New Balance Women's Fresh Foam x Cruz V3 Running Shoe vs Nike Women's Run Swift 3 Road Running Shoes,
Updated August 2026 — New Balance Women's Fresh Foam x Cruz V3 Running Shoe wins on cushioning and durability, Nike Women's Run Swift 3 Road Running Shoes, wins on stability and price.
The New Balance Women's Fresh Foam x Cruz V3 excels in cushioning and comfort, while the Nike Women's Run Swift 3 offers better stability and a lower price. Overall, the New Balance shoe is the better choice for comfort-focused runners.
Why New Balance Women's Fresh Foam x Cruz V3 Running Shoe is better
Cushioning
Advanced Fresh Foam X midsole technology
Design
Stylish patchwork theme suitable for lifestyle wear
Durability
Durable rubber outsole for lasting performance
Why Nike Women's Run Swift 3 Road Running Shoes, is better
Price
Slightly cheaper at $85.00
Stability
Flywire cables for secure fit
Bestseller Rank
Higher rank at 1,650 compared to 15,925
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | New Balance Women's Fresh Foam x Cruz V3 Running Shoe | Nike Women's Run Swift 3 Road Running Shoes, |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | New Balance | Nike |
| Current Price | $85.40 | $85.00 |
| Sales Rank | 15925 | 1650 |
| Cushioning Tech | Fresh Foam X | Foam cushioning |
| Upper Material | Knit | Not specified |
Dimension comparison
Overview of the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam x Cruz V3 and Nike Women's Run Swift 3
When comparing the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam x Cruz V3 Running Shoe and the Nike Women's Run Swift 3 Road Running Shoes, both options offer unique features tailored for runners. The New Balance shoe is priced at $85.40, while the Nike model is slightly cheaper at $85.00, making it about 0.5% less expensive. Both shoes are designed for comfort during runs, but they employ different technologies and features to achieve this.
Comfort and Cushioning
The New Balance Women's Fresh Foam x Cruz V3 emphasizes premium cushioning through its Fresh Foam X midsole technology, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize comfort in their daily runs. This shoe is designed to provide superior comfort with every stride, ensuring that runners feel supported over longer distances. In contrast, the Nike Women's Run Swift 3 features foam cushioning that offers a soft underfoot feel, with a heightened foam height designed for a plush sensation during runs. While both provide significant comfort, the New Balance shoe specifically highlights its advanced cushioning technology, giving it an edge in comfort.
Design and Aesthetics
Aesthetic appeal is an important aspect of running shoes, and both the New Balance and Nike models deliver stylish designs. The New Balance Women's Fresh Foam x Cruz V3 boasts a stylish patchwork theme, making it suitable for both running and lifestyle wear. On the other hand, the Nike Women's Run Swift 3 showcases a sleek design in a White/Black-Pearl Pink-Peony colorway, which is visually appealing for casual and athletic settings alike. Ultimately, the choice between the two may come down to personal style preference, as both shoes are crafted to be eye-catching.
Upper Material and Breathability
The New Balance Women's Fresh Foam x Cruz V3 features a breathable knit upper that enhances comfort and promotes airflow, making it ideal for warmer running conditions. This design ensures that runners can maintain a comfortable temperature during their workouts. Conversely, the Nike Women's Run Swift 3 focuses on stability with the inclusion of Flywire cables that secure the foot, but it does not specify its upper material. The emphasis on breathability in the New Balance model may give it an advantage for those looking to maximize comfort during hotter runs.
Durability and Performance
Durability is a key factor in the longevity of running shoes, and the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam x Cruz V3 is equipped with a durable rubber outsole that promises lasting performance mile after mile. This feature assures runners that they can rely on the shoe's construction for repeated use over time. The Nike Women's Run Swift 3 also aims for performance with its heel overlay for added security, making it stable during runs. However, without specific durability metrics, the New Balance shoe's focus on lasting materials could appeal more to those who prioritize durability in their footwear.
Fit and Stability
Fit and stability are crucial elements for any running shoe, and the Nike Women's Run Swift 3 excels in this area with its Flywire cables that help secure the foot when lacing up. This feature is particularly beneficial for runners who require additional support during their activities. While the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam x Cruz V3 does not highlight specific fit technologies, its overall design is aimed at providing comfort, although it may not offer the same level of security as the Nike model. For runners who value a secure fit, the Nike option may be more appealing.
Price Comparison
In terms of pricing, the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam x Cruz V3 is listed at $85.40, while the Nike Women's Run Swift 3 comes in at $85.00, making it about 0.5% cheaper. Despite the small price difference, budget-conscious consumers may lean towards the Nike model, especially since it has a lower average price over the past 90 days at $71.24. The price may influence some buyers, but the features and benefits of each shoe should also play a significant role in the decision-making process.
Bestselling Status
When considering popularity, the Nike Women's Run Swift 3 is ranked significantly higher on bestseller lists at 1,650, compared to the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam x Cruz V3, which ranks at 15,925. This indicates that the Nike model has garnered more attention and sales, suggesting that many runners find it appealing. While bestseller rank is not the sole indicator of quality, it can reflect user preferences and satisfaction.
Which should you buy?
Choosing between the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam x Cruz V3 and the Nike Women's Run Swift 3 ultimately hinges on your specific needs as a runner. If you prioritize advanced cushioning and a stylish design for everyday use, the New Balance model may be the better fit. However, if you seek stability and a slightly lower price point, the Nike option could be more appealing. Consider your personal preferences in comfort, design, durability, and fit before making a decision.

