Customer Reviews New Balance 1260 V7

I've been wearing 1260's for years and years. Always a great fit....true to size, phenomenal support, deep to accomodate alternate inserts, no heel slippage, extra lace holes (necessary for narrow heels), longer tongue, etc. They served me well for everything from yard work, to hiking trails, walking sidewalks and the treadmill. Sadly, I went to the New Balance store to replace my two pairs of 1260v5's, what a disappointment trying on the v7's. Nothing was the same. Why change such a good thing and alienate so many faithful buyers? I'm now trying the 1340's. Not impressed with those either, but better then the 1260v7's. I truly hope New Balance is reading these reviews and reacting for the next version(s). IF so, from a color standpoint take into account the average age of a NW shoe buyer. We're not 15, so the bright neon orange and yellow that is scattered in with the other colors isn't a good marketing idea. The only place NW should be using these colors are on the lower stability, true running shoes which would attract a younger buyer (I'm by no means old, just mature). Also, if anyone knows if the 1260v6 was like the v5 could you write a review, as then I will try to find a v6 out there on the net. Thx!

Terrible shoe, no support, immediately caused ankle and knee problems, stability label a false claims!

I've worn NB 1260s on and off for several years. With my 200 lb frame and need for both cushioning and support it has been a good model being lighter and better cushioned than the traditional 990 I used to run in. Every version since V4 has changed significantly from the last both in fit and feel. V4 and V5 although different both fit well. I skipped V6 since the toe box was way too loose and sloppy. With V7, NB way overcompensated with a very shallow fit in the forefoot (much more so than any previous NB shoe I have ever worn). I thought it was still ok after trying in store but after my first run there was no way these would work. There is no room in height and they impinge my metatarsals. If you liked the traditional NB fit with a generally roomy toe box, you will likely not like these shoes. I'm going to have to take these back and find a different shoe. People typically by NB because of the great fit. I think with these dramatic changes in each successive model, NB will lose this reputation and I'm not sure if I can keep coming back. If they do fit the midsole does feel great, just disappointed about the fit of the shoe. I hope NB goes back to their roots with V8 and offers a shoe with a more traditional NB fit.

1260v6 was great for me with or without orthotics. 1260v7 is way less supportive and does not work at all for me (with or without the orthotics). My first metatarsal hurts because the sole is so flexible, and my ankles hurt due to the lack of pronation support. In addition the toe box is significantly narrower than on the v6. Really too bad as I liked the v6 a lot (asides from the slipping heal).

It's a shame - in my opinion, the best running shoe ever made, was the NB 1226. A legendary shoe - good medial support, good cushioning and flexibility. Then came the 1260 - I had a pair of these, and despite being ugly, and a little warm, they were good. Every iteration of the 1260 since, has been a fashion makeover. It seems NB is trying to make the shoe lower, lighter and with less medial posting. Problem is, they have so many other shoes like this. Why take the only premium support shoe you have, and make it a neutral? It's no different with the other companies, it's just disappointing that nobody is listening to over-pronators.