New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13

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82%
πŸ… Highly Rated
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New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13: Review

β€œA dependable stability shoe for daily training.”

Overview


The New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13 is a running shoe designed for those who seek a blend of comfort and stability. This shoe is part of the esteemed New Balance Fresh Foam 860 family and is known for its supportive features and durable construction.

Key Features:

  • Updated Upper: The engineered mesh upper provides a secure fit while maintaining breathability.
  • Midsole Technology: Fresh Foam X midsole offers a soft, cushioned ride with a responsive feel.
  • Stability Support: A dual-density medial post helps control overpronation and adds stability for runners with low arches.
  • Durable Outsole: The blown rubber outsole ensures long-lasting wear and reliable traction.

The New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13 is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize stability and cushioning for their daily running needs. Its updated features offer a comfortable experience, making it suitable for a variety of distances and paces.

According to our analysis of reviews from experts around the world, it averages a review score of 82%. This puts it rated just above the median rating of comparable running shoes. According to our analysis of prices across the internet, at current rates it's just above the median price of running shoes.

Verdict

The consensus on the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13


The New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13 stands out as a reliable choice for runners seeking a stable and comfortable ride. The shoe's updated engineered mesh upper and Fresh Foam X midsole provide a blend of breathability, cushioning, and responsiveness. While it may not be the flashiest option on the market, its straightforward design and solid performance make it a workhorse for everyday training. The dual-density medial post offers targeted support for those with overpronation, without being intrusive. Overall, the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13 delivers a smooth and stable running experience, making it a worthy investment for runners who value durability and support.

Updates to New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13


The New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13 introduces several updates from its predecessor, the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v12. The most notable change is the midsole, which now features more Fresh Foam X for increased cushioning, particularly in the rear part of the shoe. The midsole also contains more bio-based content, reflecting a move towards sustainability. The medial support has evolved to offer improved stability, and the upper has been enhanced for a better fit and support. These updates contribute to a more comfortable, stable, and eco-friendly running experience.

Comparable Shoes


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Another competitor in the stability shoe market is The Hoka Arahi. Compared to the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13, the Arahi offers a more cushioned and plush ride, which may be preferable for runners who desire maximum comfort during their runs. However, the 860 v13's structured design and durability make it a strong contender for daily training.

6 New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13 Pros & Cons


3 Pros

The New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13 offers a comfortable and stable ride, suitable for daily training and long-distance runs.
The updated engineered mesh upper provides a secure fit while maintaining breathability and warmth during runs.
The shoe's durability is a strong point, with a thick rubber outsole designed for long-lasting wear and moderate stability.

3 Cons

Some runners may find the grip of the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13 lacking in wet conditions, suggesting room for improvement.
The tongue's design could be improved to prevent potential irritation during runs.
While the shoe offers a bouncy energy return, some runners may desire more protection in the forefoot for longer runs.

In Depth


Upper

The New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13 features an updated upper made from engineered mesh, which provides a secure and comfortable fit. The material balances structure and flexibility, ensuring breathability and warmth during runs. The shoe's design includes embroidered lines on the medial midfoot for added stability, working in conjunction with the medial post to prevent overpronation. The molded heel counter and flared heel collar contribute to a secure fit and support the Achilles, while the gusseted tongue's design could be improved to prevent potential irritation.

Midsole

The midsole of the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13 is constructed with Fresh Foam X, offering a soft and cushioned ride. The absence of fuel cell cushioning from previous models is noted, with the Fresh Foam X providing a responsive yet bouncy feel. The midsole includes a dual-density medial post for stability, which is less noticeable in this edition, allowing for a more natural running experience. The inclusion of bio-based content also reflects New Balance's commitment to sustainability.

Outsole

The outsole of the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13 is made from blown rubber, providing an aggressive and durable layer that ensures longevity. The varied thickness across the outsole and the presence of flex grooves contribute to the shoe's flexibility and traction, although improvements could be made for better grip in wet conditions.

Size/fit

The New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13 offers a fit similar to Altra's FootShape, with a secure heel and a widening towards the forefoot without being overly spacious. The medium toe box provides an ideal amount of room for natural toe splay and comfort during runs. The fit is true to size, accommodating a range of foot shapes and sizes.

Comfort

Runners can expect a high level of comfort from the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13, thanks to its blend of plush cushioning and responsive midsole. The shoe's upper and midsole work together to provide a comfortable and secure fit, while the cushioning delivers a medium-firm feel reminiscent of a mattress with a pillow top.

Cushioning

The cushioning of the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13 is a standout feature, with the Fresh Foam X midsole offering a soft underfoot feel. The shoe provides a bouncy energy return, making it suitable for a variety of running distances. However, some runners may desire more protection in the forefoot for longer runs.

