Reviews

Revamped New Balance Burn X2 Mid Gives Lacrosse Players Explosive Speed

New Balance Updates the Burn X2 Mid with a Complete Redesign for 2023

The New Balance Burn X2 Mid has been a staple cleat for lacrosse players for years, providing the explosive speed and agility needed for quick cuts, dodges, and sprints down the field. However, for 2023 New Balance has completely revamped the Burn X2 Mid, taking player feedback into account to optimize the cleat’s performance. What updates can lacrosse athletes expect from the redesigned Burn X2 Mid this season?

First and foremost, New Balance outfitted the Burn X2 Mid with a brand new lightweight mesh upper. The engineered mesh material is ultra-breathable to keep your feet cool and dry even during intense gameplay. The redesigned upper also utilizes New Balance’s FantomFit technology for a seamless, sock-like fit that supports your feet from all sides without any abrasive seams or stitches getting in the way.

An asymmetrical lacing system allows you to customize the fit through the midfoot, loosening or tightening the cleat on each side for tailored comfort. The Burn X2 Mid also features a lower profile silhouette in 2023 for improved agility and freedom of motion. You’ll be able to execute quicker cuts, start and stop on a dime, and change direction effortlessly.

While maintaining its signature low-to-the-ground feel, the updated Burn X2 Mid also employs a higher midsole drop than previous versions. This promotes forward momentum and speed, key attributes for midfield runners. The full-length ABZORB cushioning continues to provide responsive impact absorption mile after mile.

The outsole utilizes durable NDurance rubber with precisely placed traction lugs to supply grip for accelerating and pushing off in any direction. An external heel counter adds rearfoot stability and support for sharper lateral cuts and crossover steps.

If you’re a midfielder, attacker, or any lacrosse athlete needing speed, the redesigned New Balance Burn X2 Mid will give your game an explosive boost this season. The revamped mesh upper, asymmetrical lacing, and responsive cushioning optimize fit, feel, and quickness for next-level performance on the field.

Asymmetrical Lacing System in the New Balance Burn X2 Mid Provides Customized Fit

One of the key upgrades in the redesigned New Balance Burn X2 Mid lacrosse cleat is the asymmetrical lacing system. This innovative lacing configuration allows athletes to customize the fit through the midfoot area for a truly dialed-in feel. The asymmetrical lacing is a game-changer for achieving the ideal lockdown and support for quick cuts, dodges, and sprints.

Traditional lacing systems on cleats typically pull the upper directly down over the foot vertically when tightening. However, every athlete’s foot shape is slightly different. The asymmetrical lacing on the new Burn X2 Mid accounts for variations in foot anatomy by tightening at an angle across the foot. This creates a wrapped fit in the midfoot, eliminating any gapping or looseness that could cause your foot to slide around inside the cleat.

By crisscrossing the lightweight Flywire cables from medial to lateral, the New Balance Burn X2 Mid’s asymmetrical lacing lets you tweak tension on each side of the foot individually. Simply tighten or loosen the laces over your instep, outside midfoot, inside midfoot, and forefoot zones to experience a truly custom and seamless fit. The Flywire cables integrate with the engineered mesh upper to provide a sock-like feel without squeezing anywhere.

Since lacrosse requires so many quick changes of direction, having a locked-in fit is crucial for agility and injury prevention. The asymmetrical lacing configuration on the Burn X2 Mid ensures your foot stays stable inside the cleat, eliminating slippage while accelerating, cutting, starting, and stopping. You’ll maintain control and responsiveness for four solid quarters. Outside midfoot lockdown is especially vital for lateral agility moves like crossover steps, pivots, and hard defensive slides.

New Balance designed the asymmetrical lacing system on the Burn X2 Mid tooptimize fit and stability for the dynamic, fast-paced motion of lacrosse games. Being able to micro-adjust tension across different zones of the foot provides next-level customization straight out of the box. Expect a precision fit that transfers all your power into the turf for lightning-quick speed and handling.

Low-Profile Silhouette on the Redesigned Burn X2 Mid Enhances Agility

The New Balance Burn X2 Mid receives a complete redesign for 2023, including a lower-profile silhouette that improves freedom of motion for lightning-quick agility on the field. The updated low-to-the-ground feel lets lacrosse athletes play faster and execute maneuvers like cuts, jukes, and dodges with enhanced precision.

