The New Balance TWO WXY V2 has a lot to offer in terms of performance. We’ve seen Dejounte Murray of the Spurs rock these on the court, most notably during All-Star weekend.
Colorway: Night tide with pink glow
Release Date: May 2022
Price: $130
The New Balance TWO WXY V2 is the newest team model from New Balance. After the success of the OMN1S and original TWO WXY, we were excited to get these in hand. And so far, it looks like our expectations will be met and maybe even exceeded. There are significant changes from the original TWO WXY, from cushion to materials, and it all seems to be for the better. Continue reading for Jalique’s complete performance review.
Traction
As mentioned in the initial review, the Two Wxy V2 outsole pattern reminds me of two of the best outsoles ever, and it did not disappoint. While I’m not surprised by how well they performed, I am surprised New Balance found a way to significantly improve what was already a great run of hoop shoes in the traction department.
Using much thinner rubber than previous shoes in NB basketball Shoes, the V2 outsole covers you in any direction. Make sure you cinch up well in a pair of these – if you don’t, you may find yourself twisting out of the shoe on directional changes. That’s how great the bite is.
These may not last a very long time outdoors, but while they last, you’re in for a treat.
Cushion
The softest version of FuelCell foam in NB’s basketball category also sees the addition of the Abzorb Dynamic Response System in the heel. The V2 midsole rides super smooth and low to the ground while providing an acceptable amount of cushion and comfort.
The foam and gel combined with Dunk protect against the impact on heel strikes and response as you transition from heel to toe. I can rarely play extended periods in a pair with this much court feel without regretting it. The Two Wxy V2 stands out in that capacity.
Materials
FitWeave Lite goes thinner than the Kawhi 2 yet remains as strong in the upper. I thoroughly enjoyed the flexibility and reduction of break-in time to nearly zero. While the outside may feel a little scratchy, the textile inner lining is nice and cozy, leaving you without worry as you play.
As a bonus, the ‘Neon Lights’ colorway I tested uses nice, buttery nubuck around the collar and tongue, which is a joy to feel while putting the shoe on, if nothing else.
Fit
I went true to size and found this to be a great fit, which I recommend for others, including wide footers. Just make sure to readjust lacing when you have opportunities. Keeping things tight will keep you in the shoe when that outsole starts chomping on the floor during hard cuts and changes of direction.
Support
I had an overall positive experience with all that the Two Wxy V2 provides as far as support goes. The heel is internally and externally stabilized over the soft midsole, and you sit within it enough to help with containment. The base is low and flat enough to keep you securely connected with the floor and a good fit and strong upper.
My nitpick in the support realm is that I wish the torsional bar could have been beefed up just a little. Overall, this wasn’t a huge issue for someone that plays like me, but I could imagine some players that put a little more torque into their shoes needing more than what comes out of the box.
Overall
The New Balance Two Wxy V2 provided a near-flawless experience while testing, making it one of my favorite hoop shoes to play in thus far this year. Maybe some will prefer a little more cushion in the forefoot or torsional support, but for what the shoe gives, there is not much to complain about. I recommend the Two Wxy V2 to anyone interested, especially if you have had a good experience with New Balance’s 574 previous basketball offerings. This may be their best pair yet.