Fresh Foam or TPU. Key Differences Between New Balance Shoes

Fresh Foam or TPU. Key Differences Between New Balance Shoes

When it comes to running shoes, two of the biggest innovations from New Balance are their Fresh Foam and TPU cushioning technologies. Both offer key performance benefits, but which is right for your specific needs and running style? Let’s break it down.

Introducing the Fresh Foam Vello V2 and TPU Low Shoes

The Fresh Foam Vello V2 utilizes New Balance’s renowned Fresh Foam midsole cushioning to provide soft, responsive comfort ideal for logging high mileage. This neutral trainer features a molded heel and wide toe box for Achilles and foot splay support. The engineered mesh upper offers a secure fit. The added stability makes it a great option for overpronators.

The TPU Low model has a featherlight TPU plate through the midsole to deliver energetic speed. The firm, close-to-ground ride makes it perfect for fast workouts and races. The seamless engineered air mesh upper is focused on keeping feet locked in yet cool. The overall narrow profile gives you a nimble, fast feel.

Fresh Foam Provides Maximum Cushioning and Comfort

Fresh Foam technology uses data to precisely engineer the foam compounds and design to deliver an ultra-cushioned, smooth, stable ride. The plush material compresses on impact then springs back for consistent energy return. This high level of shock absorption makes Fresh Foam ideal for recovery runs or long weekend mileage when you want to take it easy on your joints.

TPU is Lightweight and Durable for Performance

Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) is crafted into a thin yet strong, flexible plate that amps up energy return while keeping weight to a minimum. This innovative TPU tech creates a firm, responsive ride perfect for faster sessions when you want to feel quick and efficient. The material is also highly durable to maintain that snappy sensation mile after mile.

Vello V2 Upper Design for Secure and Snug Fit

The engineered mesh upper on the Vello V2 provides strategic stretch and support while enhancing breathability. The bootie construction hugs your foot in comfort without any irritation. A molded external heel counter locks the back of your foot in place to prevent slipping during your run. The result is a sock-like, customized fit.

Both Offer Breathable Fabric to Keep Feet Cool

Proper ventilation is crucial for active comfort. The Fresh Foam Vello V2 and TPU Low models both utilize engineered mesh fabric throughout the upper for enhanced airflow. This helps wick away sweat and heat so your feet stay dry and cool even on hot summer runs. The seamless design also reduces irritation for chafe-free miles.

By balancing cushioning and responsiveness, the Fresh Foam Vello V2 and TPU Low deliver the soft landings and springy push-offs every runner craves. Whether you need plush comfort for everyday training or a firm, fast ride for your speedwork, New Balance utilized innovative material technology to design shoes that match your needs.

Runners are always seeking that perfect balance of cushioning and responsiveness in a shoe. With innovative foam materials like Fresh Foam and TPU, New Balance has engineered advanced midsoles to deliver the soft landings and springy push-offs we crave.

Fresh Foam Provides Maximum Cushioning and Comfort

After intensive research on foot biomechanics and pressure mapping, New Balance debuted their proprietary Fresh Foam technology in 2013. This foam formula is data-driven and crafted to provide an ultra-soft feel underfoot. How does it work? Fresh Foam features varyingly sized and shaped foam bubbles that compress and rebound individually. This creates smooth, consistent cushioning no matter how your foot strikes the ground.

The plush Fresh Foam construction makes it the perfect choice for recovery days or long runs when you want to take it easy on your joints and muscles. The high level of shock absorption protects you from the pounding of the pavement over extended mileage. The stable platform also gently corrects overpronation, benefiting runners who need that extra midsole support and guidance.

Models like the Fresh Foam Vello V2 utilize a full length Fresh Foam midsole to create that marshmallow-y soft sensation underfoot. However, some performance designs incorporate strategic placement of Fresh Foam in areas that need more cushioning while utilizing different foam in sections that require increased responsiveness. This tuned approach gives you the ideal combo of comfort and speed.

TPU is Lightweight and Durable for Performance

Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) is an extremely lightweight, flexible material that resists abrasion and maintains its lively characteristics over time. New Balance first introduced TPU into their midsole designs in 2016 to enhance energy return in a durable, featherlight package.