New Balance lowered the overall profile of the Burn X2 Mid by reducing the thickness of the ACTEVA midsole cushioning. This brings your foot closer to the turf for better control and responsiveness. The outsole lugs also sit flush with the turf rather than lifting you up high off the ground. The result is a cleat that mimics the foot’s natural movement and flexibility for effortless mobility.

The low-profile design philosophy continues through the lightweight upper material. The engineered mesh has a thin, sock-like construction that moves seamlessly with your foot. An external heel counter provides rear stability without adding bulk. Streamlined synthetic overlays add structure and support through the midfoot without restricting your range of motion.

Since the Burn X2 Mid sits lower to the playing surface, you can expect enhanced acceleration and tempo as you run straight-line sprints up and down the field. Your foot can flex and push off naturally as if wearing a track spike. Changing pace and gears is easy in the faster-feeling cleat.

But agility is where the reprofiled Burn X2 Mid really excels. Maneuverability is vital in lacrosse, whether you’re an attack dodging defenders or a midfielder making quick cuts on offense. The lower stance keeps you balanced as you plant your foot to change direction. You can push off forcefully and confidently on lateral moves thanks to the enhanced ground contact.

New Balance wisely retained the signature low-profile design language of the Burn X2 franchise while optimizing it even further on the 2023 model. Expect unparalleled agility and quickness wearing the redesigned Burn X2 Mid lacrosse cleat this season.

External Heel Counter on the Burn X2 Mid Adds Stability for Cuts

The ability to perform quick, sharp cuts is vital for success in lacrosse, whether you’re swiftly changing direction on offense or sticking tight to an attackman on defense. The redesigned New Balance Burn X2 Mid lacrosse cleat incorporates an external heel counter for enhanced stability, support, and control when executing lateral cuts on the turf.

The Burn X2 Mid’s external TPU heel counter wraps around the rear and sides of the foot. This provides a firm self-molded fit in the heel and ankle area, locking down your foot to prevent sliding around inside the cleat. You’ll feel securely anchored for powerful direction changes without losing balance.

In contrast, cleats without an external heel counter tend to have excessive heel slippage. This causes instability when planting your foot to cut laterally across the field. A loose-fitting heel area hampers quick reacting maneuvers that require total body control.

The integrated external heel counter on the Burn X2 Mid also allows the engineered mesh upper to stretch and move naturally with your forefoot. This prevents pinching or binding when you roll through your footstrike while sprinting. You get a customized stable heel with freedom up front.

On crossover steps, the heel counter keeps your foot from wobbling as you push off the turf. Defenders can stay stride for stride with dodging attackmen without their foot collapsing. The counterbalances the forces generated during 90-degree rotations for solid stability.

New Balance optimized the Burn X2 Mid’s construction to provide the locked-in heel fit vital for changing direction INSTANTLY. The cleat becomes an extension of your foot for unparalleled agility on cuts, crosses, and u-turns. Attackers and defenders alike will appreciate the responsive support.

Fresh Colorways Available in the New Balance Burn X2 Mid This Season

Along with major performance upgrades, the redesigned New Balance Burn X2 Mid lacrosse cleat will release in fresh new colorways for the 2023 season. Players can make a bold style statement on the field while enjoying responsive speed and agility in the revamped Burn X2 Mid.

Historically, the Burn X2 Mid has featured a simple black and white color scheme accented by pops of team colors. But for 2023, New Balance got creative with vibrant textures and color blocking that still maintains the cleat’s clean, classic vibe.

One standout colorway combines black, race car red, and hi-viz yellow on the upper for an eye-catching look. The lightweight Flywire cables along the midfoot use the same neon yellow tone for a cohesive feel. This colorway will help you stand out on the field as you blow past opponents.

New Balance also utilizes premium nubuck leather on the heel counter of certain Burn X2 Mid color schemes. The nubuck has a rich, textured look and naturally conforms to your heel for a custom fit over time. Navy blue nubuck with metallic gold branding elevates the cleat into lifestyle sneaker territory.

Of course, tried-and-true white and black versions of the Burn X2 Mid will return to provide a clean, minimalist aesthetic. White colorways help reflect heat during hot summer games to keep your feet cool.

Lacrosse players who want their cleats to make a statement as big as their skills should check out the revamped New Balance Burn X2 Mid. The redesigned cleat offers fresh style to match its upgraded performance. Get ready to take the field by storm this season.

