New Balance Women's 857 V3 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer - Stable helps

In this review of the New Balance Women's 857 V3 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer the bottom line is simple: this shoe is best for women who prioritize support and durability in everyday wear and low- to medium-impact training. The most compelling reason to buy is the pronounced rear-foot control provided by the ROLLBAR stability post, which keeps lateral movement in check and helps those who need reliable support during gym sessions or a busy commute.

Key Features

• ROLLBAR stability post: Controls rear-foot movement for enhanced support during lateral movements and gym work.
• Leather upper: Offers durable, clean styling that stands up to regular use while remaining easy to wipe clean.
• PU insert: Provides long-lasting underfoot comfort and supportive cushioning for all-day wear.
• Non-marking outsole: Lets you train indoors without scuffing studio or gym floors.
• Adjustable lace closure: Allows a customizable fit to accommodate different foot shapes and sock thicknesses.

Who It's For

The 857 V3 is ideal for women who need a stable, supportive cross trainer for light to moderate training, walking, and daily activities. Its leather construction and stability features suit shoppers who value longevity and structured support over a maximalist soft ride. Runners seeking high-energy cushioning or minimalist shoes should look elsewhere, as this model emphasizes control and durability rather than plush, responsive running foam.

It also works well for people with mild arch support needs thanks to the PU insert, and for those who train indoors because of the non-marking outsole. If you prefer very flexible, barefoot-style footwear or require extreme cushioning for long-distance runs, consider a different category of shoe.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Supportive ROLLBAR system gives noticeable rear-foot stability for lateral movements.
• Durable leather upper maintains a polished look and resists wear from daily use.
• PU insert delivers steady, long-lasting comfort and useful arch support.
• Non-marking outsole and adjustable laces add practicality for gym and everyday use.

Cons

• Some users report mixed comfort and break-in stiffness from the leather upper during extended wear.
• Sizing opinions vary among customers, so fit may require trying different sizes for the best result.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The New Balance 857 V3 is a sensible choice for women seeking a stable, durable cross trainer that doubles as a comfortable everyday shoe. With strong rear-foot control, a supportive PU insert, and a leather upper, it delivers good value for anyone prioritizing structure and longevity over plush cushioning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for gym lateral work?
Yes. The built-in ROLLBAR stability post is designed to control rear-foot movement, which helps during lateral exercises.

Do they run true to size?
Customer feedback is mixed on sizing; trying your usual New Balance size is a good start, but consider a different size if you have narrow or wide feet.

Is the leather upper stiff at first?
Some users report initial stiffness that softens with wear; expect a short break-in period for best comfort.