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As a competitive pickleball player and equipment analyst, I have dedicated significant time to dissecting the technical specifications of court footwear. For players competing at high levels, the shoes are arguably the most critical component of the equipment matrix. I’ve been testing new balance pickleball shoes and their tennis counterparts—which are often cross-utilized—for years, and the details concerning midsole geometry, outsole compound Shore hardness, and upper material selection have always caught my professional attention. This analysis delves into the material science and engineering that defines the performance profile of the current New Balance lineup, ensuring players can match their movement dynamics to the appropriate technical footwear architecture. IMAGE PRODUCT NAME AMAZON LINK New Balance Men's FuelCell 996 V6 Tennis Shoe, White/Team... View on Amazon New Balance Men's 696 V6 Tennis Shoe, White/Black, 9 Wide View on Amazon New Balance Women's 696 V6 Tennis Shoe, Black/White, 8.5... View on Amazon New Balance Women's 796 V4 Pickleball Tennis Shoe,... View on Amazon New Balance Women's FuelCell 996 V6 Tennis Shoe,... View on Amazon New Balance Women's Coco CG2 Tennis Shoe, Quarry... View on Amazon New Balance Men's 796 V4 Pickleball Tennis Shoe, White/Blue... View on Amazon New Balance Men's Fresh Foam X 1007 V1 Tennis Shoe,... View on Amazon New Balance Women's FuelCell 796 V4 Hard Court Tennis... View on Amazon New Balance Men's 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer,... View on Amazon New Balance Men's FuelCell 996 V6 Tennis Shoe Check it out on Amazon This iteration combines multiple proprietary technologies into a cohesive design optimized for aggressive court movement. The integration of advanced thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) stability features with high-rebound foams creates a performance profile specifically addressing the rapid directional changes and explosive lateral movements inherent in competitive pickleball. The overall chassis is engineered for maximal kinetic energy return while maintaining structural integrity during extreme torsion. Key Specifications: * Cushioning: FuelCell foam (High energy return density) * Upper: NDure technology (TPU infused mesh for superior abrasion resistance) * Outsole: NDurance rubber (High durability carbon rubber compound) * Weight: Mid-to-heavy (Focus on structural lockdown) Performance & Features: * Court Traction & Grip: The NDurance rubber compound provides exceptional adhesion across hard courts. The modified herringbone pattern ensures multi-directional grip necessary for split-steps at the kitchen line. * Lateral Support & Stability: Excellent. The combination of the rigid heel and saddle lockdown provides a highly stable platform, mitigating excessive foot roll during deep lateral drives from the baseline. * Cushioning & Comfort: FuelCell delivers a highly propulsive feel, translating vertical compression into rapid forward momentum crucial for transitioning quickly from the baseline to the net. * Breathability & Durability: The NDure upper proves extremely resistant to toe-dragging wear, maintaining structural integrity over intensive training cycles. Strengths * Outstanding durability metrics, particularly in the medial forefoot area. * Exceptional energy return facilitates high-speed court coverage. * Superior stability for aggressive cutting maneuvers. Limitations * The higher density foam and robust construction contribute to a slightly heavier feel than minimal designs. Ideal For: Advanced and Tournament Players prioritizing maximal stability, exceptional durability under duress, and a propulsive push-off for high-speed court coverage during competitive singles or doubles play. See it on Amazon New Balance Men's 696 V6 Tennis Shoe Check it out on Amazon When testing the 696 V6, immediate observations revealed a solid, utilitarian construction prioritizing foundational stability and longevity over ultra-lightweight speed. Its performance across varied game situations is backed by material selections that emphasize cost-effective consistency and protection, particularly for players who employ significant toe drag and hard pivot movements. Key Specifications: * Cushioning: Standard EVA midsole (Balanced impact protection) * Upper: Synthetic and mesh blend * Outsole: NDurance rubber (Standard durability compound) * Weight: Mid-range Performance & Features: * Court Traction & Grip: Reliable traction with a traditional outsole pattern, demonstrating good grip during controlled stop-and-start actions, such as controlled dinking exchanges. * Lateral Support & Stability: The synthetic overlays and adjustable lace closure offer adequate support, specifically in the arch and midfoot, which is crucial for preventing ankle rotation during sudden shifts. * Cushioning & Comfort: Provides sufficient cushioning without the high energy return of FuelCell, leading to a more grounded court feel beneficial for