The Rush was one of New Balance’s initial models in the Vazee line, designed as a budget-friendly counterpart to the Pace. Now it comes into its own, as the first of Vazee’s rebranding into “FuelCore”.

New Balance’s website describes the Rush v3 as having a “co-molded stability post”, but there’s not anything on the shoe to suggest that. The foam feels like it’s the same density throughout the midsole. However, I spoke in-person with a company rep, who informed me that the heel counter is actually extended into the arch on the latest release. You definitely don’t feel it though, so there aren’t any worries about irritation. The outsole also runs the length of the medial side, adding more stability while essentially remaining a neutral shoe. The Rush also has a super smooth transition, almost a rocking forward, but not quite on the level of Hoka.

The upper is fairly breathable, even though it’s a knit mesh material. The lack of overlays lets the fabric stretch more and as a result it feels a bit wider.

The New Balance FuelCore Rush v3 is a remarkably versatile shoe. It can be worn by neutral or pronating runners and could be viewed as either an everyday uptempo trainer for lighter persons or a racer for those on the heavier side. It’s firm, but responsive. It’s flexible, but stable. And at $100, it’s a real bargain.

Score: 9/10

Comparable models: Nike Pegasus 34, Saucony Kinvara 8, Asics Noosa FF