New Balance Kids' Rave Run V2 Lace-Up Running Shoes - Cushioned Bold

In this review of the New Balance Kids' Rave Run V2 Lace-Up Running Shoes the bottom line is simple: these are a lightweight, kid-friendly running shoe best suited to active children who need everyday cushioning and breathable support. The single biggest reason to buy is the IMEVA midsole, which provides noticeably soft underfoot cushioning for playgrounds, P.E. class, and casual runs without weighing little feet down. The bold, colorful styling and no-sew overlays add durability and a clean look that appeals to kids while keeping construction simple.

Key Features

• Lightweight cushioning: The injection-molded EVA foam midsole delivers soft, responsive cushioning that reduces impact during play and short runs.
• Breathable upper: The lightweight mesh upper promotes airflow to help keep feet cool during active days.
• No-sew durability: No-sew tip and no-sew saddle minimize stitching points for a cleaner build that resists early fraying.
• Underfoot support: The no-sew saddle provides midfoot stability so the shoe stays comfortable through multiple activities.
• All-day wear sole: A durable rubber outsole is designed to withstand repeated wear across playground surfaces and sidewalks.

Who It's For

The Rave Run V2 is aimed at parents shopping for elementary-aged children who need a comfortable, easy-to-wear athletic shoe for school, after-school activities, and casual running. Kids who prefer bright colors and a sport-inspired look will especially like the kid-friendly design and variety of colorways.

Children with wide feet may find a good fit, as customers report a roomy, comfortable toe box. Those needing specialist running shoes for long-distance training or reinforced work boots for heavy-duty rough play should look elsewhere, since this model is designed primarily for everyday cushioning and light performance use.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Lightweight IMEVA midsole provides soft, comfortable cushioning for daily wear.
• Breathable mesh upper keeps feet cooler during active play.
• No-sew overlays offer a clean look and reduced points of failure compared with heavy stitching.
• Durable rubber outsole stands up to regular playground and sidewalk use.

Cons

• Durability feedback is mixed; some customers report wear issues after heavy use.
• Laces have mixed reports on staying tied, so parents may prefer double-knotting for younger children.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The New Balance Kids' Rave Run V2 is a solid choice for parents who want a lightweight, cushioned everyday athletic shoe that looks fun and performs well for school and casual play. It offers strong value through comfortable IMEVA cushioning and breathable construction, though shoppers who need extreme durability or specialized running features should consider other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for wide feet?
Yes, many customers report a comfortable fit for wider feet, thanks to the mesh upper and roomy toe box.

Do the laces stay tied during play?
Reports are mixed; some say the laces hold well while others recommend double-knotting for active kids.

How durable are these for daily wear?
The rubber outsole and no-sew construction improve durability, but customer feedback varies with some experiencing faster wear under heavy use.