Meaghan: I’ve tried a wide range of stability shoes over the past year and I’ve found quite a bit of variation. The New Balance 1260v4 is what I would consider your “typical” stability shoe. It’s durable, offers a lot of support, and it’s a bit heavy (9.6oz). You may not always feel super fast in these shoes, but you’ll certainly look the part. New Balance went bold with the colors; even the predominantly gray colorway looks flashy.
Like all stability shoes, the 1260v4 come with a supportive medial post to prevent overpronation. New Balance has an interesting process, called “Post Applied” where they use a separate mold for the medial posting which is later applied to the rest of the platform. This creates a more consistent density, smoother ride and also adds support. I found the 1260’s to be stiff, yet comfortable. The N2 cushioning technology they’re using (less material, same level of cushioning) feels great underfoot. They fit well, snug, but super plush.
Thomas: The New Balance 1260v4 fits well out of the box New Balance calls it “Fantom Fit.” There is plenty of room for your toes, your arch is locked down with out feeling overly snug, and the heel counter fits well without any uncomfortable rubbing on your achilles. The cushioning was better than the Fresh Foam with a soft landing for mid foot and toe landers. The heal crash pad is a very stable platform. Of the stability shoes I have reviewed this year, the 1260 v4 felt the most stable. I supinate, so the outside of my foot lands first. Most stability shoes are made to help runners that pronate, the foot goes out and the ankle folds inwards. The 1260v4 provides a solid landing for any type of runner. The blown rubber on the outsole provides lots of durability for the long run. Lastly, the shoe is pretty good looking, I specially liked the women’s color way.
Meaghan: There are two qualities about running shoes that I ultimately love: light-weight & speed. This is not a light shoe and it’s certainly not a fast one. However, not all training days are meant to be fast. I didn’t find it too difficult to throw these into the rotation. While I could use a little more flexibility and ventilation in the upper, I have to admit, all that super cushy extra material was nice some days.
Thomas: This is one of the heavier shoes I have worn at 12.3 oz (men’s 10.5,) and you feel it on the long runs. I did one 11 mile hill workout in the New Balance 1260 v4 and on my cool down portion of the workout it felt like I had cinder blocks on my feet. Hey, maybe that is good for training.
Meaghan: I believe New Balance makes great quality running shoes. The 1260v4 was no deviation. While I don’t require all the stability this shoe offers, I could recommend the 1260v4 to someone who tends to overpronate or generally enjoys a lot of support.
Thomas: The New Balance 1260v4 is the most stable well cushioned stability shoe I have reviewed this year. While I don’t need stability shoes, I kept thinking how much my friends that do would like this shoe. Time for grades, looks B, cushioning B+, stability A, weight D. If you are one of those runners that requires stability and likes it in a shoe, you should give the 1260v4 a try.
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I wear a 12 AA, and the 1260 V4 fits me much wider in the heel than the predecessor. It is so wide that my heel flops sideways in the shoe, and no tying options seem to help. I regret buying these, as they have led to heel and arch pain/inflammation. I have had to order a pair of last year’s model from the outlet store, as they fit better.