Welcome to Flawless Shoe Reviews. Today, we’re comparing two of the most popular neutral running shoes in the New Balance lineup—the 1080 v14 and the 880 v15. While both are designed for everyday comfort and long-distance support, they perform and feel very different on foot.
In this post, we’ll explain how they differ in cushioning, stability, performance, and fit so you can confidently decide which one best suits your running or walking needs.
Midsole Feel: Fresh Foam X, but Not the Same
At first glance, it might seem like the 1080 v14 and 880 v15 use the same midsole—Fresh Foam X—but don’t be fooled by the label. They feel totally different underfoot.
- 1080 v14: Compared to the v13, New Balance has made the 1080 v14 firmer and more stable. It still has a cloud-like sensation, but the overly soft, squishy feel of the v13 is gone. This firmer update makes it better for longer miles and walking, while still retaining all-day comfort.
- 880 v15: Despite also using Fresh Foam X, the 880 feels firmer than the 1080. You get more energy return and a quicker transition from heel to toe, which is ideal if you prefer a bit more responsiveness underfoot. The firmness gives it a more “athletic” ride—especially when compared to softer max-cushion shoes like the Asics Gel-Nimbus 27.
Stack Height, Weight, and Flexibility
In terms of cushioning volume:
- 1080 v14: 40.5mm in the heel and 34.5mm in the forefoot, giving a 6mm drop.
- 880 v15: Slightly lower stack but still well cushioned, with the same 6mm drop.
Surprisingly, despite its firmer midsole, the 880 v15 weighs slightly more at 300g versus the 298g of the 1080 v14 in a men’s US 9.
One key difference is forefoot stiffness:
- The 880 v15 has a stiffer toe box, which can benefit runners with big toe arthritis or metatarsalgia by limiting excessive motion in the forefoot.
- The 1080 v14 has a bit more flexibility through the forefoot than the v13 but still offers structure for smoother transitions.
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Fit and Upper Feel
Both shoes feature:
- True-to-size fit
- Gusseted padded tongues
- Moderately stiff heel counters for secure lockdown
- Plenty of heel padding
However, the 1080 v14 offers more space in the toe box, making it a better option if you need room for your toes to spread naturally or have a slightly wider foot (wide versions are also available).
Stability: Neutral vs Stable Neutral
- 880 v15: Best described as a stable neutral shoe. It features larger sidewalls, a broad base, and sole flare—subtle design features that keep your foot centered and add some stability without feeling intrusive. It’s an excellent choice for runners with mild overpronation or who want just a bit more support without moving into a full stability shoe like the New Balance 860 v14 or the Vongo V6.
- 1080 v14: Technically a neutral shoe, but we’d classify it as a stable neutral too due to the firmer foam, mild sidewalls, and wide sole platform. However, because of its softer feel, it may challenge your stabilisers (like the peroneals and posterior tibial tendon) more than the 880—something to consider if you’ve had issues in those areas.
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Performance and Use Case
Both shoes are excellent lifestyle options and can easily handle long walks, standing all day, and easy daily runs. That said, they cater to slightly different users:
| Feature | New Balance 1080 v14 | New Balance 880 v15 |
|---|---|---|
| Feel Underfoot | Softer, plush | Firmer, more responsive |
| Stability | Neutral / Stable Neutral | Stable Neutral |
| Ideal Use | Long runs, recovery, walking | Short-mid distance, everyday runs |
| Toe Box | Roomy | More structured |
| Forefoot | More flexible | Stiffer – better for forefoot issues |
| Weight (Men’s US 9) | 298g | 300g |
| Drop | 6mm | 6mm |
Final Thoughts: Which One Is Right for You?
If you want a shoe that offers maximum underfoot comfort for long walks, standing all day, or easy long runs, the 1080 v14 is the better choice. It’s soft, plush, and incredibly versatile—though a little less responsive for quicker turnover.
If you prefer a firmer ride that moves quicker from heel to toe, with more structure and stable neutral support, the 880 v15 is the clear winner. It’s a great option for runners who found the 1080 too soft or unstable in previous versions.
Looking for something with even more cushioning or stability? You might also want to compare these to the Ghost Max 2 or the 860 v14 for a firmer, more guided ride.
