New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15

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82%
🏅 Highly Rated
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New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15: Review

“A reliable shoe for daily running with balanced cushioning.”

Overview


The New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 is a running shoe designed to provide comfort and stability for daily training. This shoe is known for its reliable cushioning and durable construction.

Key Features:

  • Fresh Foam X Midsole: Offers a balance of cushioning and firmness for a stable ride.
  • Engineered Mesh Upper: Lightweight and breathable, providing a comfortable fit.
  • 6 mm Heel-to-Toe Drop: Promotes a natural stride and smooth transitions.

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize comfort and stability for daily running. Its engineered mesh upper offers breathability, making it suitable for long-distance runs.

According to our analysis of reviews from experts around the world, it averages a review score of 80%. This puts it rated just below the median rating of comparable running shoes.

Verdict

The consensus on the New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15


The New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 is praised for its comfort and durability, making it a dependable choice for a wide range of runners. Its Fresh Foam X midsole provides a balance between cushioning and firmness, offering a stable ride without sacrificing responsiveness. The engineered mesh upper is lightweight and breathable, enhancing comfort during long runs. However, the shoe's traction may be less effective in wet conditions, which could be a concern for some runners. Despite this, the 880 v15 remains a solid option for those seeking a reliable daily trainer. The shoe's 6 mm heel-to-toe drop promotes a natural stride, and its broad platform enhances stability. Overall, the New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 is a versatile shoe that performs well for everyday running, offering good value for money. It is a dependable choice for runners looking for comfort and durability in their daily training shoes.

Updates to New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15


The New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 introduces several updates from its predecessor, the New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v14. One of the most notable changes is the increase in Fresh Foam X cushioning, with an additional 3 mm in the heel and 6 mm in the forefoot, enhancing comfort and shock absorption. The heel-to-toe drop has been reduced from 8 mm to 6 mm, promoting a more natural stride. The upper has been redesigned with a more breathable mesh, improving ventilation during long runs. Additionally, the outsole features less rubber in the midsole area, reducing weight while maintaining durability. These updates aim to enhance the overall running experience, making the 880 v15 a more comfortable and efficient choice for daily training.

Comparable Shoes


The Saucony Ride 18 is another comparable option for runners looking for a versatile daily trainer. Like the New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15, the Ride 18 offers a balance of cushioning and firmness, providing a stable ride. However, the Saucony model features a slightly lower stack height, which may appeal to those who prefer a closer-to-the-ground feel. The Ride 18 also has a higher heel-to-toe drop of 8 mm, offering a different running experience for those who favor a more traditional shoe design.

The Brooks Ghost 15 is a popular choice among runners seeking a comfortable and reliable daily trainer. While both the Ghost 15 and the New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 offer excellent cushioning and support, the Brooks model is known for its plush feel, making it a suitable option for those who prefer a softer ride. The Ghost 15 also provides a smooth transition and a secure fit, making it a dependable choice for long-distance runs.

8 New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 Pros & Cons


5 Pros

Comfortable cushioning with Fresh Foam X technology.
Durable construction suitable for daily running.
Breathable engineered mesh upper.
Available in multiple widths for a customized fit.
Stable ride with a broad platform.

3 Cons

Traction may be less effective in wet conditions.
Slightly firmer feel may not suit all runners.
Some runners may find the fit snugger than previous versions.

In Depth


Upper

The upper of the New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 is constructed with an engineered mesh that is both lightweight and breathable. This design provides a comfortable fit, allowing for some stretch and accommodating various foot shapes. The mesh material enhances the shoe's breathability, making it suitable for long-distance runs where ventilation is crucial. The upper also features minimal overlays, contributing to its sleek aesthetic and providing additional stability around the heel. This combination of features ensures that the shoe remains comfortable and supportive during extended wear.

Midsole

The midsole of the New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 features the Fresh Foam X technology, which offers a balance of cushioning and firmness. This design provides a stable and protective experience, making it suitable for a variety of running conditions. The midsole's cushioning is designed to absorb impact effectively, reducing strain on the joints during long runs. The 6 mm heel-to-toe drop promotes a natural stride, enhancing the overall running experience. This combination of features makes the midsole a key component in delivering comfort and stability for daily training.

