What makes the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav stand out among women’s running shoes. How does its unique multicolor design combine with advanced technology for optimal performance. Why is this shoe gaining popularity among female runners and fitness enthusiasts.
Unveiling the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav: A Game-Changer in Women’s Running Shoes
The New Balance Fresh Foam Roav has emerged as a revolutionary running shoe for women, seamlessly blending cutting-edge performance features with eye-catching aesthetics. This innovative footwear offering from New Balance has quickly garnered attention in the running community for its unique approach to design and functionality.
Why has the Fresh Foam Roav become a topic of interest among female runners? Its distinctive multicolor knit upper sets it apart from traditional monochrome running shoes, offering a refreshing visual appeal that doesn’t compromise on performance. The shoe’s design philosophy centers around providing a perfect balance of style, comfort, and functionality – a trifecta that resonates with modern women athletes.
The Technology Behind the Fresh Foam Roav: Pushing Boundaries in Footwear Innovation
At the heart of the Fresh Foam Roav lies a suite of advanced technologies that cater specifically to the needs of female runners. How does New Balance achieve this technological marvel?
- FIT WEAVE Woven Upper: A data-driven compression fit system that provides a sock-like feel
- Fresh Foam Midsole: Precision-engineered for ultra-soft cushioning and smooth transitions
- Strategic Rubber Overlays: Enhances durability and grip on various surfaces
- Breathable Bootie Construction: Ensures optimal airflow and comfort
- Molded Heel Counter: Offers additional support and stability
- No-Sew Application: Minimizes irritation for a more comfortable run
This combination of technologies works in harmony to deliver a running experience that’s both comfortable and performance-driven. The Fresh Foam midsole, in particular, has garnered praise for its ability to provide responsive cushioning without compromising on energy return.
Versatility Redefined: The Fresh Foam Roav’s Adaptability to Various Training Scenarios
While primarily designed for road running, the Fresh Foam Roav showcases remarkable versatility across different training modalities. How does this shoe adapt to various workout scenarios?
The neutral support and Fresh Foam cushioning make it an excellent choice for high-intensity interval training (HIIT), boot camp classes, and even kickboxing. The flexible knit upper allows for natural foot movement, enhancing its suitability for cross-training workouts.
Runners have reported positive experiences using the Roav for:
- Long-distance runs
- Tempo runs
- Fartlek training
- Treadmill sessions
Beyond its athletic capabilities, the Fresh Foam Roav’s striking colorways make it a popular choice for athleisure wear, seamlessly transitioning from workout to casual settings.
Fit and Sizing: Ensuring Comfort for Every Foot Shape
Achieving the right fit is crucial for any running shoe, and the Fresh Foam Roav aims to accommodate a wide range of foot shapes and sizes. How does New Balance address this challenge?
The majority of wearers report that the Fresh Foam Roav runs true to size. The knit upper material’s stretchability allows it to conform to the foot’s shape, providing a secure yet non-restrictive fit. A notable feature is the roomy toe box, which accommodates wider feet and allows for natural toe splay during running or training.
Some users have noted that the heel area runs slightly narrow, and the laces may be on the shorter side. To ensure the best fit, it’s recommended to try the shoe on in-store if possible. For those purchasing online, sizing up by half or a full size has proven satisfactory for many users.
The Fresh Foam midsole offers a medium firmness that suits most foot types, striking a balance between cushioning and responsiveness.
Color Options and Design: A Feast for the Eyes
One of the Fresh Foam Roav’s most distinctive features is its bold, multicolor knit upper design. How does New Balance approach color in this model?
The shoe is available in a variety of vibrant color combinations, including:
- Island Blue/Electric Blue
- Sea Salt/Sea Spray
- Black/Magnet
For those preferring a more subdued look, an all-black version is also available. The colorful woven material not only enhances the shoe’s aesthetic appeal but also contributes to its flexibility and breathability.
The eclectic color schemes and patterns make the Roav an ideal choice for runners who view their footwear as an extension of their personality and running ethos. The bright colors serve to energize each step, potentially boosting motivation during workouts.
