Inspired by the graffiti artists of New York City, this limited edition New Balance 860v3 trainers lights up the streets with its bright neon green and yellow design.

The shoe incorporates a shot of the skyline, name of each of the 5 boroughs of New York City and even has the NB logo inscribed within an apple, a reference to the city’s alias, the “Big Apple”.

First Impressions

I have always been the advocate of running fashionably. I know I will never finish first in a race, so I try to make sure I finish in style. As I write this post, it is coincidentally New York Fashion Week, a gentle reminder of the city’s great fashion influence.

Upon opening the box, the bright bold colours jumped out at me. It made me doubt for a moment, whether I would look like a clown in these shoes, then I remembered seeing countless runners wearing neon shoes in New York City.

As I laced up the shoes for the very first time, I felt like running shoe makers are finally realising that runners want to look good too.

Upper Unit

The upper is a synthetic mesh that is light and comfortable. The shoe is well lined and did not cause any blisters to my feet. The toebox depth has been reduced from the previous version, giving the shoe a leaner side profile but not compromising on comfort. At the same time, the forefoot width has also been made narrow to reduce lateral forefoot movement.

The shoe fits snugly to my feet and was comfortable even over longer distances.

Sole Unit

The sole unit uses New Balance’s ABZORB® cushioning in the midfoot, providing exception shock absorption. It also comprises of the T-beam lightweight, flexible TPU shank to deliver stability and arch support.

While the midfoot felt slightly stiff, the shoe proved to be very comfortable from the first run. It gives excellent support and cushioning, protecting the joints and muscles of the runner.

After a few runs, the shoes became even more comfortable as I felt it moulded to my feet.

For a pair of trainers, I must say that it is not the lightest of the lot but New Balance has used ACTEVA™ LITE premium lightweight midsole to reduce the weight of the shoes. This technology is 24% lighter than standard foam while still providing optimal resistance to compression.

Outsole Unit

The blown rubber outsole is flexible, light and great on the roads. The shoe gives a sturdy, stable run.

Most of us who work often end up running at night. The “flashiness” of the shoes not only makes them look good, it doubles up as a safety feature. The shoes might help you stay accident free while running on the roads.

These shoes are comfortable and would work well as the everyday trainers. It is sturdy and stable and can definitely take the daily miles. I thought I would run as fast as the flash with these shoes. As it turns out, I run slower so other runners can get a good look at these beauties.

Runner’s boon

1. Smooth and stable ride
2. Comfortable for long distances
3. Bright, bold design

Runner’s bane

1. Slightly heavy
2. Midfoot could be more flexible, takes a while to break into the shoes