Brooks Women’s Glycerin 23 Neutral Running Shoe - vs New Balance Women's Fresh Foam Roav Running

Price Comparison

The Brooks Women’s Glycerin 23 is priced at $159.99, making it significantly more expensive than the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Roav, which retails for $79.99. This difference of $80 represents about a 50% price reduction for the New Balance model, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious runners. While both shoes offer their own unique features, the substantial price gap indicates that the Brooks model is positioned as a premium choice, likely catering to serious runners who prioritize advanced technology and comfort.

Comfort and Cushioning

When it comes to comfort and cushioning, the Brooks Women’s Glycerin 23 excels with its nitrogen-infused DNA TUNED midsole, providing plush cushioning that enhances the running experience. This shoe is designed for neutral runners seeking smooth performance, making it ideal for long runs and daily training. In contrast, the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Roav utilizes a fresh foam midsole that also offers plush cushioning but is geared more towards casual runners. While both shoes promise comfort, the enhanced cushioning in the Brooks model may appeal more to those who log higher mileage or require additional support during longer runs.

Design and Aesthetics

In terms of design, the Brooks Women’s Glycerin 23 features a stylish white, phantom, and cyber pink color scheme, offering a modern look that stands out. Its engineered upper is designed for a plush fit, conforming to the foot while reducing pressure during extended wear. The New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Roav sports a sleek black and light aluminum color palette, giving it a more understated appearance. Its bootie construction provides a sock-like feel, adding to the overall comfort. While both shoes have distinctive designs, the choice largely depends on personal style preference.

Fit and Support

The Brooks Women’s Glycerin 23 is engineered with a triple jacquard warp-knit upper that ensures a secure, comfortable fit. It aims to reduce hot spots and pressure points, making it suitable for longer runs. On the other hand, the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Roav features an Ultra Heel design that targets support and promises a secure fit. Additionally, its removable insole with arch support allows for customization according to individual foot shapes. Both shoes prioritize fit and support, but the Brooks model may have a slight edge for those who prefer a more enveloping feel during their runs.

Durability

Durability is a critical factor for runners, and both models are built with longevity in mind. The Brooks Women’s Glycerin 23 is noted for its high-mileage comfort, making it suitable for daily wear, while the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Roav employs NDurance outsole technology that promises to withstand road miles and daily usage. Given that the New Balance model has a lower price point, it offers a more cost-effective choice without sacrificing too much in terms of durability. However, serious runners may lean towards the Brooks for its reputation of lasting through extensive training.

Performance

In terms of performance, the Brooks Women’s Glycerin 23 supports smooth and stable transitions, thanks to its wide platform and midsole sculpting. This feature is particularly beneficial for runners who appreciate a balanced movement throughout their runs. Conversely, the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Roav, while offering good cushioning, is tailored more for casual running. Its bootie construction enhances comfort but may not provide the same level of performance as the Brooks model. Therefore, for those prioritizing performance in their running shoes, the Brooks may be the more suitable option.

Brand Reputation

Both Brooks and New Balance have established reputations in the running community. Brooks is often recognized for its innovation in running shoe technology, particularly for neutral runners, as evidenced by the Glycerin 23 being a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and carrying the APMA Seal of Acceptance. New Balance, meanwhile, is known for creating accessible and comfortable running footwear suitable for a wide audience. While the brand loyalty may play a role in purchasing decisions, the advanced features of the Brooks Women’s Glycerin 23 may sway serious runners towards its higher price point.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the Brooks Women’s Glycerin 23 and the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Roav ultimately hinges on your running needs and budget. If you are a serious runner seeking premium cushioning, performance, and durability, the Brooks model is worth the investment at $159.99. However, if you are looking for a more budget-friendly option that still provides comfort and decent cushioning for casual runs, the New Balance at $79.99 is an excellent choice. Ultimately, both shoes cater to different segments of the running community, and your choice should reflect your specific requirements and running style.