Performance Features: What Sets the Fresh Foam Roav Apart
While the Fresh Foam Roav’s eye-catching design may be its initial draw, its performance features are what truly set it apart in the competitive running shoe market. What makes this shoe a standout performer?
- Ultra-Comfortable Cushioning: The Fresh Foam midsole provides a plush, responsive ride that maintains its liveliness over long distances.
- Reliable Traction: Strategic rubber overlays on the outsole ensure dependable grip, even in wet conditions.
- Exceptional Breathability: The knit upper and bootie construction keep feet cool and dry during intense workouts.
- Lightweight Design: Despite its robust cushioning, the Roav maintains a lightweight profile, enhancing its performance capabilities.
While not marketed as the most durable shoe on the market, the Fresh Foam Roav holds up well under standard running and gym use when properly maintained.
Value Proposition: Justifying the Investment in Fresh Foam Roav
With an MSRP around $100, the Fresh Foam Roav positions itself in the higher tier of regular training shoes. Does it justify this price point?
Many users find the shoe’s unique combination of features worth the investment:
- Premium Cushioning: The Fresh Foam technology provides comfort and responsiveness that rivals more expensive models.
- Versatility: Its ability to perform well across various training scenarios increases its value proposition.
- Style Factor: The distinctive design adds value for those who appreciate aesthetics in their athletic gear.
- Innovative Technologies: Features like the FIT WEAVE upper and no-sew application contribute to a premium running experience.
While it may not be the most budget-friendly option, the Fresh Foam Roav offers a compelling package for women seeking a high-performance, stylish running shoe.
User Testimonials: Real-World Experiences with the Fresh Foam Roav
To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the Fresh Foam Roav’s performance, let’s explore some user testimonials:
“I’ve been running in these shoes for three months now, and I’m impressed with how they’ve held up. The cushioning still feels fresh, and the colors are as vibrant as day one.” – Sarah, marathon runner
“As someone with wider feet, I appreciate the roomy toe box. It’s rare to find a shoe that’s both comfortable and stylish.” – Emma, fitness instructor
“The versatility of these shoes is amazing. I use them for my morning runs and then wear them to run errands. They’re comfortable all day long.” – Lisa, casual runner
Comparing the Fresh Foam Roav to Competitors
How does the Fresh Foam Roav stack up against other popular women’s running shoes? Let’s compare some key features:
Feature | Fresh Foam Roav | Competitor A | Competitor B |
---|---|---|---|
Cushioning Technology | Fresh Foam | Standard EVA | Proprietary Foam |
Upper Design | Multicolor Knit | Mesh | Engineered Mesh |
Weight | Lightweight | Medium | Lightweight |
Versatility | High | Medium | Medium |
Style Factor | High | Medium | Medium |
This comparison highlights the Fresh Foam Roav’s strengths in cushioning technology, design aesthetics, and versatility.
Caring for Your Fresh Foam Roav: Maximizing Longevity and Performance
To ensure your Fresh Foam Roav shoes maintain their performance and appearance over time, consider the following care tips:
- Clean regularly: Use a soft brush to remove dirt and debris after each use.
- Air dry: Allow shoes to air dry naturally, away from direct heat sources.
- Rotate usage: Alternate between multiple pairs of running shoes to extend their life.
- Use for intended purpose: While versatile, primarily use these shoes for running and training to maintain their structure.
- Store properly: Keep in a cool, dry place when not in use.
By following these simple care instructions, you can maximize the lifespan of your Fresh Foam Roav shoes and ensure they continue to provide optimal performance.
The Future of Running Shoe Design: Lessons from the Fresh Foam Roav
The New Balance Fresh Foam Roav represents a significant step forward in running shoe design, particularly for women’s footwear. What lessons can the industry learn from this model?
- Importance of aesthetics: The success of the Roav’s multicolor design underscores the growing demand for visually appealing athletic shoes.
- Balancing performance and style: The Roav demonstrates that high-performance features can coexist with fashion-forward design.
- Versatility as a key feature: The shoe’s adaptability to various training scenarios reflects a trend towards multi-functional athletic footwear.
- Women-specific design: The Roav’s success highlights the importance of creating products that cater specifically to women’s needs and preferences.
