New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 860 V13

The Researcher’s Take: Why We Like It

If you need a daily trainer that offers structured support without feeling like a brick on your foot, the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 860 V13 is a standout choice.

Based on our analysis of the updates, this shoe strikes a difficult balance: it’s a true stability shoe that feels surprisingly soft. The secret is the dual-density midsole. It combines the plush Fresh Foam X you love for comfort with a firmer medial post. In plain English, you get a soft landing, but if your foot tries to roll inward too much (overpronation), that firmer foam is there to gently guide you back to a neutral position.

Key Features Breakdown

• Supportive Cushioning: The Fresh Foam X midsole delivers a cushioned experience for incredible comfort. It’s soft enough for long runs but responsive enough to keep you moving forward efficiently.
• Dual-Density Stability: A medial post (firmer foam on the inner side) provides essential stability. It helps combat overpronation, keeping your ankles and knees aligned, which is crucial for injury prevention.
• Secure, Structured Fit: The structured engineered mesh upper is supportive and breathable. It holds your foot securely in place, reducing internal movement that can cause blisters.
• Reliable Durability: The blown rubber outsole at the forefoot provides superior rebound and durability, ensuring the shoe holds up mile after mile on pavement.

Deep Dive: What’s New vs. V12?

The v13 is a refinement of a classic. While the v12 was solid, the v13 feels softer and smoother.

• The Foam Upgrade: The shift to Fresh Foam X (from standard Fresh Foam) is significant. It offers more energy return and a plush feel that wasn’t quite there in previous iterations.
• Upper Redesign: The upper is cleaner and more accommodating, reducing potential hot spots while maintaining that locked-in feel stability runners need.

Who Should Buy This Shoe?

• The Overpronator: This is the primary audience. If your feet roll inward when you run or walk, the medial post provides the necessary correction.
• The Daily Trainer: Perfect for runners logging consistent mileage who need a shoe that can handle the wear and tear of daily training.
• The Walker with Flat Feet: The stability features are excellent for walkers with flat arches, providing a solid base that reduces fatigue during long walks.
• The Heavy Striker: The durable outsole and substantial cushioning make it a good option for runners who land heavily on their heels.

Sizing and Fit Advice

The Fresh Foam X 860 V13 fits true to size.

• Widths: New Balance is famous for offering multiple widths. This model is available in Standard (B), Wide (D), and Extra Wide (2E), ensuring a perfect fit for every foot shape.
• Toe Box: The toe box is standard width but has enough volume for comfort.
• Heel: The heel counter is structured and firm to support the stability features of the shoe.

Technical Specifications

• Category: Stability / Support
• Cushioning: Fresh Foam X
• Support Tech: Medial Post (Dual Density)
• Upper: Structured Engineered Mesh
• Outsole: Blown Rubber
• Drop: 10 mm
• Weight: Approx. 8.6 oz (Women’s)