Feedback on the New Balance 860v12

While the New Balance 860v12 is designed for high-mileage runners, its Fresh Foam midsole and blown rubber outsole might not be the best choice for cyclists seeking durability and traction. Clipless pedal users might find the toe box too roomy, causing heel lift and negatively impacting power transfer.

Comparing the 860v12 to its predecessor, the 860v11, the updated model has a slightly narrower heel, potentially causing discomfort for cyclists with wider feet. However, the new engineered mesh upper offers improved breathability, crucial for cyclists riding in varying weather conditions.

Though the 860v12's traction might be sufficient for casual cyclists, aggressive riders may need to consider alternative footwear with better grip and durability. Ultimately, cyclists should prioritize shoes specifically designed for their sport, as running shoes may compromise performance and safety.

When it comes to long-term effects, consistently using running shoes for cycling may lead to foot pain and improper pedaling technique, negatively impacting power output and overall performance. It's essential to invest in cycling-specific shoes to ensure optimal comfort and efficiency.

While the New Balance 860v12 is tailored for high-mileage runners, let's examine its suitability for cyclists who spend long hours on their bikes.

The Freshing Foam midsole and blown rubber outsole are designed for running, not cycling. For cyclists, this means that while the cushioning might be comfortable, it may not provide the efficient energy transfer you'd get from a cycling-specific shoe.

Durability-wise, blown rubber is generally resilient, but it may not be as grippy as dedicated cycling shoe soles, which often means sacrificing some traction.

Comparing the 860v12 to its predecessor, the 860v11, you'll notice that the 860v12 features enhanced support and stability due to an updated medial post and improved upper design. These modifications may benefit cyclists with higher-arched feet but could potentially be overkill for the relatively flat foot position on a bike.

The engineered mesh upper in the 860v12 offers a secure and breathable fit, but this feature is standard in most cycling shoes as well. Its true advantage for cyclists is its ability to absorb moisture and dry quickly, keeping your feet cool and dry.

Overall, while the New Balance 860v12 may be adequate in a pinch, investing in a dedicated pair of cycling shoes will likely yield more favorable results for cyclists seeking optimal performance and comfort.

Oh, you want to know if running shoes can handle cycling? Brilliant! Let's see, the Fresh Foam midsole might be comfy for standing on pedals, but traction on a slick road? Good luck!

As for the 860v12 vs 860v11, sure you'll notice differences, like maybe the 12 is a tiny bit more colorful. Impact on performance? Well, one's not a bike shoe, so there's that.

And yes, the engineered mesh sounds fancy, but will it keep your feet dry in a downpour? I'd wager not as well as actual cycling shoes.

As for clipless pedals, well, if your feet are sliding around, it might not matter how well the toe box fits. Just my two cents.

The Fresh Foam midsole may offer some cushioning for cyclists, but it might not provide the necessary rigidity for efficient power transfer. Blown rubber outsole might wear down quickly under the constant pressure of bike pedals.

Support and stability wise, the 860v12 might be a overkill for cyclists. Its design focuses on correcting overpronation, which isn't a concern for most cyclists. This could lead to discomfort and potential injuries due to unnecessary support.

While the engineered mesh upper does provide breathability, it might not be as secure a fit as cyclists need. A loose fit can lead to uncomfortable foot movement inside the shoe, especially during aggressive riding.

The 860v12's toe box might be too roomy for cyclists using clipless pedals. This could result in an inefficient transfer of power and a less stable connection with the pedal. However, this could also provide extra comfort during long rides.

The 860v12's durability & traction? Honestly, who cares? As a cyclist, you're not pounding pavement. As for support, it's a running shoe, not a podium-topper. And that fancy upper? It's just mesh. Cycling shoes? It's doable, but don't expect a perfect fit. 🚲🏃‍♂️🤷‍♂️😜

You're right about the 860v12 not being a podium-topper for cyclists. Mesh upper ain't fancy, just functional. But don't underestimate fit in cycling shoes – it matters more than you think. Running shoes ain't ideal, but they won't kill your ride. Still, specific cycling shoes bring real benefits. #keepitreal

Pfft, fit matters? Tell me something I don't know. But honestly, you're acting like running shoes are the worst thing since slice bread. Sure, cycling shoes have their perks, but don't act like they're the only option. And that fancy mesh upper? It's not about being flashy, it's about breathability. But hey, what do I know? I'm just a forum user with a love for cycling. 😜🚲🏃‍♂️

Fit matters, yeah, no kiddin'. But here's the thing, runnin' shoes ain't one-size-fits-all for cyclists. That mesh upper? Sure, it's breathable, but it might not grip your foot securely enough for them pedal pushin' sessions.

