New Balance Kids' Rave Run V2 Lace-Up Running Shoes (Style PY95)

Our review of the New Balance Kids' Rave Run V2 Lace-Up Running Shoes finds them best for active children who need a comfortable everyday running shoe with playful styling. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of a lightweight IMEVA midsole and breathable mesh upper that delivers noticeable underfoot cushioning without weighing small feet down, making them ideal for school, playgrounds and short runs. The shoes balance soft comfort and a bold, kid-friendly look while offering practical touches like a no-sew tip and a rubber outsole built for frequent wear.

Key Features

• Lightweight IMEVA midsole: Provides cushioned underfoot support that reduces impact during play and short runs, helping little legs feel less fatigued.
• Breathable mesh upper: Keeps feet ventilated during active days to help manage sweat and maintain comfort in warm conditions.
• No-sew tip: Reinforces the toe area for added durability in a common high-wear zone without adding bulk.
• No-sew saddle: Offers midfoot support and structure without irritating seams, so the shoe stays comfortable for longer wear sessions.
• Durable rubber outsole: Provides reliable traction and stands up to everyday scuffs, making these suitable for playground surfaces and pavement.

Who It's For

These sneakers are aimed at kids who need a lightweight, cushioned shoe for daily activity-parents looking for comfortable shoes that are easy to wear all day will appreciate the soft midsole and breathable upper. They work well for children with slightly wider feet since customers report a generally accommodating fit.

Families seeking heavy-duty athletic footwear for competitive running or extreme rough play may want to look elsewhere, as some customers report mixed long-term durability. If lace security is a top priority, consider styles with hook-and-loop closure or reinforced lacing options, since lace tieability was mixed in feedback.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable cushioning from the lightweight IMEVA midsole that supports active kids.
• Breathable mesh upper keeps feet cooler during play and daily wear.
• No-sew construction at the tip and saddle adds durability and reduces irritation.
• Attractive, kid-friendly designs and color variety that children like.

Cons

• Durability feedback is mixed, with some reports of early wear for a minority of users.
• Lace tieability received mixed reviews, so laces may require occasional double-knotting for certain children.

Specifications

Brand	New Balance
Model	Rave Run V2 Lace-Up
Midsole	Injection-molded EVA (IMEVA) cushioning
Upper	Lightweight breathable mesh with no-sew tip and no-sew saddle
Outsole	Durable rubber
Intended use	Kids performance running and everyday activity

Our Verdict

The New Balance Rave Run V2 is a solid value for parents seeking a comfortable, lightweight running shoe with a fun look and dependable everyday performance. It is a smart pick for school and playground use thanks to breathable materials and IMEVA cushioning, but families who need extreme longevity or guaranteed lace security should compare other closure options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do these shoes run true to size?
Most customers report a true-to-size fit and note they work well for slightly wider feet, but check your child's usual size before buying.

Are they durable for daily playground use?
The rubber outsole and no-sew reinforcements hold up for many children, though durability feedback is mixed and a small number of users reported early wear.

Are the shoes breathable for warm weather?
Yes, the lightweight mesh upper helps ventilation and keeps feet more comfortable during active, warm-weather wear.