Achieve New Balance

New New Balance (awkward huh?) for fall 2006. Not a lot!

The two big deals are the 1222 and the 767.

The 1222 is the expensive stability trainer that NB makes to compete with the formidable Asics Kayano. NB removed the Rollbar (only true motion control shoes will have Rollbar) and extended (and beefed up) the Stability Web. They also elongated the medial (inside) side of the heel. All things being equal, a wider base is more stable. That is why they elongate (widen) the heel. The shoe seems to be about the same stability.

They put the Abzorb in the forefoot on top of the midsole. They have found it lasts longer and works better on top than on the bottom.

When I compared it to the Kayano, the 1222 felt better to my feet! That is quite an accomplishment. It comes out in June.

Also to compete with the Kayano, they raised the price to $135. Just like the Kayano!

The 767 also feels really good. I did an early preview a while back and it still feels great. This is the shoe designed to go after the 800lbs gorilla of running: The 2000 series (currently 2110) by Asics.

They widened the heel (medially), added Lightening Dri to the liner (better wicking) and are using the Acteva midsole (top of the line). It comes out in July.

It really feels great!

Besides some silly Nike knock offs (they even look like they have airbags!) that's it.

April Anne: the 606 is staying the same (yes I know you're an Asics girl now). Try the 767, you might like it.