Marathon Sports released a detailed review of the New Balance 860 v15 on Apr. 22, evaluating its features and performance for runners and walkers seeking stability and comfort in their footwear.
The review is significant for those looking to choose a reliable daily trainer, as the New Balance 860 series has long been known for its support and cushioning. The latest version, the v15, introduces several updates while maintaining the qualities that have made it popular among athletes with overpronation concerns.
According to Marathon Sports’ review team, “The newest version of the 860 – the 860 v15 – saw another major design overhaul.” The shoe now features an enhanced Fresh Foam X midsole with dual-layer technology, providing both softness and stability. The stack height has increased to 40 mm in the heel and 34 mm in the forefoot, resulting in a plush feel but also adding weight compared to previous versions.
A key change is the use of Stability Plane technology instead of a traditional medial post. This approach offers moderate support without being overly rigid underfoot. As noted by Marathon Sports, “We were a big fan of the shift from medial post to Stability Plane technology in the 860 v14, and we were thrilled to see this unique plane technology make a comeback in the v15.” Additional features include an engineered mesh upper for breathability and fit options available in standard or wide widths.
The review highlights some drawbacks such as increased weight—11.6 ounces for men’s shoes and 9.2 ounces for women’s—which may limit versatility during faster-paced workouts. However, testers found that “the responsive bottom layer of foam did make the shoe feel bouncy and energetic when we picked up the pace,” making it suitable primarily as a long-run or recovery-day option rather than an all-around trainer.
In comparison with competitors like Asics GT-2000 14 or Nike Structure 26, Marathon Sports suggests that while lighter alternatives exist for those prioritizing speed or higher drop shoes, “if you’re looking for max comfort, reliable support, and durability,” then “you can’t go wrong with the New Balance 860 v15.” The company recommends visiting local stores for custom gait analysis to ensure proper fit based on individual needs.
