New Balance Propel V4: First Impressions of a Surprisingly Good Budget Trainer

Introduction

The New Balance Propel V4 arrives with one detail that immediately stands out: the price. At $110 and available now, it undercuts most of the shoes it competes with, and based on early mileage in the shoe, the lower price does not come with a cheap feel.

Who This Shoe Is For

This is a daily trainer with enough structure underfoot to handle more than just easy miles. One tester already had over 20 miles in the shoe during marathon training and came away impressed, especially after expecting a firm ride. Because of the plate and the slightly firmer foam, it can cover daily training and even some speed work or faster efforts.

If you want a single shoe to rotate through most of your week without spending premium-shoe money, this fits that role well.

Main Strengths

The biggest change is the foam. New Balance revamped the whole shoe and added a foam shared with the SC Trainer, its well-regarded daily trainer. The result feels bouncy without being too soft, and the rubber outsole helps keep it from feeling mushy. A TPU plate adds a firm but giving quality to the ride.

The forefoot has enough cushioning underneath that the balls of the feet feel protected on landing, and the new last with a different rocker toe-off makes the shoe feel smooth through the stride. There is also plenty of rubber on the bottom, which suggests solid durability.

The upper is straightforward and does not feel cheap, which is notable at this price point.

Things to Consider Before Buying

Not everything is perfect. One tester experienced a little heel slippage in the upper, though it was not bothersome and could be addressed with a lace lock. The other tester did not notice the issue at all.

It is also not quite a do-it-all shoe. There is enough bounce and pop for most running, but a little more energy off the toe would make faster days feel better.

Buying Advice

At $110, the Propel V4 is one of the better value picks in the daily trainer category right now. If you want a cushioned, slightly firm trainer that can handle easy days and some faster work, and you do not want to pay premium prices, it is easy to recommend.

Conclusion

The New Balance Propel V4 is a shockingly good shoe for the money: new foam, a TPU plate, a smooth rocker, plenty of rubber, and a price that is hard to argue with.