New Balance 880 v9 GTX review

Who should buy the New Balance 880 v9 GTX

This New Balance 880 v9 GTX could be a great match for you if:

• You want a comfortable running shoe that offers just the right amount of cushioning. 
• You are looking for a stylish running shoe that is waterproof and is also great for light hiking.

Updates to New Balance 880 v9 GTX

• The New Balance 880 v9 GTX road running shoe is the all-weather version of the New Balance 880 v9. The shoe is suitable for all distances and weather conditions. 
• This New Balance running shoe is constructed with a fitted waterproof Gore-Tex® Invisible Fit upper. This feature makes the shoe a bit lighter and more flexible than other shoes using the traditional Gore-Tex® waterproof membrane. 
• The waterproof upper protects the foot and the platform from water, snow, and everything in between. It is tasked to keep the foot dry and comfortable even in bad weather. 

Size and fit

The New Balance 880 v9 GTX is available in standard shoe sizes for both men and women versions. Runners can get a pair in their usual sizing expectations. However, it should be noted that some consumers felt that the shoe’s toe box is a bit narrow. Runners should get a proper shoe fitting or check the users’ general feedback about sizing to ensure a perfect fit. 

The technical parts that affect the fit of this running shoe are the lacing system and padded tongue. These components aim to provide a customized and comfortable in-shoe fit. 

Outsole

The outsole unit of the New Balance 880 v9 GTX uses a blown rubber material. This rubber compound offers excellent protection against abrasive elements. It also delivers reliable traction in both wet and dry surfaces. Other popular running shoes that feature blown rubber outsoles are the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 19 and Brooks Ghost 12.

Midsole

The shoe utilizes the ultra-responsive TruFuse midsole technology. This midsole foam offers a combination of responsiveness and durability. 

The TruFuse midsole technology is engineered using a combination of two foams that are designed to deliver long-lasting cushioning and responsiveness. 

Upper

An engineered mesh is featured in the upper unit of the New Balance 880 v9 GTX. The upper is constructed using the fitted waterproof Gore-Tex® Invisible Fit upper technology, which offers a close-to-foot fit. It also makes the shoe less bulky. 

The Gore-Tex® Invisible Fit upper technology makes the shoe lighter and more flexible compared to other shoes that used the Gore-Tex® waterproof membrane. The waterproof upper also protects the foot and the shoe from water, snow, and other elements. It enables the shoe to be a perfect running companion for long and wet runs, keeping the foot dry and comfortable. 

This waterproof running shoe also features the traditional lacing system to ensure a secure and snug fit every time. 

Providing added comfort is the moderately padded tongue incorporated in the shoe. It also prevents small rocks and debris from getting inside the shoe.