New Balance Kid's Playgruv V1 Bungee Sneaker - Flexible Fit for Play

Our review of the New Balance Kid's Playgruv V1 Bungee Sneaker finds it is aimed squarely at active children who need an easy-on shoe that stays put during play. The single biggest reason to buy is the innovative bungee closure, which delivers a secure but flexible fit that handles running, jumping, and quick changes of direction without the hassle of laces. Lightweight synthetic uppers and a Ground Contact outsole combine to keep the shoe comfortable for long days at school or on the playground.

Key Features

• Synthetic upper: Provides a lightweight feel so kids move freely without added weight slowing them down.
• Bungee closure: Offers a secure, adjustable fit that is fast for kids to slip on and reduces time spent fumbling with laces.
• Ground Contact outsole: Delivers cushioning and a low-profile feel for natural movement while running and jumping.
• Seasonal color updates: Fresh colorways keep the sneaker visually appealing and easy to coordinate with casual outfits and athletic wear.
• Flexible fit: The overall design balances hold and freedom of movement so play is not restricted during active use.

Who It's For

The Playgruv V1 is best for younger children and elementary school age kids who spend a lot of time on playgrounds, in PE class, or at weekend activities and need a shoe that is quick to put on and stays comfortable all day. Parents who prefer an easy-care, lightweight sneaker with modern styling will appreciate the straightforward design and dependable outsole.

Those who need specialty support, custom orthotics, or a heavy-duty trail running shoe should look elsewhere, as this model emphasizes casual athletic play and ease of use over advanced stability features.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Quick on-and-off with the bungee closure that still holds well during active play.
• Lightweight synthetic upper keeps the shoe from feeling bulky throughout the day.
• Ground Contact outsole provides sensible cushioning for typical playground running and jumping.
• Updated seasonal colors make the shoe appealing to kids and easy to match with outfits.

Cons

• Not intended for specialized support or heavy trail use, so families needing orthotic-ready or rugged outdoor shoes may want a different model.

Specifications

Brand	New Balance
Model	PLAYGRUV V1
Upper material	Synthetic
Closure	Bungee closure
Outsole	Ground Contact outsole
Target use	Kids running and playground activity

Our Verdict

The New Balance Kid's Playgruv V1 Bungee Sneaker is a practical choice for parents who want a low-fuss, comfortable shoe for active kids. Its bungee closure and lightweight construction make it well suited to daily wear and playground use, offering good value for families seeking reliable casual athletic footwear without specialized support needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes easy for kids to put on?
Yes. The bungee closure is designed for quick on-and-off, which makes them ideal for younger children.

Do they work for running and gym class?
Yes. The Ground Contact outsole provides cushioning appropriate for running, jumping, and general gym activities.

Are these suitable for orthotics?
They are not marketed as orthotic-ready; families needing custom inserts should consider models designed for removable insoles and added support.