Halloween DealsAmazon USHalloween week deals: useful picks before month-endAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsSlow PC?RecommendedPC slow today? Run a repair scan before it gets worseResolve common Windows issues and optimize system performance.Scan NowHalloween DealsAmazon USOctober picks are moving - compare before checkoutAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.See Picks×
FREEDOM251

Freedom251 › Blog › New Balance

New Balance 1080v15 Review: A Cushioned Daily Trainer With a Livelier Ride

By Freedom251 Team · · 4 min read

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

The New Balance 1080v15 is a premium neutral road-running shoe built mainly for comfortable daily miles. Its new Infinion midsole replaces the Fresh Foam X used on recent versions, and reviewers generally describe the result as lighter and more lively than the v14. It suits easy running particularly well, but it is not a standout choice for dedicated speed work, and the fit may feel roomy on some feet.

What changed in the 1080v15?

The headline update is the midsole: New Balance replaces the Fresh Foam X foam used on recent 1080 versions with Infinion. Runner’s World describes Infinion as supercritical TPEE and TPU-based foam; reviewers characterize the new ride as more resilient or lively than the v14. That is a change in feel, not proof that the shoe will retain its cushioning for a particular number of miles. Runner’s World reports the brand’s aspiration that “your 100th run to feel like your first run,” but that phrase is a comfort goal, not a durability guarantee.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

How does it feel on the run?

Easy daily miles

Comfortable everyday running is the clearest use case across the reviews. Tom’s Guide found the shoe comfortable on easy runs and more versatile than some highly cushioned shoes; Doctors of Running describes a cushioned, resilient ride. RTINGS notes good cushioning and lateral stability from the broad platform.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Long runs

The 1080v15 can be used for longer running, but the available reviews do not make it an unqualified long-run choice. RTINGS identifies reduced forefoot cushioning on longer efforts as a tradeoff. Tom’s Guide reports a long run during its testing, without establishing that every runner will find the shoe protective enough for every distance.

#1 Best Overall
New Balance Men's Fresh Foam X 1080 V15 Running Shoe, Truffle Salt/Slate Grey, 15
  • INFINION CUSHIONING TECHNOLOGY - All-new Infinion cushioning delivers long-lasting performance with enhanced cushioning and energy return, providing a plush yet responsive ride mile after mile
  • EVERYDAY RUNNING SHOE - Built for daily road running with a balanced combination of soft cushioning and responsive energy return that runners have come to rely on in the 1080 series
  • BREATHABLE UPPER DESIGN - Lightweight, ventilated upper keeps your feet cool and dry during long runs, with a secure fit that moves naturally with your stride
  • ENHANCED ENERGY RETURN - Infinion midsole technology converts impact into forward momentum, helping you maintain pace and comfort through your entire run
  • TOTAL VISUAL MAKEOVER - The v15 features a completely refreshed design aesthetic while maintaining the trusted ride quality and comfort that the 1080 line is known for

Tempo and faster workouts

It can manage some faster running, but it is not the strongest pick for dedicated intervals or tempo sessions. RTINGS describes limited snap and forward roll, particularly at speed; Tom’s Guide likewise found it less compelling for speed sessions and tempo work. If quick transitions matter more than plush comfort, compare it with shoes designed around that purpose.

Fit: roomy, and not consistent for everyone

Fit reports differ. Runner’s World wear-testers liked the upper fit, and Tom’s Guide suggests a normal running-shoe size. Doctors of Running describes the knit upper as roomy and says the fit can feel slightly sloppy. Those impressions do not establish one sizing rule for every runner.

Rank #2
New Balance Women's 1080 V15 Running Shoe
  • INFINION CUSHIONING TECHNOLOGY - All-new Infinion technology delivers premium underfoot cushioning with enhanced energy return, designed for long-lasting performance run after run
  • NDURANCE RUBBER OUTSOLE - Built with NDurance rubber in high-wear areas for increased durability, ensuring reliable traction and longevity through hundreds of miles
  • MOLDED MESH UPPER - Stylish molded mesh upper provides a breathable, supportive fit with a modern aesthetic that transitions easily from run to daily wear
  • CUSHIONED COMFORT DETAILS - Plush cushioned tongue and heel tab deliver added comfort and easy on-off convenience, reducing pressure points during long runs
  • REFLECTIVE SAFETY ACCENTS - Strategically placed reflective accents increase visibility in low-light conditions, keeping you safe during early morning and evening runs

If you have low-volume feet or need particularly secure lockdown, try the shoe on if possible and check for heel movement and excess space through the midfoot. New Balance’s available width options and current sizing should be checked on its 1080v15 product page.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Specifications, with source differences kept visible

Weight and geometry figures vary because brands, reviewers, and labs may use different shoe sizes and measurement methods. Treat them as source-specific rather than interchangeable universal specifications.

