Nuestra conclusión

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 has undergone a bold transformation—keeping only its price unchanged. In our lab tests, we discovered a thicker, firmer midsole that enhances cushioning but also adds noticeable weight. The outsole now has less rubber coverage, raising durability concerns. We found that this shift moves the 880 away from its balanced roots and into max-stack territory, a change that won’t suit everyone—it now feels more like a budget-friendly 1080!

Pros

  • Affordable max-stack option
  • Secure and comfortable lockdown
  • Rockered geometry
  • Plush tongue enhances comfort
  • No heel slippage whatsoever
  • Amazing for long runs
  • Durable yet comfy upper
  • Fairly priced
  • Stable ride

Contras

  • Much heavier than previous version
  • Not the best for walking or casual use
  • Fresh Foam X feels firmer than expected
  • Outsole durability is now a real concern

Veredicto de los usuarios

87
Muy buenas
  • Top 18% más vendidas zapatillas de running

Who should buy

After conducting an in-depth lab analysis, we believe the New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 is:

  • A great choice for runners who found previous versions lacking in cushioning or want 1080-level stack height at a lower price.
  • Ideal for neutral runners seeking a max-stack shoe without the usual premium cost.
  • A solid daily trainer for those who aren’t hard on outsoles and prefer joint-friendly cushioning without a bulky or overly wide midsole.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15

Who should NOT buy

We believe that runners who loved the grounded feel and moderate stack of previous 880 models will be disappointed with this update. The v15 now sits much taller, stripping away its balanced ride. In our view, the New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 is a far better alternative at the same price—it’s lighter, more responsive, and delivers a smooth, fun ride.

Additionally, we think this version won’t appeal to those who prefer a versatile daily trainer. The 880 v15 is noticeably stiffer than expected, making it less adaptable for natural foot movement. If flexibility is a priority, we suggest checking out the Nike Pegasus 41 or the HOKA Mach 6.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 parts

Amortiguación

Altura de la suela en la zona del talón

The 880 was once seen as the smaller sibling to the 1080, but that’s no longer the case. With a towering 39.7 mm stack height in the heel, it delivers ultra-cushioned comfort. Quite a departure from our 33.0 mm measurement on the Fresh Foam X 880 v14.

This shift is a double-edged decision—more cushioning isn’t always the ultimate upgrade, despite what brands suggest in recent years. While it enhances joint protection and comfort, it often brings added weight, reduced agility, and a potential disconnect for runners who favor lower-stacked, more grounded shoes. And that’s exactly where the 880 stands now.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 Heel stack
Resultados de las pruebas
Fresh Foam X 880 v15 39.7 mm
Media 34.2 mm
En comparación con 395 zapatillas de running para asfalto
Número de zapatillas
22.5 mm
Altura de la suela en la zona del talón
46.3 mm

Altura de la suela en el antepié

The forefoot stack is an astonishing 35.4 mm—skyrocketing from 25.0 mm in the previous model. After testing hundreds of shoes in the lab, we can confidently say that seeing a jump of over 1 full centimeter in stack height is extraordinarily rare.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 Forefoot stack height
Resultados de las pruebas
Fresh Foam X 880 v15 35.4 mm
Media 25.6 mm
En comparación con 395 zapatillas de running para asfalto
Número de zapatillas
13.7 mm
Altura de la suela en el antepié
37.1 mm

Drop

The new maximalist midsole completely transforms the ride, favoring forefoot and midfoot strikers. In our lab tests, we measured a true heel-to-toe drop of just 4.3 mm.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 Drop
Resultados de las pruebas
Fresh Foam X 880 v15 4.3 mm
Media 8.6 mm
En comparación con 395 zapatillas de running para asfalto
Número de zapatillas
0.0 mm
Drop
16.1 mm

Suavidad de la mediasuela

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 comes (no surprises here!) with Fresh Foam X, the go-to compound for New Balance daily trainers. That usually means a plush feel.

