Gear Check #1 New Balance 860

After logging over 200km in the New Balance 860v14, I feel like I’ve gotten a good sense of what this stability shoe is all about — both on and off the road. Designed as a reliable daily trainer, the 860v14 fits a specific niche in my rotation, but it does come with a few quirks that are worth noting.

What I Use Them For

I originally picked up the 860v14 as a high-mileage recovery shoe — something I could wear when I need cushioning, stability, and support without overthinking my pace. I’ve also found myself reaching for them as an everyday shoe for walking, errands, or when I just want a no-fuss, comfortable option.

What I Like

• Wider Toe Box: One of the standout features for me is the wider fit up front. My toes aren’t cramped, and the shoe feels more accommodating than a lot of other stability trainers.
• Price Point: For what you get, I think the 860v14 offers solid value. It’s not cheap, but it’s priced fairly for a workhorse stability shoe.
• Colourway & Style: It might not be the most important factor, but I do appreciate the clean, versatile design. Easy to pair with casual outfits and looks just as good off the track.
• Stability and Cushioning: It’s a heavier shoe, but that weight seems to translate into a sense of security and comfort — especially useful on tired legs or long recovery walks.

What Didn’t Work for Me

• Poor Breathability: The upper material is where this shoe really falls short. It runs hot, and on warmer days, it can feel like my feet are trapped in a sauna. Not ideal for summer mileage.
• Shin Splints on Fresh Legs: Surprisingly, I’ve noticed that if I wear these on a run when my legs aren’t already a bit fatigued, I’m more likely to get shin splints. This might be due to the shoe’s firmness and weight early in the gait cycle, but it’s definitely something to keep in mind if you’re sensitive to that kind of thing.
• Weight: While the heft adds to the stability, it’s not the most nimble shoe out there. For speed work or even regular daily runs, I’d choose something lighter and more responsive.

Final Thoughts

The New Balance 860v14 isn’t perfect, but it fills its role well. If you're looking for a reliable, cushioned, and stable shoe for recovery runs or all-day wear, it’s a solid pick — especially if you don’t mind a heavier build or a bit of heat.

However, if breathability is a priority or you're prone to shin issues, you may want to try them on first or consider alternatives in the stability category.

Would I buy them again? Possibly — but mainly for walking and casual recovery days, not as my go-to runner.