New Balance Running Shoes Technology Highlights

Though some manufacturers are overtly pointing out their latest technological marvels in their running shoes ad campaigns, New Balance is somewhat more laid back. But these proudly “Made in U.S.A” running shoes offer some very advanced technology that compares to other brands.

N-ergy

The N-ergy technology is a very advanced cushioning and shock absorption material on the New Balance 2009 line up. It is composed of materials that do not have empty air spaces inside. This prevents it from rapidly deteriorating compared to equivalent cushioning compounds in other brands of running shoes. Located primarily on the heel of the shoe this material allows the shoes to be extremely responsive. New Balance claims that runners get a very smooth transition from the point of impact to lift.

NB Zip

NB Zip is responsive cushioning technology that is found on the rear half of the outer sole. It is composed of a complex plastic strut system that performs different functions depending on the stage of the foot fall. The NB Zip is divided into zones that give impact protection and pronation support from heel strike to toe off.

Abzorb DTS

The Abzord Dynamic Transition System is composed of three different material layers on the New Balance running shoe sole. The outer Abzorb Foam, mid-layer Abzorb SPS and the New Balance engineered mid-sole foam makes up this tri-layer transition system. This allows a New Balance shoe to provide optimal cushioning and smooth transition during heel strike. The shoes go from a soft landing towards a firmer release during the strike. Reviews on New Balance running shoes are positive on effect of this very smooth heel impact.

N-Fuse

Much like the tri-layer Abzord DTS, the N-Fuse comes in layers as well. Although it is only composed of two layers the N-Fuse covers up the entire foot. New Balance calls the mid-soles dual density, with the inner foam providing soft cushioning while the layer underneath it providing structure and support. The result to the runner is a comfortable cushioned ride while providing the support needed to combat overpronation.

Rollbar

A surprising development in running shoe technology the New Balance Rollbar features a composite strut inside the heel assembly of the sole. This Rollbar travels from the lateral to medial side. In the full configuration this reaches from wall to wall. The Rollbar which is positioned at an angle from the lower lateral side to the upper inner side of the heel. It is unique in a way that a single component can both offer protection on both overpronation and underpronation.