• Model: New Balance Maxey v1
• Release Date: Late 2026 (Launch anticipated around Q3/Q4)
• Retail Price: $130 USD
• Primary Tech: Full-length FuelCell cushioning
• Design Influence: Y2K-era “Visible Tech” (Elements of the NB 9060 and 2002R)
• Weight: ~11 oz (Optimized for lightweight guard play)
• Colorway: Debut “Black/Light Blue” (Inspired by his 31-point Play-In performance)

Tyrese Maxey doesn’t just play basketball; he operates at a different frequency. As the Philadelphia 76ers kicked off their 2026 Play-In campaign against the Magic (April 15, 2026), Maxey officially unveiled the New Balance Maxey v1—a low-profile speed machine designed to keep up with the league’s most explosive guard. While the big publishers are focusing on the “joyful” vibes and lifestyle crossover, we’re taking a look at the actual hardware that makes this shoe a performance beast.

Here’s what you need to know.

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The Propulsive Core: Tuned FuelCell Cushioning

The heart of the Maxey v1 is a full-length FuelCell midsole.

• The Engineering: Unlike the plush feel of the Fresh Foam found in the Two WXY line, this FuelCell setup is “tuned” for high-rebound energy return. It’s designed to be firmer in the forefoot, reducing “lag time” between a plant and a sprint.
• The First Step: This setup is optimized for Maxey’s signature straight-line speed. It provides a propulsive sensation that pushes the athlete forward, literally acting as a mechanical assist for his first step.

The Stability Matrix: Sculpted Heel & Lateral Pods

One look at the Maxey v1 reveals a wavy, sculpted geometry around the heel and midfoot—a nod to the aggressive lines of New Balance’s 9060 lifestyle model.

• Lockdown Tech: These sculpted elements act as “lateral outriggers.” For a guard who lives on step-backs and Euro-steps, these pods prevent foot roll and provide elite stability without the bulk of a high-top.
• The Silhouette: By keeping it a true low-top with a padded collar, New Balance maximizes ankle mobility, allowing for the sharp, sudden pivots that define Maxey’s “Mad Max” playstyle.

Material Hardware: Kinetic Stitch & Mesh Integration

Photo: New Balance

• The Upper: A combination of lightweight synthetic overlays and breathable mesh. It uses a variation of Kinetic Stitching to provide flexible support that stretches where you need it but holds firm during high-intensity lateral cuts.
• The Weight: Clocking in at approximately 11 ounces, it’s one of the lightest signature options in the 2026 market, prioritizing agility over heavy support structures.

The Maxey v1 is anticipated to have a late 2026 release.

Featured Photo: New Balance

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Author Bio

Jael Rucker is the founder of Decked Out Magazine. She has previously worked as the Associate Commerce Editor at PureWow, focusing on analytics and trends to pitch stories and optimize articles that build and engage their audience. Her work has also been seen in Footwear News and WWD. Prior to 2024, she was the style and pop culture editor at ONE37pm for over three years, contributing numerous product reviews, brand profiles and fashion trend reports, which included interviewing Steph Curry, Snoop Dogg and more.