TPU can be crafted into wave plates or other shapes that span the full length or targeted areas of the midsole. This springy material delivers a responsive, snappy sensation ideal for faster sessions. Models like the TPU Low utilize a full length TPU plate to provide a close-to-ground, energetic feel perfect for tempo workouts and races.

Runners often compare the firm ride of TPU to racing flats. But unlike a traditional racing flat, the strategic placement of TPU doesn’t sacrifice all cushioning or require a lengthy transition period to adapt your legs. TPU plates amp up efficiency while still retaining just enough softness for all-out speed.

By fine-tuning foam compounds and placement, New Balance continues to push the boundaries of cushioning and propulsion. Fresh Foam and TPU offer the ideal ride whether you’re recovering, racing or anything in between.

When researching your next running shoe, you’ll likely come across key technologies like Fresh Foam and TPU in New Balance models. These advanced foam materials provide the cushioning and responsiveness runners need – but in different ways. Let’s break down their key performance benefits.

TPU is Lightweight and Durable for Performance

Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) is a type of lightweight, flexible plastic that has revolutionized running shoe midsoles in recent years. New Balance first introduced TPU in 2016 and continues to strategically utilize it to enhance energy return.

TPU can be crafted into a variety of shapes and plates that target certain sections of the shoe, rather than the entire midsole. For example, models like the TPU Low incorporate a full-length TPU plate from heel to toe to deliver snappy speed. This springy material provides an energetic, responsive ride perfect for your fastest sessions.

Yet, TPU doesn’t completely sacrifice cushioning in the name of speed. It retains just enough softness and protection for all-out tempo efforts, track workouts and race day. The firmness offers a close-to-ground sensation that nimble runners will love.

In addition to feel, TPU also boasts incredible durability. It maintains its lively, responsive characteristics mile after mile. The plates resist wear and abrasion far better than standard foam or EVA materials. So you can count on that snappy sensation far into the shoe’s lifespan.

For runners seeking a lightweight, low-to-the-ground ride, TPU delivers on speed and responsiveness without the harshness of a traditional racing flat. The material strikes the ideal balance for efficient miles.

Combining Fresh Foam and TPU Technology

New Balance also strategically combines their Fresh Foam cushioning with TPU plates to provide the best of both worlds. For example, the FuelCell RC Elite pairs the energetic return of a full-length carbon fiber plate with Fresh Foam midsole pockets. This allows for soft landings with plenty of toe-off snap.

Some designs also place TPU only in the forefoot to deliver propulsion and leverage the plush comfort of Fresh Foam through the heel. This tuned approach gives you a balanced ride across training paces and mileage.

By blending these technologies together and utilizing precise placement, New Balance continues to push the boundaries of responsiveness and cushioning in modern running shoes.

When choosing a running shoe, it’s not just about the midsole cushioning. The upper design plays a key role in comfort, fit and keeping your foot secure through every mile. New Balance utilizes engineered mesh and other technologies to craft uppers that strike the ideal balance.

Vello V2 Upper Design for Secure and Snug Fit

The upper on the Fresh Foam Vello V2 may not seem flashy, but it provides exactly what runners need – strategic stretch, structure and breathability. The engineered mesh fabric adapts to your foot while providing targeted support in key areas.

For example, the bootie construction hugs the midfoot for a sock-like sensation, eliminating any potential irritation. Welded and no-sew overlays provide structure around the toe box, eye stays and laces without uncomfortable seams. The result is a customized, foot-conforming fit.

The external TPU heel counter on the Vello V2 also locks the rear foot in place, preventing annoying slipping during your run. However, an internal foam collar cushions your Achilles for chafe-free comfort. It’s the ideal combo of external stability and internal softness.

For warm weather running, the engineered mesh fabric on the Vello V2 enhances ventilation throughout. The lack of excessive overlays reduces heat spots for cooler comfort on hot miles. Your foot stays dry even when you sweat.