Updated ACTEVA Midsole in the Burn X2 Mid Boosts Energy Return

One of the key performance upgrades in the redesigned New Balance Burn X2 Mid is an updated ACTEVA midsole compound that provides enhanced energy return for explosive speed. The responsive cushioning gives lacrosse players a springy sensation underfoot to run faster with less fatigue.

ACTEVA is New Balance’s proprietary midsole foam that uses DuPont elastomers to deliver an optimal blend of cushioning and rebound. For the 2023 Burn X2 Mid, chemists at New Balance tweaked the ACTEVA formula to increase its return of energy.

This means the foam compresses quickly underfoot when striding to absorb impact. But it also immediately snaps back to its original shape, propelling your foot forward into the next step. The result is a bouncy, responsive sensation that makes running and cutting feel fast and smooth.

The upgraded ACTEVA midsole in the Burn X2 Mid maintains the low-profile design that lacrosse athletes expect from this franchise. But there is more than enough cushioning thickness to provide soft landings on jumps along with steady shock absorption during cuts and pivots.

New Balance strategically mapped the ACTEVA foam thickness to match the pressure points on your feet. High-impact zones have more cushioning, while the midfoot is slightly firmer to prevent instability when changing direction. This zonal construction optimizes comfort and support.

Expect a propulsive, energized feel from the enhanced ACTEVA foam in the redesigned Burn X2 Mid. The responsive cushioning returns impact forces back into your stride for lightning-fast tempo runs up the field and rapid dodging moves in the offensive zone.

Higher Midsole Drop Promotes Forward Momentum in the Burn X2 Mid

The redesigned New Balance Burn X2 Mid lacrosse cleat employs a higher midsole drop than previous versions to promote forward momentum and explosive speed. The optimized midsole geometry helps lacrosse athletes maintain tempo on sprints and quickly push ahead on dodges to beat defenders.

Midsole drop refers to the difference in height between the heel and forefoot cushioning areas of the shoe. A higher drop places the heel lower than the toe, encouraging a smoother heel-to-toe transition.

New Balance increased the heel-to-toe offset in the Burn X2 Mid to 10mm compared to 6mm in past models. This subtle tweak makes a big difference in optimizing gait mechanics for straight-ahead speed.

As you go through the footstrike, the lowered heel gently rolls you forward onto the higher forefoot platform. The energy from impact flows continuously into forward motion instead of causing abrupt braking. Your stride gains fluidity and rhythm.

The Burn X2 Mid’s 10mm drop aligns your foot in a way that maximizes momentum with each step. Your foot naturally wants to push ahead rather than stall out. Expect improved efficiency and tempo on those all-important midfield sprints.

Dodging past defenders also feels snappier in the Burn X2 Mid thanks to the optimized midsole drop. As you plant and push off laterally, the momentum keeps you powering forward through the cut. The higher drop promotes responsiveness.

By tuning the midsole geometry while retaining the signature low-profile design, the new Burn X2 Mid helps lacrosse athletes maintain sprinting speed, quickly react, and burst past opponents. The cleat keeps you fast and aggressive play after play.

Full-Length ABZORB Cushioning in the Burn X2 Mid Absorbs Impact

The redesigned New Balance Burn X2 Mid incorporates full-length ABZORB cushioning in the midsole to provide exceptional impact absorption and comfort. The innovative foam protects your feet and legs from the repeated pounding that occurs in lacrosse games and practices.

ABZORB is a proprietary cushioning compound created by New Balance. It has a unique mix of properties that make it ideal for athletic shoes. Compressed rubber encapsulates lightweight foam to produce a responsive, durable cushioning system.

On impact, the rubber shells compress to dissipate shock and reduce vibration through your leg. The foam core then rebounds quickly to return energy into your stride. This smooth deceleration and propulsion enhances running efficiency mile after mile.

New Balance strategically mapped the ABZORB foam thickness in the Burn X2 Mid to align with high-impact zones. More cushioning resides under the heel and forefoot to soften footstrikes and jumps. The midfoot zone has slightly firmer ABZORB to prevent midsole compression when cutting.

Even after repeated footstrikes, ABZORB retains its cushioning properties better than EVA foam. This consistent shock absorption is crucial for handling the stop-start motions and pounding impacts of lacrosse gameplay.

