Our New Balance 9060 review shows these premium running trainers deliver exceptional comfort. They feature an impressive 37.2 mm heel stack and a 100 SA shock absorption rating. Both New Balance and ASICS have built strong reputations since their founding in 1906 and 1949, each taking a unique approach to cushioning and performance.
Durability and price drive most discussions about ASICS vs New Balance. New Balance shoes typically last 480–800 kilometres, while ASICS shoes average 720–800 kilometres before needing replacement.
The price gap between these brands is noticeable; you can often find the New Balance 9060 for around AUD 180, while the ASICS Gel Kayano 14 retails for roughly AUD 290.
Both brands excel in comfort but achieve it differently. ASICS relies on its signature GEL cushioning, while New Balance combines modern foam compounds with inclusive design for a more custom fit.
Brand Philosophy and Design Approach
New Balance: Wide Fit and Lifestyle Crossover
New Balance began in 1906 as an arch-support company. That commitment to comfort and fit remains core today. The brand is known for inclusive sizing, offering multiple width options, including wide and extra-wide, making it ideal for runners with broader feet.
Their FuelCell cushioning uses nitrogen-infused foam for responsive energy return. Lightweight materials maintain structure even under heavy impact, providing a great balance of comfort and bounce. This design versatility makes the New Balance 9060 equally suited to light runs and daily wear.
The 9060s “dad shoe” aesthetic has also gained strong lifestyle appeal. Reviewers frequently praise its premium build quality, trendy look, and supportive comfort.
ASICS: Performance-First with GEL Technology
ASICS was founded in Japan by Kihachiro Onitsuka, whose philosophy – “Anima Sana In Corpore Sano” – translates to a sound mind in a sound body. The brand revolutionised running shoes in 1986 with the introduction of GEL technology, inspired by experiments showing how silicone gel could absorb shock even from high drops.
Their latest designs continue this innovation, placing specific GEL formulations at impact zones:
Rearfoot GEL to absorb heel strikes
Forefoot GEL to smooth transitions
FlyteFoam layers for lightweight cushioning
ASICS shoes are known for their snug heel and midfoot fit, with structured heel clutches and steeper heel-to-toe drops (8–10 mm) compared to the more level builds of New Balance.
Manufacturing Origins
Both brands carry proud legacies tied to their manufacturing choices.
New Balance maintains its MADE in USA line, focusing on craftsmanship and domestic production quality.
ASICS, meanwhile, manufactures globally – primarily in Vietnam, with premium models also made in Japan and China – to balance precision and accessibility.
These different production approaches reflect each brand’s values:
New Balance emphasises heritage and quality craftsmanship.
ASICS focuses on global innovation and performance consistency.
Build Quality and Technical Features
Durability: 480–800 km vs 720–800 km
New Balance trainers usually last between 480–800 kilometres, while ASICS models edge ahead with around 720–800 kilometres of reliable performance – a key advantage for long-distance runners.
Breathability: Hypoknit vs Ortholite Mesh
New Balance’s Hypoknit upper provides solid breathability and moisture control.
ASICS counters with Ortholite mesh, which offers better sweat wicking and long-term cushioning.
Fit Profile: Wide Toe Box vs Snug Heel
The New Balance 9060 features a spacious 65.5 mm toe box and multiple width options (2A to extra-wide). ASICS opts for a narrower profile with a supportive heel clutch and firm midfoot containment.
Cushioning: FuelCell vs FlyteFoam + GEL
New Balance FuelCell: Nitrogen-infused foam offering lively energy return.
ASICS FlyteFoam + GEL: Classic impact-absorbing comfort that retains shape longer.
Stability Systems: S-Curve vs Duomax
- New Balance uses an S-curve midsole and wider base for stability.
- ASICS employs the Duomax dual-density midsole and Trusstic resin plate to reduce twisting and overpronation.
Performance by Running Category
|
Category |
New Balance Model |
ASICS Model |
Key Traits |
|
Stability |
Fresh Foam 860 v14 |
GEL Kayano 30 |
Excellent medial support; smooth heel transitions |
|
Neutral |
Fresh Foam 880 v15 |
Novablast 5 |
Balanced cushioning with high responsiveness |
|
Max Cushion |
1080 v14 |
GEL Nimbus 27 |
Plush midsoles; ideal for long runs and recovery days |
|
Trail |
Hierro v9 |
Trabuco 13 |
Superior grip and durability; NB excels on rugged terrain |
|
Racing / Carbon Plate |
SuperComp Elite v4 |
Metaspeed Sky / Edge |
Carbon-plate performance for advanced runners |
Price, Fit, and Everyday Comfort
Price Range (AUD)
New Balance 9060: From AUD 180 to 240
ASICS Gel Kayano: From AUD 260 to 310
Entry-level models from both brands start around AUD 150
.
Width Options
- New Balance excels at inclusivity with widths from narrow (2A) to extra-wide, suiting all foot shapes.
- ASICS, by contrast, sticks to a more standard fit, with a snug midfoot and narrow heel for stability.
Are New Balance 9060 Good for Running?
The New Balance 9060 performs best as a lifestyle sneaker with moderate running capability. It’s ideal for treadmill sessions or casual runs up to 5 km, but not designed for marathon-level intensity. Its 100 SA shock absorption provides superb comfort for all-day wear, though energy return (46%) is moderate compared to performance models.
New Balance 9060 Review Highlights
Most users find the 9060 true to size, though runners with wider feet may prefer half a size up. At 427 g, it’s heavier than a typical trainer but remains comfortable for everyday use.
The outsole’s 0.51 friction score means reliable traction on both wet and dry surfaces.
Comparison Summary
|
Feature |
New Balance 9060 |
ASICS Gel Kayano |
|
Heel Stack Height |
37.2 mm |
Not stated |
|
Shock Absorption |
100 SA rating |
Proprietary GEL compound |
|
Durability |
480–800 km |
720–800 km |
|
Average Price (AUD) |
180–240 |
260–310 |
|
Upper Material |
Hypoknit |
Ortholite mesh |
|
Fit |
Wide toe box, multiple widths |
Snug midfoot and heel |
|
Cushioning |
FuelCell nitrogen foam |
FlyteFoam + GEL |
|
Stability System |
S-curve platform |
Duomax + Trusstic |
|
Weight |
427 g |
Not specified |
|
Primary Use |
Lifestyle / casual running |
Performance running |
|
Energy Return |
46 % |
Not stated |
|
Grip (Friction Score) |
0.51 |
Not stated |
|
Manufacturing |
USA (select lines) |
Vietnam, China, Japan |
Conclusion
Your choice between New Balance 9060 and ASICS Gel Kayano depends on your priorities:
Comfort & Value: New Balance wins for casual wearers and runners seeking a roomy fit and versatile design at a more affordable price.
Performance & Durability: ASICS remains the go-to for serious runners who value advanced stability, shock absorption, and technical precision.
In short:
Choose New Balance 9060 for everyday comfort and casual runs.
Choose ASICS Gel Kayano for structured support, endurance training, and premium performance.
