Last Updated: June 28th, 2022
New Balance 1080 and New Balance 880 are both neutral running shoes from New Balance.
They have a lot of similar technologies used to build them.
However, still, there are some differences between them which we will find out in the detailed comparison between New Balance 1080 Vs New Balance 880.
Today we are comparing New Balance 1080v11 with New Balance 880v11 as they are the latest models of these two running shoes.
This is our favorite
Last update on 2023-08-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
New Balance 1080
Why it is better?
- Excellent cushioning.
- Excellent protection.
- Good for both long and short-distance running.
- Very stylish.
- Ultra heel.
The main differences between New Balance 1080 Vs New Balance 880
- New Balance 1080 has a heel-to-toe drop of 8mm and New Balance 880 has a heel-drop of 10mm.
- New Balance 880 weighs a bit more than New Balance 1080. For the women’s version, 1080 weighs around 8.1oz/ 230grams whereas 880 weighs around 8.7oz / 247grams. For the men’s version, New Balance 1080 weighs around 9.3oz / 263 grams whereas New Balance 880 weighs around 10.5oz / 298 grams.
- New Balance 1080 fits true-to-size whereas New Balance 880 fits small.
- In New Balance 1080 the integrated pull tab is more defined whereas in New Balance 880 the integrated pull tab is not that defined.
- New Balance 1080 is currently available in 7 colors whereas New Balance 880 is available in 6 colors currently for both genders.
Content
- ✅ New Balance 1080 Vs New Balance 880
New Balance 1080 Vs New Balance 880 – An Overview
New Balance 1080 and New Balance 880 are neutral running shoes.
They will provide you with excellent cushioning and will let you enjoy every step of your run.
In the below sections, we will cover all the major differences and similarities between New Balance 1080 and New Balance 880.
So, let’s proceed…
New Balance 1080 Vs New Balance 880 – Features at a glance
New Balance 1080v11 | New Balance 880v11 | |
---|---|---|
![]() |
![]() |
|
Type | Neutral | Neutral |
Heel-to-toe Drop | 8mm | 10mm |
Weight | 230 grams /8.1 oz (Women) 263 grams /9.3 oz (Men) |
247 grams /8.7 oz (Women) 298 grams /10.5 oz (Men) |
Arch Support | Medium | Medium |
Midsole Type | Fresh Foam | Fresh Foam |
Technology | Fresh Foam X, Laser Engravings, Flex Grooves, Ultra Heels | Fresh Foam X, Blown Rubber, Double Jacquard Engineered Mesh |
Sizes | 5.0 – 13.0 (Women) 6.0 – 20.0 (Men) |
5.0 – 13.0 (Women) 6.0 – 20.0 (Men) |
Width | Narrow, Standard, Wide, X-Wide (Women) Narrow, Standard, Wide, X-Wide (Men) |
Narrow, Standard, Wide, X-Wide (Women) Narrow, Standard, Wide, X-Wide (Men) |
Use | Long Distance, Treadmill, Road | Long Distance, Treadmill, Road |
Editor’s Rating | ![]() |
![]() |
New Balance 880 Vs. New Balance 1080 – A head to head comparison
Above, you will find an overview and the major differences between New Balance 1080 and New Balance 880.
Below we will go into a more detailed analysis of both of these running shoes. So, without further ado, let’s start.
Outsole
The outsole of New Balance 1080 and New Balance 880 share some features that are very similar.
However, there are certain characteristics that make these two outsoles unique.
New Balance 1080 has blown rubber in the forefoot. This improves its forefoot’s cushioning and responsiveness.
Also, this kind of rubber has a firm on the running surface, keeping you stable while running.
Another component of the New Balance 1080’s outsole is the Flex Grooves. This also improves the flexibility of the forefoot and you will not have a restrictive feel while running.
New Balance 880 also has blown rubber on the outsole. This provides you with a durable grip and excellent rebound.
Since blown rubber is durable, it enhances the lifespan of your running shoe and it will last you for at least 300 to 500 miles or 3-6 months depending upon your usage.
Midsole
Upper
The upper of New Balance 1080 and New Balance 880 has engineered mesh. This makes both of these running shoes very breathable.
Apart from the mesh upper, New Balance 1080 also has Ultra Heel. It will hold your heel securely in place and you will have minimum chances of heel slip.
Also, it has bootie construction that will wrap your feet in a comfortable soft, and irritation-free wrap.
New Balance 880 on the other hand has the double jacquard engineered mesh which will provide you with an ample amount of support. It will move with your feet and will stretch in specified areas for a secure and comfortable fit.
It also has a molded external heel counter that reduces the movement of your foot and will keep you comfortable and worry-free during your run.
Weight
The weight of New Balance 880 is a bit more than New Balance 1080.
New Balance 1080 weighs around 230 g or 8.1 oz for the women’s version of the shoe whereas New Balance 880 weighs around 247 g or 8.7 oz for the female version of the shoe.
For the male’s version, New Balance 1080 weighs around 263 grams or 9.3 oz whereas New Balance 880 weighs around 298 grams or 10.5 oz.
Price
The price of New Balance 1080 is more than New Balance 880 by around $20 bucks.
However, you will get a more upbeat style with this shoe. Also, there is more cushioning in the forefoot of this one and a softer landing.
Similar Shoes
Running Shoes Similar To New Balance 1080v11
New Balance 1080 is a comfortable running shoe. It is cushy and supports neutral runners.
The running shoe mentioned below will be the perfect alternative to New Balance 1080v11.
- THIS MEN'S SHOE IS FOR: The Glycerin 19 is perfect for runners who think there is no such thing as too much cushioning. The plush internal fit and soft transitions keep runners surrounded by softness.
- NEUTRAL SUPPORT: Provides neutral support while offering the maximum amount of cushioning. Ideal for road running, cross training, the gym or wherever you might want to take them! Predecessor: Glycerin 18. Look for the Brooks Glycerin GTS 19 for the same style with added Support.
- SUPER-SOFT CUSHIONING: The ultimate in softness and supreme comfort, designed for runners who want pillowy soft cushioning. The Glycerin 19 with DNA LOFT offers our most plush underfoot experience yet — so runners enjoy comfort that goes the distance.
Last update on 2023-09-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Running Shoes Similar To New Balance 880v11
New Balance 880 is a neutral running shoe with ample cushioning. Here is a running shoe that will serve as a great alternative to it.
- THIS MEN'S SHOE IS FOR: The Ghost 13 is for runners looking for a reliable shoe that's soft and smooth. The Ghost 13 offers improved transitions for zero distractions so you can focus more on what matters most: your run. This Brooks Ghost 13 is a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has been granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance.
- SUPPORT AND CUSHION: The neutral support type provides high energizing cushioning. Ideal for road running, cross training, the gym or wherever you might want to take them! Predecessor: Ghost 12
- BALANCED, SOFT CUSHIONING: BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT cushioning work together to provide a just-right softness underfoot without losing responsiveness and durability - yet it feels lighter than ever.
Last update on 2023-08-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Conclusion
In the above sections, we have provided a lot of differences and similarities between New Balance 1080 Vs New Balance 880, which will help you to choose the right pair for yourself.
Both New Balance 1080 and New Balance 880 are excellent running shoes however due to some level of added comfort, style statement, and more number of available color choices, we have chosen New Balance 1080 over New Balance 880.
Let us know your opinion in the comment section below…

Madhusree Basu
Author, Admin
Blogger and a fitness enthusiast. She loves running and Yoga and everything in between. She started running to manage her weight and to eat to her heart’s content. A true foodie at heart she shares whatever knowledge she has gained throughout the years about weight management and fitness.