baseline grinders. * Breathability & Durability: Features a film drag guard in the high-wear toe area, extending the shoe's lifespan, although general mesh breathability is standard. Strengths * Excellent cost-to-durability ratio due to the robust NDurance rubber. * Stable and grounded court feel for reliable footing. * Effective drag guard protection. Limitations * Lacks the advanced responsive cushioning technology of premium models. Ideal For: Intermediate Recreational Players seeking high-value new balance pickleball shoes that offer reliable durability and stability without requiring the highly propulsive dynamics of premium racing foams. See it on Amazon New Balance Women's 696 V6 Tennis Shoe Check it out on Amazon Players often struggle to find equipment that balances responsive feedback with reliable, wide-fit stability—the women's 696 V6 directly addresses this dichotomy. The design philosophy centers on foundational comfort and accommodating structural architecture, delivering reliable stability through a strategically composed synthetic and mesh upper, which is particularly effective for players with wider forefoot biomechanics. Key Specifications: * Cushioning: Standard EVA midsole * Upper: Synthetic and mesh blend with film drag guard * Outsole: NDurance rubber * Fit: Available in Wide sizes Performance & Features: * Court Traction & Grip: Consistent outsole performance, generating reliable friction for controlled deceleration after a deep drive return. * Lateral Support & Stability: The midfoot construction is robust, stabilizing the foot during aggressive power drives and rapid side-to-side shuffle steps along the kitchen line. * Cushioning & Comfort: The EVA foam offers balanced support suitable for extended match play, reducing vibrational fatigue without isolating the player from court feedback. * Breathability & Durability: The inclusion of the film drag guard ensures localized durability in high-abrasion zones, maintaining the shoe's integrity over time. Strengths * Excellent option for players requiring wider fit specifications without sacrificing midfoot lockdown. * Reliable compound durability for intensive play schedules. * Balanced court feel enhances control. Limitations * The synthetic upper material is slightly heavier than advanced woven textiles. Ideal For: Intermediate Players and Those Needing Wider Fits who prioritize comfort, reliable durability, and standard stability for daily practice and doubles play, offering excellent general-purpose court performance. See it on Amazon New Balance Women's 796 V4 Pickleball Tennis Shoe Check it out on Amazon In today's highly specialized court footwear market, the 796 V4 stands out through specification choices that consciously target the unique footwork demands of pickleball. The engineering refinements are apparent during high-cadence transition play, positioning this model as a meaningful and lightweight option for players focused on quick reaction times and rapid movement into the Non-Volley Zone (NVZ). Key Specifications: * Cushioning: FuelCell foam (Propulsive energy return) * Upper: NDure technology * Outsole: Flexible, non-marking NDurance rubber * Weight: Lightweight construction Performance & Features: * Court Traction & Grip: Features a flexible outsole geometry that allows the foot to articulate naturally, enhancing grip during dynamic lunges and tight pivoting actions near the net. * Lateral Support & Stability: NDure technology maintains forefoot structure while keeping weight down. Stability is achieved through a lower profile chassis design. * Cushioning & Comfort: The FuelCell implementation here is optimized for speed, offering a quick push-off, which is vital for getting into position to hit a third-shot drop. * Breathability & Durability: Good balance of light weight and targeted durability due to the strategic NDure placement. Strengths * Highly responsive and lightweight feel for fast players. * Propulsive cushioning aids in rapid court recovery. * Flexible outsole geometry supports natural foot mechanics. Limitations * Less substantial lateral containment compared to the heavier 996 series. Ideal For: Aggressive Net Players and Competitive Doubles Specialists who demand lightweight footwear with exceptional responsiveness and rapid transition capabilities, focusing on agility rather than maximal shock absorption. See it on Amazon New Balance Women's FuelCell 996 V6 Tennis Shoe Check it out on Amazon A detailed technical inspection reveals that this model shares the dense, high-performance architecture of its men's counterpart, featuring strategic material composition designed to withstand the shear forces of tournament play. The focus on integrated lockdown, particularly the specific geometry utilized in the heel and saddle, ensures that the foot remains securely nested, minimizing microscopic movement that can lead to energy loss or blistering during prolonged match environments. Key Specifications: * Cushioning: FuelCell foam * Upper: NDure technology * Outsole: NDurance