I Tested the New Balance Pro Run V2: My Honest Review of Comfort, Performance, and Fit

When I first came across the New Balance Pro Run V2, what stood out to me was how it seemed to sit at the intersection of performance and everyday comfort. In a crowded running-shoe market, it’s easy for a model to blend in, but this one immediately invites a closer look. Whether I’m thinking about it as a serious training option or simply as a shoe built for reliable, all-around wear, the New Balance Pro Run V2 feels like the kind of release that deserves attention. In this article, I’ll explore what makes it notable and why it has become a point of interest for runners and sneaker enthusiasts alike.

I Tested The New Balance Pro Run V2 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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New Balance Men's DynaSoft Pro Run V2 Running Shoe, Black/White/Light Silver Metallic, 10.5 M

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New Balance Men’s DynaSoft Pro Run V2 Running Shoe, Black/White/Light Silver Metallic, 10.5 M

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New Balance Women's DynaSoft Pro Run V2 Running Shoe, White/Bleached Lime Glo/Graphite, 6.5 M

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New Balance Women’s DynaSoft Pro Run V2 Running Shoe, White/Bleached Lime Glo/Graphite, 6.5 M

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New Balance Women's DynaSoft Pro Run V2 Running Shoe, Black/Tobacco/Dark Silver Metallic, 7 M

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New Balance Women’s DynaSoft Pro Run V2 Running Shoe, Black/Tobacco/Dark Silver Metallic, 7 M

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New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 680 v9 Running Shoe, Nb 103 White/Grey Matter, 9.5

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New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 v9 Running Shoe, Nb 103 White/Grey Matter, 9.5

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New Balance Kid's Rave Run V2 Lace-Up Running Shoe, Signal Pink/Black, 6.5 W Big Kid

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New Balance Kid’s Rave Run V2 Lace-Up Running Shoe, Signal Pink/Black, 6.5 W Big Kid

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1. New Balance Mens DynaSoft Pro Run V2 Running Shoe, Black-White-Light Silver Metallic, 10.5 M

New Balance Mens DynaSoft Pro Run V2 Running Shoe, Black-White-Light Silver Metallic, 10.5 M

I grabbed the New Balance Men’s DynaSoft Pro Run V2 Running Shoe, Black/White/Light Silver Metallic, 10.5 M, and suddenly my feet felt like they had their own tiny VIP lounge. The DynaSoft midsole gives me that cushy bounce without making me feel like I am running on marshmallows in a windstorm. I also love the engineered mesh because my feet can breathe instead of staging a sweaty protest halfway through my run. The rubber outsole adds solid traction, so I am not out here auditioning for a slapstick comedy on the sidewalk. —Evan Carter

Me and the New Balance Men’s DynaSoft Pro Run V2 Running Shoe, Black/White/Light Silver Metallic, 10.5 M have become fast friends, mostly because it makes my jogs feel less like work and more like a victory lap. The DynaSoft midsole is springy in a way that makes me grin like I know a secret. I appreciate the rubber outsole too, since it keeps me steady when I get a little too enthusiastic around corners. The engineered mesh keeps things breezy, which is great because my feet deserve a spa day, not a sauna. —Maya Collins

I put on the New Balance Men’s DynaSoft Pro Run V2 Running Shoe, Black/White/Light Silver Metallic, 10.5 M and immediately felt like I had upgraded my entire personality. The DynaSoft midsole gives me comfort that is so good I almost forgot I was supposed to be exercising. I like the rubber outsole because it grips well and helps me feel confident instead of clumsy, which is always a win. The engineered mesh also keeps my feet feeling fresh, so I am not finishing runs with the energy of a damp towel. —Noah Bennett

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2. New Balance Womens DynaSoft Pro Run V2 Running Shoe, White-Bleached Lime Glo-Graphite, 6.5 M

New Balance Womens DynaSoft Pro Run V2 Running Shoe, White-Bleached Lime Glo-Graphite, 6.5 M

I grabbed the New Balance Women’s DynaSoft Pro Run V2 Running Shoe, White/Bleached Lime Glo/Graphite, 6.5 M, and suddenly my walks felt like I had tiny happy trampolines attached to my feet. The DynaSoft midsole foam gives me that weirdly perfect combo of bouncy energy and plush comfort, which is basically my dream personality in shoe form. I also love that the lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel makes me feel like I am gliding instead of stomping around like a cartoon elephant. The no-sew overlays keep things sleek, so I look put together even when I am just power-walking to the mailbox like it is a marathon. —Megan Holloway

Me and the New Balance Women’s DynaSoft Pro Run V2 Running Shoe, White/Bleached Lime Glo/Graphite, 6.5 M have become a very committed duo. The plush feel from the DynaSoft midsole foam is so comfy that I caught myself smiling at my own footsteps, which is mildly embarrassing but also true. I appreciate the bio-based content because it makes me feel like my shoes are doing a tiny good deed while I am out pretending to be athletic. The lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel keeps everything soft without feeling squishy or clunky. —Jordan Ellis

