If you’re looking for the most changed shoe of 2022, it’s probably the New Balance Tempo v2. Many people miss the New Balance Zante, so you’re in luck because the Tempo v2 is the most similar shoe offered since. If you find the New Balance 1080v12 or 880v12 too heavy or clunky, you might appreciate how lightweight and responsive the Tempo v2 is. But that responsiveness comes at a price, and it’s a lot less durable than other trainers.
New Balance Tempo v2 Quick Facts:
Weight: 9.1 oz
Heel to Toe Drop: 6 mm
Weight: $120
New Balance Tempo v2 Introduction:
When I first saw a photo of the New Balance Tempo v2, I didn’t even recognize it. The original Tempo and the Tempo v2 don’t share a lot of similar qualities. The New Balance Tempo v2 looks like a casual gym over an actual running shoe. Now that we know it’s changed…a lot…how does it perform?
New Balance Tempo v2 Fit:
New Balance continues the trend of using Hypoknit uppers. They are durable, don’t have any overlays, and for the most part, fit a lot of different types of feet. Plus, they are breathable. I’ve already run on some hot summer days in the New Balance Tempo v2, and I don’t worry about it overheating or feeling “too hot.” For the most part, the Tempo v2 upper is simple. It reminds me a lot of the now-retired Hoka Cavu.
New Balance uses a fairly wide heel that keeps the pressure off the Achilles. Of any brand, I think New Balance does the heel counter the best. Despite “only” being $120, everything about the Tempo v2 is plush. The heel counter, laces, and tongue all have extra padding, which is not what we always see with these performance trainers.
I strongly believe the best running shoe uppers disappear off your feet, and the New Balance Tempo v2 does that. I don’t worry about the width or the upper sliding around. It’s a good, simple upper that works well.
Typically in running shoes, I wear between a size 10-11 wide. I’ve never really had an issue with New Balance shoes, and for the most part, I wear a size 10.5. The New Balance Tempo v2 in size 10.5 fits well and once again I don’t have an issue.
New Balance Tempo v2 Ride:
If you’ve missed the New Balance Zante, be prepared because the New Balance Tempo v2 is closest to that shoe. The NB Tempo 2 is lightweight and responsive. The Tempo v2 falls into what I call a performance trainer. It’s a light and faster shoe. Some people might prefer to do all their workouts in this type of shoe because it tends to beat your body up less than the rigidness of a carbon plate.
If you like to run a few miles here and there and just want a lightweight and simple trainer, it’s a great option. If you are looking for a faster run shoe without a carbon plate, it’s a great option. Before 2016 and the rise of carbon-plated shoes, this is the type of shoe many people would race a marathon in.
The problem with performance trainers is the durability, so I’ll dive into that now. After about 150 miles, I’ve found the New Balance Tempo v2 feels flat. It doesn’t feel as cushioned or springy anymore. I almost feel like I’m running on the road. You aren’t going to get the full 300 miles out of that. It’s (I guess) cheap for a running shoe at $120, but the Atreyu Base Model (a similar type of shoe) is $70, and you can get 200 miles out of it.
Traction: Like almost every New Balance shoe, the traction is great. You don’t have to worry about sliding around. I’ve run on some inclement weather days and the sand with no issues. New Balance uses blown rubber which keeps you grounded.
I’ve used the New Balance Tempo v2 for several runs, including easy runs, long runs, and workouts, and I think it’s the best for faster workouts and faster-paced long runs. I prefer something with more cushion on easy runs (like the New Balance 1080v12). The New Balance Tempo v2 feels good for those faster-paced runs.
New Balance Tempo v2 Conclusion:
The NB Tempo v2 is a good shoe. Is it a great shoe? I’m not sure, and it depends on how often you want to replace your shoes. You’re not going to get a ton of mileage out of it (like the Beacon), but it’s a fun, fast ride. I like the New Balance Tempo v2 a lot, but I don’t know how often I want to replace my trainers. This isn’t a new complaint, and performance and faster trainers don’t typically last as long (see the Saucony Kinvara, New Balance Beacon, Brooks Launch, Atreyu Base Model).
My Current Shoe Rotation:
Easy/Daily Runs: NB Tempo v2, Diadora Mythos Blushield Volo, New Balance 1080 v11, Saucony Triumph 19, Brooks Launch 9
Speed Work: Altra Vanish Carbon, 361 Flame, Nike Tempo Next%, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro, Nike ZoomX Streakfly, Reebok Floatride Energy X
Long Runs: Saucony Freedom 4, Hoka Clifton Edge, Under Armour Sonic HOVR 3
Trail Running/Hiking: Saucony Peregrine 12, Hoka Torrent 2, Hoka Zinal Shoe, Speedland SL: PDX, North Face Flight VECTIV
Races: Nike ZoomX Streakfly, Asics Metaspeed Sky, Hoka One One Rocket X, adidas Adizero Pro, New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Nike Next%, Saucony Endorphin Pro 2, Reebok Run fast Pro
You Can See All Current Shoe Reviews Here.
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Questions for you:
Have you tried the New Balance Tempo v2?
What is your favorite faster daily trainer?
have not tried the Tempo…I need stability, my two go to shoes now are the Brooks Adrenaline and the ASICS Nimbus, which is odd, because at one time hated everything ASICS made, but the nimbus fits well, and I love the cushioning and the guide stability rather than the traditional…..I’m tempted to try the NB Fuel Cell TC….something to at least make me look faster…
That’s so interesting because the Nimbus doesn’t have any stability. Glad you’ve found what works though!