New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11
Buy New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11 at today's best price (men's/women's)
6 minute read
Overview
The New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11 is a stability running shoe designed to provide a secure and cushioned ride for runners. This shoe is part of the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 family and is known for its reliable support, especially for those with overpronation (excessive inward rolling of the foot during walking or running) tendencies.
Key Features:
- Stability: Features a dual-density midsole with a firm medial post (a support structure to correct overpronation) to support overpronators.
- Cushioning: Incorporates Fresh Foam technology for a comfortable, cushioned feel.
- Durable Outsole: The outsole is made of blown rubber for traction and durability.
- Engineered Mesh Upper: Offers a breathable and secure fit.
The New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11 is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize stability and cushioning for daily training. Its durable outsole offers long-lasting performance, making it suitable for road running and long distances. The engineered mesh upper provides a comfortable fit, accommodating a variety of foot shapes.
With an average review score of 84%, it's in the highest rated 40% of similar running shoes. Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently in the most expensive 40% of running shoes today.
Verdict
The consensus on the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11
The New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11 is a well-regarded stability shoe that offers a blend of comfort and support. It's designed with a dual-density midsole and a firm medial post, which provides a stable ride for runners with overpronation. The engineered mesh upper and the flared heel collar work together to create a secure and irritation-free fit. While the shoe is praised for its stability and cushioning, some runners find the midsole to be on the firmer side, which may not be ideal for those seeking a plush underfoot experience. The shoe's weight is also noted, as it may not be the best choice for speedwork or racing. However, for daily training and longer runs, the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11 is a solid option that delivers consistent performance. Overall, this shoe is a reliable workhorse for runners seeking stability and durability on the road.
Updates to New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11
The New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11 introduces significant updates from its predecessor, the New Balance 860v10. The most notable change is the inclusion of the Fresh Foam midsole, which replaces the TruFuse midsole for improved cushioning. Additionally, the shoe features a new flared heel collar design for enhanced comfort and reduced Achilles irritation.
Comparable Shoes
The ASICS GT-2000 7 is a comparable stability shoe that offers a snug heel fit and a slightly softer ride compared to the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11. Runners who prefer a more cushioned feel and a better fit around the ball of the foot may lean towards the GT-2000 7.
The Mizuno Wave Horizon provides a similar level of stability with a touch more arch support than the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11. However, the 860 v11 may be preferred by runners seeking a firmer ride and a more breathable upper.
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 20 is another stability shoe that competes with the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11. It offers a different approach to stability with its GuideRails system, which may appeal to runners looking for a less traditional stability mechanism.
6 New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11 Pros & Cons
3 Pros
3 Cons
In Depth
Upper
The New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11 features an engineered mesh upper that provides a breathable and snug fit. The flared heel collar, designed to reduce irritation on the Achilles tendon, is a welcome addition for runners who experience discomfort in this area. The upper's construction is aimed at delivering a secure fit while allowing the foot to move naturally during runs.
Midsole
The midsole of the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11 is a highlight, offering a combination of Fresh Foam cushioning and a firm medial post for stability. This setup caters to runners who need extra support due to overpronation. While the Fresh Foam layer adds comfort, the overall feel of the midsole is firmer than some might expect, providing a stable platform rather than a plush ride.
Outsole
Durability is a key feature of the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11's outsole. Made of blown rubber, it offers reliable traction on road surfaces and is built to withstand many miles of running. The outsole's design also includes flex grooves for improved flexibility, contributing to a smoother transition from heel strike to toe-off.
Size/fit
The New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11 is known for its consistent fit, accommodating a range of foot shapes and sizes. It offers multiple width options, ensuring that most runners can find a comfortable fit. However, some runners may need to size up, particularly if they have wider feet or prefer a roomier toe box.
Comfort
Comfort in the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11 is achieved through a combination of the engineered mesh upper and the Fresh Foam midsole. The shoe's design aims to provide a comfortable fit without sacrificing stability, making it a suitable choice for long runs and daily training sessions.
Cushioning
The cushioning in the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11 is designed to balance comfort and support. The Fresh Foam layer closest to the foot offers a soft feel, while the firmer foam below ensures stability. This dual-layer approach provides a cushioned yet stable ride for runners, particularly those who overpronate.
Breathability
The engineered mesh upper of the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11 enhances the shoe's breathability. This feature is particularly beneficial for runners who train in warmer conditions, as it helps to keep the feet cool and dry by allowing air to circulate within the shoe.
Stability
Stability is a standout feature of the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11, making it a top choice for runners with overpronation. The shoe's medial post and dual-density foam work together to correct excessive inward rolling of the foot, providing a secure and stable running experience.
Who should buy the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11?
The New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11 is best suited for runners who require additional stability during their runs, particularly those with overpronation. It's an excellent choice for those engaging in daily training and seeking a shoe that offers a secure and supported ride over various distances.
Who should not buy the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11?
Runners who prefer a softer, more plush cushioning may not find the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11 to their liking due to its firmer midsole. Additionally, those looking for a lightweight shoe for speedwork or racing might consider other options. Neutral runners or those who do not require extra stability features should explore alternatives such as the New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v11.
New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11: What's it good for?
The New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11 is well-suited for road running and can handle the demands of long-distance events such as half marathons and marathons. Its stability features make it a strong candidate for runners with low arches or those who experience heel strike during their gait.
4 New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11 FAQs
Is the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11 suitable for runners with overpronation?
Yes, the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11 is designed with a firm medial post and dual-density foam to provide stability and support for runners with overpronation.
How does the cushioning in the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11 compare to other stability shoes?
The cushioning in the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11 is firmer than some other stability shoes, offering a stable ride with a layer of Fresh Foam for comfort.
What are the key updates in the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11 from the previous version?
The key updates include the introduction of the Fresh Foam midsole for improved cushioning and a new flared heel collar design for enhanced comfort and reduced Achilles irritation.
Does the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11 offer multiple width options?
Yes, the New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11 is available in multiple width options to accommodate different foot shapes and sizes.
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| bestDeal | Show prices | |||||
| priceBand | Price band | |||||
| released | ReleasedJun 2020 | Dec 2022 | Jun 2024 | Jan 2018 | ||
| expertReviewScore | Expert Review Score | |||||
| productAthletes | Pro athlete users  | |||||
| Weight | WeightM: 275 g W: 244 g | M: 292 g W: 247 g | M: 275 g W: 235 g | M: 437 g W: 349 g | ||
| Forefoot | Forefoot | 18 mm | 28 mm | 18 mm | ||
| Heel to toe drop | Heel to toe drop10 mm | 10 mm | 12 mm | 8 mm | 12 mm | |
| Heel | Heel | 40 mm | 30 mm | 36 mm | 30 mm | |
| Brand | BrandNew Balance | New Balance | ASICS | Mizuno | ASICS | New Balance |
| Strike Type | Strike TypeHeel strike | Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike | Heel strike | Heel strike | Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike | Heel strike |
| Shoe Type | Shoe Type | Maximalist | ComfortableMaximalist | Maximalist | Comfortable | Maximalist |
| Breathable | Breathable | |||||
| Orthotic friendly | Orthotic friendly | |||||
| Removable insole | Removable insole | |||||
| Rocker | Rocker | |||||
| Techs | TechsNew Balance Fresh Foam | New Balance Fresh Foam | ASICS GelOrthoLite | OrthoLite | ||
| Environmental Characteristics | Environmental Characteristics | Sustainable | Vegan Ⓥ | |||
Common characteristicsRoadDaily runningStabilityOverpronationLow arch |
- Jan 2022
- Nov 2021
- Jun 2020