TPU Low Focused on Seamless, Secure Fit

The TPU Low also utilizes engineered mesh through the upper, focused on keeping the foot locked in and cool. The one-piece seamless construction virtually eliminates irritation and discomfort for distraction-free miles.

Synthetic leather overlays provide structure while allowing natural foot flexibility and expansion. Reflective hits on the heel and tongue boost visibility for early morning or nighttime runs.

While not as plush as the Vello V2, the Low still provides a glove-like fit. The materials lock down the midfoot without restricting toe splay or ankle flexion. Ventilation keeps air circulating even at faster paces.

With innovative fabrics and construction, New Balance uppers provide the ideal blend of security, comfort and breathability to match their renowned midsole technologies.

Any runner knows the misery of hot, sweaty feet. Proper ventilation is crucial for active comfort on the run. New Balance utilizes engineered mesh and other technical fabrics to enhance airflow through the uppers of models like the Fresh Foam Vello V2 and TPU Low.

Both Offer Breathable Fabric to Keep Feet Cool

The upper is just as important as the midsole when it comes to running shoe comfort. Even the most cushioned sole can’t save you from the distraction of overheated feet. New Balance focuses on breathable construction to keep you cool and dry all run long.

On the Vello V2, the single layer engineered mesh fabric provides ventilation across the entire upper. There are no excessive synthetic leather overlays or internal bootie construction that could block airflow and create hot spots.

The seamless upper on the TPU Low also enhances breathability by eliminating potential irritation. The engineered mesh hugs the foot in comfort while allowing air to freely circulate, even at faster paces that boost perspiration.

On hot summer runs, both models keep the air moving so heat can escape and sweat can evaporate. Your socks stay drier as the miles tick by, reducing squishy discomfort and potential blisters. The airy feel helps refresh your feet on long hauls.

In chillier weather, the uppers still provide protection from the elements while wicking away internal moisture buildup. Well-ventilated shoes extend your running season into cooler temps.

Strategic Mesh Placement Matters

Where the mesh is placed also matters. Both the Vello V2 and TPU Low maximize fabric in areas prone to getting hot and sweaty quickly – like the forefoot and tongue. Open construction in these zones cools you down.

Synthetic leather or TPU overlays are strategically positioned only in areas needing structure or support. By balancing engineered mesh with targeted reinforcements, overheating is minimized without losing security or stability.

With running shoe technology continuously evolving, New Balance pushes the envelope when it comes to keeping your feet cool, dry and comfortable across every mile.

When choosing the right running shoe, think about your training goals and needs. The plush Fresh Foam cushioning of the Vello V2 provides an ideal ride for logging long, easy mileage. But the snappy TPU plate of the Low maximizes speed for faster days.

Fresh Foam V2 Ideal for Long Runs and Recovery Days

The generous Fresh Foam cushioning of the Vello V2 provides ultra-soft comfort that protects your body from pounding pavement on long runs. The smooth, stable ride encourages proper mechanics over the miles to keep injury risk low.

On recovery days or easy mileage following hard workouts, the Fresh Foam compresses gently under each foot strike to reduce impact forces on joints and muscles. You can log additional miles to build your aerobic base without added aches and pains.

The V2’s molded heel counter and wide toe box offer customizable support for neutral runners and mild overpronators. The plush collar cushions your Achilles and ankles. The result is a smooth, accommodating ride that keeps you comfortable for the long haul.

The ample Fresh Foam midsole combines with a flexible yet supportive upper to create the ideal training partner for weekend long runs, daily doubles or midweek recovery jogs. It allows you to rack up mileage with less fatigue.

TPU Low Perfect for Speed Workouts and Racing

Alternatively, the TPU Low maximizes energy return in a lightweight package built for speed. The firm TPU plate provides a responsive snap ideal for track intervals, tempo runs and 5K to half marathon races.

The Low offers just enough softness to keep landings comfortable and smooth transitions. But the close-to-ground construction ensures your turnover stays quick and mechanics efficient at faster paces.

The lack of excessive cushioning encourages strong, powerful foot strikes. The snug upper and lively toe-off keep you up on your toes for PR performances.

