The Bottom Line
The W1000 features a seamless upper and many ventilation and moisture management features. It is a cushioned shoe for those with a neutral gait who don't need motion control. For walkers, the heel is somewhat flared, a feature that doesn't help a walking stride.
Pros
- Seamless upper, highly ventilated and breathable.
- For neutral gait
- Flexible
Cons
- Heel flange too aggressive for walking stride
Description
- Cushioned shoe on the SL-1 last
- Biocool seamless mesh upper
- Widths normal, wide
Guide Review - New Balance 1000 Shoe
I chose the W1000 for its seamless upper, which wouldn't rub against my bunion area. For that feature, it works quite well. I've worn it on a couple of half marathons with no bunion pain. The upper features many moisture-management and ventilation features for those who want to keep their feet cold and dry.
For walkers, this shoe is less than ideal because the heel is somewhat flared. A walking stride is better supported by a slightly undercut heel, which is just the opposite of what you see with the W1000.
The sole also has a very large groove running all the way to the heel. I was disconcerted that this groove picked up entire pinecones.
The W1000 is well cushioned and I felt no foot or lower leg fatigue over long distances. I found it flexible enough for walking at a moderate pace. New Balance produces the W1000 in normal and wide.
