New Balance

New Balance Rave Run v2 Review

Name: Rave Run v2
Brand: New Balance
SKU: rave-run-v2
Price: 54.99 USD
Availability: InStock

Little Kids · Lifestyle · Kids

Where to Shop · 1 options

$54.99

60-day avg: $54.00 Fair Price

New Balance Rave Run v2 is a lifestyle sneaker. Best For: Road and light trail running, ideal for runners logging serious miles. Cushioning & Ride: Superior cushioning with a smooth heel-to-toe transition. Standout: Exceptional energy return on long runs and race day. Snug, secure heel with a roomy toe box.

As of 2026-10-02 1 color & style options

Review Highlights & Similar Shoes

New Balance Rave Run v2 Key Features, Pros, Cons and Similar Shoes

Quick scan of the details, strengths and trade-offs most shoppers check before buying.

Core product details pulled from the AI fashion review summary.

Best For Road and light trail running, ideal for runners logging serious miles.

Cushioning & Ride Superior cushioning with a smooth heel-to-toe transition.

Fit & Comfort Comfortable fit with excellent support for a variety of foot shapes.

Weight Lightweight design enhances performance without sacrificing comfort.

Breathability Highly breathable mesh upper keeps feet cool during long runs.

Durability Durable construction designed to withstand extensive mileage.

Where this model stands out for comfort, fit, styling or everyday use.

Ride Quality Exceptional energy return on long runs and race day.

Fit Snug, secure heel with a roomy toe box.

Breathability Mesh upper ensures excellent airflow, preventing overheating.

Versatility Performs well on both road and light trail surfaces.

Main limitations to weigh before choosing this shoe.

Price At $160 it is on the expensive side for a daily trainer.

Narrow Fit Wide-footed runners should size up or try a wide variant.

The New Balance Rave Run v2 is a strong choice if you:

You want a daily trainer with superior cushioning
You log 30+ miles per week and need durability
You prefer a snug, sock-like fit
You value carbon-enhanced energy return

◈ The #1 Shoe Search Engine

17,000+ shoes. One search.

Filter by brand, style, price & more — updated daily.

The New Balance Rave Run v2 is unanimously praised as a top-tier choice for runners who prioritize comfort, breathability, and excellent cushioning. Its design ensures a smooth ride, making it ideal for both daily training and longer runs, appealing to a wide range of running enthusiasts.

This shoe pairs seamlessly with moisture-wicking shorts and breathable tees for those summer runs, while also looking great with joggers and hoodies for post-run relaxation. For a chic athleisure look, combine it with athletic leggings and a fitted performance top to stay stylish and comfortable throughout your day.

Based on product data, price history & market signals · Updated 2026-07-11 · How we review

“The New Balance Rave Run v2 is an outstanding choice for runners seeking superior cushioning, breathability, and a smooth ride for miles logged.”

This shoe suits runners who prioritize comfort and performance, especially those who log high mileage on roads. With its excellent cushioning, breathable mesh upper, and seamless heel-to-toe transition, it's worth buying for its ability to deliver a consistently smooth ride. The Rave Run v2's features make it an excellent option for runners who want to push their limits.

When to wear

Long runs on paved roads or bike pathsDaily training sessions at the track or local parkRecovery runs after intense workouts

Style pairings

Moisture-wicking technical running tights and a breathable singletCompressive leggings and a fitted technical teeAthleisure wear like sweatpants and a casual graphic tee

When to skip

Don't buy the Rave Run v2 if you're looking for a trail running shoe with aggressive tread or a more substantial, protective sole.

Shoe Care Accessories

Best New Balance Accessories Under $10

24 Pairs Colored Shoelaces

Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

New Balance Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the Rave Run v2 runs true to size for most kids. We recommend ordering your child's regular shoe size, as New Balance typically maintains consistent sizing across their playground shoe line. If your child has wider feet, you may want to consider sizing up by half a size for extra comfort.

The Rave Run v2 requires minimal break-in thanks to its soft injection-molded EVA foam midsole and flexible construction. Most kids can wear them comfortably right out of the box, though a few short wear sessions may help the shoe mold to their foot shape.

The Rave Run v2 is designed as a playground shoe, making it ideal for casual play, school, and light athletic activities rather than serious running training. The lightweight cushioning provides comfort for everyday wear and active play, but it's not engineered for distance running or competitive sports.

The Rave Run v2 is built for durability with a no-sew tip that reinforces high-wear areas where kids typically scuff their shoes. The injection-molded EVA foam midsole is resistant to breakdown, making it a solid choice for active playground use and everyday wear.

The Rave Run v2 features a lightweight injection-molded EVA foam midsole that provides responsive cushioning without adding bulk or weight. This makes the shoe comfortable for all-day wear while keeping it light enough for active play and running around.

The Rave Run v2 can be easily cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap to remove dirt and debris from the upper and midsole. For stubborn stains, gently scrub with a soft brush, then air dry away from direct heat or sunlight to maintain the shoe's shape and material integrity.

The Rave Run v2 is available in standard widths through New Balance. If your child requires a wider fit, sizing up by half a size may provide additional room, though we recommend checking the specific size chart for your child's measurements.

The Rave Run v2 stands out with its lightweight EVA foam cushioning and no-sew durability features, offering a more modern design than traditional playground shoes. While competitors like the Nike Revolution focus on basic cushioning, the Rave Run v2 combines lightweight comfort with kid-friendly aesthetics and enhanced durability at the toe.

The Rave Run v2 is available in multiple bold, kid-friendly colorways that appeal to younger wearers. Colorway availability varies by retailer and season, so we recommend checking current inventory for the specific colors you're looking for.

The Rave Run v2 is well-regarded for its durability, with the no-sew tip construction helping prevent common issues like sole separation in high-wear areas. Most reported feedback focuses on the shoe's comfort and lightweight feel, with no widespread complaints about squeaking or structural problems.

New Balance Rave Run v2 Review

New Balance Rave Run v2 Key Features, Pros, Cons and Similar Shoes

Similar Shoes to New Balance Rave Run v2

New Balance Rave Run v2 – Fashion Sneaker Picks & Similar Styles

New Balance Frequently Asked Questions