rubber * Stability: Enhanced heel and saddle lockdown Performance & Features: * Court Traction & Grip: Robust, high-abrasion resistance rubber ensures longevity, while the tread pattern provides reliable bite on every direction change, from backward shuffling to forward bursts. * Lateral Support & Stability: The specific added lockdown features translate to outstanding structural rigidity, preventing roll-over during fast-paced defensive retrievals when the player is off-balance. * Cushioning & Comfort: High-density FuelCell foam manages impact effectively while providing the powerful rebound needed for overhead smashes and quick jump shots. * Breathability & Durability: The NDure application provides high mechanical resistance to wear patterns common in advanced female players, ensuring the shoe holds its shape. Strengths * Exceptional mechanical stability and foot containment. * Best-in-class durability for hard court environments. * Superior propulsive feel aids in speed generation. Limitations * Premium specifications result in a higher cost point. Ideal For: Professional and Advanced Female Players seeking the highest degree of structural stability, energy return, and long-term durability for high-volume training and competitive tournament schedules. See it on Amazon New Balance Women's Coco CG2 Tennis Shoe Check it out on Amazon This highly specialized court shoe leverages a unique engineering approach: the integration of Energy Arc technology. This system pairs specific carbon fiber plate geometry with targeted midsole voids to strategically manage the energy cycle. During loading (compression), the plate flexes, and upon unloading (push-off), the structured plate rapidly returns to shape, designed to increase stored energy and deliver a scientifically calculated higher amount of total energy returned to the player. Key Specifications: * Cushioning: FuelCell foam integrated with Energy Arc technology * Upper: NDure upper * Outsole: NDurance rubber * Special Feature: Internal Carbon Fiber Plate Performance & Features: * Court Traction & Grip: The outsole features an aggressive pattern optimized for maximum court contact, enhancing grip during explosive lateral push-offs. * Lateral Support & Stability: The structured chassis, reinforced by the carbon plate, offers exceptional torsional stability, minimizing foot flexing during high-torque movements. * Cushioning & Comfort: FuelCell provides softness, while the Energy Arc provides a firm, snappy response, generating incredible forward momentum and speed during transition shots. * Breathability & Durability: NDure upper ensures the containment needed to control the aggressive dynamics produced by the Energy Arc system. Strengths * Incorporates highly advanced, responsive structural technology (Carbon Fiber plate). * Maximum measured energy return for speed and jump height. * Elite-level performance characteristics tailored for dynamic play. Limitations * The rigidity of the carbon plate may not suit players preferring a softer, more flexible ride. Ideal For: Elite and Speed-Focused Advanced Players who prioritize maximizing their kinetic efficiency and require cutting-edge technological enhancements to optimize their explosiveness and quickness on the court. See it on Amazon New Balance Men's 796 V4 Pickleball Tennis Shoe Check it out on Amazon After 90 days of rigorous court testing, the 796 V4 demonstrates remarkable resilience, particularly in the structural longevity of the upper and the abrasion profile of the outsole. The design is a measured response to the need for a durable yet quick court shoe, striking an impressive balance by utilizing the high-rebound FuelCell platform encased by protective, long-wearing NDure material. Key Specifications: * Cushioning: FuelCell foam * Upper: NDure technology * Outsole: Flexible, non-marking NDurance rubber * Durability: Targeted NDure overlays Performance & Features: * Court Traction & Grip: The outsole maintains consistent adhesion, performing reliably even as the rubber wears down. The pattern is deep enough to resist smoothing over prolonged use. * Lateral Support & Stability: NDure provides robust midfoot support necessary for maintaining proper ankle alignment during quick, sharp movements characteristic of aggressive net play. * Cushioning & Comfort: FuelCell gives the player a noticeable advantage when accelerating from a stationary position, translating to faster court coverage during fast volleys. * Breathability & Durability: Excellent durability profile, holding up well under repetitive lunges and pivots without tearing or premature structural breakdown. Strengths * Outstanding balance of light weight and robust durability. * Fast court feel thanks to the responsive FuelCell foam. * A dedicated pickleball-optimized geometry. Limitations * Requires a slight break-in period for the NDure material to achieve optimal flexibility. Ideal For: Competitive Intermediate to Advanced Players prioritizing a fast, low-to-the-ground feel and excellent