Roav v1 vs Roav v2 Comparison
When it comes to New Balance’s Fresh Foam Roav line, two of the most popular models are the Roav v1 and the Roav v2. As sequels often do, the Roav v2 brings a few key upgrades while maintaining the core identity of the original Roav v1. Understanding the differences between these two great running shoes can help you choose the right model for your needs.
Looking at the overall design, the Roav v2 has a more streamlined look than the v1. New Balance updated the engineered mesh upper to be softer and smoother, improving breathability. The v2 is also available in some vibrant color options like Moonbeam and Pigment to make your runs more fun. While the v1 has a bulkier appearance, the v2 refinements shave off some weight for an airier feel.
When it comes to support and stability, both models utilize New Balance’s fresh foam midsole technology to provide soft cushioning without sacrificing responsiveness. The single-piece fresh foam midsole ensures a smooth heel-to-toe transition. However, the Roav v2 introduces subtle guidance through a medial post on the inside edge of the shoe. This helps gently support and stabilize mild to moderate overpronators. The v1 has a neutral platform without pronation correction.
Outsole tread patterns are fairly similar between the two, with strategically placed rubber lugs for flexibility and traction on varied surfaces. The Roav v2 does add extra rubber to the outsole for increased durability mile after mile. Also, the v2 introduces added grooves and carved areas to the outsole to improve overall flexibility compared to the v1.
When it comes to fit and sizing, the Roav v2 does run slightly smaller than the v1, according to some wearers. It’s recommended to go up at least half a size if switching to the v2. The engineered mesh upper on the v2 is softer and allows for a more customized fit. The midfoot saddle offers adaptive support and structure during motion. The v1 offers a secure fit, but the v2 upper is more refined.
In terms of weight, the Roav v1 weighs 9.4oz for a men’s size 9 while the v2 comes in at 8.5oz for the same size. While not a significant difference, those few ounces can feel lighter underfoot for runners. The streamlined upper of the v2 contributes to the lighter feel.
When it comes to pricing, the Roav v1 was originally $80 standard MSRP, while the Roav v2 launched at a higher $100 MSRP. However, as the v2 becomes less brand new, subsequent sales could see the prices come closer together. Ultimately they occupy a similar price tier as performance running shoes.
Overall, while the Roav v1 remains a well-cushioned and stable neutral running shoe, the Roav v2 leans more towards softness, flexibility, breathability and offers guidance for mild overpronators. Runners happy with the v1’s uncomplicated comfort may prefer to stick with that model. But those wanting an update will appreciate the modernized styling and engineered improvements of the feature-packed Roav v2. Both great shoes, the choice comes down to personal preference.
The Lightweight and Flexible Fresh Foam Midsole
One of the key components that makes the Fresh Foam Roav such a comfortable and responsive shoe is New Balance’s proprietary Fresh Foam midsole technology. This innovative foam midsole provides soft cushioning underfoot without sacrificing energy return. Let’s take a closer look at what makes the Fresh Foam midsole so special.
New Balance designed Fresh Foam from the ground up to deliver an ultra-soft, natural ride. It’s not an EVA foam or other generic midsole material. The goal was to mimic the plush feel of a fresh snowfall. To achieve this, Fresh Foam varies in thickness and specifications depending on the precise areas of pressure under the foot. It’s thicker and plusher under high-pressure zones like the heel, then tapers to be thinner and firmer under the midfoot and forefoot.
This strategic combination of cushioning softness and responsive firmness provides excellent shock absorption upon impact. The soft areas compress to attenuate shock, while the transition to firmer foam propels your foot forward into the next stride. Fresh Foam compresses laterally as well upon foot strike, hugging the foot for a truly custom feel.
Not only is this variable cushioning profile effective, but Fresh Foam is also remarkably lightweight. There are no harsh durometers or plastic plates weighing it down. The Roav keeps weight impressively low, coming in under 9 ounces for men and 7 ounces for women in most sizes. The smooth single-piece midsole also enhances flexibility, allowing the foam to bend and flex naturally with the foot.
