New Balance Mens Fresh Foam Contend V2 - Comfortable

Our review of the New Balance Mens Fresh Foam Contend V2 finds it best suited for golfers and walkers who prioritize cushioning and stable support over lightweight race speed. The single biggest reason to consider these shoes is the Fresh Foam midsole, which delivers a cloud-like, ultra-cushioned ride that helps reduce fatigue on long rounds or extended walks. Built with a waterproof performance mesh upper and a molded CUSH+ insole, the Contend V2 aims to combine comfort, stability, and weather protection for all-day wear on the course.

Key Features

• Waterproof performance mesh upper: Keeps feet drier in wet conditions while remaining breathable for comfort during long walks.
• FantomFit ultralight support: Provides structure and lockdown without adding stiffness, helping maintain natural movement.
• Fresh Foam midsole (10mm drop): Offers plush cushioning and medial arch support to promote proper alignment and reduce impact on the heel.
• Smart rubber spikeless outsole: Uses pressure mapping colors to highlight performance zones and delivers reliable traction without metal spikes.
• Molded CUSH+ insole: Adds an extra layer of cushioning for superior daylong comfort on the course or while walking.
• 2 year waterproof warranty: Provides reassurance the waterproofing is backed for extended use in wet conditions.

Who It's For

The Contend V2 is ideal for golfers who walk the course, players who need enhanced cushioning for long rounds, and anyone who wants a stable, supportive shoe with weather protection. It suits golfers who prefer a softer underfoot feel and value a shoe that reduces impact on hips and knees during long walks.

Those who want a very narrow, race-type fit or a minimalist, super-lightweight trainer should look elsewhere, as some users report mixed fit impressions and the design favors cushioning and stability over minimal weight. If maximum dirt resistance on dry, dusty ranges is a primary concern, consider alternatives with different upper coatings.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Exceptional underfoot comfort thanks to the Fresh Foam midsole and molded CUSH+ insole.
• Reliable waterproofing with a two year warranty for wet-weather rounds.
• Stable feel and good medial support that helps with alignment while walking the course.
• Spikeless outsole gives versatile traction on turf and off-course use.

Cons

• Fit can run small for some wearers, so trying before buying or ordering a half size up may be necessary.
• Some customers reported less than ideal dirt resistance on certain surfaces.

Specifications

Brand	New Balance
Model	Fresh Foam Contend V2
Upper	Waterproof performance mesh with FantomFit support
Midsole	Fresh Foam, 10mm drop
Insole	Molded CUSH+
Outsole	Smart rubber spikeless with pressure mapping zones
Warranty	2 year waterproof warranty

Our Verdict

The New Balance Fresh Foam Contend V2 is a strong choice for golfers who walk and need superior cushioning and stability; its waterproof upper and supportive midsole make it good value for frequent players. Those seeking a narrow race fit or maximum dirt resistance may prefer other models, but for comfort, support, and reliable wet-weather performance the Contend V2 delivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes fully waterproof?
They use a waterproof performance mesh and come with a two year waterproof warranty, though some users report mixed real-world impressions.

Do they provide good cushioning for walking 18 holes?
Yes, the Fresh Foam midsole and molded CUSH+ insole offer cloud-like cushioning ideal for walking long rounds.

Should I size up or down?
Fit is mixed; some wearers find them wide while others report they run small, so trying on or ordering a half size up is advisable if between sizes.