But not this time. Right off the bat, we noticed this shoe felt noticeably firmer than both its predecessor and other Fresh Foam X models, reinforcing what we already explained in our guide about foams—despite sharing the name, midsole formulations can vary significantly between shoes.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 Side foam

In this case, our Shore A durometer measured 19.6 HA, making it clear that this shoe is no longer cloud-soft but balanced. It’s also a sharp contrast to last year’s 15.6 HA, though this shift makes sense given the increased stack height.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 Midsole softness
Resultados de las pruebas
Fresh Foam X 880 v15 19.6 HA
Media 21.0 HA
Utilizamos la media de cuatro pruebas. La foto muestra una de esas pruebas.
En comparación con 322 zapatillas de running para asfalto
Número de zapatillas
8.5 HA
Suavidad de la mediasuela (de blanda a firme)
38.9 HA

Rigidez de la mediasuela en frío (%)

Fresh Foam X is an EVA-based foam, which often struggles in cold conditions. That said, a 20% increase in firmness after 20 minutes in the freezer is actually better than expected.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 Midsole softness in cold (%)
Resultados de las pruebas
Fresh Foam X 880 v15 20%
Media 25%
En comparación con 322 zapatillas de running para asfalto
Número de zapatillas
0%
Rigidez de la mediasuela en frío
63%

Grosor de la plantilla

We found that the insole doesn’t bring anything particularly noteworthy to the table, but it does contribute 4.7 mm of extra cushioning to an already thick midsole. 

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 Insole thickness
Resultados de las pruebas
Fresh Foam X 880 v15 4.7 mm
Media 4.4 mm
En comparación con 391 zapatillas de running para asfalto
Número de zapatillas
1.5 mm
Grosor de la plantilla
7.3 mm

Rocker

Runners seeking a rockered ride will get exactly that, aligning with New Balance’s recent design changes—something we’ve also observed in models like the Balos.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 side

The heel incorporates an improved angle to assist heel strikers, while the forefoot features a moderate toe spring. Based on our measurements, it initiates early and rises just 4.5 cm. This geometry works especially well on easy runs.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 Rocker

Tallaje y ajuste

Talla

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 son un poquito pequeñas (25 votos).

Si tienes estas zapatillas, ¿qué opinas de su talla?

1 talla más pequeñas ½ talla más pequeñas Tallan bien ½ talla más grandes 1 talla más grandes
En comparación con 370 zapatillas de running para asfalto
Número de zapatillas
½ talla más pequeñas
Tallan un poquito pequeño
Tallan bien
Tallan un poquito grande
½ talla más grandes

Anchura de la parte delantera - zona más ancha

The fit has seen some refinement as well. The previous version leaned toward a slightly more accommodating shape, but New Balance has adjusted it, bringing the 880 closer to an average fit. However, we found that the difference isn’t drastic and can be easily modified by swapping between thick or thin socks.

From our batch of measurements, we recorded 95.0 mm at the widest point of the toebox—right in line with what we expect from a daily trainer.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 Toebox width - widest part
Resultados de las pruebas
Fresh Foam X 880 v15 95.0 mm
Media 95.5 mm
En comparación con 150 zapatillas de running para asfalto
Número de zapatillas
90.9 mm
Anchura de la parte delantera - zona más ancha
102.4 mm

Anchura de la parte delantera - dedo gordo

Our second measurement, this time in the big toe area, came in at 74.6 mm—just a fraction above our current average. Once again, it’s slightly narrower than the v14, which measured 76.2 mm.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 Toebox width - big toe
Resultados de las pruebas
Fresh Foam X 880 v15 74.6 mm
Media 73.7 mm
En comparación con 150 zapatillas de running para asfalto
Número de zapatillas
67.9 mm
Anchura de la parte delantera - dedo gordo
83.6 mm

Altura de la parte delantera

We found ample space for upward toe movement, making it a great option for those who often feel restricted in other shoes.

Our calipers measured a reasonable 28.5 mm, ensuring a good fit that enhances overall comfort.

Resultados de las pruebas
Fresh Foam X 880 v15 28.5 mm
Media 27.2 mm
En comparación con 149 zapatillas de running para asfalto
Número de zapatillas
22.4 mm
Altura de la parte delantera
33.8 mm

Estabilidad

Prueba de estabilidad lateral

At first glance, the towering stack height of the 880 v15 might suggest a major stability downgrade, but that’s not the case. New Balance countered the shift with a firmer foam and a noticeably-stiffer structure to maintain support.

This version stands out as one of the most stable 880 models we’ve tested, but that stability comes at the expense of a more natural and connected ride. We believe this trade-off certainly won’t appeal to everyone, especially those who prefer a more flexible running experience.

Rigidez torsional

As mentioned earlier, torsional rigidity skyrocketed to 5/5—matching carbon-plated shoes. This marks a drastic shift from every other 880 model, so those loyal to this series should take note of this significant change.