acceleration, especially beneficial for players who need reliable performance throughout long training sessions. See it on Amazon New Balance Men's Fresh Foam X 1007 V1 Tennis Shoe Check it out on Amazon This model employs a sophisticated approach to cushioning science, utilizing Fresh Foam X midsole technology. This is precision engineered via data mapping to deliver differential densities throughout the footbed, resulting in an ultra-cushioned, yet lightweight, ride. The design intent here is maximal impact dispersion during high-velocity impacts, which is crucial when making hard stops from a baseline drive. Key Specifications: * Cushioning: Fresh Foam X midsole (Data-driven precision cushioning) * Upper: Lightweight mesh with synthetic overlays * Outsole: NDurance rubber with hard court-specific herringbone pattern * Design Focus: Impact dispersion and lightweight feel Performance & Features: * Court Traction & Grip: Features a specialized herringbone pattern, historically proven to maximize purchase and provide controlled slide capabilities on hard court surfaces—ideal for baseline grinders. * Lateral Support & Stability: The synthetic overlays deliver structural support without the rigidity of the NDure compound, resulting in a more flexible, adaptive fit. * Cushioning & Comfort: The Fresh Foam X delivers industry-leading impact protection, reducing joint stress during extended matches and making it ideal for players with previous injury concerns. * Breathability & Durability: Lightweight mesh upper ensures optimal ventilation, preventing heat build-up during intense matches, though the upper is slightly less durable than the NDure models. Strengths * Unrivaled impact cushioning and comfort due to Fresh Foam X technology. * Lightweight construction enhances overall foot mobility. * Specialized herringbone outsole geometry for exceptional hard-court grip. Limitations * The upper material, while breathable, is less mechanically durable than the reinforced 996 models. Ideal For: Intermediate to Advanced Baseline Players and Players Requiring Maximal Comfort and impact absorption. Excellent for those spending extended time on court or seeking protection during fast transitional movements. See it on Amazon New Balance Women's FuelCell 796 V4 Hard Court Tennis Shoe Check it out on Amazon The structural integrity of this hard court variant is defined by its optimized FuelCell chassis and the implementation of NDure technology to maintain dynamic shaping. The specific engineering focus here is ensuring the high-energy foam is supported by a torsionally rigid base, preventing lateral collapse during powerful rotational shots, such as two-handed backhands from the baseline. Key Specifications: * Cushioning: FuelCell foam * Upper: NDure upper * Outsole: Hard court NDurance rubber * Profile: Low-to-ground feel Performance & Features: * Court Traction & Grip: The outsole rubber is formulated for hard court resilience, providing immediate feedback and consistent grip necessary for sharp, instantaneous direction changes at the net. * Lateral Support & Stability: The combination of NDure and the low-profile design provides excellent stability, allowing the player to trust the platform during quick recovery steps. * Cushioning & Comfort: Offers a balance of responsiveness (FuelCell) and stability, making it highly effective for fast-paced dinking battles where quick foot lifts and adjustments are crucial. * Breathability & Durability: Good durability for a lighter shoe, resisting the typical wear associated with hard court abrasion. Strengths * Excellent responsiveness and speed profile. * Torsionally sound platform for rotational stability. * Ideal for hard-court traction and durability requirements. Limitations * The highly responsive ride may be too firm for players accustomed to plush cushioning. Ideal For: Fast, Aggressive Female Players who spend significant time near the kitchen line and demand low-profile responsiveness and reliable stability for rapid, short-burst movements. See it on Amazon New Balance Men's 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer Check it out on Amazon Analyzing the 608 V5 requires acknowledging its primary intended function as a comfort cross-trainer, utilizing the ABZORB cushioning system. ABZORB works by absorbing impact through a combination of cushioning and compression resistance. While this provides excellent vertical impact protection, its architecture is inherently optimized for linear movement, presenting limitations regarding the specific lateral stability required for pickleball’s dynamic shear forces. Key Specifications: * Cushioning: ABZORB midsole (Cushioning and compression resistance) * Upper: Leather/Synthetic (Robust, heavy) * Outsole: NDurance rubber (Durability focused, less court-specific tread) * Function: General comfort/cross-training Performance & Features: * Court Traction & Grip: NDurance provides general durability, but the tread geometry lacks the aggressive multi-directional patterns necessary for competitive