On hard cuts, the Burn X2 Mid’s full-length ABZORB construction softens landings to reduce stress on your joints. You’ll feel fresh and resilient heading into the fourth quarter after jumping and pivoting all game long.

New Balance relied on data and testing to optimize the ABZORB foam thickness in the redesigned Burn X2 Mid. Expect supreme comfort and protection during intense lacrosse sessions.

NDurance Rubber Outsole is Durable Yet Flexible

The redesigned New Balance Burn X2 Mid lacrosse cleat utilizes NDurance rubber on the outsole for improved traction and durability during aggressive play. NDurance provides the enhanced grip and support needed for quick cuts, jumps, and sprints on the turf or grass field.

NDurance rubber is a proprietary compound engineered by New Balance. It undergoes a unique production process that optimizes the distribution of carbon in the rubber. This creates an extremely dense, durable material that maintains its integrity even as you log miles on the field.

The high abrasion resistance of NDurance rubber reduces premature wear in high-impact zones so the Burn X2 Mid retains its new shoe traction and feel for longer. You won’t be slipping and sliding in cleats with worn-down lugs mid-season.

Yet despite its rugged durability, NDurance rubber retains enough flexibility to promote natural foot movement. The outsole can bend and flex properly as you run without feeling overly stiff or clunky. This balanced combination of protection and pliability enhances performance.

Strategically placed lugs along the perimeter of the outsole supply grip when pushing off laterally for cuts as well as forward traction for sprints. You’ll dig in securely when quickly changing direction on either offense or defense.

The bottom line is that NDurance rubber equips the Burn X2 Mid to stand up to hardcore lacrosse play. You’ll enjoy season-long traction, support, and durability hitting the turf in New Balance’s redesigned speed lacrosse cleat.

Traction Lugs in the Burn X2 Mid Give Grip For Quick Changes in Direction

The ability to cut, pivot, and change direction swiftly is critical for success in lacrosse. The redesigned New Balance Burn X2 Mid incorporates strategically configured traction lugs on the outsole to supply enhanced grip for lateral movements and rapid reactivity on the field.

The NDurance rubber outsole utilizes a podular lug pattern with individual traction nodes placed in key zones. Segmenting the lugs in this way optimizes flexibility to allow natural foot articulation as you run. A solid slab of rubber would feel too stiff and restrictive.

But podular lugs also provide dedicated traction zones right where you need them. Around the perimeter of the forefoot, elongated lugs run at an angle to dig in hard when pushing off laterally. Smaller lugs under the ball of the foot supply grip for balancing on cuts and pivots.

The lowered heel has its own independent traction pods to prevent slippage when planting your foot to change direction. Heel lugs are configured to grip both in the frontal and lateral planes for multi-directional agility.

By tuning the shape, angle, and distribution of lugs across the Burn X2 Mid’s outsole, New Balance optimized traction for the explosive and reactive movements of lacrosse. The cleat provides targeted grip when accelerating, braking, twisting, jumping, and cutting.

Your foot will feel planted and stable when executing dodges, fakes, jukes, and rapid lateral slides in defense. Precise footing translates to confident and controlled play when wearing the Burn X2 Mid.

New Balance Burn X2 Mid Ideal for Midfielders Needing Speed and Agility

With its redesigned construction focused on explosive speed and agility, the New Balance Burn X2 Mid lacrosse cleat is ideally suited for midfield players. Midfielders must cover large areas of the field, outrun defenders during transitions, execute dodges, and react quickly at both ends.

The Burn X2 Mid’s lightweight mesh upper with asymmetrical lacing provides a flexible fit that moves naturally with the foot. This allows unrestricted ankle mobility for sprinting up and down the field while supplying a locked-in midfoot for cuts and direction changes.

Underfoot, the lowered profile brings you closer to the turf for superior ground contact and control. The cleat mimics your foot’s range of motion for effortless maneuverability when juking past defenders or covering an attackman.

An optimized midsole drop promotes forward momentum while full-length ABZORB cushioning softens hard impacts from repetitive running. You’ll feel efficient and energized weaving through traffic across midfield thanks to the responsive ride.

getStrategic traction pods along the outsole equip the Burn X2 Mid to handle dynamic motions in all directions. You can accelerate, brake, and push off forcefully with total control. Midfielders will appreciate the balanced traction during two-way transitional play.

