The Altra Escalante 5 and New Balance Made in USA Fresh Foam X 1540 v4 are both neutral road running shoes. The Escalante 5 costs about $60 less (from $140) and is rated higher by buyers (3.9 vs 3.1 out of 5). The Made in USA Fresh Foam X 1540 v4 has more cushioning.
Bottom line: Pick the Escalante 5 if you want to spend less; pick the Made in USA Fresh Foam X 1540 v4 if you want a softer, more cushioned ride.
New Balance
Made in USA Fresh Foam X 1540 v4
3.1 (478)
$199.99
Shop at New Balance→ Colors & full specs →Specs side by side
| Spec | Escalante 5 | Made in USA Fresh Foam X 1540 v4 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $140 | $199.99 |
| Rating | 3.9 / 5 (97 reviews) | 3.1 / 5 (478 reviews) |
| Weight | 9.7 oz | — |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 0 mm | 0–4 mm |
| Heel stack height | 24 mm | — |
| Cushioning | Firm / Responsive | Moderate |
| Support | Neutral | Neutral |
| Surface | Road | Road |
| Available for | Men & Women | Men & Women |
Specs and prices from Altra and New Balance, checked 2026-11-02. Weight is usually for a men's size 9–10.
Which should you get?
Get the Escalante 5 if…
- you want to spend less
- you prefer a firmer, more responsive feel
Get the Made in USA Fresh Foam X 1540 v4 if…
- you want a softer, more cushioned ride
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