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New Balance 840 v5: Complete Review & Comparison Guide
In-depth review of the New Balance 840 v5. See how it compares to similar walking and fitness shoes, specs, pros, cons, and where to buy.

New Balance 840 v5: Complete Review & Comparison Guide
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Check your local running store or online retailers for availability.
Overview
The New Balance 840 v5 is New Balance's classic walking and fitness shoe—designed for runners and walkers who need exceptional width options and supportive, durable construction. With an industry-leading width range and traditional design, the 840 v5 serves athletes who value fit above all else.
This is the shoe for those who struggle to find proper fit elsewhere. The 840 v5's width range from narrow to extra-wide makes quality running shoes accessible to everyone.
Key Specifications
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Category | Daily Trainer |
| Cushion Level | Moderate |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 12mm |
| Weight (Men's/Women's) | 11.8oz / 10.2oz |
| Stack Height | 34mm heel / 22mm forefoot |
| Pronation Support | Neutral |
| Width Options | Narrow, Standard, Wide, Extra-Wide |
| MSRP | MSRP: $135 |
| Surface | Road |
What It's Known For
The 840 v5's comprehensive width range makes it the go-to shoe for runners and walkers with unusually wide or narrow feet. The traditional 12mm drop feels familiar to those transitioning from casual footwear, and the durable construction handles daily use without premature breakdown.
Runners with width requirements appreciate finally finding a shoe that fits properly—often after years of struggling with standard options.
Why Runners Love It
Pros
-
Many Widths: Full range from narrow to extra-wide.
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Supportive: Structured design provides stability.
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Durable: Built to handle consistent daily use.
What Some Runners Don't Like
Cons
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Heavy: At 11.8oz, not built for speed.
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Traditional Design: Lacks modern running technology.
Who Should Consider This Shoe
The New Balance 840 v5 is ideal for:
- Walkers and fitness runners (10-35 miles per week)
- 5K and general fitness distances
- Those with wide or narrow feet needing specific widths
- Runners seeking durable, supportive daily footwear
Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere
Consider other options if you:
- Want lightweight construction
- Prefer modern cushioning technology
- Run competitive distances
- Prioritize responsiveness
How It Compares: Cross-Brand Comparison
| Shoe | Cushion | Drop | Weight (M) | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Balance 840 v5 | Moderate | 12mm | 11.8oz | MSRP: $135 | Width options |
| Brooks Addiction GTS 15 | Moderate | 12mm | 11.5oz | MSRP: $150 | Motion control |
| ASICS Gel-Foundation 13 | High | 13mm | 13.2oz | MSRP: $140 | Max support |
| Saucony Cohesion 16 | Moderate | 12mm | 10.0oz | MSRP: $75 | Budget entry |
| Nike Air Monarch IV | Moderate | 10mm | 13.0oz | MSRP: $75 | Cross-training |
New Balance Lineup: Same-Brand Comparison
| Shoe | Cushion | Drop | Weight (M) | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Balance 840 v5 | Moderate | 12mm | 11.8oz | MSRP: $135 | Walking/fitness |
| New Balance 880 v14 | Moderate | 8mm | 10.0oz | MSRP: $140 | Running daily |
| New Balance 860 v14 | Moderate | 8mm | 10.6oz | MSRP: $140 | Running stability |
| New Balance 1080 v14 | High | 6mm | 10.1oz | MSRP: $165 | Premium running |
| New Balance Propel v5 | Moderate | 6mm | 8.8oz | MSRP: $110 | Budget speed |
Final Verdict
The New Balance 840 v5 delivers exceptional width options and durable, supportive construction for walkers and fitness runners who prioritize fit. It's the shoe that finally fits when others don't.
For runners and walkers with width requirements, the 840 v5 is an excellent choice.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Check your local running store or online retailers for availability.