New Balance Fresh Foam Trail Shoe Review

Turns out my shoe obsession can be used for good.  I get the chance to test out a lot of different shoes and tell you all about them.  You can check out my Running page for all the reviews of shoes past.  One shoe that I seem to get a lot of questions about are the New Balance Fresh Foam Shoe. 

I have had a lot of questions about them myself.  I have seen them at a few expos now and am intrigued by the design.  Coming from someone that likes some cushion in her shoe, the idea of running on foam sounded amazing.  So when I got the chance to get my hands on the Fresh Foam Trail Shoes I jumped!

This is prime trail running weather so these types of shoes are in high demand.  The New Balance Fresh Foam 980 Trail shoe is a legit trail shoe. 

Pros:

• Tons of cushion and support - If you're a runner that likes cushion and support this shoe is for you!  You really do feel as if you're walking on a cushion
• Confidence on the Trail - one of my constant concerns on the trail is whether or not I'm going to roll my ankle on a rock or branch or something.  The way this shoe is constructed, every step is a solid step.  
• Great cross trainer - In the gym I love to have a shoe with a little more support and structure especially on leg day so this shoe has been filling that role too.

Cons:

• Flexibility - If you're use to a pure running shoe or even a minimal shoe that is super responsive and flexible, this shoe will take some getting use to.  What you get in cushion you lose a little in flexibility but as a trail shoe, the trade off is worth it!

Overall, I do love the shoe.  I love New Balance and know they work hard to create a quality shoe and this one is no different.  My recommendation, at least try them on and if you're in the market for a trail shoe definitely consider it!

What do you look for a in a trail shoe?

I was provided this shoe by New Balance but all opinions are my own.