Why I'll always own a pair of New Balance 880 sneakers

I hate shoe shopping because I am way too picky. Most recently, I've purchased two pairs of Converse shoes for their style, but what I really needed was an upgrade to my seven-year-old runners.

I bought my first pair of New Balance sneakers back in 2018 while I was still in high school. The shoes were incredibly fresh, and the best part was their half-size options helped me find my fit perfectly. So when it was time to go shoe shopping again, I knew exactly what brand to look for.

Contrary to this story, I was enticed by the Adidas Ultraboost sneakers. They're sleek and comfortable upon immediate impression, but I felt like I was still missing something in my limited shoe arsenal.

What I liked about my old faithful New Balance 880

The biggest pain for me when shoe shopping is my odd-sized, uneven feet – I've always had difficulty trying to find half sizes in-store and online.

This was a big choice factor in the past, and still is today, and the 880s cover my exact needs. Another bonus was their extreme durability, so I tend to associate the brand with trust and serious comfort.

I've also walked hundreds of thousands of steps around Australia and parts of the globe in my old pair, so, simply put, worn to death.

Pros of my new New Balance 880 V15 sneakers

What was missing in my stash of shoes was exactly this pair of shoes. I went for white as that's the colour I was missing, but there are seven different colourways, total, for both men and women.

I can happily say New Balance's 880 V15 have been an overall good choice for my everyday use. I'm not much of a runner, but a few jogs did prove that they're good for everyday runs as well.

The shoes were an instant fit, and the fresh foam had undergone some significant upgrades since my last pair, so the shoes felt extra bouncy and responsive.

The customisability of the shoe is great as well. The half sizes and wider base mean the shoe will fit many foot types, especially since you can choose between standard, wide and extra wide sizing.

Overall, the 880 V15 feel super versatile. It's soft and bouncy when you're walking around, but kicks in when you want to go faster. I've chosen these as my next pair of comfort shoes. Going out? It's got some style. Going for a walk? It'll take me from A to B. Going for exercise? Better get running.

They're reliable, dependable, and flexible.

Cons

Okay, I'll admit it, they might be a bit too chunky for some people. It's not for everyone, and if you're looking for smart casual, then these probably aren't your best pick.

If you're going for the white like me, just know they'll get dirty, fast.

The trainers also have a firmer feel as well, and might feel restrictive for some people across the midfoot and forefoot areas.

Are they worth it?

Big purchases for me or purchases that will impact my daily life usually send me into a buyer's regret spiral. The shoes didn't do that at all, and I was happy with my purchase immediately.

Overall, the New Balance 880v15 runners are a solid choice for those looking for a reliable and comfortable pair of shoes with a firm, but bouncy feel. It offers good cushioning, stability, and versatility.

While it might not be the most exciting shoe on the market, for me it's already proven to be a dependable and comfortable ride for everyday use.

NOTE: Prices are accurate at time of publishing

Shop mens...

$230 on New Balance$229.99 from The Athlete's Foot

Shop womens...

$230 on New Balance$229.99 from The Athlete's Foot

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