Breathability

The engineered mesh upper of the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13 ensures breathability, keeping feet cool and dry during runs. The material is designed to provide warmth in colder conditions without compromising on ventilation.

Stability

Stability is a key aspect of the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13, with the shoe featuring a dual-density medial post and built-up sidewalls for added support. The reconfigured midsole geometry allows for smooth transitions, making it a reliable option for runners with overpronation issues.

Durability

Durability is a strong suit of the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13, with its thick rubber outsole designed for long-lasting wear. The shoe is built with premium materials, ensuring it can handle high mileage and provide moderate stability for both walking and running.

Grip

The grip of the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13 is generally good, with the rubber outsole providing reliable traction on roads. However, the shoe could benefit from improvements in traction for wet conditions, as some runners have noted it is not the best in these scenarios.

Who should buy the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13?


The New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13 is well-suited for runners who require a stable and cushioned shoe for their daily runs. It is particularly beneficial for those with overpronation or low arches, as the shoe provides the necessary support without compromising on comfort. Runners who prioritize durability and are looking for a shoe that can withstand high mileage will also find value in this model.

Who should not buy the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13?


Runners who prefer a lightweight, minimalist shoe may not find the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13 to their liking due to its more structured design. Those who require a shoe with exceptional grip in wet conditions might also want to consider other options. Additionally, runners who are looking for a highly responsive shoe with maximum energy return for faster-paced runs may want to explore alternative models.

New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13: What's it good for?


The New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13 is good for runners seeking a stable and comfortable shoe for their daily training sessions. Its cushioning and support make it suitable for long-distance runs and those who spend extended periods on their feet. The shoe's durability also makes it a reliable choice for high-mileage runners.

4 New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13 FAQs


What updates have been made to the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13 compared to the previous version?

The New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13 features an updated midsole with more Fresh Foam X for increased cushioning, particularly in the rear part of the shoe. The medial support has been reconfigured for improved stability, and the upper has been enhanced for a better fit and support. Additionally, the midsole now contains more bio-based content, contributing to sustainability efforts.

Is the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13 suitable for runners with overpronation?

Yes, the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13 is designed with a dual-density medial post that provides stability and support for runners with overpronation. It helps control the inward rolling of the foot, making it a suitable choice for those with this pronation type.

How does the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13 perform in wet conditions?

While the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13 offers reliable traction on roads, some runners have noted that the grip could be improved in wet conditions. The shoe's outsole provides good coverage but may not offer the best traction on slick surfaces.

What type of cushioning does the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13 offer?

The New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13 offers a soft underfoot feel with its Fresh Foam X midsole, providing a bouncy energy return. The cushioning is designed to deliver comfort and responsiveness, suitable for a variety of running distances.

New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13 alternatives

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New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13
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Released
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Weight
Weight
M: 309 g
W: 244 g
306 g
462 g
M: 315 g
W: 261 g
M: 301 g
W: 255 g
M: 437 g
W: 349 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
18 mm
18 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
10 mm
M: 10 mm
W: 13 mm
M: 11 mm
W: 8 mm
12 mm
Heel
Heel
29 mm
30 mm
Brand
Brand
New Balance
New BalanceadidasASICSOnNew Balance
Support Type
Support Type
Stability
StabilityStabilityStabilityNeutralStabilityStability
Pronation Type
Pronation Type
Overpronation
OverpronationOverpronationOverpronationNeutral pronationOverpronationOverpronation
Strike Type
Strike Type
Heel strike
Arch Type
Arch Type
Low arch
Low archLow archLow archHigh archLow archLow arch
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
Maximalist
Breathable
Breathable
Orthotic friendly
Orthotic friendly
Removable insole
Removable insole
Rocker
Rocker
Techs
Techs
New Balance Fresh Foam
New Balance Fresh Foam4Dadidas 4DASICS DUOMAXASICS FF BlastASICS Gel
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New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13: what the experts say (3 reviews)

New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13: 7 Expert video reviews

New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v13 characteristics and specifications

Characteristics
SportsRunning (+2048)
TerrainRoad (+1361)
UsagesDaily running (+1131)
BrandNew Balance (+125)
Support TypeStability (+209)
Pronation TypeOverpronation (+195)
Arch TypeLow arch (+201)
FitMedium toe box (+853)
MaterialsMesh (+941)
TechsNew Balance Fresh Foam (+63)
ColorwaysAluminum Grey / Quartz Grey / Blacktop, Black, Black / Grey, Black / Lead, Black / Neon Dragonfly / Marigold, Blue, Blue / Steel / Cosmic Pineapple, Cobalt, Cream, Green
Specificationsvs Average
Model
v13
Released
Jan 2022
Measurements
Weight
M: 309 g
W: 244 g
Heel to toe drop
10 mm

Evolution of the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 product family

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AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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