Outsole

The outsole of the New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 is designed with large rubber sections at the front and back, providing durability and traction on dry surfaces. However, the shoe may struggle with traction in wet conditions, which could be a concern for some runners. The outsole's design contributes to the shoe's overall stability, with a broad platform that enhances balance during runs. Despite its challenges in wet conditions, the outsole remains a durable and reliable component for everyday running.

Size/fit

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 offers a fit that is true to size, with a medium toe box that provides ample space for the forefoot. This design accommodates various foot shapes, ensuring comfort during long runs. The shoe is available in different widths, making it accessible to runners with narrow, wide, or extra-wide feet. The gusseted tongue and padded heel collar enhance the fit, providing additional comfort and preventing irritation during wear. Overall, the shoe's fit is designed to offer a comfortable and secure experience for a wide range of runners.

Comfort

Comfort is a standout feature of the New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15, thanks to its well-cushioned midsole and breathable upper. The Fresh Foam X technology provides a balance of cushioning and firmness, ensuring a comfortable ride without sacrificing stability. The engineered mesh upper enhances breathability, keeping the foot cool during long runs. The shoe's padded tongue and heel collar add to the overall comfort, preventing irritation and providing a snug fit. This combination of features makes the 880 v15 a comfortable choice for daily running.

Cushioning

The cushioning in the New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 is provided by the Fresh Foam X midsole, which offers a balance of softness and firmness. This design ensures a stable ride while effectively absorbing impact, reducing strain on the joints during long runs. The shoe's cushioning is designed to provide comfort without feeling overly soft, making it suitable for a variety of running conditions. The 6 mm heel-to-toe drop enhances the cushioning experience, promoting a natural stride and smooth transitions.

Breathability

The engineered mesh upper of the New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 enhances breathability, making it suitable for long-distance runs. The lightweight mesh material allows for airflow, keeping the foot cool and comfortable during extended wear. This design reduces the sensation of heat, ensuring a pleasant running experience even in warmer conditions. The breathability of the upper is a key feature that contributes to the overall comfort of the shoe, making it a reliable choice for daily training.

Stability

Stability is a key feature of the New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15, thanks to its broad platform and firm midsole. The Fresh Foam X technology provides a stable ride, ensuring confidence during runs. The shoe's design includes a wide base that enhances balance, making it suitable for a variety of running conditions. The outsole's rubber sections contribute to stability, providing traction on dry surfaces. Overall, the 880 v15 offers a stable and secure experience for runners seeking reliability in their daily training shoes.

Durability

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 is designed with durability in mind, featuring a robust outsole and high-quality materials. The large rubber sections on the outsole provide long-lasting traction, ensuring the shoe can withstand regular use. The engineered mesh upper is both lightweight and durable, maintaining its shape and performance over time. This combination of features makes the 880 v15 a reliable choice for runners seeking a shoe that can endure the demands of daily training.

Grip

The grip of the New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 is provided by its large rubber outsole sections, which offer reliable traction on dry surfaces. However, the shoe may struggle with grip in wet conditions, which could be a concern for some runners. Despite this, the outsole's design contributes to the shoe's overall stability, providing a secure footing during runs. The grip is suitable for everyday running on roads and similar surfaces, making the 880 v15 a dependable choice for daily training.

Flex

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 offers moderate flexibility, allowing for a natural stride and smooth transitions. The shoe's design includes a stiffer forefoot, which acts as a lever to aid in heel-to-toe transitions. This feature enhances the overall running experience, providing a smooth and comfortable ride. While the shoe may feel slightly firmer than previous versions, its flexibility remains suitable for a variety of running conditions, making it a versatile choice for daily training.

Who should buy the New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15?


