Thursday, January 3, 2013

New Balance 110W review

I got these shoes about a week ago and noticed some chatter on some of the social media sites regarding questions about them, so I decided it would be good to throw my 2 cents in since I have now had 2 runs in them.

Here is what NB has to say about this shoe, "The New Balance 110 trail running shoe sets a new precedent in lightweight trail racing, making such a powerful impression that it has been named "Best Minimalist" in the TrailRunner Editor's Choice awards. Built in close collaboration with leaders in the sport, this minimalistic trail runner is built to deliver the optimal race day experience. A great combination of tried and tested features with new performance attributes will ensure that this highly anticipated update to the 101 delivers a smooth and responsive ride on any trail."

Here is my breakdown of the shoe after getting a pair in the mail, which wasn't free!!

  • Looks & Feel
    • I think it's a sharp looking shoe, love the synthetic upper material. Lightweight (9.1 oz) and a nice bright yellow shoe hiding under the blue water resistant outside.
  • Test fit
    • Tried them on, walked around and immediately noticed why it was suggested to size down from my Minimus 10 road shoes. They run longer but slightly narrower as well. No complaints but definitely keep that in mind if/when ordering. If you have the minimus trail it is more cushioned and truly felt like the minimus road with lugs on the bottom. Very comfortable. My only complaint would be the top of the upper is very snug, I was worried on my run it would be uncomfortable but it seemed ok and I had my tights underneath. Anyone with bigger ankles than me may run into an issue.
  • 1st run
    • Ran 10 miles in zone 2/3, did some intervals on the road and I couldn't tell the difference between this and my road 10's. Felt great under foot, very lightweight, and responsive. These shoes had superb traction in the snow, and felt very solid on the mostly untouched sidewalks. It was 20 degrees here yesterday during my run and my feet were toasty. Not only does the upper keep the elements out, it keeps the warmth in. See below.
  • Post 1st run thoughts 
    • Got home did my cool down and stretching and then realized how hot my feet were. For me that's huge. I am cold all the time and to get done with a run and spend another 10 minutes outside doing warm down drills my feet are always cold this time of year. I was very pleased with that.
  • 2nd run 
    • 10k in 9 degrees. All zone 2 but all hills. Again the shoes performed like my Minimus 10 road and felt great. Feet were again nice and toasty despite every other part of my body being cold. The pic I have attached is after todays run and the shoes have a good collection of salt and sand on them but no snow made its way in. 
  • Post 2nd run thoughts
    • After a few runs in these shoes I am very happy with the purchase. I paid $124 for them and feel they are worth every penny. Again, my only complaint if you would even call it that is that the top of the synthetic upper is snug but I have had no issues with it. I guess I would say it is more of a precaution to those who have big calves/ankles. 
    • So far I have 16 miles in on these shoes and feel comfortable recommending them to anyone who uses minimal shoes already. They are a 4mm drop shoe, so if you haven't been running in minimal shoes slowly work your way up in mileage. 
  • Here is a link to the New Balance Site:


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