From its tuned construction to fresh colorways, the New Balance Burn X2 Mid helps midfield runners become the most feared weapon on the lacrosse field. Expect faster end-to-end runs, ankle-breaking dodges, and complete command of both sides of the ball this season.

Padded Tongue and Collar Prevent Slippage in the Burn X2 Mid

To optimize in-shoe lockdown, the redesigned New Balance Burn X2 Mid employs generous padding around the tongue and collar. The plush cushioning creates a comfortable seal around your ankle while preventing irritating slippage within the cleat.

The Burn X2 Mid’s padded tongue provides cushioning between the laces and top of your foot. This alleviates pressure points for comfortably snug midfoot lockdown when cranking the laces tight. A thin tongue would cause hotspots and irritation over time.

The added tongue padding also fills volume within the cleat to prevent your foot from sliding forward during sprints or cuts. Your toes won’t jam into the front when you plant your foot thanks to the cushioned barrier.

Around the ankle collar, the Burn X2 Mid utilizes plush foam pods that grip above your ankle bone to hold your heel securely in place. This rear lockdown ensures your foot doesn’t slip out the back when accelerating or maneuvering laterally.

The padded collar forms a pillowy cushion around your ankle so you experience zero abrasion. Hard cuts and dodges won’t cause blisters thanks to the seamless foam integration.

By paying close attention to lockdown and comfort elements like the tongue and collar, New Balance optimized the Burn X2 Mid for hard-charging lacrosse play. You’ll experience zero slippage inside the cleat no matter how hard you push your game to the limit.

Removable Ortholite Sockliner Wicks Moisture in the Burn X2 Mid

To help keep feet cool and dry during intense lacrosse games, the redesigned New Balance Burn X2 Mid features a removable Ortholite sockliner. Ortholite material wicks moisture and provides long-lasting cushioning for a fresh in-shoe environment.

Ortholite is an open-cell polyurethane foam that contains pores to allow airflow and moisture evaporation. The high-tech foam has natural antimicrobial properties that prevent odor buildup even as sweat permeates the material.

The Ortholite sockliner conforms to the shape of your foot for customized comfort without packing out over time. The long-lasting cushioning maintains a soft, pillowy feel throughout the season.

Since the Burn X2 Mid’s Ortholite sockliner is removable, you can take it out and let it fully air dry after sweaty games. This keeps the interior of your cleats fresh for the next time you suit up. An anti-microbial treatment prevents bacterial growth.

On hot playing fields under the blazing sun, the moisture-wicking properties of Ortholite will keep your feet cooler and drier. You won’t be sliding around in a swampy footbed by the fourth quarter.

New Balance added the removable Ortholite sockliner to the Burn X2 Mid to manage moisture, fight odor, and provide consistent cushioning over time. Expect a comfortably dry foot environment mile after mile.

Burn X2 Mid Designed for Faster Acceleration and Tempo Runs

In redesigning the Burn X2 Mid for 2023, New Balance focused on optimizing the cleat for faster straight-line acceleration and maintaining tempo on runs up the field. Construction elements like the lower profile, midsole drop, and propulsive cushioning help lacrosse athletes gain speed quickly.

The Burn X2 Mid’s lightweight mesh upper with Flywire cables moves in sync with your foot for unrestricted mobility. You’ll experience a natural foot strike and toe-off motion when hitting top speed in a sprint.

Underfoot, responsive ACTEVA foam provides a snappy rebound with each footstrike to help you turn over quicker. Full-length ABZORB inserts add cushy shock absorption to prevent slowing down on longer runs.

A 10mm midsole drop encourages fluid heel-to-toe transitions by gently rolling you forward. Your stride gains momentum and rhythm versus flat shoes that can feel clunky at higher speeds.

The lowered outsole brings your foot closer to the turf to harness and return energy. Integrated traction pods help you dig in and power ahead without slipping.

Whether exploding out of the midfield or racing down the alley on a fast break, the Burn X2 Mid keeps your legs churning. The speed-focused construction helps you blow past opponents and stretch the field for more transition opportunities.

Removable Ortholite Sockliner Wicks Moisture in the Burn X2 Mid

The Ortholite sockliner conforms to the shape of your foot for customized comfort without packing out over time. The long-lasting cushioning maintains a soft, pillowy feel throughout the season.