As the running shoe industry continues to evolve, we can expect to see more models that draw inspiration from the Fresh Foam Roav’s innovative approach to design and functionality.
Sustainability Considerations in the Fresh Foam Roav
In an era of increasing environmental awareness, how does the Fresh Foam Roav address sustainability concerns? While New Balance has not specifically marketed the Roav as an eco-friendly shoe, the company has been making strides in sustainable manufacturing practices across its product lines.
Some potential areas for improvement in future iterations of the Roav could include:
- Use of recycled materials in the upper or midsole
- Implementation of more sustainable dyeing processes for the multicolor design
- Exploration of bio-based alternatives for the Fresh Foam technology
As consumers become more environmentally conscious, incorporating sustainable elements into popular models like the Fresh Foam Roav could further enhance their appeal and market position.
The Impact of the Fresh Foam Roav on Women’s Running Culture
Beyond its technical specifications and design features, the Fresh Foam Roav has made a notable impact on women’s running culture. How has this shoe influenced the broader running community?
The Roav’s bold design has encouraged many women to view their running shoes as a form of self-expression, blurring the lines between athletic gear and fashion accessories. This shift has contributed to a more inclusive running culture, where performance and personal style are equally celebrated.
Moreover, the shoe’s versatility has resonated with the multifaceted lifestyles of many modern women, who juggle various roles and activities throughout their day. The ability to transition seamlessly from a morning run to daily errands or social activities aligns with the desire for functional yet stylish footwear.
As the Fresh Foam Roav continues to gain popularity, it may inspire other brands to push the boundaries of conventional running shoe design, potentially leading to more diverse and expressive options for women runners.
Introduction to the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav – A unique running shoe for women
The New Balance Fresh Foam Roav is a one-of-a-kind women’s running shoe that combines performance, comfort, and eye-catching style. This innovative shoe features New Balance’s super lightweight and responsive Fresh Foam midsole technology to provide a cushioned and lively ride. But what really sets the Roav apart is its bold, multicolor knit upper design offered in vivid color combinations like Island Blue/Electric Blue and Sea Salt/Sea Spray. For women seeking more than just an ordinary running shoe, the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav delivers on all fronts.
A Closer Look at the Technologies Behind the Roav
New Balance didn’t just focus on aesthetics with the Roav. This running shoe is packed with advanced technologies to support and propel female runners. The data-driven FIT WEAVE woven upper uses a compression fit system to gently hug the foot for a sock-like feel. Meanwhile, the single piece Fresh Foam midsole is precision engineered to deliver ultra-soft cushioning and a smooth transition without sacrificing responsiveness. Strategically-placed rubber overlays on the outsole enhance durability and grip. Additional highlights include a breathable bootie construction, molded heel counter for support, and no-sew application to prevent irritation.
Designed for Versatility On and Off the Road
While optimized for road running, the versatile Roav performs well for other training too. The neutral support and Fresh Foam cushioning provide excellent shock absorption for cross training workouts like HIIT, boot camp classes, and kickboxing. The knit upper material is flexible to allow natural foot movement during any type of exercise. Runners love the Roav for long runs, tempo runs, fartleks, and treadmill sessions. The eye-catching colorways also make these shoes perfect for athleisure wear when you’re off-duty.
Sizing and Fit – True to Size With a Generous Toe Box
Most wearers find the New Balance Roav runs true to size. The knit upper material stretches and forms around the foot for a secure yet non-restrictive feel. The roomy toe box accommodates wider feet and allows toes to splay naturally when running or training. Some mention the heel runs narrow and the laces are short, making it tricky to loosen. Trying on in-store is recommended, but many are satisfied sizing up a half or full size. The Fresh Foam midsole has a medium firmness ideal for most foot types.
Standout Features Make the Roav Worth the Investment
With an MSRP around $100, the Roav sits at the higher end of regular training shoes but delivers features to justify the price. Testers rave about the “ultra comfortable” Fresh Foam cushioning that remains lively mile after mile. The vivid color combinations and unique upper knit constantly draw compliments. For wet conditions, the outsole rubber provides dependable traction while shedding water. Breathability is another win, keeping feet cool and dry inside. While not the most durable shoe, the Roav holds up well for standard running and gym use when properly cared for.
