New Balance Women's 840 V5 Running Shoe - Plush ABZORB Cushioning

Our review of the New Balance Women's 840 V5 Running Shoe finds it best suited to women who want a dependable, cushioned road trainer that balances comfort and support. The single biggest reason to buy is the plush ABZORB midsole, which provides durable underfoot cushioning that responds well to a range of foot types and running paces. Built with a breathable mesh upper and a stretch panel, the W840V5 aims to deliver a secure fit without feeling stiff, making it an easy choice for daily training runs and longer recovery miles.

Key Features

• ABZORB midsole: Delivers lasting cushioning and shock absorption to help reduce fatigue on road runs.
• Breathable mesh upper: Promotes airflow to keep feet cooler during extended workouts and warm-weather runs.
• Stretch panels: Provide a comfortable, adaptive fit that reduces hot spots and allows natural foot movement.
• Supportive construction: Offers stability for neutral to mild overpronators without adding excessive weight.
• Durability-focused outsole: Designed to withstand road mileage while maintaining traction on pavement.

Who It's For

The W840V5 is aimed at recreational runners and walkers who prioritize a plush, reliable ride over race-day speed. It suits women who log regular miles on pavement, run easy to moderate paces, or need a forgiving shoe for recovery days and long aerobic sessions.

Runners seeking a lightweight racing shoe, maximalist cushioning, or highly technical motion control should look elsewhere. Trail runners or those who need aggressive lateral stability for high-intensity sports will also want a more specialized option.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable, responsive ABZORB cushioning that eases impact on longer runs.
• Breathable mesh upper with stretch provides a soft, adaptable fit.
• Stable ride suitable for everyday road training and recovery miles.

Cons

• Not optimized for fast racing or trail surfaces, so performance-oriented speedseekers may want a different model.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The New Balance Women's 840 V5 is a practical, good-value running shoe for women who want dependable cushioning and a comfortable fit for regular road miles. Its ABZORB midsole and breathable upper make it versatile for daily training and recovery runs, offering a balance of comfort and stability that makes it worth considering for non-competitive runners.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for long runs?
Yes, the ABZORB midsole provides cushioning suited to longer road runs and recovery days.

Do they run narrow or wide?
The mesh upper with stretch panels offers an adaptive fit that accommodates a range of foot widths, though exact fit varies by foot shape.

Are they suitable for trail running?
They are designed for road running and everyday training; for trails, a shoe with a more aggressive outsole is recommended.