I bet you’ve been looking for the New Balance Rubix replacement. Well, look no further; we’ve got you covered.
The New Balance Rubix was a beloved running shoe known for its exceptional support and comfort. If you’re wondering how to fill that void left by its discontinuation, make sure you read the full review of the New Balance 860 which promises to provide you with all the benefits the Rubix offered and more.
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New Balance Rubix Replacement
Hey, my name’s Eric Barber, and I’m a non-elite runner who reviews running shoes day in and day out.
The New Balance 860 is an excellent alternative to the New Balance Rubix for those seeking a reliable stability shoe. While the Rubix had its merits, the 860 takes it a step further by offering a softer and more comfortable Fresh Foam X midsole. It strikes a perfect balance between stability and subtlety, making it ideal for runners looking for support without the bulk of a traditional stability shoe.
With its durable build, ample cushioning, and secure fit, the 860 excels as a dependable workhorse for your daily training needs, providing a smooth and comfortable ride that makes it a worthy successor to the Rubix.
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New Balance 860
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 860 weighs in at 302 grams or 10.2 ounces for men in a size 8 and the drop is 10 millimeters.
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Design
The New Balance 860, although categorized as a stability shoe, offers a unique take on stability with its softer Fresh Foam X midsole, providing a more nuanced level of support compared to other shoes we’ve tested.
It accomplishes this by incorporating a dual-density medial post that effectively counters pronation without imposing any noticeable changes on your running style. Meanwhile, the substantial blown rubber outsole not only ensures exceptional midsole protection but also enhances traction on challenging surfaces.
Crafted from engineered mesh material, the upper strikes a delicate balance between providing essential support and maintaining ample breathability. Complementing this, a molded external heel counter guarantees a secure and snug fit during your runs.
This shoe’s primary focus is as a dependable workhorse for daily training, offering a harmonious blend of comfort, support, and reliability across many miles of running. Its subtly calibrated stability also makes it a versatile choice, appealing to a broader spectrum of runners, not exclusively those seeking a dedicated stability shoe.
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Fit
The fit is spot on for me; it’s true to size. This shoe leans on the generous side, not constricting in the midfoot, and it grants plenty of wiggle room in the forefoot, which is a welcoming feature. This makes it a good option for runners with a wider forefoot.
I noticed substantial padding all around, making it an incredibly comfortable shoe right from the first wear. It’s got that perfect step-in comfort that pleasantly surprised me.
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Run Test
I was pleasantly surprised by the 860. Even though it’s classified as a stability shoe, it tends to offer a more subtle form of stability. In fact, if you hadn’t been informed about its stability features prior to wearing it, you probably wouldn’t have realized it was one. This caught my attention because I don’t typically lean towards stability shoes.
Technically, I’ve been told that I overpronate when I’ve had my feet analyzed at running shoe stores. But in my day-to-day running, I’ve never felt a strong need for stability shoes.
However, the 860 impressed me because it provides that nice level of stability without making it obvious. It handles like a neutral running shoe for me.
I’ve taken it out for daily training runs, ranging from 8k to about 15k, and it consistently delivers a comfortable and smooth ride. It doesn’t come across as bulky or clunky, despite being relatively heavy compared to many other daily trainers. When you’re on the run, it feels agile and responsive, more like a dependable workhorse.
The shoe appears to prioritize comfort above all else. When I’m running in it, I hardly notice the shoe itself, and that’s precisely what I want from my daily trainers. I want to focus on my miles, not my footwear. The cushioning is just right, offering a sense of plushness without being overly soft, which aligns with what you’d expect from a stability shoe.
Another aspect I appreciate is the durability-focused outsole. It’s built to last, thanks to the generous amount of rubber used. While this makes it an excellent choice for racking up the miles, if you’re seeking a shoe for faster-paced runs or tempo sessions, the outsole might seem a bit excessive.
Nonetheless, the 860 isn’t designed for speed workouts; it’s tailored for comfortable, reliable, and sturdy daily training. It fulfills that role exceptionally well. When I’m putting in those base miles, it’s a dependable companion, offering comfort and security without any noticeable issues.
Even though it’s not a speed demon, when I pick up the pace in the 860, it doesn’t disappoint. It’s not exceptionally fast, but it doesn’t feel clunky either. There’s a pleasing level of responsiveness, and if you want to push yourself a bit, it accommodates that too. But, remember, it’s primarily built for those runs where you seek comfort, cushioning, and reliability for day in, day out performance.
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Verdict
The 860 is like a trusty workhorse, dependable and reliable, with just a subtle touch of stability. It’s the kind of shoe you want when you need a companion for your daily runs, no matter the distance, without fretting over shoe durability or stability issues. It exudes a reassuring sturdiness that’s hard to miss, yet it manages to avoid feeling like a typical stability shoe.
If you’re a runner seeking stability without the bulk and conspicuousness of a traditional stability shoe, the 860 offers an excellent alternative. The ON Cloudflyer, which shares a similar balance of stability and reliability, comes to mind as the only comparable option I could think of.
In essence, the 860 is a fantastic workhorse trainer that checks all the boxes: mileage coverage, assurance, safety, and that reassuring feeling of a securely held foot. It simply feels great on your runs.
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Why do running shoe companies discontinue some of their shoes?
Running shoe companies discontinue certain running shoe models for various reasons. One primary factor is the constant evolution of technology and design in the industry. Companies continually strive to improve their products, introducing new materials, cushioning systems, and support features to enhance performance and comfort.
As a result, older models may become outdated or less competitive in the market. Additionally, sales and demand play a crucial role. If a particular shoe doesn’t sell well, or if newer models gain popularity, it becomes financially unsustainable to keep producing the older ones.
Discontinuation allows companies to focus resources on their best-performing and most innovative designs. They also keep their product lines fresh and aligned with the latest trends and advancements, meeting the ever-changing needs and preferences of runners.
I hope the New Balance 860 is your new New Balance Rubix replacement. Thanks for making it to the end of this article and happy running in your new running companion 🙂
