A couple of weeks ago, my friends at New Balance sent me a pair of their 880 Running Shoes to review. I’m a long-time fan of New Balance (I even trained for my first marathon in NB’s), so I was excited to see what the 880s were all about.
My first Impression of the 880s: Cute!
I swear, I’m not one of those people who buys sneakers based on their color, but I was happy to see the gray and teal. When it comes to running sneakers, I’m all about performance. If it’s a great shoe, I’m sold. If the color is cool, it’s just an added bonus. Well, hello, added bonus!
I also liked the floral pattern on the inside lining of the 880s. It added a subtle feminine touch to the shoe. I like it.
Ok, now that you know I think these sneakers are stylin’, let’s get onto the more āseriousāĀ stuff. I’m sure you want to know how these 880s perform, right? I thought so.
As soon as I put on the 880s, they felt comfortable, and not at all like your typical brand new, stiff sneaker, so I didn’t worry at all about breaking them in. I even took them out for a 6-mile treadmill workout right out of the box. The fit was snug, but not restrictive; it actually felt pretty natural. I always think new sneakers feel weird on my feet (compared to my old ones) and never fit quite right until I run in them a few times. The 880s were like an old friend and didn’t require that awkward, adjustment period at all. It was just lace up and go for me with these babies!
When I started my run on the treadmill, I immediately thought: HOLY CUSHIONING! New Balance wasn’t joking when they advertised the 880s as cushioning shoes. There’s even extra cushioning in the tongue and around the ankle, which adds to the overall comfort. I’ve never run in a shoe quite like this before, but it felt great.
The 880s are designed for runners with a neutral gait, and provide plenty of stability. I definitely felt the extra support in the arch as well as overall in the base of the shoe. My foot felt nice and secure and very stable in them.
After my treadmill run, I decided to give the 880s another go outside on the roads. They still felt really comfortable, and I felt a nice, soft landing on every stride. I can only imagine how the 880s would feel on a long, outdoor run. I’m really curious, so I might need to give them another test drive sooner than later!
Obviously, I’m a huge fan of the 880s. They’re an awesome sneaker for everyday runs (and potentially long training runs). My only gripe with them, however, is that they seem to run a little large. I’m almost always a size 8 in running shoes, but these were a tad roomy in the toe area. No big deal, but I just wanted to let you guys know in case you want to buy a pair.
What’s your favorite type of running sneaker?
Lunch
Today’s lunch was eaten in two parts. The first part was a slice of leftover pizza with a side salad.
Part two of lunch was a repeat of the exact same snack I ate on Tuesday afternoon: Stonyfield lemon yogurt with fresh blueberries mixed in. I cannot get enough of this combo! So good!
Off to walk the pug!
See ya tomorrow! I have a very special surprise for you guys! š
76 Comments
I don’t by runners based on colour alone but I reallly love the colour combo of this pair. I love it so much I almost want to go try on a pair, unfortch my last last pair of new balance cut up my heels and kind of ruined them for me :/
I love the design inside of thos sneakers! I don’t buy sneakers based on color/appearance either, but it’s always a bonus when shoes that fit well also look good. I wore New Balance when I first started running, and I really liked them. For some reason, I ended up buying Sauconys for a while, and they were OK. However, after dealing with an ankle injury that lasted for months, I realized that I overpronate, so I had to switch to support shoes. I just purchased Mizuno Waves and am on my third week of running in them. So far, so good.
My favorite running shoes by far have been Mizunos. Maybe it’s because they’re the shoe that I started running in but anything else has always left me with a few complaints and the Mizunos always feel just right. Though, I must be honest, my new Nike Airs may give them a run for their money… š
I am addicted to Brooks Adrenaline. I just bought the trail version and it is dark gray with a little pink. Love them!
This is a pet peeve, sorry: there is no real “support” in the NB 880. As you (correctly) stated, it is a neutral shoe, therefore there is no “extra stability” in the sole.
I work in a running store and it just bugs me when people use running shoe terminology ass backwards.
Glad you like them, though. At $100 retail, the 880 is a solid choice for a well-priced, well-cushioned neutral shoe. And yes, NB tends to run a little long.
I love the color, too! I just got new shoes that are grey with purple trim, and I’m loving the neutral look with the nice pop of color.
I got to hand it to New Balance- these are the prettiest running shoes I’ve seen yet !
Yay for New Balance! And yay for leftover pizza! I totally buy shoes based on their appearance and then hope for the best as far as how well I run/walk in them. Probably the same goes for pizza. If it looks good, I’ll eat it and then hope it tastes good too.
The shoes ARE super cute!!
And dang, that Stonyfield Lemon flavored yogurt is awesome!
Oh that pizza looks delicious. Yum. Cute shoes! Thanks for the review, I’m due for a new pair soon. Great to hear a perspective on a different pair.
I’ve been wanting to try to move towards a more minimalist running shoe, but I’m afraid that my really high arches wouldn’t be supported enough. Are the 880’s the answer to my shoe quest or should I look at other options?
@Sarah: I have high arches and long (US 9.5), narrow feet, and I’ve never gone wrong with a pair of Nike women’s running shoes. Previously I’ve had the Pegasus, and just last week got the Lunarlon, and they’re great.
I love, love, love Mizunos for running! They always fit me well. Definitely love New Balance for walking though. I have done The 3 Day Walk for 2 years, and they are a huge sponsor, so I was happy to be able to get discounted shoes š Plus, they made those 60 miles easy, peasy!
Thanks so much for the review of the 880’s! My first running shoes were NB and I loved them, but I am looking into a new pair! š
Lemon yogurt!!! I love key lime, so I am sure I would love this flavor/brand. š
OMG— I LOVE those shoes. SO cute!
I love my New Balance 880s. They feel great. Mine aren’t as cute as the ones you have. Maybe I’ll get that color next time.
I don’t run so I totally buy workout shoes based on how they look, lol. These are cute!
Lemon yogurt + blueberries sounds like a form of pie š
Those shoes are seriously freaking adorable. Love the colors. How much does a pair of 880s usually run ya (no pun intended)?