Although some manufacturers are openly pointing out their latest technological marvels in their running shoe ad campaigns, New Balance is somewhat more laid back. But these proudly “Made in the USA” running shoes offer some very advanced technology that is compared to other brands.
N-ergy
N-ergy technology is a highly advanced cushioning and shock absorption material in the 2009 New Balance line. It is made up of materials that do not have empty air spaces inside. This prevents it from deteriorating quickly compared to equivalent cushioning compounds in other brands of running shoes. Located primarily in 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 point of impact to take-off.
postal note
NB Zip is a responsive cushioning technology found in the rear half of the outsole. It is made up of a complex system of plastic struts that performs different functions depending on the stage of foot drop. The NB Zip is zoned to provide impact protection and pronation support from heel strike to toe-off.
Abzorb DTS
The Abzord Dynamic Transition System is made up of three different layers of material on the sole of New Balance shoes. Upper Abzorb foam, Abzorb SPS midlayer and New Balance engineered midsole foam make up this three-layer transition system. This allows New Balance shoes to provide optimal cushioning and a smooth transition during heel strike. The shoes go from a soft landing to a firmer release during the strike. Reviews of New Balance running shoes are positive about the effect of this soft impact on the heel.
N-Fuse
Like the three-layer Abzord DTS, the N-Fuse also comes in layers. Although it is only made up of two layers, the N-Fuse covers the entire foot. New Balance calls the midsoles dual-density, with the foam inside providing soft cushioning while the layer underneath provides structure and support. The result for the runner is a comfortable, cushioned ride while providing the necessary support to combat overpronation.
Anti roll bar
A striking development in running shoe technology, the New Balance Rollbar features a composite strut within the heel assembly of the sole. This Rollbar travels from the lateral to the medial side. In the full configuration this goes from wall to wall. The Rollbar which is placed at an angle from the lower lateral side to the upper inner side of the heel. It is unique in that a single component can offer protection in both overpronation and underpronation.