Whether you need a soft ride for easy miles or a fast feel for speedwork, Fresh Foam and TPU deliver the perfect match.

When selecting a running shoe, consider your training goals and needs. Plush Fresh Foam cushions easy miles while firmer TPU optimizes faster sessions. Models like the Vello V2 and TPU Low are purpose-built for different paces.

TPU Low Perfect for Speed Workouts and Racing

The TPU Low utilizes a full-length TPU plate spanning from heel to toe to provide an energetic, responsive ride. This firm yet flexible material delivers ideal efficiency for your fastest training days and races.

On tempo runs and track intervals, the snappy sensation encourages quick turnover to hit goal paces. The close-to-ground feel connects you to the road to leverage power. Traction pods under the forefoot provide grip when you’re up on your toes churning out speed.

For 5K to half marathon race day, the Low offers a lightweight, low-profile design to slice through wind resistance. The smooth transitions keep your gait efficient across multiple miles at faster velocities. The engineered mesh upper provides a securely breathable fit without irritation.

While not as plush as maximal cushioning shoes, the Low still retains enough softness to prevent harsh slap or instability. The ride falls in a “goldilocks zone” – not too firm, not too soft.

Balancing Cushioning and Responsiveness

Models like the Vello V2 and TPU Low showcase how New Balance engineers purpose-built performance and cushioning for different paces. The V2’s Fresh Foam midsole provides plush comfort for long, slower runs. The Low’s TPU plate delivers snappy speed.

But some designs also incorporate both elements for the ideal blend. The FuelCell RC Elite combines Fresh Foam with a propulsive carbon fiber plate. Other models place TPU only in the forefoot to leverage Fresh Foam’s softness through the heel.

With the right balance of cushioning and responsiveness, you get the exact ride you need for any training run or race day.

When it comes to running shoes, comfort is key. Small design elements like the toe box shape can make a big difference in accommodating various foot types and keeping runners pain-free across the miles.

Fresh Foam V2 Features Wide Toe Box for Comfort

The Fresh Foam Vello V2 utilizes a wider toe box design to allow natural foot splay and flexion. This provides ample room for your toes to relax and spread out, especially important on longer runs.

The extra space prevents irritation or pinching at the front of the shoe that can lead to blisters or black toenails. Even if your feet swell on higher mileage days, you’ll remain comfortable.

The plush internal bootie construction also adapts to the shape of your foot for a customized feel. There are no uncomfortable seams or material pressing down on the toes.

For runners with wider feet, the generous toe box accommodates without compromise. You don’t have to size up and risk a sloppy heel fit to achieve ample room up front.

TPU Low Has Narrower Profile

In contrast, the TPU Low features a more tapered, narrow toe box by design. This allows your foot to be closer connected to the TPU plate underfoot, maximizing energy return and efficiency.

However, the seamless engineered mesh still allows for some natural toe splay and expansion as you run. Synthetic leather overlays provide structure without irritation.

While not as wide as the Vello V2, the Low still accommodates various foot shapes. But the snugger fit is optimized for faster speeds versus all-day comfort.

Consider your foot’s needs and preferred fit. Fresh Foam and TPU models balance roomy comfort and locked-in speed.

When you slip on a new pair of running shoes, the fit and feel can make an immediate impression. Models utilizing Fresh Foam and TPU balance cushioning and responsiveness in different ways that impact performance.

TPU Low Has Narrow Profile that Feels Fast

Compared to the wide, roomy platform of the Fresh Foam Vello V2, the TPU Low has a lower profile shape that connects you tighter to the ground. This enhances agility for faster paces.

The seamless engineered mesh upper on the Low pairs with a more tapered, snugger midsole profile. Your foot feels more streamlined, allowing you to pick up the pace.

The full-length TPU plate provides a very smooth transition without any gaps from heel to toe. It enables your entire foot to press down and spring off the ground efficiently.

Testers often describe the Low’s ride as “fast” simply due to the nimble fit and close-to-ground flex. The shoe seems to beg you to run quicker just by putting it on.

