TRIED &
TESTED Tried & Tested by THE MODERN ATHLETE TEAM
Leigh De Necker lacing up her New Balance FuelCell Venyms for a training run fussed with colours , as I am more focussed on function , and as an all-seasons ,
More Bounce for Your Buck
The New Balance FuelCell Venym v1 has replaced its predecessor , the FuelCell Summit Unknown , and become the go-to shoe for those looking for something nimble and lightweight for fast-trail racing . We asked New Balance-sponsored trail runner Leigh De Necker , a regular contributor to this magazine , to review the shoe for us .
all-terrain , all-conditions kind of runner , my trail shoes invariably end up brown and dirty anyway , but I love the Venym ’ s sleek , modern look and vibrant colour options , nonetheless . The upper is made of a lightweight , breathable mesh that keeps my feet cool , even during longer runs in warm weather , and having a broad foot , I find the fit more comfortable than its predecessor , with no rubbing or discomfort , even after hours on the trails .
Disclaimer : It is important to note that this is based on my personal experience using the shoes , and some views may not be shared with other athletes . After discussions with other New Balance trail runners , and despite the various awesome options made available to us by the brand , we all have different preferences in a shoe , linked to our very different feet , training and racing objectives and goals .
The New Balance FuelCell Summit Unknown has been a popular shoe with a lot of trail runners I know – many of the elite New Balance athletes I have spoken to have highlighted it as their favourite . I loved the shoe too , but not being a particularly fast runner ( I focus more on ultradistance ), and having a small , but broad foot , it meant the Summit Unknown was not the ideal shoe for my running preferences , and the relatively narrow toe-box was not the best fit for my feet . I , therefore favour the New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro range , as it is more accommodating to my broader feet and ultra trail distances .
However , I have been running in the New Balance FuelCell Venym , successor to the Summit Unknown , as my go-to training shoe for a few months now , and I must say , I have been thoroughly impressed – and pleasantly surprised – with its performance and ability to “ go the distance .” I prioritise comfort in my trail shoes , and the Venym immediately ticked that box . Overall , I have found it to be the perfect blend of performance , comfort , durability and stability , and I was able to run a lot further with them than I expected , on very technical , variable terrain , and in varying conditions .
Functional Performer
So , let ’ s talk about the design . Generally , I am not too
In terms of fit , I found that I had to go half a size up ( 5 UK ) on my usual shoe size ( 4.5 UK ) to accommodate my broader foot . This allowed for a roomier toe-box to accommodate my toes comfortably , but without feeling too loose , and the secure lacing system allowed me to achieve a snug fit .
Where the Venym truly shines for me is its performance , with the FuelCell midsole providing excellent cushioning and responsiveness , making each stride feel effortless . Whether navigating rocky terrain , smooth single track or bounding down steep descents , the shoe has enough cushioning to absorb impact , without compromising on stability , and provides a very smooth ride . The outsole features a durable rubber compound and lugs that deliver great traction on varied surfaces . I feel confident on Table Mountain ’ s variable and technical terrain , and the shoe offers stability , even on loose gravel , muddy patches , and rocks .
Call Me Impressed
After several months of regular use , I can attest to the Venym ’ s durability . The upper has shown minimal signs of wear and tear , and the outsole has maintained grip and traction , despite being used on Table Mountain ’ s treacherous terrain . Overall , the shoe has exceeded my expectations in terms of performance , comfort and stability . Whether you ’ re a casual trail enthusiast or a seasoned off-road runner , the Venym offers the features and technology needed to conquer any trail with confidence and comfort .
Leigh putting her Venyms to good use on the Cape Peninsula trails
GET THEM HERE :
The New Balance FuelCell Venym v1 retails at a recommended price of R2799 , and you can get them at most New Balance stockists , or order them online on www . newbalance . co . za .
Images : Courtesy New Balance & Leigh De Necker
50 ISSUE 169 | www . modernathlete . co . za