Cost:
GBP
Weight:
g/pair
Miles used:
Miles
Times replaced:
Replacements
Watch video review
Review
Feel the trail
During the trail
More than halfway on the South Downs, I smashed my first ever 30-mile day in the Zantes, something I would’ve found impossible in a heavier shoe or boot. It was a great feeling knowing I’d made a choice in footwear which I believe enabled me to crush some miles. That said, blisters on my supple feet on their first thru appeared after about 85 miles. The cushion on the heel also began getting squashed to the inside of my step, causing my feet to fall unevenly.
Get a grip!
The grip on the sole is also very questionable for use on rough, wet or slippery terrain. With almost no tread or lugs to grip into the ground, it’s easy to slip on wet grass or mud. After the South Downs, the tread had all but disappeared.
Who are they for?
The New Balance Zante v3 are a very cheap solution for a light-weight, breathable trail shoe, but the lack of tread, gaiter traps and durability make them much more suited for suited for runners.
My verdict
For me, the best part was the discovery of the benefits of wearing lighter, more breathable footwear on trail. This sparked my curiosity to keep trying more footwear until I found something I was happy to buy over and over again, eventually landing on the Altra Lone Peak 4.0 about a year later which solved the issues above with the good grip and comfort on rough trail sections.
Gallery
Overview
- Durability 20%
- Comfort 40%
- Value for money 80%
BPros
- Light-weight
- Fast dry time
- Comfortable
- Cheap
- Breathable
CCons
- Very little grip
- Grip wears off quickly
- Had to size up
- No longer in the New Balance outlet
- No gaiter traps
Features
- Standard lace enclosure
- Fresh Foam mid-sole
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