GT-2000 15 vs Fresh Foam X 860 15

Previous GT-2000s were the stability shoe you bought because it was sensible. Version 15 is the first one reviewers seem to actually enjoy running in. At 252g with 38.2mm under the heel and an 8.2mm drop, it's lighter and more flexible than the GT-2000 14, and the reviews we read agree the ride is livelier and more cushioned than before. The support is mild. A firm, centred platform guides your foot, and there's no hard medial post pushing into the arch. That makes it a daily training shoe for runners who roll in a little, not for severe overpronators. The catch is the fit. The toe box is low and tapered and the heel counter is stiff, so wide or high-volume feet may struggle. UK reviewer Fordy Runs rates it an excellent daily trainer, while RTINGS was cooler, finding the cushioning fades on longer runs. We sit closer to the first camp. At £134.99 RRP it's also cheaper than most stability rivals before any discount.

New Balance made the 860 bigger for version 15. Our spec sheet has it at 332g against 309g for the 860 v14, with more foam under the heel, and it now rides like a cushioned daily training shoe with support built in rather than a stability shoe with a bit of softness added. Reviewers like the comfort, and they like that the support runs along the whole inner edge instead of sitting in one post under the arch. Weight is the complaint that turns up in almost every review, and one detailed review found the heel counter stiff enough to rub. Our take: it's a good stability running shoe for easy miles and long days on your feet, but you pay for that if you want one shoe that also handles quicker sessions. It's aimed at mild to moderate overpronators. If you need firm correction, or you count grams, there are better picks at this price.