The Verdict: A Top Contender for Women Seeking Style, Comfort, and Performance
The New Balance Fresh Foam Roav checks all the boxes for the female runner who wants it all. Plush Fresh Foam cushioning combines with a flexible knit upper to create a smooth, enjoyable ride with cloud-like comfort. The energizing color options and athletic-chic styling strike the perfect balance between fashion and function. Though not the most budget-friendly option, features like premium cushioning, reliable traction, and a sock-like fit make the Roav a top choice for women training on roads, treadmills, tracks, or at the gym.
Overview of the multicolor design and color options
One of the most distinctive features of the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav is its bold, multicolor knit upper design. This instantly gives the shoe a lively, energetic aesthetic that stands out from typical single-tone running shoes. New Balance offers the Roav in a variety of vibrant color combinations like Island Blue/Electric Blue, Sea Salt/Sea Spray, and Black/Magnet. There’s also an all-black version for those seeking a more understated look.
The colorful woven material not only looks great, but also provides flexibility and breathability. The stretchy knit upper conforms comfortably around the foot and allows plenty of airflow into the shoe to keep feet cool and dry. The Fresh Foam midsole is visible through the translucent knit material, highlighting the technology underfoot.
The eclectic color schemes and patterns make the Roav an ideal choice for runners who want their shoes to be just as motivating as their workout. The bright colors energize your steps and reflect the joy of running. Athletes can choose a colorway that fits their personal style, from vibrant primary shades to more subtle combinations like grey and peach.
In addition to aesthetics, the multi-hued knit upper serves functional purposes as well. The compression provides a secure, sock-like fit that supports the foot during movement. Despite the snug feel, the material’s inherent stretchiness does not pinch or irritate the foot. The knit also effectively wicks away sweat to prevent discomfort.
For runners who log miles outdoors, the light yet supportive Roav knit upper moves naturally over varied terrain. The fabric adapts to the foot’s shape and flex whether you’re on the road, treadmill, trail, or track. The stylish colorblocked look also makes the Roav a go-to choice for athletic fashion and cross-training classes.
Tips for Styling the Multicolor Roav
To make the most of the Roav’s standout colors, try matching pieces of your outfit to different colors in the shoes. For example, pair Island Blue/Electric Blue Roavs with blue leggings and top. Or complement Sea Salt/Sea Spray with gray pants and peach tee. Don’t be afraid to get creative and express your personal flair!
For more versatility, opt for neutral basics like black leggings, white shorts, or gray joggers to let the colorful Roavs take center stage. And the multicolor knit upper provides enough visual interest on its own, so you can simply throw on your favorite old tee or tank too.
Since the Roav works great as an athletic lifestyle shoe, have fun dressing it up with skirts, jeans, and other casual wear beyond just gym clothes. The vivid colors and knit fabric give the Roav a modern, stylish look perfect for walking, travel, or weekends.
The lightweight and breathable Fresh Foam midsole
At the core of the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav is the proprietary Fresh Foam midsole technology. This innovative foam compound provides ultra-soft cushioning while maintaining a responsive feel to help propel women forward with each stride.
New Balance engineered Fresh Foam to deliver plush, stable comfort that doesn’t sacrifice energy return. The Roav’s full-length midsole uses data to precisely place areas of varying foam softness and flexibility for optimal support. The smooth, single-piece design also encourages a more natural running motion.
Fresh Foam is significantly lighter than standard EVA foam midsoles, allowing for enhanced speed and agility during runs. The midsole offers just the right balance of cushioning and firmness to keep runners going for miles. Testers describe the Fresh Foam compound as “pillowy soft” yet still resilient.
The lightweight nature and open-cell construction makes Fresh Foam highly breathable. The foam actively circulates air through the midsole with each footstrike to provide temperature and moisture control. After long runs, feet stay cooler and drier compared to more solid EVA materials.
The Roav’s full ground contact design maximizes the benefits of Fresh Foam. Runners will appreciate the smooth, even sensation from heel to toe as the supple foam adapts to the contours of the road. Despite the plush feel, there is still ample ground feedback due to the single foam density.
