NB FFX Balos v1 Men Shoe Grey/Min 12.0 D

I'm now on my 3rd pair of Balos, racking up > 700km in previous pairs. There has been a lot of misinformation about this shoe since it's release, most of it stemming from reviewers comparing it to other popular 'super trainers'. But, it's honestly nothing like any other shoe on the market. First thing you'll notice is the rocker and squishiness of the foam. This combination is said to feel unstable, but since this shoe has a lower stack height (it's not max height like that other super trainer), the instability only lasts until your feet and ankles strengthen over time. This is why I run in it so much; it makes my foot and ankle move naturally, as opposed to most contemporary running shoes that dictate your gait/turnover/footstrike/etc. One reviewer mentioned hot spots, but when a shoe actually lets your foot flex a lot, you likely just need a new callous or two. Second, you'll see super soft foam on the bottom of the shoe, and immediately think it will wear out. A lot of reviewers mention this, and that's how I know they haven't run in the shoe long term. After 700 km, my outsoles look almost brand new. Once you run in this shoe you'll release how versatile it is. Squishy enough for recovery runs, but rockered with really springy foam for intervals or other speed workouts. It's worth the price in my opinion. I use this for everything except for race day and don't need other shoes. The fit is premium, with a wraparound gusseted tongue. It has a shallow toe box, so you can go a half size up if you want extra space. Overall, I wish this shoe would have been marketed better and shoe reviewers didn't keep trying to compare it to other shoes. It's totally unique. Hope they make a v2!

First pair of NB with fresh foamx, even better than the original fresh foam. Light weight, breathable and of course comfortable with a nice balance of cushion and responsiveness. Only knock is, I wish NB sneakers make a pull tab at the heel, makes slipping in so much easier.