With complaints of dense, stodgy cushioning underfoot in the 860 v11, the v12 now features an updated foam construction. At 11.6oz (329g), this version is slightly heavier than its older sibling, so there’s no improvement there. Performance: B ( Solid shoe for getting mileage in. Rides on the firmer side Heel a little clunky, but forefoot is very smooth) Fleet Feet reviewers appreciated the spacious toe box and snug midfoot. They also enjoyed the soft and simplistic style of the upper. While the Fresh Foam X midsole adds a plusher feel than previous versions of the 860, the shoe also offers stability for runners who overpronate or have flexible arches thanks to a firm, dual-density medial post. The first thing that caught our attention when we put them on was how responsive and firm the cushioning on these shoes is. The toe box is also relatively wide and deep which is an important feature for many runners. These provide a really firm and responsive ride. The Sole of the New Balance Fresh Foam X 860v12

Fresh Foam X 860v12 Review - Shoe Guide New Balance Fresh Foam X 860v12 Review - Shoe Guide

If I were you, I wouldn’t overlook New Balance because they have proven again they can make a solid stability trainer. Being a stability shoe, it's important to note that the 860v12 has a dual density medial post, running from underneath the balls of your feet to the heel of the shoe. This extra length helps distribute pressure along the side of the foot providing maximum stability. If you are a mild to severe overpronator (as many with flat feet or with plantar fasciitis are) then this is a great feature. Comfort and Construction of the New Balance Fresh Foam X 860v12The 860 v12 is a strong, supportive stability shoe that offers a lot of underfoot cushioning and plenty of correction for overpronators.

Fresh Foam X 860 v12 Shoe Review - Running Warehouse New Balance Fresh Foam X 860 v12 Shoe Review - Running Warehouse

The New Balance 860v12 is the twelfth version of the 860 model. In addition to focusing on cushioning and stability, New Balance really focuses on the type of ride in this trainer. The 860 model is New Balance's primary stability model, as such, it has all the latest technology and development available. DPT/Footwear Science: B- ( There isn't anything overly innovative or biomechanically "exciting" in this shoe but they did do a good job of improving the upper integration with the platform)Pronation related injuries include posterior tibialis injuries (tendinis/tendinosis/muscle strains), Achilles problems (tendinopathies), plantar fasciitis/iopathy, patellar tendon problems and anterior tibialis/medial tibial stress syndrome (Willems et al., 2021). However, other running related injuries are likely to not be influence by stability methods, so if you have anything besides the above, being prescribed stability shoes to prevent them is questionable advice. HOWEVER, if you find stability shoes comfortable and they make running more enjoyable, that is a great reason to use them as we know how important comfort is when choosing shoes (Nigg et al., 2015). If you find stability shoes uncomfortable and don't have any of the above, then the same logic applies. Find what works for your body and remember that if you do need stability, there are many different types of stability in footwear now. So find the type that works best for you if you need any and remember that a little variety also helps. As I’ve said though, the 11.6oz (329g) stability shoe is a daily shoe, not meant for races and tempo runs. I actually like it when a brand leans into the purpose of the shoe rather than trying to hit every mark. Conclusion On Cloudstratus 2.0 Review- On Running revamps their maximal neutral trainer with a redialed midsole and new sustainable upper I wish there was more Fresh Foam X because around mile 8 the feeling of the midsole became firmer. This was especially true in the heel portion of the shoe and caused a slight discomfort.

Fresh Foam X Shoes - New Balance Fresh Foam X Shoes - New Balance

What’s more, the 860 is no longer narrow. With previous versions, my feet (which are quite narrow) felt claustrophobic in the upper and I can imagine it being worse for wider footed runners. Visit our Stability Shoe Resource Guidefor stability shoe basics and some comparative shoes with medial posting. Overall: B/B+ ( A solid and consistent moderate stability shoe with a wider fit for getting in daily mileage.) Overall, reviewers appreciated the seamless blend of firmness and liveliness found in the New Balance 860v13. DPT/Footwear Science: B (Decent use of multiple methodsincluding guidance lines, sole flare and posting. Nothing overly new or impressive. Heel is actually a little clunky and post could be better integrated to smooth this out. )

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From a durability standpoint the 860 v12 is above average. I have over 50 miles on my pair and only see slight wear in the usual spots. The slightly firmer midsole has not changed, so I would expect at least the normal 300-500 miles if not more. Use wise this shoe is best for daily mileage on roads and well groomed trails. The slightly firmer ride does help for light fartleks or strides, however this shoe is primarily a trainer. The midsole is best as a stable mileage shoe that will give you a consistent ride over longer miles. With quite stretchy, flat laces, the shoes don’t come undone too easily, I found a simple single-knot was enough to keep me in the shoe throughout my run. Technically the New Balance Fresh Foam(x) 860 I noticed that the medial posting feels smoother than previous versions of the 860,” Mandy says. “My right arch is a bit more flexible than my left, causing my right foot to start rolling in towards the later stages of my runs. The 860v13 provides the stability that I prefer without overcorrecting my stride.” Like all of the New Balance shoes in the 800 series, the outsole is an extremely durable blown rubber. In addition to its durability, our experience (and that of a lot of others online) was that this outsole handled inclement weather extremely well. From hot, dry pavement to snow and ice, it provided solid traction, and also had the right amount of flexibility for most runners.