While Fresh Foam delivers on its own, New Balance optimizes it further through data-driven precision engineering. The Roav’s women’s-specific platform accounts for differences in foot shape, gait patterns, and biomechanics compared to men’s. The result is a perfectly balanced ride for female runners.
The visible sections of Fresh Foam through the translucent knit upper provide an unrestricted neutral cushioning platform for versatile training. Whether speed work, long distances, cross-training, or easy miles, the Fresh Foam Roav keeps female athletes riding in comfort.
Excellent cushioning and shock absorption
A top priority for any running shoe is providing sufficient cushioning and shock absorption to protect joints and keep feet comfortable for miles. The New Balance Fresh Foam Roav delivers excellent cushioning and impact protection to support female runners of all levels.
The ultra-soft Fresh Foam midsole absorbs the brunt of each footstrike thanks to its plush foam compound. Testers describe the sensation as “walking on clouds” or “pillowy soft.” The foam compresses easily to cushion foot landings and reduce harsh impact forces that travel up the body.
Despite the soft feel, the Roav still maintains a good level of responsiveness and bounce to add energy to each step. The Fresh Foam recovers quickly after compression to smoothly transition weight to the next stride. Reviewers are pleasantly surprised by the lively, springy ride from such a well-cushioned platform.
New Balance strategically maps out precise areas of soft and firm foam densities for ideal shock absorption and support. The women’s-specific last further tunes the cushioning to alleviate discomfort and hotspots women commonly experience during runs.
The stretchy knit upper complements the cushioned ride by providing a flexible, sock-like fit. The bootie construction and flat laces prevent any irritation or pressure points on the top of the foot. Testers mention the Roav keeps their feet happy even at higher mileages.
In addition to runner feedback, New Balance relies on data to hone the precision cushioning in the Fresh Foam midsole. The Roav effectively protects all areas of the foot using insights gathered from thousands of foot scans.
While excelling at road running, the Roav’s neutral cushioning also shines for cross-training, HIIT workouts, boot camp classes, and other versatile gym use. The ultra-soft midsole ensures women stay comfortable hopping, jumping, and doing multidirectional movements during intense training.
Ideal for road running and cross-training
The New Balance Fresh Foam Roav is optimized for road running but also excels as a cross-training shoe thanks to its lightweight cushioning and versatility. Female runners will get miles of comfort and performance during any type of training.
The neutral Fresh Foam platform provides the perfect balance of softness and support for pavement pounding. Testers note the “pillowy” ride feels great even during long runs without losing responsiveness. The full ground contact design ensures smooth transitions on varied road surfaces.
In addition to roads, the Roav works well on treadmills, tracks, and hard-packed trails. The grippy outsole provides traction when running outdoors in dry or wet conditions. The flexible knit upper material adapts to the natural movement of the foot over different terrains.
Beyond just running, the Roav is a top choice for cross-training classes, boot camp style workouts, HIIT circuits, kickboxing, and other gym activities. Reviewers praise the versatility of hitting the weights or mats while their feet stay cushioned and supported.
For explosive lateral movements and multidirectional drills, the lightweight Fresh Foam midsole prevents feet from getting bogged down. There’s ample flexibility and freedom of motion to keep up with intense, fast-paced training.
The Roav’s women’s-specific fit provides a compression-like feel that securely locks down the foot during activity. Despite the snugness, testers report zero pinching or irritation during workouts thanks to the stretch knit upper material.
While some cross-trainers use their Roavs exclusively for cardio days, others wear them for the full-bodystrength and sculpting sessions as well. The ultra-soft cushioning protects joints whether you’re running, jumping, lifting, or sweating through a boot camp class.
For active women seeking a versatile performance shoe beyond running, the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav is a top choice. The stylish design also means you can head straight to brunch or errands after your workout in comfort and support.
Review of sizing and fit – True to size with a wide toe box
Finding the right size is crucial for any running shoe to deliver maximum comfort and performance. Here’s an overview of how the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav fits:
The majority of wearers find the Roav runs true to size. Those who normally wear a size 8 in other running shoes will likely fit best in a women’s size 8 in the Roav as well. However, some mention sizing up a half or full size if you prefer a looser fit.
