New Balance 860 v14 vs v13: Best Stability Shoe on the Market

Hi, I’m James, a foot and ankle specialist with over 10 years of experience advising patients on footwear. Today, I’m diving into the New Balance 860 v14 and comparing it to its predecessor, the v13. With major upgrades in stability, cushioning, and fit, this shoe has been revamped to offer a better experience underfoot. Let’s break down the differences, how they affect performance, and which shoe might be best for you.

Cushioning and Heel-to-Toe Drop

One of the most noticeable changes is in the cushioning and drop:

• New Balance 860 v14: Features 38mm of cushioning in the rearfoot and 30mm in the forefoot, resulting in an 8mm drop.
• New Balance 860 v13: Had 35mm in the rearfoot and 25mm in the forefoot, giving it a 10mm drop.

This change means the v14 offers more underfoot cushioning without increasing the shoe’s overall weight. The reduced drop (8mm compared to 10mm) gives a slightly flatter feel, which may feel more stable and natural for some runners and walkers.

Stability Upgrades

The v14 introduces significant changes to the shoe’s stability features, setting it apart from the v13:

1. Medial Wedge Design:
   • The 860 v14 includes a medial wedge, a rare feature in running shoes. This wedge tilts the foot and ankle slightly outward, mimicking the effect of a custom orthotic to redistribute pressure away from the medial arch.
   • Pros: It is ideal for conditions like plantar fasciitis and posterior tibial tendinitis, as it supports the medial arch and stabilises the ankle.
   • Cons: For those with lateral ankle instability or a history of ankle sprains, this outward tilt could add stress to the lateral ligaments.
2. Sidewalls for Added Stability:
   • The shoe has raised sidewalls on both the inside and outside of the heel, cradling your foot and reducing side-to-side motion.
3. Broader Base and Sole Flare:
   • The wide base of support and added sole flare (where the sole extends beyond the foot) increase ground contact, improving overall stability.
4. Heel Counter:
   • The moderately stiff heel counter keeps your heel locked in place, reducing unnecessary movement and adding support.

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Comfort and Fit

Fit Improvements in the v14:

• Forefoot Width: The forefoot is broader than the v13, accommodating a wider range of foot shapes. This change prevents toe compression and enhances comfort.
• Midfoot Width: Unlike the v13, the v14’s midfoot doesn’t narrow as much, maintaining a consistent, stable fit throughout the shoe.

Upper Design:

• The v14 features a plush mesh upper that enhances breathability and comfort.
• A padded, gusseted tongue stays in place, preventing slipping during wear.
• Mild-to-moderate padding around the heel ensures a secure yet luxurious feel.

Traction and Durability

The outsole includes small rubber pods, offering a reliable grip for walking or running on:

• Wet concrete and tarmac
• Gravel paths

However, it’s not designed for moderate-to-technical trails, where more aggressive tread patterns are needed. Stick to smoother surfaces for optimal performance.

Cushioning and Underfoot Feel

The Fresh Foam X cushioning in the v14 is a major upgrade, offering:

• Softer underfoot feel: The Fresh Foam X is spongier and more forgiving, ideal for those seeking comfort during long walks or recovery runs.
• Balanced transition: While the heel cushioning is firm to provide stability, the forefoot cushioning is softer, improving the ride for activities like walking or standing all day.

The extra softness and reduced drop make this shoe particularly suited for conditions like:

• Morton’s neuroma: The softer cushioning helps reduce pressure on the forefoot.
• Metatarsalgia: The wider forefoot and padding prevent irritation.

Performance and Weight

The 860 v14 is designed as a versatile stability shoe:

• Weight: Comes in just under 300g (men’s size 9 US), making it heavier than performance-oriented shoes but on par for a stability model.
• Best Use:
  • Walking and standing all day: The cushioning and stability make it an excellent choice for long periods on your feet.
  • Recovery and slow-paced runs: The comfortable fit and soft ride are perfect for easy runs.

While the v14 is great for these purposes, it’s not intended for faster activities like tempo runs or interval training.

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Who Should Choose the New Balance 860 v14?

The 860 v14 is ideal if you’re looking for:

• Maximum stability: The medial wedge, sidewalls, and wide base provide unparalleled support for those needing extra stability.
• Soft cushioning: With a plush Fresh Foam X midsole, this shoe delivers comfort for long durations on your feet.
• Improved fit: The broader forefoot and more consistent midfoot width make the shoe more accommodating than its predecessor.

Final Thoughts

The New Balance 860 v14 is a significant upgrade from the v13, offering better stability, improved cushioning, and a more accommodating fit. Whether you’re walking, standing, or recovering from a hard run, this shoe delivers on all fronts.

If you’re considering the 860 v14, check out the links in the description below. Buying through these links supports the channel and helps us continue creating helpful content. If you have any questions about the shoes or their differences, leave a comment below—I’d be happy to help!

Thanks for reading, and I hope this guide has helped you decide if the New Balance 860 v14 is the right shoe for you.