New Balance 870 v4

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Editor rating: 8.9 / 10

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By Kristin R.

All New Balance Shoes

New Balance 870 v4 Review Facts

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New Balance offers shoes in three different categories: ADAPT (the softest rides like the FRESH Foam line fit here), UNLEASH (which includes responsive, swift kicks like the VAZEE), and COMMIT (encompasses the high mileage daily trainers, AKA NBx Collection). This COMMIT series, or NBx Collection, is where the 870 v4 resides. It’s intended as a daily road runner that is relatively lightweight and can go the distance.

New Balance has created a system of defining parameters in their given shoe models. In the 870 series, the 8 in the hundredths place implies a moderate amount of cushioning, while the 70 signifies light stability (just under neutral). This fourth installment of the New Balance 870 is in keeping with this system. While it is still a road runner and encompasses all the features its fans have come to love in its past 3 models, v4 sports a few upgrades. Now featuring a welded seamless TPU overlay in the upper, a lighter underfoot foam, an asymmetrical heel counter, and a different design in the forefoot for more efficient toe off, the new incarnation just seems to keep improving on the base model. Its improved flexibility and the upper’s now snugger fit lend themselves to a shoe that feels secure and fast letting runners feel confident for daily training like long slow distance runs or even speed work. The New Balance 870 v4 is reported to have accolades for being among the best in the stability training category.

Editor's Pros & Cons

Pros

With the 870 series, as a whole, New Balance has brought forth a class of trainers that seem to do well for all types of runs, distance and pace. Version 4 offers upgrades that markedly improve flexibility, security of fit, and create a lighter weight for an overall better daily trainer.
The New Balance 870 v4 is a well-designed shoe that most feel meets the needs ofthose looking for a mild amount of stability control for overpronation.
It is lighter weight which is a welcome bonus for any stability shoe.
The 870 v4 is easy on the pocketbook and seems to be a smart purchase.
Available in modern color blends and with a stylish brand logo, these shoes appeal to most runners.

Cons

Some found the 870 v4 too narrow for comfort despite the additional wider width options available
Not all overpronators were thrilled with the support for this shoe claiming it lacked sufficient arch support. It's important to bear in mind that this shoe is not designed to offer full support in this area and that there are other New Balance models aimed at meeting this need.

Outsole

The outsole of the New Balance 870 v4 benefits from a blown rubber that reduces the weight of the shoe and provides added comfort. This sole creates a wider base with nubs to improve traction and stability. Specialized proprietary N-rubber strategically placed on the lateral side of the shoe from heel to midfoot creates an extra barrier in areas prone to wear and tear.

Midsole

The midsole benefits from the combination of two technologies: REVlite and ABZORB. Both act to create a softer more responsive landing. The REVlite is a lightweight cushioned foam that blankets the ABZORB crash pad that incorporates durable rubber and foam for better shock absorption for comfort and helping to keep injuries at bay. Running from midfoot to heel for added arch support and stability is a medial post in the form of high-density foam. These components - working together - provide an impressive feel of security, comfort, and responsiveness. And while some feel the cushioning is a firm touch, it still offers shock resistance and performance more than adequately for most.

Upper

One of the updates to the previous installment of the 870 series is the recreation of the upper. Now, the breathable synthetic air mesh upper features TPU no-sew welded overlays for better security of fit. Also featuring the FANTOM FIT interior, the shoe wraps the foot snugly for a solid fit but retains flexibility and comfort. Incorporating an asymmetrical heel counter aims to assist with stability and the Ortholite sockliner creates a antimicrobial shield for feet.

Weight

Considered a lighter weight shoe, the 870 v4 is adeptly suited for less fatigue on those longer runs. The lighter weight tends to be a more unique feature for a shoe for even slight overpronation as many are heavier and filled with stability features. Thankfully, for most, the minimal approach to helping prevent inward rolling is not overwhelming to the overall feel of the shoe. The men's shoes weighs in at 9. oz while the women's is a 7.7 oz.

Breathability

One of the updates from the v3 of the 870 is an improved breathable mesh upper in that it's mesh weave is more open and allows for better ventilation. Most wearers are very pleased with how well this upgrade allows air to circulate despite the Fantom Fit underlayer liner inside. The air mesh was deemed to drain well and keep feet fresh.

Comfort

Some find New Balance shoes to run narrow but the company tends to create shoes for various widths. The 870 v4 has been remarked to have considerably narrowed since its inception as well nut is also available in standard and multiple wider sizes. While some were still unable to wear the 870v4 because of its thinner feel, many were able to find a size that worked for them. Sporting a comfortably padded tongue and collar, the shoe still feels roomy enough in the forefoot with a little more snugness in the heel. The tighter heel fit is also a result of the heel cup meant to lock your foot in place and the asymetrical heel counter that aims to reduce rolling after heelstrike and improve stability. The Fantom Fit wrap inside the upper also helps anchor the foot in place creating a tighter fit as well. Most appreciated the wider toe box for its more natural toe splay and it also helped with keeping air moving over the toes. Ideal for accommodating larger forefeet and bunions, this was a noted well-like feature. The midsole foam is light and comfortable enough for most to like it but it is considered far from cushy. Interestingly, some felt that the men's shoe had a firmer cushioning base at the heel but that the women's felt soft and well cushioned.