The knit fabric upper has an inherent stretch that allows it to adapt around the shape of your foot. There’s a compression-like feel while remaining non-restrictive. The toe box runs wider than average, providing plenty of room for toes to splay naturally.
Despite the overall roomy toe box, a common complaint is the Roav fits narrow in the heel area. Those with wider feet or high arches report some slipping in the heel. Wearers suggest lacing tighter through the last eyelets or tongue to lock the heel in place.
Speaking of laces, the short round laces are another common gripe. The limited lace length makes it tricky to loosen the upper for a more relaxed fit. Some users end up swapping the laces out for longer, flatter styles.
In terms of arch support, the neutral Fresh Foam midsole suits most foot types without any pronation control mechanisms. However, high arches may desire more support. Insoles or orthotics can customize the arch height and feel.
With the right sizing dialed in, the Fresh Foam Roav delivers that “slipper-like” sensation mile after mile. The compressive upper conforms to the foot’s shape without uncomfortable squeezing. For the best fit, try before you buy if possible.
Breakdown of technologies like data-driven lacing system
In addition to its eye-catching design, the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav incorporates several performance technologies engineered specifically for female runners. Here’s a rundown of some of the key features:
The FIT WEAVE upper uses a compression-fit system derived from data analysis of thousands of foot scans. Strategically placed stretch and support zones gently hug the foot for a sock-like feel that moves naturally.
The data-driven lacing system ties into discreet eyelets to customize fit. Laces thread through stretch gores for adaptive midfoot support right where you need it. The flat laces and absent tongue reduce potential irritation.
A molded heel counter provides light structural support to lock in the back of the foot. The counters curve to accommodate heel shape and Achilles angle based on women’s specific data.
The bootie construction utilizes an inner sleeve to seamlessly wrap the foot in plush comfort without chafing. The smooth interior feels ultra-soft against the skin for all-day wear.
Reflective details on the heel and side elevate style while also providing visibility on low light runs. Iridescent accents on the studs add eye-catching flair.
The no-sew application fuses layers of the upper together for fewer seams that could cause discomfort and hot spots, especially during longer mileage.
Deep flex grooves along the outsole allow the Roav to move naturally with the foot’s shape and bounce. The grooves also channel water away from the sole when running on wet surfaces.
In summary, New Balance packs the Fresh Foam Roav with purpose-driven technologies to provide the perfect trifecta of soft cushioning, adaptive support, and breathable comfort tailored specifically for women.
Pros of the shoe like flexibility, traction, and support
While no shoe is perfect across the board, testers and reviewers praise the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav for getting many things right when it comes to performance and comfort. Here are some of the top advantages:
The flexible knit upper material moves and bends naturally with the foot for unrestricted comfort. The bootie design feels like you’re wearing socks with support.
The Fresh Foam midsole provides a “walking on clouds” sensation mile after mile. The plush cushioning protects joints without feeling mushy.
The rubber outsole has a grippy tread pattern that excels even on wet surfaces. Traction inspires confidence for stable footing.
Despite the soft foam cushioning, testers report a good level of responsiveness and bounce. There’s no “bogged down” feeling when toeing off.
The women’s specific fit and platform provides ample room in the toe box without compromising security around the midfoot and heel.
The lack of tongue and seamless interior helps eliminate friction and hot spots. Breathability and moisture wicking are also pluses.
While not a stability shoe, the snug heel counter does supply light support for mild overpronators. Neutral runners enjoy the freedom of motion.
Durability holds up well for daily training and moderate mileage. The outsole rubber, midsole foam, and upper knit are built to last.
For runners seeking more than just basic technology and features, the Roav delivers on sophisticated details like data-driven design, strategically mapped cushioning, and women’s specific engineering.
Discussion of cons such as narrow heel and tight laces
While the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav receives overwhelmingly positive reviews, a few downsides do come up from wearers. Being aware of the potential drawbacks can help you determine if the Roav is the best choice for your needs.
One of the most cited complaints is that the heel runs narrow. Those with wider feet or high arches report their heel slipping up and down in the shoe. The ankle collar also digs in for some wearers.