The open-cell nature of Fresh Foam also makes it highly breathable. Air easily flows in and out of the perforated windows lining the sidewalls. This allows heat and sweat vapor to escape, keeping feet cooler and drier even on hot summer runs. The foam itself resists building up moisture and odors over time.
After over 8 years on the market across numerous shoe models, New Balance’s proprietary Fresh Foam technology has been proven effective for runners, walkers and fitness enthusiasts. The Roav perfectly embodies the lightweight cushioning, flexibility and breathability that make Fresh Foam so special. It’s the ideal midsole material for comfortable miles.
Ideal for Road Running and Gym Workouts
The versatile performance and features of the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav make it an excellent choice for a variety of running and training activities. From road running to gym sessions, this shoe provides the cushioning, support and durability to tackle any workout.
With its soft Fresh Foam midsole and rubber outsole tread, the Roav is ideal for pounding the pavement on road runs. The strategic rubber lugs provide great traction on asphalt and concrete, while also allowing flexibility on the road. The full ground contact design encourages a smooth heel-to-toe transition stride after stride.
In addition, the Roav offers just enough stability for mild overpronators, courtesy of the medial post integrated into the midsole. However, it remains flexible enough for neutral runners as well. The smooth engineered mesh upper is breathable enough for warm weather running too.
Beyond just road running, the Roav works great for various gym activities as well. The lightweight feel and foam cushioning provide excellent shock absorption for treadmill running or walking. The pumped-up midsole keeps feet comfortable even during long periods on the treadmill.
Furthermore, the neutral platform, rubber traction and forefoot flex grooves make the Roav an ideal cross-training shoe for HIIT workouts. Plyometric exercises like jump squats, burpees and lateral lunges require quick cuts, hops and jumps, all executable while remaining supported. A wide forefoot lets toes splay naturally for balance.
Weightlifting in the Roav is also no problem thanks to the flat, stable base. Deep squats, deadlifts and Olympic lifts like cleans stay grounded through the heel and big toe. Medial support prevents knees from caving inward on presses as well.
Additionally, the durable outsole holds up well for indoor cycling sessions. The smooth upper stays securely fastened without hot spots during those long hours in the saddle. Post-class stretching is comfortable in the flexible Roav too.
So whether you want a versatile trainer for the road, gym, treadmill or studio, the Roav has the technology and features to keep up. It transitions seamlessly from activity to activity to help you get the most out of your workouts.
Fresh Foam Technology Provides Soft Cushioning
At the heart of every New Balance Fresh Foam shoe is the proprietary midsole foam that gives the line its name. This innovative foam technology provides plush cushioning and support mile after mile. Let’s take a deeper look at Fresh Foam and how it gives the Roav its famously soft feel.
Fresh Foam was engineered from the molecular level up to deliver the perfect balance of cushioning softness and responsiveness. To achieve this biomechanically ideal profile, the foam varies in thickness and specifications based on precise pressure mapping of the foot. It’s thicker and plusher under higher-pressure zones like the heel.
In the midfoot where pressure lessens, Fresh Foam tapers to be thinner and firmer to better support transitions. The forefoot foam is also more responsive to deliver energy return on toe-off. This strategic mapping provides soft cushioning when you need it most, without losing bounce back.
The foam itself features an open-cell construction. Tiny perforations in the sidewalls allow air to flow freely in and out. This enhances breathability during long runs or workouts when heat and sweat need to escape. Fresh Foam stays light and airy mile after mile as a result.
Additionally, the single-piece midsole design delivers a smooth ride from heel to toe. There are no harsh layering lines or glue points that could cause discomfort or force interruptions during footstrike. Just continuous, flowing cushioning in key areas.
Fresh Foam also compresses laterally as you land to gently cup the foot. This adaptive “hugging” support allows the material to compress naturally then rebound for energy return. The Roav feels almost personalized as a result.
After over eight years on the development road, Fresh Foam has the real-world testing and data to back up its efficacy. The Roav embodies the comfort New Balance intended with Fresh Foam, cushioning and supporting feet over any distance while retaining a soft, plush feel.
