Newbalance Minimus Prevail

Detailed Review

Users admire the New Balance Minimus line because of its versatility, as they are useful in cross-training, running, weightlifting, and casual wear. With the Minimus Prevail, reviews say that they don’t get the experience expected. 

While they are stable enough, the shoes have performance gaps, primarily when used on the road. Furthermore, the fit and durability are questionable, which we’ll be tackling in the following sections. 

Materials and Durability

The New Balance Minimus Prevail is a decent choice for runners who need a lightweight shoe weighing about 300 grams. The outsole’s rubber material is placed strategically, targeting high-impact areas, while the midsole is made with a strong Vibram rubber.

While the materials seem durable enough to last, several reports show that the uppers become unglued. However, other reviews claim otherwise, so it’s best to take great care of the shoes’ uppers. Other than that, the shoes’ are said to last for a long time with proper care.

In terms of the Minimus Prevail’s style, it looks like your typical athletic shoe, with the simple black-and-white colorway. Its simple design looks great in most casual wear and trips to the gym. 

Performance

The New Balance Minimus Prevail is best used as cross-trainers in the gym. However, they are versatile enough to use for casual wear in urban areas. It can withstand the road but is not suitable for speed runs outdoors, which reduces its longevity.

The Minimus Prevail features a 4mm REVlite midsole, a refined EVA material unique to New Balance. This material is said to be up to 30% lighter compared to the typical EVA foam. Reviews say that it feels firm and offers decent responsiveness with minimal energy loss.

Minimalist runners have commented that the shoes’ landing isn’t too bad, with the thin REVlite midsole offering the right amount of cushion to protect your feet from impact. The outsole is meant to provide an even landing platform through dispersing force equally. 

However, manufacturers flattened the shoe’s bottom, designing it with a broad platform. According to reviews, this made the landing subpar. 

How It Feels

The Prevail offers a minimalist feel but has its shortcomings in terms of stability and responsiveness. 

Users say that the shoes’ uppers are roomy, but the toebox feels narrower than the midfoot. It also has a stiff sole and flat platform design, making it uncomfortable when worn for long periods. According to Minimus Prevail reviews, it’s not the best for running long distances or spending hours in the gym. 

In terms of breathability, the Minimus Prevail surpasses expectations. The shoes’ thin knit uppers assist in keeping moisture out while allowing the cool air to pass through. Even with the extra padding from the heel, the forefoot and midfoot offer good ventilation.

As for the minimalist feel, it does the job adequately. You can remove the insole for more ground connection, improving your balance and stability as you lift heavy weights. 

With a 4mm stack height, it gives enough protection when your feet make an impact from running, jumping, or sprinting. But, the stack height is low enough to promote natural movement. Plus, the shoe has a minimal outsole built in the middle, which is helpful when rope climbing. 

Fit and Sizing

Minimus Prevail reviews have mentioned that the shoes are narrower compared to other New Balance Minimus models.

Furthermore, users also say that the heel would slip, so they lose energy having to scrunch their toes when that happens. While New Balance mitigated the problem by adding an external TPU heel counter and molded foam Asym collar, it may not be enough. As a result, consumers complained that the shoe didn’t encourage natural movement and fit.