Fresh Foam Offers Stable, Smooth Feel

In contrast, the wide platform and plush cushioning of the Fresh Foam Vello V2 prioritizes comfort and protection over speedy sensations. This makes it ideal for logging daily miles.

The molded midsole provides a stable, balanced feel. The ample foam softly absorbs impact while guiding pronation for smooth transitions. The expansive platform offers plenty of real estate for your foot to find the ideal landing position.

The V2 feels most at home at easier paces, allowing you to rack up mileage with less fatigue. The Low invites faster turnover once laced up.

Consider when you want cushion or speed to pick the right profile.

Any seasoned runner knows that injuries often crop up where the shoe meets the body – namely the heel and Achilles area. Small design elements like molded counters and padded collars make a big difference in preventing hot spots and irritation over the miles.

V2 Designed with Molded Heel for Achilles Support

The Fresh Foam Vello V2 incorporates both internal and external design elements to lock down the heel securely while preventing Achilles discomfort.

The external TPU heel counter provides structure to keep the rearfoot stable with each footstrike. However, inside the shoe, a plush foam collar cushions the Achilles insertion point to eliminate abrasion and hot spots.

This dual approach provides the ankle stabilization necessary for smoothly transitioning through each gait cycle, while not irritating the delicate Achilles area. The molded fit also eliminates slippage that can lead to blisters.

For recovery days and long runs, keeping this region comfortable enables you to rack up mileage without developing nagging aches or pains.

TPU Low Focused on Security

The TPU Low also utilizes a molded external heel counter for rearfoot security, allowing you to run confidently at faster speeds. However, the internal design prioritizes a locked-in fit over plush comfort.

The lack of collar padding keeps the heel firm and responsive when you need quick acceleration. But this also reduces shock absorption compared to the V2.

If you are prone to Achilles issues, the V2 provides more consideration of how upper materials interact with the sensitive heel and ankle interface. Both provide security, but with different balances of structure and softness.

The midsole platform and outsole design impact much more than just cushioning. Small details like height and flex points connect you to the ground for responsive feel and feedback.

Low Model Provides Close-to-Ground Feel

With its low-profile midsole and flexible TPU plate spanning the entire outsole, the TPU Low offers an exceptionally close-to-ground ride. You feel intimately connected to the road for faster agility.

The firm yet springy platform keeps you up on your toes with a forward-leaning sensation. Traction pods under the forefoot grip the ground when you need to dig in and drive off.

There’s no sinking into excessive foam cushioning or getting tossed around on an unstable platform. The Low allows natural running biomechanics to shine for quicker turnover and nimble maneuvers.

Testing notes that the shoe seems to “disappear underneath you.” This helps max out speed potential, especially for shorter races.

Fresh Foam Height Smooths Out Ride

In contrast, the thick Fresh Foam midsole of the Vello V2 provides more isolation from the ground forces. This cushions your joints on longer miles but also dampens road feel feedback.

The platform has more vertical lift both from stack height and a curved shape rolling from heel to toe. There’s enhanced shock absorption but decreased ground connection.

For easy long runs, this smooths out the ride and encourages fluid foot strikes. But for tempo days, the Low better translates power and pace.

Finding the right balance of cushioning and support is crucial for injury prevention. The smooth platform of the Fresh Foam Vello V2 gently guides overpronation, while the TPU Low offers neutral runners a stable responsive ride.

Fresh Foam Great for Overpronators Needing Stability

The generous Fresh Foam midsole of the Vello V2 provides soft, even cushioning without an unstable or uneven platform. This helps mildly overpronating runners maintain better alignment on longer mileage.

The wide base remains stable as the Fresh Foam compresses, preventing excessive rolling inward. Guidance lines on the outsole also promote smooth transitions from heel to toe.

For runners who need just a touch more support to neutralize pronation, the V2 does so gently without adding stiffness or control features that restrict natural foot motion.

The plush feel also reduces impact forces that can aggravate knees and joints sensitive to excess pronation and improper mechanics.

TPU Better for Neutral Runners Seeking Responsiveness

In contrast, the TPU Low offers a firm ride that maintains stability by providing a close-to-ground, responsive feel. This maximizes proprioception and efficiency for neutral runners.

