New Balance 880 v15 review

I have been logging lots of miles in all the latest releases from New Balance this year, and the 880 v15 is one that has really stood out to me so far.

The New Balance 880 v15 provides an incredibly comfortable, soft ride, with a surprising amount of stability for such a high stack shoe, and all this, for only $140.

I’ve gathered some thoughts on how this daily trainer stacks up for long, easy runs, but also as a walking shoe or for standing around all day. With a design that leans into cushioning and stability, it’s a reliable option for daily training. Let’s go!

Key specifications

• Price: $140 at New Balance / Road Runner Sports / Dick’s Sporting Goods
• Weight: 9.9oz / 281g for a size US M9
• Drop: 6 mm
• Stack Height: 40.5 mm at the heel, 34.5 mm at the forefoot
• Midsole: Fresh Foam X midsole foam with approximately 3% bio-based content
• Upper: Engineered mesh with gusseted tongue and padded heel collar
• Cushion: Soft cushioning aimed at everyday comfort (running / walking)
• Outsole: Durable rubber for the most part
• Support: Neutral, stable design

Sizing and fit

I found the fit to be mostly true to size, with the squared-off toe box providing ample room in the forefoot / toe box areas.

They have a medium width so if you have wide feet then go with one of the wide options available on the New Balance website.

What’s good

The New Balance 880 v15 impressed me most with its focus on plush comfort underfoot, a soft supportive upper, and a surprising level of support for everyday runs and even walking around all day – both scenarios I have been testing them in.

The 40.5 mm heel and 34.5 mm forefoot give the shoe a very noticeably soft cushioned feel, and that 6 mm drop helps create a smooth transition that’s gentle on the joints – I’m not a fan of high drop running shoes because I personally tend to land on my midfoot to forefoot.

This update with a higher stack, certainly nudges the 880 v15 into the more “maximal” cushioned trainer category, and this cushioning makes it a great daily trainer that supports longer, easy-paced runs.

This means that it’s not really a running shoe for speed training, although having said that, it does actually do a pretty good job of bouncing back, making it good for the odd run where you want to pick up the pace.

This finding actually surprised me a little as I went into testing thinking it would just be a shoe for slow paced runs, however, recovery runs or long, comfortable outings, is where it works perfectly without leaving you feeling overly fatigued by the end of your run.

I also appreciated the soft yet supportive engineered mesh upper, even though it’s not the most breathable – something to be aware of if you run in hot / humid conditions.

The gusseted tongue and padded heel collar contribute to a secure, snug fit, and the squared-off toe box offers plenty of room for toe wiggle, which is a relief during longer runs.

Overall, this shoe provides reliable cushioning and stability, making it an excellent choice if you value a smooth, protected ride for your daily runs, and for only $140 – what else could you ask for.

How it could be improved

On the whole this New Balance 880 v15 is an excellent daily trainer if high cushioned support is what you’re after (who isnt) but I didnt pick up on a few things that you need to be aware of.

Firstly, traction isn’t as confident on wet / slick surfaces, like painted lines on the paths or slick stones / cobbled streets, for example – just avoid them if you’re running in the rain.

This is mostly due to the fact that there are some areas of exposed foam in the midfoot and heel areas of the outsole (non-rubberized sections, if you like).

In dry conditions they’re great, and I have no complaints there.

The upper does also lack in breathability, which could be a problem if you run in hot or humid conditions.

This won’t be a problem if you intend to use these for slower, easy runs, or for just walking / standing around in all day because you won’t be working hard enough to heat them up inside.

Lastly, they’re not the lightest – although they in no way feel heavy on the run (or for walking with) – they also happen to weigh pretty much the same as the New Balance 1080 v14 (another great daily trainer, worth checking out).

My verdict

Overall, I see the New Balance 880 v15 as an excellent choice for daily runs, longer training sessions, recovery runs, walking, and even for standing around all day (lifestyle shoe).

It has a comfortable fit, and relatively stable ride (considering all the soft cushioning in the midsole), with plenty of cushioning for those recovery miles.

While it may not provide the energy return needed for speedier runs, its focus on comfort and easy mile bagging, makes it a reliable option for runners looking for a dependable everyday trainer.

If you prioritize cushioning and a secure, cloud-like fit, this shoe is right up there with the best, and it features on my shortlist of best daily trainers right now.

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👋🏼 Not sure about these but still looking for your next pair of daily trainer running shoes? Head over to my Best Daily Trainers roundup. See you on the next review! -Alastair

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