Runners who prioritize comfort and stability in their daily training will find the New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 to be a suitable choice. Its neutral support and daily running focus make it ideal for those who cover long distances regularly. The shoe's breathable upper and cushioned midsole provide a comfortable experience, even during extended runs. Additionally, runners who appreciate a balance of cushioning and firmness will benefit from the Fresh Foam X technology, which offers a stable ride without sacrificing comfort.

Who should not buy the New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15?


Runners who prefer a softer, more plush ride may find the New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 to be too firm for their liking. Those who frequently run in wet conditions might also want to consider other options, as the shoe's traction can be less effective on slippery surfaces. If a runner is looking for a shoe with a more flexible feel, they might find the 880 v15 to be slightly stiff. For those seeking a shoe with a higher drop, the 6 mm heel-to-toe drop may not provide the desired experience. Alternatives like the ASICS GEL-Cumulus 26 or Saucony Ride 18 could be considered.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15: What's it good for?


The New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 is well-suited for daily running and long-distance training. Its neutral pronation support makes it ideal for runners who do not require additional stability features. The shoe's breathable upper and cushioned midsole provide comfort during extended runs, making it a reliable choice for those who cover many miles. Additionally, the 880 v15 is suitable for road running, offering stability and durability on paved surfaces.

5 New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 FAQs


What is the heel-to-toe drop of the New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15?

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 features a heel-to-toe drop of 6 mm, which promotes a more natural stride and smooth transitions.

Is the New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 suitable for wet conditions?

While the New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 offers good traction on dry surfaces, it may struggle in wet conditions, which could be a concern for some runners.

What type of runner is the New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 best suited for?

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 is ideal for runners who prioritize comfort and stability in their daily training, particularly those who cover long distances regularly.

How does the cushioning of the New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 compare to previous models?

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 features increased cushioning with an additional 3 mm in the heel and 6 mm in the forefoot, providing enhanced comfort and shock absorption compared to previous models.

Does the New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 come in different widths?

Yes, the New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 is available in narrow, wide, and extra-wide widths, accommodating various foot shapes and sizes.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 alternatives

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Weight
Weight
M: 281 g
W: 235 g
M: 283 g
W: 244 g
M: 261 g
W: 207 g
M: 269 g
W: 230 g
M: 218 g
W: 184 g
M: 266 g
W: 238 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
35 mm
34 mm
33 mm
29 mm
28 mm
23 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
6 mm
5 mm
6 mm
8 mm
8 mm
10 mm
Heel
Heel
41 mm
39 mm
39 mm
37 mm
36 mm
33 mm
Brand
Brand
New Balance
HokaNew BalanceSauconyBrooksadidas
Strike Type
Strike Type
Fore/Midfoot strike
Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
ComfortableLow dropMaximalist
ComfortableMaximalistComfortableLightweightMaximalistMaximalistComfortableLightweightComfortable
Rocker
Rocker
Breathable
Breathable
Techs
Techs
New Balance Fresh Foam
New Balance Fresh Foam
0

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15: what the experts say (2 reviews)

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15: 6 Expert video reviews

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 characteristics and specifications

Characteristics
SportsRunning (+2144)
TerrainRoad (+1438)
UsagesDaily running (+1196)
BrandNew Balance (+139)
Support TypeNeutral (+1683)
Pronation TypeNeutral pronation (+1658)
Strike TypeFore/Midfoot strike (+1186)
Arch TypeHigh arch (+1605)
Shoe TypeComfortable (+294)Low drop (+295)Maximalist (+478)
FitMedium toe box (+920)
FeaturesOrthotic friendly (+542)Removable insole (+525)Rocker (+209)
MaterialsMesh (+1020)
TechsNew Balance Fresh Foam (+70)
ColorwaysBlack, Black / Black, Blue, Pearl Grey / Dusk, Reflection, Reflection / Lime, Reflection / Rose Sugar / Grey Matte, White / Sea Salt / Black, Yellow
Specificationsvs Average
Model
v15
Released
Feb 2025
Measurements
Weight
M: 281 g
W: 235 g
Heel to toe drop
6 mm
Heel
41 mm
Forefoot
35 mm

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AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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