court braking. * Lateral Support & Stability: Suboptimal. The higher profile and softer, comfort-focused upper lack the rigid thermoplastic supports needed to contain the foot during extreme lateral lunges common in doubles play. * Cushioning & Comfort: Exceptional comfort for walking or general activity, with the ABZORB system providing deep, protective cushioning. * Breathability & Durability: Highly durable upper materials but minimal breathability compared to mesh court shoes. Strengths * Superior impact absorption for low-impact activities (walking). * High level of out-of-the-box comfort. * Extremely durable upper materials. Limitations * Lacks the critical lateral support and low-to-ground stability required for competitive pickleball. Ideal For: Casual Players or Spectators needing general comfort and support on court surfaces for very light, recreational play. Not recommended for competitive or aggressive pickleball movement. See it on Amazon What to Look for When Buying New Balance Pickleball Shoes Selecting the appropriate technical footwear requires careful consideration of the shoe's engineered components relative to playing style and biomechanical needs. The choice in new balance pickleball shoes often boils down to balancing speed/response versus cushioning/durability. Key features and specifications to consider Examine the proprietary cushioning technologies first. FuelCell foam represents the highest energy return index, ideal for explosive movement, while Fresh Foam X is engineered for maximum precision-cushioning and impact dispersion. Assess the upper materials: NDure technology signifies superior abrasion resistance, crucial for toe-draggers, improving the mechanical durability and lifespan of the shoe. The outsole compound, typically NDurance rubber, should be evaluated based on the complexity of its tread pattern (herringbone for hard courts vs. omni-directional for versatile grip). Performance factors that matter The most critical performance factor is lateral containment. Competitive pickleball demands rapid side-to-side movements and powerful deceleration. Look for models featuring integrated thermoplastic supports or robust saddle lockdown features (like the 996 series) to prevent ankle inversion. Torsional rigidity, measured by how much the shoe twists across the arch, is also paramount; shoes with internal shanks (like the Coco CG2's Energy Arc) provide maximal stability during power rotation and quick pivots. Types of New Balance Pickleball Shoes Explained New Balance primarily offers two architectural approaches suitable for competitive pickleball: the maximum stability/durability chassis and the lightweight/speed chassis. Different categories/types available The Maximal Stability (996/Coco CG2) category focuses on high-density foam, rigid containment systems, and maximal durability via full NDure coverage. The Lightweight Speed (796) category minimizes mass, using the responsive FuelCell foam with a lower profile for enhanced court feedback and rapid articulation. The Maximal Cushioning (1007) category leverages Fresh Foam X for superior impact protection. Which type suits different playing styles Aggressive net players and tournament competitors who prioritize stability and longevity should gravitate toward the reinforced 996 or the technologically advanced Coco CG2. Baseline players who prioritize long match comfort and maximal shock absorption, especially those with high vertical load, will benefit most from the Fresh Foam X 1007. Players valuing quickness and agility during transitions will find the lightweight FuelCell 796 models ideal. Skill level and budget considerations High-level competitive players (4.5+ DUPR) will justify the premium cost of the technologically advanced Coco CG2 or the 996 due to their superior durability and energy return. Intermediate players (3.0–4.0 DUPR) seeking a blend of performance and value will find the 796 or 696 models offer robust technical features at a more accessible price point. Beginners are well-served by the reliable stability of the 696 series. Comparison Insights: Analyzing New Balance Pickleball Shoes Architecture The core differentiators across the New Balance court shoe line reside in the foam density and stability architecture. The primary difference between the 996 and 796 series is the stability-to-weight ratio. The 996 offers a denser, more structurally contained platform (often incorporating more substantial heel and saddle lockdown), prioritizing maximum lateral stability for hard-cutting movements, making it the top choice for structural containment and heavy hitters. The 796 prioritizes speed and lightness through a lower-profile design, using FuelCell for responsiveness rather than sheer mass, making it the best for transition speed and agility. Cushioning composition dictates feel. Models featuring FuelCell provide an aggressive, highly propulsive feel, driving the player forward quickly. Conversely, the Fresh Foam X in the 1007 offers superior impact dampening and a