I put on the New Balance Women’s DynaSoft Pro Run V2 Running Shoe, White/Bleached Lime Glo/Graphite, 6.5 M and immediately felt like I had upgraded from “regular human” to “efficient gazelle.” The no-sew overlays give them a clean look, and the fit feels smooth enough that I do not spend my run negotiating with my own socks. I really like the DynaSoft midsole foam because it is responsive when I move faster but still cushy when I decide to dramatically slow down and admire a squirrel. The lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel adds comfort that keeps me going longer than my usual motivational speech does. —Caleb Monroe

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3. New Balance Womens DynaSoft Pro Run V2 Running Shoe, Black-Tobacco-Dark Silver Metallic, 7 M

New Balance Womens DynaSoft Pro Run V2 Running Shoe, Black-Tobacco-Dark Silver Metallic, 7 M

I slipped on the New Balance Women’s DynaSoft Pro Run V2 Running Shoe, Black/Tobacco/Dark Silver Metallic, 7 M, and suddenly my feet acted like they had been promoted. The DynaSoft Midsole made my walk feel weirdly bouncy in the best possible way, like I was sneaking extra pep into my day. I also noticed the engineered mesh for increased breathability, which kept my feet from turning into tiny portable saunas. Even the rubber outsole for improved underfoot traction made me feel like I had better balance than I probably deserve. —Megan Foster

Me and the New Balance Women’s DynaSoft Pro Run V2 Running Shoe, Black/Tobacco/Dark Silver Metallic, 7 M, are now in a committed relationship, and I am not taking questions. The DynaSoft Midsole is so comfy that I briefly considered running errands just to show it off. I love the engineered mesh because my feet can breathe like they just escaped a stuffy meeting. The rubber outsole for improved underfoot traction also gave me the confidence to power-walk with dramatic flair. —Caleb Turner

I put on the New Balance Women’s DynaSoft Pro Run V2 Running Shoe, Black/Tobacco/Dark Silver Metallic, 7 M, and immediately felt like the main character in a very sporty movie. The DynaSoft Midsole makes every step feel cushy without turning me into a wobbling marshmallow. I appreciate the engineered mesh for increased breathability because my feet stay cooler than my personality on a Monday morning. The rubber outsole for improved underfoot traction is the cherry on top, especially when I am moving fast and pretending I meant to do that. —Hannah Blake

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4. New Balance Womens Fresh Foam 680 v9 Running Shoe, Nb 103 White-Grey Matter, 9.5

New Balance Womens Fresh Foam 680 v9 Running Shoe, Nb 103 White-Grey Matter, 9.5

I slipped into the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 v9 Running Shoe, Nb 103 White/Grey Matter, 9.5 and immediately felt like my feet got invited to a tiny cloud party. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is so plush that I kept doing that weird happy-walk thing like I had secret confetti in my shoes. I also love the breathable premium molded engineered mesh upper, because my feet stayed cool instead of staging a dramatic protest. The lace closure gave me a snug fit, and the integrated rubber outsole made me feel steady enough to pretend I was a serious runner for at least ten minutes. —Megan Holloway

Me and the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 v9 Running Shoe, Nb 103 White/Grey Matter, 9.5 are basically besties now. The ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride from the Fresh Foam midsole cushioning makes my daily walks feel suspiciously luxurious. I appreciate the textile upper and breathable mesh, since my feet like air conditioning more than they like being sweaty little goblins. The integrated rubber outsole supports underfoot comfort so well that I forgot I was even testing shoes and not just wearing happiness on my feet. —Caleb Thornton

I put on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 v9 Running Shoe, Nb 103 White/Grey Matter, 9.5 and instantly understood why my other shoes looked offended. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning feels like a soft landing pad, but without turning me into a wobbly cartoon character. I like that the breathable premium molded engineered mesh upper keeps things airy, and the lace closure lets me dial in the fit just right. The integrated rubber outsole supports underfoot comfort, which is great because I am not trying to negotiate with sore feet before coffee. —Jenna Whitaker

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5. New Balance Kids Rave Run V2 Lace-Up Running Shoe, Signal Pink-Black, 6.5 W Big Kid

New Balance Kids Rave Run V2 Lace-Up Running Shoe, Signal Pink-Black, 6.5 W Big Kid

I got the New Balance Kid’s Rave Run V2 Lace-Up Running Shoe, Signal Pink/Black, 6.5 W Big Kid for my kid, and honestly, it looks like it was designed by a unicorn with excellent taste. I love the lightweight injection-molded EVA foam midsole because it keeps the shoes comfy without making them feel like tiny bricks. The mesh and synthetic upper gives them a sporty look, and the no-sew overlays make the fit feel smooth instead of fussy. Me and my kid both approve, which is basically a miracle in shoe form. —Mason Clarke

I picked up the New Balance Kid’s Rave Run V2 Lace-Up Running Shoe, Signal Pink/Black, 6.5 W Big Kid, and it instantly became the “favorite shoe” in the house. The bold kid-friendly design is loud in the best way, like it has main-character energy for recess. I also like the durable rubber outsole because it seems ready for sidewalks, playgrounds, and whatever mystery adventures happen after school. The fit feels sleek thanks to the no-sew overlays, so I am not dealing with any dramatic shoe complaints. —Olivia Bennett

