New Balance DynaSoft Nitrel V5 review: light, grippy, bouncy and versatile
Meet the reviewer
New Balance DynaSoft Nitrel V5: first impressions
First of all, it’s worth noting that the fit of the New Balance Dynasoft Nitrel V5 tends to be slightly small. I advise going up a half size from your usual size so your toes don’t brush the end when running downhill (no one likes getting black toenails). Also, these runners nudge the top end of price range in our best cheap running shoes buying guide, but for this you get a lighter, more flexible shoe straight from the box.
Specifications
• List price: $70 (US) / £85 (UK)
• Weight (pair UK 6.5): 508g / 17.9oz
• Colors: Men’s: black / red / white; women’s: black / gray / white
• Drop: 8mm
• Compatibility: Any distance, multi-terrain
The drop is a nice, middling 8mm from heel to toe so if even if you’re used to a more traditional running shoe with 10mm to 12mm drop you'll probably be fine to use these without straining your lower legs (see what is ‘drop’ in running shoes for more info). It’s great that the shoe comes in a wide fit too – my toes were able to really splay out naturally.
The lacing and tongue are comfy with no bulky seams to rub anywhere. The mesh upper is breathable, but some runners find the heel rubs high on the ankle. The EVA foam midsole is bouncy for a propulsive ride and it’s good to see that 3% of the shoe’s composition is bio-based content (made from plants or renewable materials); it’s not a great deal, but it’s better than 0%. I found that the AT Tread outsole worked well on both roads and trails, making this a very versatile running shoe.
On the roads and trails
I reviewed the New Balance Dynasoft Nitrel V5 as part of our look at the finest cheap running shoes currently available, and although it's edging toward the top end of that category, as soon as I put this shoe on I was able to feel the difference. It's not as stiff as the other budget shoes (excepting the flexible Kalenji Jog 500.1s) and my foot felt comfortable and ready to run straight from the off.
It’s a shame it comes up a half-size small, as I’m ready to run many more miles in it beyond the short-distance park runs and local quarry adventures that I’ve subjected it to so far.
I found the drop a good middle ground, and the ride bouncy; there was more of a feel for the ground underfoot in the forefoot area. The shoe feels a great deal more flexible and responsive than the budget-priced Hi-Tec Spirit and the Asics Trail Scout 2, both of which I also reviewed.
Reading the reviews online, it appears that while most people love this shoe, a significant number also found the heel rubbed high up on the ankle. I didn’t find this to be the case, but it’s definitely worth bearing this in mind and making sure you run and walk round the house in these for a day before you decide if they fit you correctly.