Strategic Rubber Outsole Pattern for Traction
To complement the plush cushioning of the Fresh Foam midsole, the New Balance Roav features a grippy rubber outsole strategically engineered for traction. The patterns of rubber lugs and flex grooves provide great grip on varied surfaces, while allowing natural flexibility underfoot.
The outsole uses varying rubber compounds in different areas based on need. The main high-abrasion rubber runs throughout the forefoot and along the lateral edges for durability in high-wear areas. This maintains tread traction as the miles add up.
In the central heel area, the outsole utilizes a softer blown rubber for additional cushioning on impact. This works together with the Fresh Foam midsole to attenuate shock on each footstrike before transitioning to the firmer lug sections.
Flexibility was also considered in the outsole design. Deep flex grooves run horizontally across the forefoot to allow natural bending andextension as you toe-off. This promotes a smooth stride and allows the Fresh Foam to compress naturally.
Additionally, the Roav features a decoupled outsole design, meaning the heel and forefoot sections are separated by a deep groove. This encourages the shoe to flex at the precise point your foot bends rather than slapping down rigidly with each step.
Throughout the outsole, small ridges, lugs and chevron patterns provide multi-directional traction. Whether you’re running straight ahead, changing direction or pushing off laterally, the Roav outsole grips the surface beneath it.
The Roav may be known for its soft Fresh Foam cushioning, but the engineered rubber outsole plays an equally important role. The strategic lugs and grooves keep your stride stable, flexible and grounded on any surface.
Available in Neutral and Stable Options
One of the great things about the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav is that it comes in multiple versions to accommodate different needs. Runners can choose from neutral cushioning models or options with light stability for overpronation, all built on the same comfortable Fresh Foam platform.
For runners with an efficient stride and no need for correction, the standard Roav delivers straightforward neutral cushioning. With no medial post or guidance elements, the midsole provides plush comfort that lets feet move naturally.
But for those who tend to overpronate, the Roav also comes in a “Stable” version. It has the exact same midsole and outsole as the regular Roav, but integrates a firmer density medial post along the inner midsole edge.
This subtle design feature gently guides the foot through the gait cycle to limit excess inward rolling. It doesn’t drastically correct or rigidly control pronation, just provides a touch of support against collapse.
The Stable Roav still allows some natural movement and compression. So it remains comfortable even for mild overpronators who don’t require aggressive motion control shoes. Both neutral and stable seekers can enjoy the benefits of Fresh Foam.
The Stable edition also features additional midfoot support in the upper. Strategically placed overlays integrate with the lacing system to securely lock down the midfoot. This prevents sliding around inside the shoe during transitions.
With choices between neutral cushioning or light stability, the Roav accommodates more runners. No matter your needs, you can experience plush Fresh Foam comfort mile after mile when you choose the right Roav for you.
Great for Neutral Pronators and Underpronators
With its uncomplicated neutral cushioning, the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav is an excellent option for runners with efficient strides free of overpronation. Both neutral pronators and underpronators can enjoy the soft comfort of the Roav.
Neutral pronators exhibit ideal biomechanics, with no tendency for the foot to collapse excessively inward during the stride cycle. The Roav’s single-density Fresh Foam midsole allows this efficient gait to flow naturally without interference.
There are no posts, wedges or medial devices to control motion. The smooth footstrike-to-toe-off transition continues unimpeded. Neutral runners appreciate the straightforward cushioning.
Underpronators can also benefit from the Roav’s simplicity. With underpronation, the foot does not roll inward enough during footstrike. The Roav doesn’t force any motion, allowing underpronators to land and push off in their natural pattern.
Its neutral platform is flexible underfoot, moving naturally with the foot instead of rigidly controlling it. This gives underpronators the freedom and cushioning they need.
The unfettered Fresh Foam midsole avoids putting pressure on the outer foot edge, which could potentially aggravate issues for underpronators. Protection from impact is comfortable and smooth.
