New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2

Review Score
81%
πŸ… Highly Rated
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New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2: Review

β€œA lightweight shoe that doesn't compromise on cushioning.”

Overview


The New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 is a running shoe designed to offer a blend of lightweight construction and responsive cushioning. This shoe is known for its Fresh Foam midsole technology, providing a soft underfoot feel while maintaining a light weight.

Key Features:

  • Engineered Knit Upper: A breathable and secure upper made from engineered knit material.
  • Ground Contact Fresh Foam: Midsole cushioning that delivers a smooth and responsive ride.
  • Ultra Heel Construction: A sleek heel design aimed at minimizing Achilles irritation.

The New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize a lightweight and cushioned shoe for daily running. Its responsive cushioning offers a benefit of energy return, making it suitable for a variety of distances from 10k to marathon. As part of the New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon family, it stands out for its unique combination of comfort and performance.

According to our analysis of reviews from experts around the world, it averages a review score of 81%. This puts it rated just above the median rating of comparable running shoes. According to our analysis of prices across the internet, at current rates it's in the most expensive 40% of running shoes.

Verdict

The consensus on the New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2


The New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 has garnered attention for its lightweight frame and cushioned ride, suitable for a variety of running activities. The shoe's Fresh Foam midsole is appreciated for its shock absorption and responsiveness, although some runners may find it leans towards the firmer side. The engineered knit upper provides a breathable and secure fit, with a unique heel design that aims to reduce Achilles irritation. While the shoe fits true to size and is praised for its comfort, some users have noted a sloppy fit in the forefoot and potential for Achilles rubbing due to the heel flare. Despite these concerns, the Beacon v2 is versatile, serving well in both slow, easy runs and tempo work, and even holding up for longer distances. Overall, the New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 is a solid choice for runners seeking a durable and responsive daily trainer.

Updates to New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2


The New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 maintains the same Fresh Foam midsole cushioning as its predecessor, ensuring continuity in the shoe's responsive and cushioned ride. The major updates include a redesigned upper made of engineered knit material for improved comfort and breathability, and a sleek new heel design to minimize Achilles irritation. These changes aim to enhance the overall fit and feel of the shoe compared to the original New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon and the subsequent New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v3.

Comparable Shoes


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The New Balance FuelCell Propel is another model that runners might compare with the Beacon v2. While both shoes are marketed as versatile daily trainers, they differ significantly in their cushioning. The FuelCell Propel offers a softer ride, making it more suitable for runners with tired legs or muscle soreness. The Beacon v2, with its firmer foam, is better suited for speed work. The choice between the two may come down to personal preference and the type of cushioning a runner desires.

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The Hoka Rincon is often compared to the New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 due to its similar focus on lightweight cushioning. The Rincon offers a more plush and cushioned feel, which may appeal to runners seeking a softer ride. It also features a breathable mesh upper, contrasting with the Beacon v2's engineered knit. While the Rincon is preferred for longer runs, the Beacon v2 is favored for shorter, faster workouts. Durability-wise, the Beacon v2's stiffer midsole may offer a longer lifespan.

6 New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 Pros & Cons


3 Pros

Lightweight and responsive cushioning suitable for a variety of runs.
Breathable and secure engineered knit upper.
Durable outsole with strategic rubber placement for longevity.

3 Cons

Some runners find the midsole firmer than expected.
Forefoot fit may be sloppy for some foot shapes.
Heel flare can cause Achilles irritation for certain runners.

In Depth


Upper

The New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 features an engineered knit upper that is both lightweight and breathable. The design includes a sleek heel construction that tapers away from the Achilles, aiming to minimize irritation in that area. The upper's secure fit is enhanced by a grippy internal mesh material and a padded tongue, which together provide a locked-down feel. Despite these positives, some runners have reported a sloppy fit in the forefoot, suggesting that while the upper excels in breathability and heel lockdown, it may not offer the best support across all foot shapes.

Midsole

At the heart of the New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 is the Ground Contact Fresh Foam midsole, which is engineered to deliver a soft underfoot feel while maintaining a lightweight profile. This cushioning is designed to absorb shock and provide a responsive ride, though some runners may find it firmer than expected. The midsole's thickness eliminates ground feel, which can be a trade-off for those who prefer a more plush sensation during their runs.

Outsole

The outsole of the New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 is primarily made of exposed Ground Contact EVA foam, with strategically placed blown rubber in high-impact areas to enhance durability. This design choice is common in lightweight cushioning shoes to save weight. The outsole offers adequate traction on various surfaces, making the Beacon v2 a reliable option for road running.

Size/fit

The New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 is reported to fit true to size, providing a comfortable fit for runners with average foot width. The shoe's design ensures a secure fit, although some runners have noted a less-than-ideal fit in the forefoot area, which could affect overall comfort during runs.