The snug fit of the upper combines with the full-length TPU plate for a “ready to go fast” sensation right out of the box. Traction pods provide grip and control.

While the Low won’t correct or support overpronation, it provides a smooth connection for neutral runners to apply power and focus on speed. The result is a tuned ride for faster days.

When choosing a running shoe, it’s important to consider your biomechanics and gait tendencies. The Fresh Foam Vello V2 focuses on stability, while the TPU Low maximizes responsiveness for neutral runners.

TPU Better for Neutral Runners Seeking Responsiveness

The TPU Low utilizes a full-length TPU plate spanning heel to toe to deliver an energetic, propulsive ride. This responsive sensation is ideal for neutral runners seeking efficiency.

The firm platform provides a smooth, stable feel but doesn’t correct or support overpronation. Instead, it allows neutral gaits to shine by maximizing connection to the ground for snap and spring.

On tempo runs and speed workouts, the Low encourages quick turnover and nimble maneuvers. The snug upper and close-to-ground ride keep you up on your toes without sinking into excessive cushioning.

While the Fresh Foam Vello V2 focuses on gentle stability, the TPU Low acts as a tuned instrument for applying power. The result is confident speed for neutral runners.

Balancing Support and Responsiveness

Shoes like the Vello V2 and TPU Low highlight how New Balance engineers target either stability or snappy responsiveness depending on the model and purpose.

Understanding your own gait, foot type and biomechanics helps guide the decision. But the good news is models like the V2 and Low make it easy to choose the right balanced ride for your needs and training.

When selecting a running shoe, consider your weekly training mileage and goals. For high mileage training blocks, generous cushioning like the Fresh Foam Vello V2 helps absorb impact while staying comfortable across long distances.

V2 More Cushioned for High Mileage Training

The plush Fresh Foam midsole of the Vello V2 provides welcome comfort and protection when you’re logging high weekly mileage training for a marathon or ultramarathon.

The soft, smooth cushioning platform reduces pounding and repetitive impact forces that can lead to overuse injuries like stress fractures, IT band issues or plantar fasciitis.

The Fresh Foam also compresses and rebounds consistently across long distances to reduce muscle fatigue. The generous stack height buys your legs and feet an endurance boost.

An external heel counter and wide platform offer supportive stability when leg muscles get weary in latter miles. The engineered mesh upper enhances airflow to keep feet cool when they swell and sweat.

Low Better for Fast Tempo Runs and Track Workouts

In contrast, the TPU Low shines for faster training at lower mileage thresholds. The firm ride encourages snappy turnover for tempo runs, intervals and race-pace repetitions.

The lack of maximal cushioning connects you better to the ground to leverage strength and power. The low-profile design stays out of the way of natural speed mechanics.

Consider your training volume and speed needs. The V2 cushions longer miles while the Low motivates quicker legs.

When choosing a running shoe, consider the types of training you plan to use it for. The plush Vello V2 cushions longer miles, while the TPU Low shines for speedwork.

Low Better for Fast Tempo Runs and Track Workouts

The TPU Low utilizes a responsive TPU plate to deliver a firm, close-to-ground ride perfect for faster running. The snappy sensation inspires quick turnover on tempo runs and intervals.

On the track, the Low provides a smooth transition as you repeatedly sprint laps. The engineered mesh upper keeps your foot cool and secure during explosive efforts and direction changes.

The lack of maximal cushioning encourages a forward-leaning sensation and tight connection to the ground. You can fully leverage strength and power without sinking into soft foam.

While the Vello V2 focuses on endurance and comfort, the Low tunes ride characteristics for optimizing your fastest pace work.

Balancing Training Demands

Shoes like the Vello V2 and TPU Low highlight how New Balance precisely engineers purpose-driven performance benefits into different models.

Understanding your training plan helps guide which will match your needs. Mixing both types can provide the right balance of cushioning for daily miles and speed for tempo workouts over the course of a training block.

Whether you need to rack up long mileage or drop your PR times, choosing the right responsive ride helps you meet your goals.