Resultados de las pruebas
Fresh Foam X 880 v15 5
Media 3.4
En comparación con 374 zapatillas de running para asfalto
Número de zapatillas
1
Rigidez torsional
5

Rigidez del contrafuerte del talón

The heel counter leans more toward stability shoes than daily trainers, earning a 4/5 rating. While this enhances support, it does come at the expense of comfort. In running shoes, you can't have everything.

Resultados de las pruebas
Fresh Foam X 880 v15 4
Media 2.9
En comparación con 358 zapatillas de running para asfalto
Número de zapatillas
1
Rigidez del contrafuerte del talón
5

Anchura de la mediasuela - antepié

We expected a wider platform, but New Balance kept the dimensions in check. And honestly, we’re glad—at 113.3 mm in the forefoot, it maintains a versatile fit that works for a broad range of runs and doesn’t feel as clunky as we feared.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 Midsole width - forefoot
Resultados de las pruebas
Fresh Foam X 880 v15 113.3 mm
Media 114.1 mm
En comparación con 396 zapatillas de running para asfalto
Número de zapatillas
103.3 mm
Anchura de la mediasuela - antepié
126.9 mm

Anchura de la mediasuela - talón

We noticed a similar approach in the heel—at 89.2 mm, it actually falls below the average. With the firmer build, it now makes more sense, as it was likely the only way for New Balance to maintain a compact design.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 Midsole width - heel
Resultados de las pruebas
Fresh Foam X 880 v15 89.2 mm
Media 90.7 mm
En comparación con 396 zapatillas de running para asfalto
Número de zapatillas
73.0 mm
Anchura de la mediasuela - talón
106.6 mm

Flexibilidad / Rigidez

We found that this shoe isn’t just significantly more rigid torsionally—it’s also 67% stiffer longitudinally, and that's a huge change. Last year, we measured 20.6N, but this time the force meter hit 34.3N.  

This dramatic increase reduces everyday comfort, making the shoe feel noticeably stiffer underfoot and far less appealing for casual walks or all-day wear.

Resultados de las pruebas
Fresh Foam X 880 v15 34.3N
Media 28.1N
En comparación con 378 zapatillas de running para asfalto
Número de zapatillas
2.2N
Flexibilidad <> Rigidez
72.1N

Peso

The shoe is also noticeably heavier, now tipping the scales at 10.10 oz or 286g.

That’s well above average and a significant jump from the 8.9 oz or 251g we recorded in the v14. We were pleased with that version, but more foam inevitably adds weight—unless comfort or durability takes a hit. It seems New Balance prioritized cushioning this time.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 Weight
Resultados de las pruebas
Fresh Foam X 880 v15 10.09 oz (286g)
Media 9.38 oz (266g)
En comparación con 396 zapatillas de running para asfalto
Número de zapatillas
5.61 oz (159g)
Peso
12.59 oz (357g)

Transpirabilidad

The mesh upper feels soft and comfortable, though it falls a step below the Fresh Foam X 1080 v14 in quality—a trade-off that comes as no surprise given the lower price point.

As for breathability, we put it to the test and found airflow to be just average, earning a 3/5 rating. While it’s not the most ventilated shoe, this score is fairly typical for an all-season daily trainer designed for versatility.

New Balance prioritized comfort by using a thick mesh that barely allows light to pass through, even with its generously sized ventilation holes. This approach enhances softness but inevitably limits airflow compared to thinner, more breathable uppers found in other daily trainers.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 microscope

We appreciate the abundance of ventilation holes, but their effectiveness is hindered by a secondary layer beneath the main mesh.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 mesh

Without these perforations, the shoe would likely have scored a disappointing 1/5 in our lab test.

Additionally, we discovered that the upper has some stretch, making it a great option for runners with high-volume feet. Generous padding throughout enhances step-in comfort, especially around the heel counter, where it helps balance out its rigidity.

Resultados de las pruebas
Fresh Foam X 880 v15 3
Media 3.8
En comparación con 325 zapatillas de running para asfalto
Número de zapatillas
1
Transpirabilidad
5

Durabilidad

Durabilidad de la parte delantera

Earning a 3/5 in our breathability test with those oversized ventilation holes is no small achievement. The 880 v15 handled it well!

