by Andrew Whitinger
With this year’s update to the Beacon, New Balance has made a few key changes that improve on last year’s model while keeping the key features that made the v2 so popular among many runners. The Beacon v3 is a lightweight trainer that is great for tempo runs, workouts, long runs, and dare is say it, daily training. This year’s version of the Beacon has a Fresh Foam X midsole that provides a responsive and soft ride under foot. Version 3 has also increased the stack height from Version 2 to provide a soft, bouncy feel.
The Beacon v3 weighs in at 232 grams (8.2 oz) for men’s size 9 and 194 grams (6.8 oz) for womens size 7.5. This puts the Beacon into the lightweight trainer category of shoes and could even be used for tempo efforts. Other notable specs include its 6 mm drop, an engineered mesh upper, and strategically placed outsole rubber that keeps the shoes overall weight down.
Now for the most important question, how does it feel while running? Although I have yet to run over 50 miles in my pair, I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in the Beacon v3. Their lightweight and responsive feel has me wanting to pick up the pace on my runs while at same time feeling protected from the hard concrete surface underneath me. The Beacon v3 is a shoe that I would describe as being a “swiss army knife” in that it can handle nearly every training task you throw at it. At only $120, the Beacon v3 is an appealing option for those looking for a “do all” light weight trainer.
Get your pair at 3 River Running Company today or online at https://3riversrunning.
