Staff Shoe Review - New Balance 880v8

By Shane Huckeba, Shoe Expert at Track Shack and Former Collegiate Athlete

Hello Track Shack fans and random internet strangers! This is my first blog of many so I wanted to introduce myself to give a little validity to the posts I will be contributing in the future! My name is Shane Huckeba, I have been running for over a decade at this point, and I ran competitively in both high school and college. I ran at Augusta University in Georgia and have put thousands and thousands of miles on my body. I have been working for Track Shack for almost 8 months now and am now delving a little deeper into the running shoe world. My personal running shoes of choice are the Nike Pegasus and the Brooks Levitate.

With the pleasantries out of the way, let’s get down to business! 

The shoe we will be highlighting this week is the New Balance 880v8. The 880 series is absolutely one of the best-selling, neutral cushioned shoes in the US right now and the v8 doesn’t really show any signs of relenting in that category. So you may be wondering, “Shane, what sets this shoe apart from the hundreds of others?” A great question, so let’s get into it.

Here are the technical stats for all of you shoe nerds out there:

(keep in mind that these stats are based off of a men’s size 9.5; women’s stats are based on size 8). 

Weight: 10.8 oz (9.1oz)
Heel/Toe Drop: 10mm
Midsole: Same Trufuse foam and built on same last as v7
Outsole: Larger blown rubber forefoot shapes
Upper: 3D resin screen print & no-sew support upper

So, what does all that mean and more importantly: how is it relevant to you? 

First of all, this shoe is not meant for everyone. Those of you who are neutral pronators, slight under-pronators this is more relevant to you. Those of you who over pronate are most likely not going to love this shoe to train in without some added support for your arch. The shoe uses a durable upper as well as a blown rubber midsole to help create a structured yet flexible last. Its lightweight is good for those who don’t like the feeling of having a “clunky” running shoe, yet it is cushioned enough to protect the feet though the wear and tear of training. 

Lastly, I would like to share a few final thoughts as well as my overall opinion of the shoe. There are some differences I’d like to point out that I believe are important to those who have called this shoe home in the past. Among them one of the immediate differences is a slightly, emphasis on slightly, narrower toe box and shorter length. While most of you may not notice a difference, I would highly recommend trying the shoe on to get the feel. The v8 is a great update to the shoe and I believe it will continue to be a mainstay for New Balance. As always, we are willing to help you find that perfect fit at Track Shack so come on in and try out the 880v8. Who knows where your feet will take you! 

Share below what you think of the 880v8!

Track Shack is a specialty running/walking store that has been serving the footwear needs of Central Florida’s fitness enthusiasts since 1977.  Our experienced and knowledgeable staff takes each person through a custom fitting process.  Shoes and feet are our business but people are our specialty!  Now that you’re here, walk through our user-friendly website and welcome to the Track Shack family!

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