Comfort

Comfort is a standout feature of the New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2, with many runners praising the shoe's cushioning and step-in feel. The combination of a breathable upper and responsive midsole contributes to a comfortable running experience, suitable for a range of distances and running styles.

Cushioning

The cushioning of the New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 is a balance between softness and responsiveness. While the Fresh Foam midsole provides a cushioned ride, some runners have found it to be on the firmer side, which may affect the perceived plushness of the shoe. However, the cushioning is well-regarded for its durability and versatility across different types of runs.

Breathability

The engineered knit upper of the New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 ensures excellent breathability, making the shoe a good choice for runs in warmer conditions. The material allows for ample airflow, helping to keep the feet cool and dry during exercise.

Durability

Durability is a strong point for the New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2, with many runners noting that the shoe holds up well over time. The outsole's strategic rubber placement helps to extend the shoe's lifespan, particularly in areas prone to wear and tear.

Who should buy the New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2?


The New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 is well-suited for runners seeking a lightweight shoe that provides a responsive and cushioned ride. It's an excellent choice for those who engage in daily training and are looking for a versatile shoe that can handle various distances, from short runs to marathons. Runners who appreciate a breathable and secure upper will also find value in this model.

Who should not buy the New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2?


Runners who prefer a plush, soft ride may not find the New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 to their liking, as some have reported the midsole to be firmer than expected. Those with a wider forefoot or who require a more structured fit might want to consider other options, as the Beacon v2's fit in the forefoot has been described as sloppy by some. Additionally, runners who prioritize ground feel over cushioning might want to explore other models.

New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2: What's it good for?


The New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 excels in road running and is a strong candidate for those who engage in everyday training. Its cushioning and responsiveness make it suitable for speed workouts and longer distances like half marathons. The shoe's lightweight design and breathable upper also make it a good option for warm-weather runs.

4 New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 FAQs


Is the New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 suitable for marathon training?

Yes, the New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 is suitable for marathon training due to its combination of lightweight design and responsive cushioning. It provides a comfortable ride for long-distance runs.

How does the fit of the New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 compare to other New Balance models?

The New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 fits true to size with a secure and breathable upper. However, some runners have noted a less secure fit in the forefoot compared to other models.

Can the New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 be used for speed training?

Yes, the New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 can be used for speed training. Its lightweight and responsive cushioning make it a good choice for faster workouts.

What are the main updates in the New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 compared to the original version?

The main updates in the New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 include a redesigned engineered knit upper for improved comfort and a new heel design to reduce Achilles irritation, while maintaining the same Fresh Foam midsole cushioning.

New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 alternatives

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similarity
Similarity
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released
Released
Jun 2019
Jul 2019Feb 2018Feb 2018
expertReviewScore
Expert Review Score
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Weight
Weight
M: 218 g
W: 187 g
M: 230 g
W: 193 g
M: 184 g
W: 159 g
M: 238 g
W: 198 g
M: 346 g
W: 295 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
23 mm
M: 33 mm
W: 31 mm
14 mm
13 mm
M: 24 mm
W: 23 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
6 mm
8 mm
8 mm
10 mm
Heel
Heel
29 mm
M: 33 mm
W: 31 mm
22 mm
21 mm
M: 34 mm
W: 33 mm
Brand
Brand
New Balance
VivobarefootAltraNikeNikeadidas
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
BreathableLightweight
BarefootLow dropMinimalistZero dropLightweightLow dropMaximalistZero dropBreathableLightweightBreathableLightweightComfortableMaximalist
Adidas
Adidas
Orthotic friendly
Orthotic friendly
Removable insole
Removable insole
Techs
Techs
New Balance Fresh Foam
Nike Flyknit
4Dadidas 4D
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
SustainableVegan β“‹
Sustainable
0

New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2: what the experts say (1 review)

New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2: 7 Expert video reviews

New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v2 characteristics and specifications

Characteristics
SportsRunning (+1920)
TerrainRoad (+1303)
UsagesDaily running (+1113)Speed training (+290)
BrandNew Balance (+110)
Support TypeNeutral (+1503)
Pronation TypeNeutral pronation (+1483)
Strike TypeFore/Midfoot strike (+1062)Heel strike (+1141)
Arch TypeHigh arch (+1430)
Shoe TypeBreathable (+331)Lightweight (+418)
FitMedium toe box (+830)
FeaturesBreathable (+964)
MaterialsKnit (+196)
TechsNew Balance Fresh Foam (+56)
Events10k (+682)Half marathon (+682)Marathon (+682)
ColorwaysBlack Orca, Camden Fog Newport Blue, Orion Blue Supercell, Plum Natural Indigo, Rain Cloud Black, Vision Blue Thunder, White Summer Fog Bayside
Specificationsvs Average
Model
v2
Released
Jun 2019
Measurements
Weight
M: 218 g
W: 187 g
Heel to toe drop
6 mm
Heel
29 mm
Forefoot
23 mm

Evolution of the New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon product family

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AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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