While overpronators may prefer the medial support of the Stable Roav, neutral pronators and underpronators can enjoy plush, uncomplicated cushioning in the standard model. It embraces biomechanical diversity.
Durable Yet Soft Engineered Knit Upper Material
The New Balance Fresh Foam Roav features an engineered knit upper material that artfully balances durability, breathability and flexible support. Let’s examine the technical details of this advanced woven upper.
The Roav upper utilizes a circular knit construction. Unlike traditional running shoe mesh, knit uppers are woven as a single piece of material. This creates a smooth, seamless feel that integrates with the foot.
Strategically placed areas feature varying densities of knit in order to provide structure and stability precisely where needed. High-density zones offer supportive stretch around the midfoot, while more open areas promote breathability.
The knit material itself combines several technical yarns to achieve ideal characteristics. Spandex provides flexible stretch and recovery. Synthetic PTFE fibers enhance durability and water resistance. Airy mesh-like areas improve ventilation.
This carefully engineered knit upper moves naturally with the foot through the gait cycle, supporting dynamically. The smooth inner fabric is also comfortable next to the skin for irritation-free miles.
For added comfort and fit, the Roav incorporates plush padding around the collar opening. This cushions the ankle bones to prevent abrasion or pressure. Padding on the tongue protects the bridge of the foot as well.
So while the Roav’s midsole may get all the attention, the engineered knit upper plays an equally important role. The seamless, sock-like fit works harmoniously with the Fresh Foam cushioning underfoot.
Review of Cushioning and Responsiveness
When evaluating a running shoe, two of the most important factors are cushioning and responsiveness. For runners, ample shock absorption and energy return can make the difference between an enjoyable run and sore, beaten-up feet. So how does the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav deliver on these crucial performance metrics?
Starting from the ground up, the Roav’s rubber outsole uses strategic tread patterns to provide great grip, while also allowing the shoe to flex naturally. Small lugs in key areas ensure stability and traction on varied surfaces.
In the Fresh Foam midsole, plush cushioning is mapped to the pressure points of the foot for soft comfort where you need it most. The heel area features the thickest, plushest foam to attenuate impact. Through the midfoot, firmer foam aids transition and support.
This smart distribution of cushioned foam absorbs shock and reduces fatigue mile after mile. But it strikes the ideal balance between softness and bounce back, with no sag or energy loss.
The full ground contact outsole encourages smooth transitions from footstrike through toe-off. Grooves facilitate flex so the Fresh Foam can compress and rebound with each step.
Meanwhile, the engineered knit upper moves and flexes with the foot for zero interference. It securely contains the foot over the platform without restricting natural biomechanics.
For a comfortable daily running shoe, the Roav ticks all the boxes. It provides exceptional Fit right out of the box, needing no break-in. The Fresh Foam midsole cushions impacts while maintaining responsiveness.
By dialing in both cushioning and energy return, the Roav keeps feet feeling fresh at any distance. Those key performance factors allow you to focus on your run rather than your shoes.
Roav v1 vs Roav v2 Comparison
The New Balance Roav athletic shoe line has evolved through two popular models: the original Roav v1 and the updated Roav v2. While both deliver plush Fresh Foam cushioning, the v2 brings key enhancements.
Looking at the overall design, the Roav v2 has a sleeker, more aerodynamic look compared to the v1. New Balance streamlined the engineered mesh upper for improved breathability and flexibility. Visually, the v2 has brighter color options for style.
In the midsole, both models provide the same responsive Fresh Foam cushioning. However, the v2 adds a touch of guidance through a firmer medial post to support mild overpronators. The v1 is strictly neutral.
The outsole rubber also gets an upgrade in the v2, with strategic placement to increase durability in high-wear areas. Additionally, the v2 outsole incorporates more flex grooves for an enhanced natural ride.
Sizing and fit differ slightly between models as well. The v2 runs smaller, so sizing up a half or full size is recommended. The newly engineered upper of the v2 allows for a truly adaptive fit.
In terms of weight, the v2 shaves off ounces to feel lighter on foot. It weighs 8.5oz in a men’s size 9, versus 9.4oz for the v1. The streamlined upper contributes to this reduced weight.