Style

Most are pleased with the overall appearance of the fourth remodel of the 870 series. Not only does it perform well but its modern color blends and the classic styling of the New Balance logo seem to radiate confidence. The men's kicks are available in Grey/Yellow, Blue/Yellow, and Grey/Orange while women can step out in Blue/White, Grey/Purple, Blue/Purple and White/Cerise. The showcased logo is designed with a color gradient making it appear metallic and is in high profile on the sides of the shoe. Reflective detailing makes for added visibility for those pre-dawn or evening runs.

Durability

While receiving mostly positive feedback, there were some wearers that had issues with breakdown of the sole that was not due to usual wear and tear. The blown rubber outsole includes strategic placement of proprietary New Balance rubber to protect against traditional underfoot wear and provide longer life. There were minimal concerns over tearing of the air mesh upper but the majority of reviews are favorable in this area. Overarchingly it seems, many felt this is a shoe that can, not only go through the paces, it can go the distance as well.

Protection

The newest update to the 870 series sports a change to the upper in the form of a TPU welded overlay. This helps protect the foot not only from debris but also because it locks it in place, it helps to reduce the chance of slippage inside the shoe that could cause injury. To the surprise of some, this change really did not create inflexibility as one might have suspected. The synthetic air mesh provides moisture control for feet preventing uncomfortable conditions as well as alleviating concern over chafing or blisters. Underfoot, protection is provided by the durable blown rubber outsole and the asymmetrical heel counter protects the foot from inward roll after impact reducing the chance of injury.

Responsiveness

The New Balance 870 v4 seems to be a good shoe that can handle just about anything moderately well. It's lightweight nature and its not overwhelming use of stability features helps create a shoe that can react to the road and keep you moving forward. Each heel strike is cushioned by the Abzorb® crash pad and the REVlite midsole offers just the right amount of cushion to allow for good responsiveness. In addition, the forefoot is enhanced with a toe spring as well for a more effective toe-off. These features working in concert allow for a more confident, responsive, and faster feel.

Support

The 870v4 benefits from a durable but modestly cushioned sole unit with an outsole comrpised of blown rubber and the midsole incorporating responsive foam cushioining. Some observed that the forefoot of the women's shoe tends to offer a bit more cushion but that both genders will feel supported underfoot. With the Abzorb heel and asymmetrical heel counter the rear of the foot also feels supported. Some felt that the 870 v4 was lacking proper arch support but still others feel that, for a slight overpronator, this support was ideal.

Terrain

The New Balance 870 v4 is intended to be a road runner. Some found it to perform well on crushed stone or gravel as well but where it shines is on a flat surface. most report being pleased with the feel as they moved on these various flat surafces. Be it asphalt, the track, or a treadmill, this shoe will have you accomplishing your running goals in confidence.

Price

Debuting at a reasonable cost compared to other similar shoes, the New Balance 870 v4 seems to take the cake. For all it is good at, its price point appealed to many. With its time on the market and a considerable drop in price, this shoe is a good buy.

Traction

The solid amount of ground contact the 870 v4 provides creates a good basis for traction. Add on to that the flex grooves inserted in the larger rubber pods of the sole unit and most are taken with its grip. It is a road shoe and not intended for trail use or on challenging terrain. And when used on road and flat surfaces mainly, the durable rubber outsole and the areas where N-Rubber is incorporated allow for a smooth and comfortable ride. It does decently in slippery conditions too. Traction is an area that the 870 v4 seems to do "just right" as well.

Flexibility

While it seems to have less flexibility than its predecessor, with an air mesh upper with TPU welded overlays, this shoe retains much flexibility. It features flex grooves in the forefoot of the sole to this end as well. Even the insertion of a medial post for stability and durable blown rubber in the sole unit, runners feel confident in the ability to maneuver on the go.

Stability

Runners who need stability shoes tend to experience shin splints, knee pain, and plantar fasciitis if they are not wearing a shoe that secures the foot properly. The New Balance 870 v4 provides just the right amount of stability for mild to moderate overpronators without being a an overwhwelming stability shoe. Its most notable offering to prevent inward rolling of the foot, is the medial post with a strategically placed cutout for improved flexibility and a more seamless transition. This addition created the effect of being "just under" neutral stability and it seems to please most runners that fall in this category. Providing a good amount ground contact, runners should benefit from a stable and smooth ride. While a narrower shoe, some reported that 870v4 features a slightly wider base for extra stability.

Drop

With a heel at 27mm off the ground and the forefoot at 19 mm (for both men's and women's models), the drop for this shoe measures a moderate 8mm. Most are pleased by how comfortable this shoe feels and find the drop perfectly in keeping with stability. This drop height also alleviated concern over heel or toe pain or injury as it felt evenly balanced and swift.

Key Features

The New Balance 870 v4 is a road running shoe that is best suited for those that tend to experience mild to moderate pronation.

It is lightweight and responsive.

Tending to run narrow, this shoe is also offered in multiple widths to aim to accommodate all runners. While some still are unable to fit the snugger shoe, most found it just right and are especially pleased with the wider toe box.

This shoe functions well as a daily trainer and can handle speed work as well.

Featuring a stylish upgrade over the 870 v3, most wearers are pleased with its overall appearance.

Bottom Line

It's been established that the consensus seems to be that the New Balance 870v4 would be Goldilock's ideal shoe. Not too hard or too soft or too heavy or too light, it seems to be "just"right" in most regards. With a new lower price tag, and even at its original cost, many would say this is a shoe worth every penny. If your feet find the comfort they need in the width of this shoe, it is a must try.