New Balance Kids' 1440 V1 Lace-up Running Shoe (Style 8123)

Our review of the New Balance Kids' 1440 V1 Lace-up Running Shoe finds it best suited for active children who need a comfortable, well-cushioned shoe for daily play and running. The single biggest reason to buy is the Fresh Foam midsole cushioning, which delivers an ultra-cushioned yet lightweight ride and includes about 3% bio-based content for a small sustainability win. The shoe's snug bootie upper and Gore band closure combine with a TPU heel clip and wrapped rubber outsole to balance fit, support, and everyday durability.

Key Features

• Fresh Foam midsole: Provides ultra-cushioned, lightweight comfort that keeps energetic kids comfortable during extended play and short runs.
• Bio-based content: Approximately 3% of the midsole is made from renewable resources, reducing carbon footprint without changing the shoe's ride.
• Bootie upper construction: Hugs the foot for a snug, supportive fit that reduces internal slippage during activity.
• Gore band closure: Helps secure the fit quickly and keeps the foot locked in for active use.
• TPU heel clip: Adds a bold visual element and extra rearfoot support for stability on varied surfaces.
• Wrapped rubber outsole: Improves durability in high-wear areas so the shoe stands up to playground and sidewalk use.

Who It's For

The 1440 V1 is ideal for kids who are regularly active: playground explorers, after-school runners, and families who want a comfortable everyday athletic shoe with modern cushioning. Parents looking for accurate colors and a true-to-size fit will appreciate this shoe, as many customers report consistent sizing and a roomy toe box.

It may be less appropriate for children who need heavy-duty long-term durability for extreme wear, since customer feedback on longevity is mixed. Also, those who need removable orthotic-friendly designs should check fit carefully because the bootie construction is intended for a snug, integrated feel.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable, ultra-cushioned ride thanks to the Fresh Foam midsole.
• Snug, supportive fit from the bootie upper and Gore band closure.
• Good color accuracy and modern look that kids enjoy.
• Wrapped rubber outsole for added durability in key areas.

Cons

• Durability feedback is mixed, so some families may find lifespan varies with heavy use.
• Bootie construction can limit interior space for larger orthotics or specialized inserts.

Specifications

Brand	New Balance
Model	Kids' 1440 V1 Lace-up Running Shoe
Midsole	Fresh Foam with ~3% bio-based content
Closure	Gore band closure
Upper	Bootie construction for snug fit
Rear Support	TPU heel clip
Outsole	Wrapped rubber for added durability

Our Verdict

The New Balance Kids' 1440 V1 is a strong pick for active children who need cushioned comfort and a secure fit without extra weight. It offers notable value through comfortable Fresh Foam cushioning, good color accuracy, and supportive construction; just be aware that longevity may vary with very heavy use and that the snug bootie fit is not always ideal for bulky orthotics.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these true to size?
Most customers report they run true to size with a comfortable toe box, so ordering your child's usual size is generally recommended.

Is the midsole eco-friendly?
The midsole contains approximately 3% bio-based content made from renewable resources, helping reduce carbon footprint while keeping performance.

How durable are they?
The wrapped rubber outsole enhances durability, but customer feedback is mixed-some find they hold up well while others report shorter lifespan under heavy use.