New Balance 1080v15 Overview and First Run Review
Here we are taking a close look at the features and construction of the newest update to a well-established running shoe franchise, the New Balance 1080v15, as well as our impressions after the first run. We also compare it to the previous version and help you decide if it is worth picking up to add to your running shoe rotation.
The New Balance 1080 v15 is back to being the ultimate soft mileage shoe. New Balance ditched the denser feel of the v14 and introduced the new Infinion TPEE/EVA blend, making the v15 lighter, softer, and more comfortable from step-in than recent versions. The ride feels relaxed and protective with a high stack, smooth rocker, and plenty of padding around the heel and tongue for long, easy efforts. It doesn’t beg to go fast, but for recovery runs, daily miles, and even walking, this thing absolutely shines.
New Balance 1080v15 vs. 1080v14
New Balance 1080 v15
The Specs
The stack height and heel to toe drop remained pretty identical with the v15 going down 1 mm in the heel to 38mm from the v14's 39mm. The v15 retains the 6mm heel to toe drop. The biggest difference in hard metrics comes in to play with the weight. New Balance managed to reduce the weight from 281 grams in the v14 down to 258 grams in the v15 in a Men's size 9.5.
Foam Compound
The 1080v15 features a new foam compound that New Balance is calling Infinion. This TPEE/EVA blend midsole brings improved bounce and versatility while retaining the daily comfort the 1080 is known for. The 1080v14 had a Fresh Foam X EVA blend midsole that was dense and highly-comfortable, but lacked meaningful energy return. Infinion reminds us of the soft Fresh Foam from the 1080v13, but more energetic. The Fresh Foam X in the v14 was a denser, heavier compound that some felt sapped the energy from their legs. The smooth, approachable rocker geometry from the previous versions remains in the v15.
First Run Review
The 1080v13 was a Hobby Jogger favorite as a very soft recovery day shoe, but the v14 came in 20 grams heavier than the previous version with a much denser version of Fresh Foam that almost zapped your energy. With the v15, New Balance is using a new TPEE/EVA blend foam that they are calling Infinion, which allowed them to reduce the weight even further from the v13. Upon step-in, we found it to be nice and comfortable with good padding around the heel and tongue. It excels at being supremely comfortable and it would definitely be a great walking shoe.
On the run we found the new foam to be very soft, similar to the v13, but slightly bouncier and more energetic; however, it definitely has a very relaxed vibe that does not encourage picking up the pace. We did feel like we were fighting against the foam in the heel due to the geometry, soft foam and 6mm drop, but if you are looking for a soft, relaxed mileage shoe, the 1080v15 would be a great pick. For alternative options, check out the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 28 or the soon to be launching in the US, Kiprun Kipride Max.
For Yowana's full video review of the 1080v15, check out the Supwell YouTube channel:
Supwell Shoe Matcher
Whether you're looking for a reliable easy run shoe, pampering comfort on recovery days, a long-run cruiser, or a race day weapon, check out our Shoe Matcher tool to get matched. We've done the extensive testing, so you don't have to.
Find your next running shoe
Answer a few questions to find the best shoe based on your preferences and goals
