Spike Configuration to accommodate the spikes. The outer sole of the New Balance 5000 provides high performance traction that works on the track and road.

Midsole

Since the New Balance 5000 is a minimalist or barefoot shoe, it has no need for cushioning systems that could hinder a neutral foot motion. However, it does feature a thin midsole foam. The lightweight REVlite midsole offers underfoot coverage from the forefoot to the heel. Even with a featherweight midsole, the runner can still enjoy a stable and responsive ride on hard surfaces.

Upper

The New Balance 5000 has an upper construction made of synthetic mesh and overlays. The mesh layers cover the majority of the upper to ensure a high standard of flexibility and breathability. In fact, its lightweight material provides a barely- there feel for the runner. The whole upper is incorporated with the popular and reliable Technology. With its presence, the shoe offers a more snug fit without sacrificing flexibility.

The aerodynamic profile of the New Balance 5000 will certainly be a factor that would enhance your performance and speed in road racing and track workouts. Since it is frequently listed in “Best of” running lists, you would never go wrong with this ultra- light racing model. It is strategically engineered to assist your foot while it cycles through a natural gait. Its light and comfortable platform will also keep you on top of your game and bring you the confidence to conquer more miles in one run. Despite the minimal features, the New Balance 5000 will facilitate a responsive and efficient stride for your benefit.

Price

The New Balance 5000 originally retails at $125.