The New Balance 1080v15 is just around the corner – dropping in shops on 15th January 2026! If you've been on the hunt for a super comfy daily trainer that feels fresh and lively, this one's shaping up to be a proper winner. We've pulled together all the latest details from reviews, tester feedback, and what New Balance are saying, so you can see exactly what's new and why folks are excited.
Quick Look: What's the 1080v15 All About?
This is New Balance's go-to cushioned shoe for everyday runs, long easy miles, or even mixing in a bit of tempo. The big headline? They've ditched Fresh Foam after years and brought in a brand-new midsole called Infinion – a supercritical foam that's lighter, bouncier, and holds up way better over loads of miles. It's designed to feel peppy from your first run right through to your 100th (or more!). It's neutral, protective without being too soft and squishy, and testers are calling it more fun and versatile than before.
Key Specs – Keeping It Simple
Here's the rundown in an easy table:
| Spec | Details |
|---|---|
| Weight | Men's ~9.2 oz (261g) in UK 9 / US 9.5; Women's ~7.3 oz (208g) in UK 4 / US 7 – noticeably lighter than the v14! |
| Stack Height | Heel 40mm / Forefoot 34mm (a touch more cushion than v14) |
| Drop | 6mm – nice and balanced for smooth strides |
| Midsole | Full Infinion foam – supercritical (nitrogen-infused) for soft landings + lively bounce, great energy return, and long-lasting pep |
| Upper | Engineered knit that's roomy and comfy, with good padding around the tongue and heel. High-volume fit, so plenty of space for wider feet or swelling on long runs |
| Outsole | Blown rubber – solid grip on roads (wet or dry), exposed foam in the midfoot for flex, but stick to pavement rather than rough trails |
| Fit | True to size, but generous in the toe box and midfoot. Go for wide if you've got broader feet |
| Best For | Easy runs, long distances, recovery days – can handle moderate faster stuff too, but shines on chill paces |
It's one of the lighter premium cushioned shoes out there now, which makes it feel way more agile.
What's Actually Improved from the v14?
The v14 was comfy but got a bit heavier and firmer, which some folks found less forgiving. The v15 fixes that and then some:
- Huge weight drop – about 30-40g lighter, so it feels snappier and less clunky on your feet.
- Infinion foam takeover – goodbye to the old Fresh Foam mush or firmness; this new stuff is softer yet more responsive, with better bounce and no quick breakdown. It stays lively mile after mile.
- Smoother ride – Updated heel bevel and grooves make transitions feel effortless, especially heel strikers.
- Roomier, comfier upper – More volume and better lockdown so it doesn't feel sloppy, but still super accommodating for long runs.
- More versatile – Handles easy miles brilliantly, but picks up the pace nicely without feeling dead.
Overall, it's like they've taken the best bits of older 1080s (plush comfort) and made it lighter, bouncier, and more durable.
How Does It Feel to Run In?
From what early testers are saying: slip it on and it feels like a cloud with some spring in it. The Infinion gives that protected, soft landing but pushes back nicely so you don't sink in. It's great for relaxed efforts (think 8-10 min/mile or slower), long Sunday runs, or days when your legs need a break. At quicker paces it still works, but it's not a plated racer – more of an energetic daily companion. The wide platform adds a bit of natural stability too, even if you're neutral.
One little note: at super-slow paces some find it a tad firm until it warms up, but most love how forgiving it is overall.
Pros & Cons – Real Talk
Pros:
- Super light for how cushioned it is
- Bouncy and fun energy return
- Loads of room and comfort for long hauls
- Holds up well over miles
Cons:
- Might feel a bit firm right at plod pace
- Forefoot can feel snug if you need extra width (wide option available!)