New Balance - Mens 1540 Motion Control Running Shoes

Product Information

Comfort: Throughout the testing period, we pay attention to how the shoe feels underfoot (and if that changes as we wear it). We note whether it takes our feet some time to get used to the midsole, which can happen with some motion control shoes. Does the shoe feel stiff, or is it flexible enough to help us run comfortably? Do we feel any discomfort or pain in our feet, legs, or joints during or after a run?

If you have plantar fasciitis, the number one thing to look for is arch support. “We place about three to four times our body weight upon our feet with each step,” says Jennifer Gerres, D.P.M., a podiatrist at Foot and Ankle Specialists of the Mid-Atlantic in Washington, D.C. “A supportive shoe with a good arch provides pain relief by transferring those stresses on the plantar fascia to the shoe.” Before buying anything, you should know the essentials that should be available in that product. Whatever it is, the product should get the basics right. In the case of shoes for plantar fasciitis, there are two essential things you should look for. Whether you are buying New Balance shoes or any other brand, there are a few things you should never compromise on. A firm, but flexible midsole. Similarly, a midsole with ample support and flexibility will help reduce pain throughout the foot. It combines the support and stability of a running shoe with the style and comfort of a daily driver. No matter whether you are going for a brisk walk, a jog in the park, or a full-on workout at the gym, the Arishi V1 complements each task. The reason for that is the high level of functionality and comfort it brings.Cheung RT, Chung RC, Ng GY. Efficacies of different external controls for excessive foot pronation: a meta-analysis. British Journal of Sports Medicine. 2011;45(9):743-751. doi:10.1136/bjsm.2010.079780

Both the New Balance Fresh Foam X 860v12 and the New Balance 1540v3 are running shoes built for stability and support. Neither of these shoes will feel “squishy” under the foot like many types of neutral running shoes that are built more for comfort. As we tested this pair, we noticed its superior fit right away. It hugged our feet in all the right places, with just the right amount of space between our longest toe and the top of the toe box. And the pillowy cushioning didn’t just feel great underfoot—we also noticed that it reduced our fatigue and felt ultra-responsive, pushing us forward with each step. It all adds up to a pair of shoes that makes us want to run longer and farther every time we put them on.

Breathable and lightweight, we recommend the Nergize Sport V1 sneakers for wearers who want a sporty and supportive shoe. They’re also budget-friendly, but still felt as comfortable and durable as other, more expensive New Balance shoes we tested. So, don’t compromise on the fit. Look for a shoe that provides enough support but also provides a snug and comfortable fit. Minimalist Shoes: A popular brand for people with wide feet, New Balance delivers with their 608v5, which features a roomy toe box and comes in several different width options. During test walks, the shoe's plush cushioning provided a comfortable fit, and padded collar and tongue added to the overall plush feel. Given the Fresh Foam midsole’s soft cushioning depth, the 1080 isn’t best used for speed runs, but rather as a high-mileage cruiser. Learn more about the 1080V12 in our detailed review.