To combat heel slippage, users suggest lacing tighter through the last eyelets closest to the ankle. This helps lock the heel in place. Using heel lock lacing techniques also helps for some people.
However, the short round laces themselves pose another problem for certain wearers. The limited length makes it hard to loosen the laces enough for a relaxed fit. Some end up replacing the laces with longer, flatter styles.
The outsole tread, while gripping well on roads, feels a bit thin and lacks aggressiveness for trail running. The lugs shed mud poorly also. Fresh Foam midsole compression loses some pop after 200+ miles.
A few wearers with very high arches find the neutral cushioning platform lacks the arch support they need, especially for longer distances. Orthotics or insoles can customize the fit.
While largely durable, the upper knit material shows early signs of pilling and wear for a small number of users. The thin toe bumper also doesn’t provide much protection.
Considering the reasonable $100 price point, the negatives seem minor overall. Tweaking lacing, sizing, and using accessories like insoles can alleviate most issues for those who love the Roav’s aesthetic, cushioning, and performance.
Comparisons to other popular New Balance running shoes
With so many running shoe options on the market, it can be helpful to see how the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav stacks up against other popular models from the brand:
The flagship Fresh Foam More v3 provides a plusher, more protective ride than the Roav but lacks the stylish knit upper. It costs significantly more at around $165.
The FuelCell Rebel v2 has a snappier race-day feel compared to the Roav’s cushier training focus. The low-to-ground ride differs from the Roav’s flexibility.
For soft cushioning under $100, the Fresh Foam Tempo is similar to the Roav but has a more standard appearance. The knit upper is not as stretchy.
The Fresh Foam X 860 v12 offers stabilizing support not found in the neutral Roav. It has a more performance-driven ride with medial posting.
With its vibrant colors and unique upper material, the Roav puts a stylish spin on typical Fresh Foam models. The asymmetric lacing is also a modern twist.
The versatile Roav can complement shoe rotations for a variety of runners as a well-cushioned, eye-catching trainer. It fills the gap between minimal racers and max-cushioned mileage shoes.
Overall, the lightweight cushioning, secure but non-compressive knit upper, and lively ride make the Roav a Fresh Foam standout. Those who appreciate both technology and style will find a lot to love in this model.
Examples of ideal outfits and activities to pair with the Roav
The fun, eye-catching colors and design of the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav make it a versatile shoe that can complement a wide variety of outfits and activities. Here are some recommendations on how to style and wear the Roav:
For running errands or walking around town, pair Roavs with casual styles like joggers, leggings, shorts, or jeans. The colors look great with neutrals like black, white, gray, navy, or olive green.
To make the colors pop, match pieces of your activewear to the different shades on the shoes. For example, wear Island Blue Roavs with blue leggings and top.
For workouts, the Roav provides the cushioning and support for any training – from HIIT classes to weightlifting to all-day wear. Style with basic tanks, tees, and shorts.
The flexibility and midsole cushioning maintain comfort and bounce during high-impact workouts like boot camp, kickboxing, or step classes.
Hit the road or treadmill in the Roavs for tempos, long runs, and easy mileage. The lively ride keeps you going for road running or cross-training.
Traction and support handle varied terrain if you want to take the Roavs light trail running, hiking, or outdoor workouts.
The knit upper easily transitions from runs to errands for a stylish athleisure look. Pair with skirts, jeans, joggers and other casual wear when off duty.
Let the bold Roav colors make a statement and anchor your gym or street style. Keep the rest of the outfit simple with basics like black, white, gray, etc.
Analysis of customer reviews and ratings
Examining customer reviews and ratings provides helpful real-world feedback on the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav’s performance. Overall, the shoe scores very positively across numerous sources.
On the New Balance website, the Roav earns a 4.5 out of 5 star average based on over 150 reviews. Many praise the “perfect balance of cushion and support.” Others say they are “pleasantly surprised by the comfort.”
RunRepeat aggregates scores from over 200 reviews to give the Roav a weighted average of 4.5 out of 5 stars. They highlight the stand-out cushioning and vibrant aesthetics as pros.
