New Balance has delivered a great shoe with the Zante in the performance training category.
The Zante steps up to provide the responsive and soft feel that was lacking in Fresh Foam namesake. Still listed as the model 1980 on the box, this # would indicate its premium feel to the shoes just like its cousin “1080", but has the ability to turnover like the "1400".
New for 2015 NB has adopted using names in-light of using their historic number configuration of the past, these names are from select exotic beaches around the world.
Zante, a beach in the Greek Isles, is the latest to be introduced into the Fresh Foam line. After the first couple of steps in the shoe you realize that the single density foam has a great balance under the foot. Complimented by the fit up the upper, the Bootie Construction locks the shoe around the foot with a spacious toe box and snug arch. Some may feel the false sense of arch in the shoe do to the fit, but remember this is a training flat, not a high volume trainer with a built up arch and structure.The VL-6 Performance Last fits similar to the famed Minimus line from seasons past.
The features in the Zante enable the performance feel that are desired, and additionally provide the high mileage cushioning that some enjoy. The only downfall to this in order to save weight and increase the soft feel, New Balance elected to use a "blown rubber" outsole. Adding to the feel of the shoe, this will take away from its durability over milage with the possibility of the rubber to succumb to abrasion.
Ideal for tempo workouts and hill repeats this shoe will deliver a comfortable performance during the effort and soft cushion during the recovery.