With an MSRP of $100, the Roav v2 costs $20 more than the v1 originally retailed for. However, discounts on the v2 can bring the price closer to its predecessor.
In summary, while the original Roav v1 remains a comfortable neutral cushioning shoe, the v2 leans more into soft flexibility with enhanced performance features. Runners are sure to appreciate the modern upgrades.
Sizing and Fit Advice for the Perfect Pair
Finding your ideal size and dialing in the fit is key to getting the most out of your New Balance Fresh Foam Roav shoes. With some tips on sizing, lacing, and experimentation, you can achieve foot-hugging perfection.
First, pay close attention to size charts when selecting your Roavs. Try on pairs in your typical running shoe length, but know the knit upper can stretch slightly. Leave a thumbnail of space between your longest toe and the front.
Since the Roav v2 runs smaller than the v1, sizing up half a size is recommended if switching models. The knit upper of the v2 will adapt to your foot shape over time.
Focus on fit through the heel and midfoot when lacing up. The heel should grip snugly to prevent slipping. Snug the laces over the midfoot to secure it over the platform without pinching. The toebox can remain slightly looser for toe splay.
Also spend some time experimenting with lacing techniques. Runners with narrow feet may want to avoid the last eyelets or lace in a heel lock pattern. Wider feet can skip eyelets at the tongue to reduce pressure.
Moldable insoles like Superfeet can add extra support while taking up volume in a roomy fit. Or remove the insole for a slimmer fit if needed. This customization dial in your personal fit.
Get to know how the Roav feels over different socks, orthotics, and after break-in. The ideal fit for your foot may take some fine tuning. But the result will be tailor-made Fresh Foam comfort.
Standing All Day in Fresh Foam Comfort
While designed primarily for running and training, the plush comfort of the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav also makes it a great option for people who stand all day at work. Let’s look at why these shoes shine forjobs requiring hours of time on your feet.
For professions like nursing, teaching, retail, food service, and manufacturing, long periods of standing can take a toll on the feet, legs and back. Cushioning is key, and the Roav delivers with its plush Fresh Foam midsole.
Strategically mapping the foam to pressure points of the feet provides soft support and shock absorption right where you need it. The heel and forefoot areas feature thick, plush foam to cushion during long stints standing upright.
The smooth single-density Fresh Foam construction allows for excellent flexibility underfoot. The outsole rubber also incorporates deep flex grooves aligned to key bend points in the foot.
This allows the Roav to move naturally with the foot for superior comfort. Standing or walking in rigid, unforgiving shoes leaves feet sore and achy.
The engineered knit upper material is also ideal for all-day standing, as it flexes with the foot while providing breathable support. The padded opening prevents rubbing at the ankles.
While not the most stylish option, for those required to stay on their feet for hours, the performance comfort of the Fresh Foam Roav can’t be beat. Your body will thank you at the end of even the longest shift.
Affordably Priced for Performance Running Shoes
Considering its innovative midsole foam and knit upper construction, the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav delivers impressive features and technology at an affordable price point for dedicated runners.
While flagship running models from major brands often retail over $150 or even $200, the standard Roav v1 first released with a moderate $80 MSRP. And subsequent versions have launched under $100.
At this approachable pricing tier, the Roav provides the energetic Fresh Foam cushioning typically reserved for pricier daily trainers. The smooth ride and shock attenuation rival models costing much more.
The knit upper is also technical and modern, utilizing premium woven construction and materials. Seamless support and foot-hugging comfort often come at a premium cost.
Considering the overall performance provided, the value is difficult to beat. The Roav punches well above its weight, delivering a luxury feel utan affordable price point.
For new runners or athletes on a budget, the Roav removes barriers to experiencing a well-cushioned responsive trainer. Those same qualities also appeal to seasoned veterans seeking more value.
So while the Roav provides a cornerstone neutral cushioning option in the New Balance line, its reasonable pricing gives it special appeal. You get Fresh Foam performance without the premium price tag.
