New Balance 880v15: Fresh Take on a Classic

880v15: Quick Facts

 Weight: 

• M: 281g US 9
• W: 235g US 8

Best For: 

• Daily training
• All day wear and walking option

Price: 

• $230 AUD

Stack Height & Drop: 

• 40.5mm heel / 34.5mm forefoot
• 6mm drop

Favourite Features: 

• New outsole pattern complements the Fresh Foam X midsole geometry
• Comfortable upper that's simple and fits well

Release Date: 

• March 1st, 2025

What's the 880v15 all about?

The New Balance 880 has long been a staple in the brand’s lineup, serving as a reliable neutral daily trainer. Known for its balance of cushioning, durability and versatility, the 880 has earned a reputation as a bit of allrounder—suited for everything from daily miles to all day wear and a really solid walking shoe option.

The latest iteration, the 880v15, maintains that core DNA but embraces some of the modern running footwear trends, particularly the shift towards a higher stack height. While still feeling like a traditional daily trainer, the v15 brings an updated feel to the midsole, upper, and outsole that make it more refined and adaptable to the demands out on the road.

There are three key changes in 880v15:

1) More stack, less drop

No doubt the biggest update to the 880v15 is its midsole. New Balance has increased the stack height significantly, bringing it up to 40.5mm in the heel, while also lowering the drop to 6mm. To maintain that stable neutral ride that 880 wearers expect, New Balance have increased the midsole’s surface area with more flaring which has resulted in an overall larger footprint from the 880v14.

The shoe features a full-length Fresh Foam X midsole, but as we’re seeing across all brands, not all foams with the same name perform alike. This iteration of Fresh Foam X is definitely on the firmer side, which helps the 880v15 retain some of the traditional underfoot feel the series is known for. We appreciate New Balance keeping the 880v15 on the firmer side as it clearly separates itself from the much softer big brothers, 1080v14 and More v5. It's also nice to still have some shoes on the market that are relatively firm as this caters to runners who prefer a more 'connected to the ground' ride.

Additionally, New Balance has introduced a forefoot rocker with the change in overall geometry. It’s not overly aggressive, but it’s definitely more noticeable than in the previous 880v14, providing a smoother toe-off.

2) Simple, no frills upper

The upper has been reworked, featuring a new engineered mesh that delivers a more premium feel. New Balance has also increased the thickness of the gusseted tongue, enhancing comfort and lockdown. It's a pretty simple upper, it has a sturdy heel counter, decent breathability and it just works!

Fit remains true to size, with a standard to slightly wide fit through the midfoot and forefoot. One of the standout aspects of the 880 series has always been its availability in sizing, and New Balance continues that. The 880v15 is offered in multiple width options, ranging from standard to extra-wide in both men's and women's sizing.

3) 1080 inspired outsole

The outsole of the 880v15 takes inspiration from the New Balance 1080v14, featuring a new pattern that complements the shoe’s forefoot rocker. The placement of the outsole rubber which runs vertically assists in creating some additional stiffness in the forefoot, contributing to a more efficient transition through toe off.

One notable change is the reduced overall outsole coverage. This design choice helps keep the weight down, but may come at the expense of durability. While the 880 series has always been known for its longevity, runners and walkers who prioritise outsole wear might notice a difference in the v15.

Our first thoughts

The 880v15 feels like a modernised version of a traditional daily trainer, with its higher stack and updated geometry. Think of it as a lower profile, more muted version of the New Balance 1080v14.

While the midsole doesn’t deliver a super bouncy experience, it doesn't need to. It's a shoe that provides a safe, reliable and consistent ride—suited for runners and walkers who prefer a firmer, more simple feel.

A lot of shoes are moving towards super soft, high stack with stiff rockers, so we appreciate there's still options like the 880 on the market. We also think if you're a runner or walker who enjoyed previous iterations of the 880 series, you'll still likely enjoy what the v15 has to to offer.

About the author

Nathan Pope - Runner and Shoe Nerd

I'm really passionate about running footwear and how shoes can be used as a tool to get the best of your running, whether that be general fitness or performance.

My favourite event is the marathon. I feel as though the marathon is the ultimate test both physically and mentally! It requires careful planning both within the race and during the training block and it can be super satisfying when it comes together on race day