Resultados de las pruebas
Fresh Foam X 880 v15 3
Media 2.5
En comparación con 259 zapatillas de running para asfalto
Número de zapatillas
1
Durabilidad de la parte delantera
5

Durabilidad del acolchado del talón

When we tested the heel with our Dremel, the 880 v15 delivered another strong result—scoring 4/5 and once again outperforming the average shoe. Solid durability!

Resultados de las pruebas
Fresh Foam X 880 v15 4
Media 3.2
En comparación con 255 zapatillas de running para asfalto
Número de zapatillas
1
Durabilidad del acolchado del talón
5

Dureza de la suela

The outsole sticks to New Balance’s familiar design from recent years, but with noticeably less rubber coverage than its predecessor and most competitors. In our opinion, that’s bad news for runners who wear down outsoles quickly, as durability could take a serious hit.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 outsole

We measured an 85.7 HC hardness rating, and combined with the minimal rubber coverage, it explains why this shoe has average-at-best traction. In our evaluation, grip was far from shoes like the PUMA Velocity Nitro 3.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 Outsole hardness
Resultados de las pruebas
Fresh Foam X 880 v15 85.7 HC
Media 79.8 HC
Utilizamos la media de cuatro pruebas. La foto muestra una de esas pruebas.
En comparación con 376 zapatillas de running para asfalto
Número de zapatillas
57.0 HC
Dureza de la suela
93.0 HC

Durabilidad de la suela

If it’s not the grippiest, is it at least super durable? Unfortunately, it’s not.

After testing with the Dremel, we discovered 1.1 mm of damage—right around the average. However, with such minimal rubber coverage, this could become a bigger concern over time.

Resultados de las pruebas
Fresh Foam X 880 v15 1.1 mm
Media 1.0 mm
En comparación con 237 zapatillas de running para asfalto
Número de zapatillas
0.0 mm
Desgaste de la suela
2.0 mm

Grosor de la suela

There’s not much outsole thickness here—in fact, quite the opposite. We measured just 1.9 mm of rubber, a significant drop from last year’s 3.4 mm.

If New Balance had retained the previous outsole, this shoe would have been simply too heavy. It’s clear they opted for a thinner, weight-saving design, though it comes at the expense of durability.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 Outsole thickness
Resultados de las pruebas
Fresh Foam X 880 v15 1.9 mm
Media 3.2 mm
En comparación con 393 zapatillas de running para asfalto
Número de zapatillas
1.0 mm
Grosor de la suela
6.0 mm

Varios

Precio

If cushioning-per-dollar were a metric, this shoe would shine—it’s now part of the max-stack club while keeping a very reasonable price. With its plush comfort and solid build, we believe it’s a great value, possibly an even better deal than the 1080!

Resultados de las pruebas
Fresh Foam X 880 v15 $140
En comparación con 396 zapatillas de running para asfalto
Número de zapatillas
€50
Precio
€300

Elementos reflectantes

New Balance included a reflective N logo on some models—but not this one.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 Reflective elements
Resultados de las pruebas
Fresh Foam X 880 v15 No

Acolchado de la lengüeta

New Balance could have easily trimmed weight by slimming down the tongue—but they didn’t. Instead, they prioritized plush comfort, opting to cut grams from the outsole.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 laces

We measured the tongue at 7.1 mm thick, providing a comfy feel that shines on long runs. Additionally, we found that the flat laces hold securely in place, threading neatly through punched eyelets for a snug, pressure-free lockdown.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 Tongue padding
Resultados de las pruebas
Fresh Foam X 880 v15 7.1 mm
Media 5.8 mm
En comparación con 393 zapatillas de running para asfalto
Número de zapatillas
0.5 mm
Acolchado de la lengüeta
14.2 mm

Lengüeta: tipo de refuerzo

One detail that caught our attention was the absence of a tongue loop—a common feature in many running shoes. However, it’s unnecessary here, as the semi-gusseted design securely holds the tongue in place.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 Tongue: gusset type
Resultados de las pruebas
Fresh Foam X 880 v15 Ambos lados (semi)

Tirador del talón

As seen in recent New Balance road shoes, there’s no heel tab of any kind. Instead, the model name is printed on the back, keeping the design minimal and streamlined.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 Heel tab
Resultados de las pruebas
Fresh Foam X 880 v15 Ninguno

Plantilla extraíble

Want to swap in your own insole? No problem, as the stock one isn’t glued to the midsole, making it easy to remove and replace.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 Removable insole
Resultados de las pruebas
Fresh Foam X 880 v15