New Balance Kid's Fresh Foam Roav V1 Lace-up Running Shoe (Style KH8W)

In this review of the New Balance Kid's Fresh Foam Roav V1 Lace-up Running Shoe the bottom line is simple: these are a comfortable, lightweight daily trainer best suited for kids who need responsive cushioning and a snug heel fit. The reviewer found the Fresh Foam midsole delivers plush comfort without heavy weight, while the bootie-style upper and Ultra Heel lock the foot in place for active use. For families seeking an easy-to-wear shoe for school, running, and long walks, the Roav V1 balances comfort and support with a durable outsole for regular use.

Key Features

• Fresh Foam midsole: Provides ultra-cushioned yet lightweight ride that keeps kids comfortable on long walks and short runs.
• Synthetic/mesh upper: Keeps the shoe breathable and flexible while maintaining structure for everyday wear.
• Bootie upper construction: Hugs the foot for a snug, supportive fit that reduces slippage during play.
• Ultra Heel design: Secures the back of the foot for added stability on quick changes of direction.
• NDurance rubber outsole: Adds durability in high-wear areas so the shoe holds up to regular outdoor use.

Who It's For

The Roav V1 is aimed at kids who need a comfortable, neutral cushioned shoe for school days, playground time, and casual running. It suits children who prefer a secure heel and a snug overall fit, and it works well for families that want a single shoe for multiple activities rather than specialty cleats or trail shoes.

Those looking for heavy-duty trail protection or the maximum long-term longevity in extreme wear conditions should look elsewhere; durability concerns have been mentioned by some customers. Also, kids who require very stiff motion control features for severe overpronation may need a different model with explicit stability technologies.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable, plush ride from the Fresh Foam midsole that still feels light on the foot.
• Secure fit thanks to bootie construction and the Ultra Heel that reduce heel slip.
• Versatile outsole with NDurance rubber for everyday durability on pavement and playground surfaces.
• Breathable synthetic/mesh upper that balances support and airflow.

Cons

• Some customers report concerns about long-term durability if subjected to very heavy daily wear.
• Not a specialized performance trail or stability shoe, so it may not meet every athletic need.

Specifications

Brand	New Balance
Model	Fresh Foam Roav V1 Lace-up
Upper	Synthetic/mesh
Midsole	Fresh Foam cushioning
Heel design	Ultra Heel for secure fit
Outsole	NDurance rubber technology
Intended use	Running, everyday wear, playground

Our Verdict

The New Balance Kid's Fresh Foam Roav V1 is a solid everyday trainer for children who need lightweight cushioning and a snug, supportive fit. It offers good value for families seeking a versatile shoe for school, running, and general activity, though buyers who need extreme durability or specialized stability should consider alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these true to size?
Many customers report the shoe fits as expected, with a comfortable room for growing feet; ordering the usual kid size is generally fine.

How breathable is the upper?
The synthetic/mesh upper provides good breathability for daily wear and active use, helping reduce overheating on warm days.

Will the outsole hold up to frequent outdoor play?
The NDurance rubber outsole improves durability in high-wear areas, but some users note heavy daily use can still show wear over time.