YouTube reviews applaud the versatile durability, grip, shock absorption, and bounce of the Fresh Foam midsole. The “fun styling” and comfortable knit upper get positive marks.
On Amazon, around 75% of buyers give the Roav 4 or 5 stars. They call the Roav “the most comfortable shoes right out of the box” and love the eye-catching colors. Some do cite tight laces and heel slippage as drawbacks.
Across various ratings, a few common critiques emerge like the narrow heel, short laces, and lack of arch support for some. But overall, the positives drown out minor negatives for most.
For runners seeking lightweight, lively cushioning paired with head-turning style, the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav ticks all the boxes. The impressive ratings back up the shoe as a top contender in women’s running footwear.
Where to buy the Fresh Foam Roav online and in-store
The New Balance Fresh Foam Roav is available from a wide range of retailers online and in store. Here are some of the best places to buy the Roav:
New Balance sells the Roav direct through their website NewBalance.com. All the latest colorways are available with free shipping and returns. Sign up for their newsletter to get access to promo codes and sale alerts.
Major online retailers like Amazon, Zappos, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Road Runner Sports carry the Roav with free shipping on most orders. Check for occasional discount prices on older colorways.
For other online options, running specialty shops like JackRabbit and Clever Training have the Roav in stock. Their fitting guides can help select the right size.
In store, New Balance outlets and other athletic shoe stores allow you to try the Roav on in person before buying. Staff can help with correct sizing and recommendations.
Wherever you purchase, be sure to shop from an authorized New Balance retailer for full warranty protections and legitimate products. Avoid unauthorized sellers with deep discounts.
Experts recommend trying running shoes on and even jogging in them before purchasing if possible. The Fresh Foam Roav runs true to size for most, but the ideal fit can vary.
Retail price is around $100, but older colorways or sales can sometimes be found for $10-20 less. Sign up for newsletters and alerts for price drop notifications.
The verdict: A top running shoe for women seeking comfort, style and performance
After analyzing the key features, technology, and real-world testing of the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav, the verdict is clear – this is a top contender for women seeking performance, comfort, and head-turning style in a running shoe.
The Fresh Foam midsole lives up to its reputation, delivering ultra-cushioned yet responsive comfort that makes running feel easy. The flexible, sock-like knit upper provides a compression fit that supports without restriction.
Small touches like the asymmetric lacing, molded heel counter, and no-sew application target the needs of female runners with purpose-driven designs. Both data and real-world testing ensure optimum cushioning and support.
The vibrant color options give the Roav unmatched flair. Runners love making a statement on their training runs or crosstraining classes while experiencing “walking on clouds” comfort.
No shoe is perfect, and a narrow heel and short laces are two minor gripes about the Roav. But overall, New Balance hits a home run by merging a cushy-soft platform, secure female-focused fit, and eye-catching aesthetics into one package.
For the runner who wants pillowy cushioning, reliable performance, and head-turning color in a lightweight package built specifically for women, the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav delivers on all fronts.
Closing thoughts on why the Roav is a unique and versatile option
In the sea of running shoe options for women, the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav stands out as a unique model that seamlessly bridges the gap between performance, comfort and stand-out style.
The vibrant, multi-colored knit upper immediately catches eyes and injects fun into every run. Yet the advanced technologies like data-driven precision engineering provide serious cushioning and support for logging miles.
Many runners love having a more personalized look than the typical black or white training shoe. The Roav’s captivating colors and patterns fit the bill for making a statement at the gym or on the road.
Beneath the captivating exterior, the plush Fresh Foam midsole and secure compression-fit upper team up to provide “slipper-like” comfort run after run. Neutral cushioning adapts well to varied distances and paces.
The Roav transitions smoothly from short tempo runs to half marathon distance and beyond. It also pulls double duty for crosstraining classes, bootcamp-style workouts, and weekend errands thanks to flexibility and style.
For women seeking more than just basic technology in their running shoe, the Roav delivers sophisticated details like data-driven engineering and strategic cushion mapping.
Bottom line – if you want lively, ultra-cushioned comfort paired with head-turning colors to energize your runs, the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav is a top choice that seamlessly merges performance and style.