New Balance is the creator of high-end running shoes for various types of feet and running styles. The New balance 860 and 1260 models are made to provide extra stability to the foot. But they both work in different ways.
It is sometimes difficult to tell the differences between the New Balance series just by looking at their website. As a response to consumer demand, we have created this New Balance 860 vs 1260 comparison.
Related: New Balance 1080 vs 1260: Which Is Best For Your Feet?
New Balance 860 vs 1260
Comparing the New Balance 860 vs 1260
While each of these series has several versions of the shoe, they both generally cater to people who have different needs and tastes. In order to better explain the differences between them, we have created a list of differentiating features for both the 860 and the 1260 New Balance shoes.
New Balance 860 Features
- Firm ride: The New Balance 860 series has more cushioning around the midsole than other New Balance shoes. This means that the ride will be a bit firmer than the average. Due to the fact that it is firmer, you will feel like you are actually going faster than normal. It makes for a more lively ride! While some people appreciate the firmness, others feel that it is too stiff. But that is a matter of personal preference.
- Forefoot is stiffer: The rubber of the sole at the forefoot area is interconnected. When you are running and the shoe is bending at the forefoot, there is less slack. This means that the front end of this shoe will feel a bit stiffer than regular shoes. Again, this is intentional and will appeal to some, but not others.
- Asymmetrical heel counter: The heel cuff is asymmetrical in that the inside of the cuff is higher than the outside. This provides extra stability to the foot. It helps to prevent the foot from twisting and rolling, thus making sprained ankles less likely.
- Plenty of breathability: The New Balance 860 shoes have plenty of mesh at the forefoot to provide for breathability during warm conditions.
- Large rubber surface area: The blown rubber outsole is made to be durable and spans a large surface area. This provides more traction and extra comfort.
New Balance 1260 Features
The New Balance 1260 series was designed for moderate-to-severe overpronators. With overpronators, the foot rolls inward a little too far and causes the arch to flatten. Overpronators are described as having flat feet. Overpronation can cause injury by increasing stress on the tendons and ligaments of the foot and legs. This is why having proper footwear can help reduce the risk and severity of injury.
- 8 millimeter heel-to-toe angle: In order to accommodate for overpronators, the New Balance 1260 series features an 8 millimeter heel-to-toe. Average running shoes have a 10 millimeter angle, so this one has been slightly decreased. This provides for more comfort and stability.
- Extra cushioning: If looking at images of the New Balance 1260, you may notice that there is a layer above the midsole with the acronym ‘N2’ etched onto it. This N2 technology provides an extra layer of questioning between the insole and the midsole. This extra questioning helps with shock absorption, and is useful for those who have achy feet after running.
- Upper mesh: While the New Balance 860 shoe only has a breathable mesh at the forefoot, the 1260 shoe has a mesh around the ankle for extra breathability.
- Mid-foot shank: The New Balance 1260’s have a shank in the midfoot to help prevent overpronation. This shank is simply a raised portion of the outsole rubber that is slightly placed towards the inside of the shoe.
New Balance 860 vs 1260: Price Comparison
As there are many versions for each series, it is difficult to make a direct price comparison. However, by following the links below you can view several versions of each series at a glance and decide how the prices compare.
The Verdict
There is no clear winner between the New Balance 860 and the New Balance 1260 shoes. It is simply a matter of what your needs are and what you feel most comfortable with. While the New Balance 860 provides great cushioning and makes you feel like you are running faster, the New Balance 1260 was especially designed for overpronators.