See, when you're cycling, you wanna be one with your bike. Every bit of energy should go into those pedals, not lost in sloppy shoe fits. Runnin' shoes, they're built for...well, runnin'. All that cushionin' ain't ideal for the push-pull motion of cycling.

Now, I ain't sayin' cyclin' shoes are the be-all and end-all. There's no such thing as perfect gear, just what works best for you. But don't dismiss 'em outright, alright? They got their perks, just like any other piece of gear.

And about that fancy mesh upper? It's not just about breathability, it's also about feel. You want a snug fit, not a loose one. A secure fit means better power transfer and less fatigue over long rides. So, yeah, it might look flashy, but there's function behind the form.

Hey, you're spot on about the importance of fit in cycling shoes. Runnin' shoes just don't cut it for that secure, energy-transfers-to-pedals feel. But hey, no judgment here, we all start somewhere, right?

Nah, man, you're right. We all start somewhere. Ran in runnin' shoes once. Never again. Slippin' all over, feet screamin' for mercy. Not a great feelin'.

But, clipless thing, yeah, it's a game changer. Secure, efficient, like you're one with the bike. No more slippin' around. Energy transfers, all that jazz.

Still, don't get why folks swear by certain shoe models. I mean, sure, the 860v12's got some new tech, but let's be real - it's not gonna magically make you faster. Not for road cycling, anyways.

And that engineered mesh, sounds fancy, but it's not gonna save you from a soakin' wet foot. You want dry feet, get cycling shoes with actual waterproofin'.

So yeah, stick with cyclin' shoes. Trust me, your feet will thank you.

Y'know, you're not wrong about folks swearing by specific shoe models. I mean, sure, some tech might be newer or fancier, but it's not gonna catapult you to Tour de France level. It's just not that drastic.

And hey, about that engineered mesh, man, it's all marketing hype. Ain't gonna do squat for keeping your feet dry in the rain. If you really want dry feet, go for cycling shoes that actually have waterproofing. No magic bullet, just practicality.

But hey, at least we can agree on the clipless thing. Once you try it, it's like night and day. Secure, efficient, and yeah, you feel like you're one with the bike. No more slippin' and slidin' around. Energy transfers, smooth pedal strokes, all that good stuff.

So yeah, stick with cycling shoes. They might not be perfect, but they're a solid choice. And your feet will thank you. No need to overcomplicate things, ya know? Just keep it simple and enjoy the ride.

Y'know, you're spot on about shoe tech not being some magic solution. All that fancy marketing hype don't mean much when it comes to keeping feet dry in the rain, right? Waterproofing is where it's at.

But hey, let's not totally dismiss the importance of shoe fit in cycling. It might not be as critical as, say, frame geometry, but it sure as hell makes a difference during long rides. And that's where cycling-specific shoes can shine.

Now, I ain't saying runnin' shoes are the devil or anything, but they ain't exactly designed for the unique demands of cycling. So while they might not kill your ride, they ain't gonna make it any easier either.

And yeah, clipless pedals and shoes? Total game changer. No more slippin' around, just smooth pedal strokes and energy transfer. It's like night and day, I tell ya.

So, in the end, if you're lookin' to enjoy your rides and keep your feet happy, stick with cycling shoes. They might not be perfect, but they're a damn sight better than most alternatives. Just keep it simple and pedal on, my friend. #nogimmicksjustcycling

So, if we're looking at the 860v12's Fresh Foam midsole and blown rubber outsole, how do they actually perform on rough terrain? Cyclists often face varied surfaces, and if these materials can't handle that, what's the point? Durability is key for those long hauls, especially for aggressive riders who put down power.

Then there's the whole support and stability thing. If the 860v12 is supposed to be better than the 860v11, what specific changes were made? Are they really noticeable during a ride, or is it just marketing fluff?

And that engineered mesh upper—does it really do anything for breathability in hot weather, or is it just a gimmick? Cyclists need to know if it can keep feet cool and dry when the sun's blazing.

Lastly, how does the toe box design work with different cycling shoes? Are there any real downsides we should be aware of?