New Balance 860v15 vs 860v14
Fresh Foam X 860v15 or Fresh Foam X 860v14? Here’s how they compare on feel, fit, brand specs and price, from the fitting team at The Run House.
The short answer
The Fresh Foam X 860v15 replaced the Fresh Foam X 860v14.
A much softer two-foam midsole with a plate, a taller stack and better grip. About an ounce heavier, and the support is subtler.
What changed
- Foam: New two-foam midsole: a very soft main foam over a firmer support foam, with a plate.
- Shape: About 3mm taller, with a pronounced heel rocker.
- Support: Subtler support than the v14.
- On the run: Softer, much stiffer up front and roomier. Bounce about the same.
- Measured: 1.3 oz heavier, 2.9mm more foam under the heel and drop down from 9.3mm to 7.6mm.
Still like the Fresh Foam X 860v14? It’s $51 less than the Fresh Foam X 860v15 while supplies last, with 2 colors in stock.
On the run
Fresh Foam X 860v15: Plush comfort with subtle support. Cloud-soft, comfort-first cushioning from a two-foam midsole with a plate and a smooth heel rocker. The support is subtle, so it feels more like a soft neutral shoe than a classic stability shoe.
Fresh Foam X 860v14: Soft landing, steady support. A plush landing on top of a firmer support foam that guides you without feeling rigid. It’s good for daily miles and long days on your feet.
Specs side by side
| Fresh Foam X 860v15 | Fresh Foam X 860v14 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $149.99 | $99 |
| Stack height (heel / forefoot) | 40 / 34mm* | 38 / 30mm* |
| Drop | 6mm* | 8mm* |
| Weight, men’s | 11.7 oz | 10.4 oz* |
| Weight, women’s | 9.3 oz | 8.9 oz* |
| Support | Stability | Stability |
| Plate | Midsole plate | None |
| Widths | Narrow, Standard, Wide, Extra wide | Narrow, Standard, Wide, Extra wide |
| Built for | Easy days, Long runs, Walking & all-day wear | Easy days, Long runs, Walking & all-day wear |
| Expected life | 300–400 miles | 300–400 miles |
Stack, drop and weight come from each brand’s own website. Numbers marked * aren’t published by the brand and come from other published specs. Weights are for the size each brand quotes. Expected life is our estimate.
Fit
Fresh Foam X 860v15. Runs about a half size short, so go up a half. A secure fit with a roomy toebox. Narrow through extra-wide.
Fresh Foam X 860v14. A slightly wide, forgiving forefoot and a very secure heel. It can feel a touch short until it breaks in, so if you’re between sizes, go up a half. Narrow through extra-wide.
Try them on
Come try on both at The Run House in Walpole, Needham or Falmouth. Gait analysis is always free.
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