Rank #3
New Balance Men's Fresh Foam X 1080 V15 Running Shoe, Olivine/Faded Black, 10
  • INFINION CUSHIONING TECHNOLOGY - All-new Infinion cushioning delivers long-lasting performance with enhanced cushioning and energy return, providing a plush yet responsive ride mile after mile
  • EVERYDAY RUNNING SHOE - Built for daily road running with a balanced combination of soft cushioning and responsive energy return that runners have come to rely on in the 1080 series
  • BREATHABLE UPPER DESIGN - Lightweight, ventilated upper keeps your feet cool and dry during long runs, with a secure fit that moves naturally with your stride
  • ENHANCED ENERGY RETURN - Infinion midsole technology converts impact into forward momentum, helping you maintain pace and comfort through your entire run
  • TOTAL VISUAL MAKEOVER - The v15 features a completely refreshed design aesthetic while maintaining the trusted ride quality and comfort that the 1080 line is known for
Source and context Weight Drop and stack Other measurement
New Balance US product listing, accessed 2026 261 g (9.2 oz); listing figure, not a weight for every size 6 mm drop Not stated
RTINGS tested sample; review updated through 23 September 2026 250.3 g (8.83 oz) 7.8 mm measured drop; 38.4 mm heel stack No plate
Tom’s Guide; reviewer’s US men’s 9.5 9.2 oz 6 mm drop; 40 mm heel / 34 mm forefoot stack Testing reported across 60 miles
Doctors of Running; listed sizes 261 g (9.2 oz) in men’s US 9.5; 208 g (7.3 oz) in women’s US 7 6 mm drop; 40 mm heel / 34 mm forefoot stack Not stated
RunRepeat laboratory review 255 g (9.0 oz), measured Not stated 1.0 mm outsole wear in its test; 3.0 mm outsole rubber thickness

The differing weight and drop numbers should not be read as evidence that one source is necessarily wrong: the listed shoe size and measurement method matter. RunRepeat’s wear result is a lab observation, not a mileage-life prediction. Tom’s Guide also observed exposed midfoot foam and suggested the outsole might be less hard-wearing than a fuller rubber outsole; that observation is not a measured durability conclusion.

How it compares with the 1080v14 and other New Balance options

Compared with the v14, the v15’s most important distinction is its Infinion midsole rather than Fresh Foam X, alongside reviewers’ impressions of a livelier feel and lower weight. The available evidence supports that directional comparison, not a universal claim that every runner will prefer the new version.

Rank #4
New Balance Men's Fresh Foam X 1080 V15 Running Shoe, Black/Slate Grey, 7 W
  • INFINION CUSHIONING TECHNOLOGY - All-new Infinion cushioning delivers long-lasting performance with enhanced cushioning and energy return, providing a plush yet responsive ride mile after mile
  • EVERYDAY RUNNING SHOE - Built for daily road running with a balanced combination of soft cushioning and responsive energy return that runners have come to rely on in the 1080 series
  • BREATHABLE UPPER DESIGN - Lightweight, ventilated upper keeps your feet cool and dry during long runs, with a secure fit that moves naturally with your stride
  • ENHANCED ENERGY RETURN - Infinion midsole technology converts impact into forward momentum, helping you maintain pace and comfort through your entire run
  • TOTAL VISUAL MAKEOVER - The v15 features a completely refreshed design aesthetic while maintaining the trusted ride quality and comfort that the 1080 line is known for

RTINGS contrasts the 1080v15 with the Rebel v5, describing the Rebel as lower-stacked, lighter, and firmer. The same review points runners seeking more support toward the 860v15. These are comparison leads, not individualized footwear advice: consider intended use, ride, fit, weight, and the amount of guidance you want when choosing between models.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Launch price and current buying details

Tom’s Guide reported a global launch date of 15 January 2026 and launch prices of $170 / £170. It listed the v14 launch prices at that time as $165 / £160. These are historical launch figures, not current offers. Check the official New Balance listing for live product details, and confirm regional price, size, color, and availability before buying; retailer offers vary by market and date.

Best Value
Sale
New Balance Men's Fresh Foam X 880 V15 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Black Metallic, 10.5 M
  • Fresh Foam X midsole foam with approximately 3% bio-based content delivers our most cushioned Fresh Foam experience for incredible comfort. Bio-based content is made from renewable resources to help reduce our carbon footprint
  • Structured yet breathable upper
  • Synthetic materials
  • 6 mm drop; due to variances created during the development and manufacturing processes, all references to 6 mm drop are approximate
  • Lace closure

Who should consider the 1080v15?

  • Consider it if your priority is a cushioned neutral shoe for regular road running and easier days, and you like a lively rather than purely soft ride.
  • Try it first if you have low-volume feet, need precise lockdown, or are sensitive to forefoot protection on long runs, because reviewer fit and cushioning impressions vary.
  • Compare alternatives if most of your training is fast intervals or tempo work, or if you want more support than a neutral daily trainer is intended to provide.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

New BalanceNew Balance 1080v15road runningrunning shoesshoe reviews

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You DownFree scan - exact matches
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?Free scan - under a minute

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.