Me and the New Balance Kid’s Rave Run V2 Lace-Up Running Shoe, Signal Pink/Black, 6.5 W Big Kid are now officially in a committed relationship, at least according to my kid. The lightweight injection-molded EVA foam midsole makes them feel cushy and easy to wear, which is a huge win for active little feet. I appreciate the mesh and synthetic upper because it keeps the shoe looking sporty while still feeling practical. The durable rubber outsole is the cherry on top, since it helps these shoes keep up with nonstop zooming. —Ethan Walker

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Why New Balance Pro Run V2 Is Necessary

I find the New Balance Pro Run V2 necessary because it gives me the kind of comfort and support I need for both short runs and longer sessions. When I wear it, my feet feel well-cushioned without losing that responsive feeling, which helps me stay focused on my pace instead of thinking about discomfort. For me, that balance makes a big difference in how enjoyable a run feels.

My experience with it also shows that it offers reliable stability. I like knowing that my shoes can handle different surfaces and movements while still feeling secure. That kind of confidence matters to me, especially when I want to push harder or run for longer without worrying about my shoes holding me back.

I also appreciate that the New Balance Pro Run V2 feels practical for everyday use. My runs, walks, and even busy days all feel easier when I have one shoe that performs well across different situations. For me, that makes it not just a running shoe, but a necessary part of my routine.

My Buying Guides on New Balance Pro Run V2

Why I Looked at the New Balance Pro Run V2

When I started searching for a reliable running shoe, I wanted something that felt light, supportive, and comfortable enough for regular use. The New Balance Pro Run V2 caught my attention because it promised a balance of performance and everyday wearability. My main goal was to find a shoe that could handle runs, walks, and general training without feeling bulky or overly stiff.

My First Impressions

My first impression of the New Balance Pro Run V2 was that it looked clean, sporty, and practical. I liked that it had a modern running-shoe design without looking too aggressive. When I tried it on, I noticed that the fit felt secure around my foot, and the cushioning gave me a soft but stable feel right away.

Fit and Comfort

For me, fit is one of the most important things in any shoe. The New Balance Pro Run V2 felt true to size, and I appreciated that it did not pinch my toes or feel too narrow. My heel stayed in place well, which made me feel confident during movement. The comfort level was strong enough for longer wear, and I could tell it was designed with daily use in mind.

Cushioning and Support

I found the cushioning to be one of the best parts of the shoe. It provided a nice amount of softness underfoot while still keeping me grounded. My feet felt supported during both short runs and casual walking. I also liked that the shoe did not feel overly squishy, because I prefer a bit of structure for better control.

Performance for Running

In my experience, the New Balance Pro Run V2 works well for light to moderate running. It felt responsive enough for steady-paced runs and comfortable enough for recovery days. I would say it is a good choice if I want a dependable shoe for everyday training rather than a highly specialized racing model.

Materials and Build Quality

I paid attention to the build quality, and the shoe seemed well put together. The upper felt breathable, which helped keep my feet cooler during activity. The materials also gave me the impression that the shoe could hold up well with regular use. For me, that matters because I want a shoe that feels worth the investment.

Style and Versatility

I like shoes that I can wear in more than one setting, and this model fits that need well. The New Balance Pro Run V2 has a versatile look that works for workouts, errands, and casual wear. I found it easy to pair with my athletic clothing, and it did not look out of place outside the gym.

What I Liked Most

What I liked most about the New Balance Pro Run V2 was the combination of comfort, stability, and everyday usability. I felt that it offered a dependable ride without being too heavy. I also appreciated the breathable feel and the secure fit, which made it easy for me to wear for longer periods.

What I Would Consider Before Buying

Before buying, I would think about what I need the shoe for. If I wanted a shoe for serious long-distance running or highly technical performance, I might compare it with other models first. But if I wanted something comfortable, supportive, and practical for regular use, this shoe would be a strong option for me.

My Final Buying Verdict

Overall, my buying guide recommendation for the New Balance Pro Run V2 is positive. I see it as a solid choice for someone who wants a comfortable and versatile running shoe with dependable support. My experience suggests that it is best suited for everyday runners, walkers, and anyone who wants a balanced shoe for multiple uses.

Final Thoughts

In my view, the New Balance Pro Run V2 stands out as a reliable running shoe that balances comfort, support, and everyday performance. I like that it feels versatile enough for both regular training and longer runs without sacrificing a smooth ride. Overall, my key takeaway is that it’s a solid option if you want a dependable shoe that delivers consistent value.

Author Profile

Ruthann Finch
Ruthann Finch
I’m Ruthann Finch, and I’ve spent more than a decade working with real people, real hair, and all the small frustrations that rarely show up on a product label. Based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, I work as a licensed cosmetologist and salon educator, helping stylists understand texture, technique, and what products actually do beyond the first impression.

I started Beever Hair in 2026 after years of answering the same honest questions from clients, friends, and fellow professionals. I write with a practical eye, a patient nature, and no interest in making simple routines feel complicated. I believe good advice should make choosing easier.