Verdict from 1 expert and 100+ user reviews
6 reasons to buy
- A majority of shoppers stated that the New Balance 1865 felt comfortable during extended periods of walking and standing.
- Many consumers claimed that the trainer fit them well.
- Its lightweight nature was praised immensely by numerous owners.
- A good number of reviewers appreciated that it presented adequate lateral and arch support.
- Its durability pleased multiple buyers.
- Several wearers reported that the footgear relieved their foot, leg and back pains.
1 reason not to buy
- The cushioning unit was believed to be too thin and did not supply a comfortable footbed, according to some purchasers.
Bottom line
The comfort and utility of the New Balance 1865 pleased numerous consumers. Despite a few complaints about cushioning, it still came highly recommended as an everyday walking shoe.
Tip: see the best walking shoes.
Good to know
The New Balance 1865 is a fitness walking shoe designed to deliver a comfortable ride no matter the length of the journey. It features a sole unit that is shaped like a rocker to give a smooth heel-to-toe transition. The midsole is made from the Rapid Rebound Foam that provides maximum energy return.
Additional cushioned support is found on the medial side of the heel. Called the SBS Stabilizer, it prevents the foot from rolling in or overpronating.
The Ndurance rubber is used in the New Balance 1865. It is placed in the high-wear areas such as the heel and toe sections because it is more durable than typical rubber. It has a tread pattern that enhances traction of the compound. Under the ball of the foot, a different type of rubber is used. It has minimal treads to facilitate smooth twists and turns.
This model employs the Walking Strike Path. This feature centers the foot during the walking gait cycle by evenly shifting the weight from the heel to the toes, for a steady forward roll movement.
The Rapid Rebound foam makes up the midsole of the New Balance 1865. This proprietary cushioning system is designed to have more rebound than other foams, which explains its bouncy and springy characteristic. It attenuates shock with each step and keeps the foot comfortable and protected from pain and injuries.
At the medial side of the heel is the SBS Stabilizer. It is a hard rubber compound that reinforces the midsole and is anchored to the outsole. The structure brings a steadying component to the rear section by preventing the heel from rolling in and correcting the gait of the wearer to avoid discomfort.
Those looking to correct moderate to severe overpronation might as well consider New Balance shoes with the Rollbar posting system.
The New Balance 1865 features the FantomFit upper. This skeletally-engineered façade is made by fusing thin mesh and synthetic overlays to provide lightweight but supportive construction. This no-sew process contributes to the lightweight nature of the footwear. Synthetic overlays strengthen the toe box, eyestays, and parts of the side panels to protect the mesh from abrasion.
Heel clips are seen on both sides of the heel area. They serve to hold the foot steady and prevent it from sliding inside the footwear. Furthermore, the plush collar ensures that the heel is locked down to avoid the shoe flying off the foot when the user is in motion.