I’ve never tried the New Balance Fresh Foam X Vongo v6 or any of the previous Vongos. Wait, have I? Upon further looking through my blog, I haven’t. The problem with reviewing shoes for over 8 years is that maybe I did a few years ago and it all just blends together. But no, I haven’t tried the Vongo.
The Vongo is an interesting and unique shoe because it’s a stability shoe, but you can run a bit faster in it. It’s not a carbon-plated shoe, but it is easier to run faster.
New Balance Fresh Foam X Vongo v6 Quick Facts
- Weight: 8.5 oz for Women, 10.6 oz for Men
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 6 mm
- Stack Height: 38 mm (Heel), 32 mm (Forefoot)
- Price: $165
- Comparables: ASICS GEL-Kayano 30, HOKA Arahi 6
New Balance Fresh Foam X Vongo v6 Introduction
I won’t lie to you; the New Balance Fresh Foam X Vongo v6 has gotten a big update and doesn’t share a ton of similarities from previous versions. The Vongo v6 marks a significant evolution and now features a Fresh Foam X midsole, enhanced underfoot cushioning, and innovative stability technology.
New Balance Fresh Foam X Vongo v6 Fit and Upper
The Vongo v6 introduces a new engineered mesh upper designed to provide a snug, foot-embracing fit. With a focus on comfort and adaptability, this upper caters to various foot shapes and sizes, ensuring a secure and breathable experience. The integration of a gusseted tongue and padded heel enhances the overall fit, making the Vongo v6 a go-to choice for a range of runners.
The best running shoe uppers disappear off your feet, and really, the New Balance Fresh Foam X Vongo v6 does just that. The moment I slid it on, I didn’t have any issues. I don’t have any past versions to compare to, but it fits and feels good.
As for size, I usually wear between a size 10-11 wide in running shoes, and the size 10.5 fits well. New Balance usually does well with their sizing, and the New Balance Fresh Foam X Vongo v6 is no different.
New Balance Fresh Foam X Vongo v6 Ride:
This year, New Balance has given the Vongo v6 a Fresh Foam X midsole with two different layers for support. The lower layer consists of firm foam for a solid push-off base, while an EVA film adds stability. This is in lieu of a traditional medial post we usually see in stability shoes.
The top layer features plush Fresh Foam X, which gives more cushion and softness. This combination of layers makes the shoe great for those who need stability but also great for those who don’t. It isn’t going to correct anything that doesn’t need correcting.
Where does the New Balance Fresh Foam X Vongo v6 fit into my rotation? A great question, and I really had no clue when I slid the shoe on the first time. Would it be an easy run shoe? A long run shoe? Typically, I don’t need much stability on a run, but my feet do get tired during longer efforts and tend to pronate a bit. For me, the New Balance Fresh Foam X Vongo v6 fits perfectly as an easy run or daily trainer. I’ve taken it out for some harder efforts but prefer something with less shoe for hard efforts and something with more cushion for easier. It’s perfect for someone who wants a daily trainer.
Outsole
I don’t think I’ve ever had an issue with New Balance and durability. The Vongo v6 maintains a focus on durability and traction. The outsole design ensures reliable grip across various surfaces, while the gentle rocker shape aids in smooth heel-to-toe transitions. The slight reduction in heel-to-toe drop from the previous version enhances the shoe’s natural feel during runs (this is another big change to the previous version). I’ve now used the shoe in both rainy and inclement weather as well as on sandy trails with no issues. It handles everything well, and I wouldn’t worry about inclement weather. As far as durability, I expect the New Balance Fresh Foam X Vongo v6 to last between 300-400 miles.
New Balance Fresh Foam X Vongo v6 Conclusion
The New Balance Fresh Foam X Vongo v6 stands out as a versatile stability shoe, offering a blend of comfort, support, and performance. With its updated midsole technology and improved upper design, it caters to a wide range of runners, from those requiring subtle stability to neutral runners seeking a cushioned ride.
Who should buy the New Balance Fresh Foam X Vongo v6? Honestly, I think it’s one of the most versatile running shoes, and really anyone looking for a daily trainer will likely like it.
Who should not buy the New Balance Fresh Foam X Vongo v6? If you’re looking for a high cushion or max cushioned trainer or racing shoe. There are better options out there!
My Current Shoe Rotation:
Easy/Daily Runs: New Balance Vongo V6, Topo Magnifly 5, Antepes Muscle Runners, Tracksmith Eliot Runner, New Balance 1080v12 , Newton Gravity 12, 361 Degrees Centauri, ASICS Superblast ,
Speed Work: 361 Degrees Furious Future, Nike Tempo Next%, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro, Nike ZoomX Streakfly
Long Runs: ASICS Superblast
Trail Running/Hiking: 361 Futura, Hoka Tecton X2 Shoe Review Speedland SL: PDX,
Races: 361 Degrees Furious Future, Hoka Cielo X1, New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Reebok Run fast Pro , Nike Vaporfly 3 Hoka Rocket X 2 ASICS Metaspeed Edge+
You Can See All Current Shoe Reviews Here.
Looking to learn more about running shoes? In my ebook, I talk about why you need a good running shoe, a shoe’s anatomy, neutral vs. stable, and even myths of running shoes.
Questions for you:
Have you tried the Vongo?
What is your favorite running shoe?