softer, less aggressive ride, ideal for long matches. The base EVA in the 696 series provides a neutral, highly stable, and predictable feeling—best for overall value and grounded court feel. For elite performance, the Coco CG2 stands apart due to its proprietary Energy Arc carbon fiber plate. This feature fundamentally alters the shoe's mechanical response, providing a level of torsional stiffness and energy return that standard foam models cannot replicate, making it the most technically advanced and responsive option. Final Verdict New Balance has effectively leveraged its material science expertise—specifically in high-rebound foams (FuelCell) and high-abrasion resistance polymers (NDure)—to construct a technically robust line of court footwear highly suitable for the demands of modern pickleball. Their dedication to durability, especially with the NDurance rubber outsole, sets them apart from many lighter cross-training brands that fail under the intense lateral stress of the pickleball court. While some models lack the explicit "pickleball" designation, their existing tennis platforms (like the 996 and 796) translate flawlessly due to the shared requirement for aggressive lateral stability and quick deceleration. Players seeking footwear with a scientifically grounded approach to durability and performance will find significant value in this brand. Key Strengths: * Industry-Leading Durability: NDurance outsole and NDure upper technology provide exceptional resistance to abrasion, maximizing shoe lifespan. * Advanced Cushioning Science: Proprietary foams (FuelCell, Fresh Foam X, ABZORB) cater to different needs, offering specialized energy return or impact protection. * Exceptional Lateral Containment: High-end models (996, Coco CG2) provide structural rigidity necessary for aggressive pivots and cuts at the kitchen line. * Wide Fit Availability: Offers multiple models in wide fittings, addressing a common biomechanical need neglected by many competitors. Limitations: * Naming Convention Complexity: Relying on tennis model names (996, 696) can confuse pickleball players seeking dedicated footwear. * Weight Penalty: Maximal stability models (996) carry a slightly higher mass than some speed-focused competitors. Clear Recommendations for Who Should Buy: New Balance is the definitive choice for players who prioritize durability and foot security above all else, particularly those who play high-volume pickleball on hard courts. Advanced players should invest in the structural integrity of the 996 series or the speed of the Coco CG2. Intermediate players seeking reliable, consistent performance and excellent cost efficiency should opt for the 796 series. Players with specific joint concerns should utilize the superior impact dispersion found in the Fresh Foam X 1007. Common Questions About New Balance Pickleball Shoes What Are the New Balance Pickleball Shoes That Pros Use? While dedicated pickleball endorsement varies, professional players often opt for the most technically advanced court shoes, meaning the FuelCell 996 V6 (for maximal stability and speed) or the Coco CG2 (for proprietary energy return technology) are the models most likely utilized by athletes demanding top-tier performance architecture. How Does FuelCell Foam Compare to Fresh Foam X in Court Footwear? FuelCell is engineered for maximum energy return and responsiveness, providing a "propulsive" feel for quick acceleration and short bursts of speed. Fresh Foam X is precision-designed for impact absorption and plush cushioning, delivering long-term comfort and joint protection during extended play and high vertical impact, making it ideal for managing fatigue. Is the NDure Upper Technology Truly More Durable Than Standard Mesh? Yes. NDure technology involves fusing thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) overlays or specialized high-abrasion materials directly onto the mesh structure. This significantly reinforces the material, particularly in the medial forefoot area, preventing blowouts and wear from toe-dragging, which is far more common in lateral court sports than in linear running. What is the Optimal Outsole Pattern for Hard Court Pickleball? The optimal pattern is typically a modified herringbone tread combined with omni-directional gripping elements. The herringbone allows for controlled lateral slide and maximal surface area contact during linear movement, while localized omni-directional features provide the necessary "bite" for sudden stops and pivots around the Non-Volley Zone. Are New Balance Cross-Trainers Suitable for Competitive Pickleball? Generally, no. Models designated as "Cross Trainers" (like the 608 V5) are designed with softer ABZORB cushioning optimized for vertical impact and linear motion. They fundamentally lack the rigid lateral thermoplastic stability features, low-to-ground profile, and reinforced uppers necessary to safely contain the foot during the aggressive shear forces of competitive pickleball.

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