{"product_id":"new-balance-kids-fuelcell-play-v1-hook-and-loop-running-shoes-feel","title":"New Balance Kids' FuelCell Play V1 Hook and Loop Running Shoes feel","description":"\u003cp\u003eOur review of the New Balance Kids' FuelCell Play V1 finds a durable, trail-ready sneaker best suited for active children who need responsive cushioning and solid protection. The single biggest reason to buy is the FuelCell midsole foam that delivers a noticeably propulsive feel while remaining light enough for everyday play, making these shoes a reliable choice for playground races, short trail walks, and general outdoor exploration. The construction balances grip, toe protection, and durability without feeling bulky.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eKey Features\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFuelCell midsole:\u003c\/strong\u003e Provides a springy, propulsive feel that helps kids push off during sprints and quick direction changes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBio-based content:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 3% renewable material in the midsole reduces environmental impact without changing the shoe's performance.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eToe Protect technology:\u003c\/strong\u003e Shields toes from rocks, roots and debris so little feet can scramble over rough ground with more confidence.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFull rubber outsole:\u003c\/strong\u003e Includes a heel kick and sidewall wrap to improve traction and resist wear on dirt paths and playground surfaces.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTactical, durable upper:\u003c\/strong\u003e Mesh with textured rubber and grippy overlays stands up to frequent use while keeping the shoe breathable.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch2\u003eWho It's For\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThese shoes are aimed at children who spend a lot of time running, climbing, or exploring outdoors and need a pair that combines responsive cushioning with rugged protection. They suit parents who want a single shoe that works as both an everyday sneaker and a light trail shoe for hikes or backyard adventures.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eKids who need very cushioned long-distance running shoes, or those who prefer slip-on designs without hook-and-loop closures, may prefer a different model. Also, families seeking fully vegan or higher bio-content footwear should look elsewhere since only a portion of the midsole contains bio-based material.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003ePros \u0026amp; Cons\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePros\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eResponsive \u003cstrong\u003eFuelCell cushioning\u003c\/strong\u003e gives a lively ride that helps with quick movements.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDurable upper with textured overlays stands up to rough play and frequent wear.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOverall construction offers good traction from the full rubber outsole for varied surfaces.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCons\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003eHook-and-loop strap can twist for some users, so adults should check fit and alignment periodically.\u003c\/li\u003e\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch2\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBrand\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNew Balance\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eModel\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFuelCell Play V1 Hook and Loop\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMidsole\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFuelCell foam with ~3% bio-based content\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eUpper\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMesh with textured rubber and grippy overlays\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOutsole\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFull rubber with heel kick and sidewall wrap\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eProtection\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eToe Protect technology\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\u003ch2\u003eOur Verdict\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe FuelCell Play V1 is a solid value for parents who need a single go-to shoe for energetic kids; its responsive midsole and protective features mean kids move confidently while the durable upper and rubber outsole handle frequent outdoor use. Recommended for playgrounds, short trails, and everyday wear where traction and toe protection matter most.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDo these run true to size?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCustomers report a generally true-to-size fit that works well for wider feet, but trying them on is recommended if your child is between sizes.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs the velcro strap durable?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFeedback is mixed: many users find the strap long-lasting, though some note it can twist and may need occasional adjustment.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAre these suitable for trails?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eYes, the full rubber outsole with sidewall wrap and Toe Protect make them suitable for light trail walks and rough playground surfaces.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"New Balance","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48236195086555,"sku":"B0D2J87YSW","price":64.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0724\/1043\/1707\/files\/51-ffl31AUL._AC_SL1000_f8b8deef-7ec5-4f26-9ba4-3108beff0080.jpg?v=1770907578","url":"https:\/\/gearmusthave.com\/products\/new-balance-kids-fuelcell-play-v1-hook-and-loop-running-shoes-feel","provider":"GearMustHave","version":"1.0","type":"link"}