Adidas Women's X_PLR Path, Black/White/Black, 8.5 vs New Balance Women's Fresh Foam x Cruz V3 Running Shoe
Updated August 2026 — Adidas Women's X_PLR Path, Black/White/Black, 8.5 wins on comfort and breathability, New Balance Women's Fresh Foam x Cruz V3 Running Shoe wins on style and durability.
The Adidas Women's X_PLR Path offers better value and comfort at a lower price, while the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam x Cruz V3 excels in premium cushioning and versatility.
Why Adidas Women's X_PLR Path, Black/White/Black, 8.5 is better
Price
Adidas is $36.40 cheaper.
Sales Rank
Adidas has a better sales rank of 2513.
Weight
Adidas emphasizes lightweight construction.
Why New Balance Women's Fresh Foam x Cruz V3 Running Shoe is better
Cushioning
New Balance features Fresh Foam X technology.
Design
New Balance has a stylish patchwork theme.
Breathability
New Balance has a breathable knit upper.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | Adidas Women's X_PLR Path, Black/White/Black, 8.5 | New Balance Women's Fresh Foam x Cruz V3 Running Shoe |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | adidas | New Balance |
| Model | X_PLR Path | Fresh Foam x Cruz V3 |
| Upper | Mesh | Knit |
| Midsole | Cloudfoam | Fresh Foam X |
| Outsole | Rubber | Rubber |
Dimension comparison
Price Comparison
The Adidas Women's X_PLR Path is priced at $49.00, making it significantly cheaper than the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam x Cruz V3 Running Shoe, which retails for $85.40. This means the Adidas model is about 43% less expensive than its New Balance counterpart. For budget-conscious shoppers looking for running-inspired sneakers, the Adidas option presents a compelling value while still offering comfort and style.
Design and Aesthetics
When it comes to design, both the Adidas Women's X_PLR Path and the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam x Cruz V3 showcase stylish aesthetics that appeal to a wide audience. The Adidas model features a sleek black and white color scheme with textile and synthetic mesh for a modern look. Meanwhile, the New Balance shoe stands out with a patchwork theme, emphasizing versatility for both running and lifestyle wear. While personal preference will dictate which design appeals more, both shoes offer a fashionable option for everyday use.
Comfort Features
Comfort is a primary focus for both the Adidas Women's X_PLR Path and the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam x Cruz V3. The Adidas model is equipped with a Cloudfoam midsole that enhances step-in comfort and provides superior cushioning. On the other hand, the New Balance shoe features Fresh Foam X midsole technology, designed to deliver premium cushioning with every stride. The breathable knit upper of the New Balance shoe also aims to enhance comfort during runs. While both models prioritize comfort, the choice may come down to personal sensitivity to cushioning technologies.
Breathability
Breathability is an essential factor for running shoes, and both models excel in this area. The Adidas shoe boasts a textile and synthetic mesh upper, allowing for ample airflow and keeping feet cool during warmer weather. Similarly, the New Balance shoe features a breathable knit upper, further enhancing comfort for daily runs. Both options are designed to provide a comfortable experience, but the Adidas model specifically emphasizes lightweight construction, which may be preferable to those prioritizing a lighter feel.
Durability
Durability is crucial for running shoes, and both the Adidas Women's X_PLR Path and New Balance Women's Fresh Foam x Cruz V3 are designed to last. The Adidas shoe includes a rubber outsole that offers outstanding grip and a sleek, low-profile look, ensuring it can handle various surfaces. Conversely, the New Balance model also contains a durable rubber outsole, built to ensure lasting performance mile after mile. Both options promise a good lifespan, yet the choice might hinge on individual usage patterns and intended environments.
Versatility
Versatility is a key selling point for both shoes, making them suitable for a range of activities beyond just running. The Adidas Women's X_PLR Path is designed for everyday wear, making it a great option for casual outings in addition to workouts. The New Balance Women's Fresh Foam x Cruz V3 has a stylish design that caters to both running and lifestyle wear, offering flexibility in how it can be used. Overall, both shoes serve well in various contexts, appealing to those who desire functionality alongside style.
Sales Rank
In terms of popularity, the Adidas Women's X_PLR Path has a sales rank of 2513, which suggests that it is a well-received option among consumers. In contrast, the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam x Cruz V3 has a higher sales rank of 15925, indicating that it is less popular in comparison. This difference might suggest that the Adidas shoe is favored for its price and comfort features, while the New Balance shoe may appeal to a more niche market.
Which should you buy?
Ultimately, the decision between the Adidas Women's X_PLR Path and the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam x Cruz V3 boils down to individual preferences and priorities. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a focus on comfort and a stylish design, the Adidas model at $49.00 is a solid choice, especially given its popularity as reflected in its sales rank. Conversely, if premium cushioning and a versatile design for both running and lifestyle activities are your primary concerns, the New Balance shoe may justify its higher price of $85.40. Consider your specific needs, style preferences, and budget to determine which shoe aligns best with your lifestyle.

