New Balance 880 offers a balanced cushioning system and reliable support, making it a dependable choice for daily training and varied distances. Brooks Ghost, on the other hand, provides a smooth ride with slightly softer cushioning, appealing to runners who prioritize comfort across different terrains. While the 880 excels in stability and versatility, the Ghost stands out for its cushioned feel and overall comfort.
- New Balance 880 has a 10mm drop focused on stability, while Brooks Ghost has a 12mm drop, offering a more cushioned feel for neutral runners.
- New Balance 880 offers balanced cushioning and high stability, making it a reliable choice for daily training.
- Brooks Ghost provides softer cushioning for a smoother ride, ideal for runners who prioritize comfort across different terrains.
- New Balance 880 is built for durability and consistent performance, suitable for various running distances.
- Brooks Ghost excels in versatility, making it a strong option for both daily runs and medium-distance training.
| Feature | New Balance 880 | Brooks Ghost |
|---|---|---|
| Cushioning | Balanced cushioning for a stable ride | Slightly softer cushioning for a smooth ride |
| Support | Reliable support for various distances | Moderate support, suitable for different terrains |
| Weight | Moderate weight, designed for daily training | Moderate weight, balancing comfort and performance |
| Best Use | Best for daily running and varied distances | Best for daily training and medium-distance runs |
| Material | Engineered mesh upper for comfort and durability | Engineered mesh upper with seamless overlays |
| Breathability | Good breathability, keeps feet cool during runs | Good breathability for comfortable wear |
| Sole Type | Blown rubber outsole for durability and grip | Rubber outsole with segmented crash pad for smooth transitions |
| Durability | Highly durable, built for long-term use | Highly durable, built for regular use |
| Flexibility | Moderate flexibility, focusing on stability | Moderate flexibility, suitable for most runners |
| Stability | High stability, suitable for neutral runners | Good stability for neutral runners |
| Price Range | $130 – $150 | $130 – $150 |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 10mm drop | 12mm drop |
| Fit | True to size with a comfortable fit | True to size with a comfortable fit |
| Responsiveness | Moderately responsive, ideal for consistent performance | Responsive, providing a smooth ride |
| Style Options | Available in various colors and styles | Available in a wide range of colors and styles |
Comparing New Balance 880 vs Brooks Ghost
New Balance 880 and Brooks Ghost are two popular running shoes known for their comfort and performance. In this comparison, we will take a detailed look at the key features of both shoes and evaluate their pros and cons. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, this article will help you make an informed decision about which shoe is the better choice for you.
Overview of New Balance 880
The New Balance 880 is a highly regarded running shoe that offers a perfect balance of cushioning and support. It is designed to provide a responsive and comfortable ride, making it a popular choice among runners of all levels.
The shoe features New Balance’s innovative Fresh Foam midsole, which delivers a plush and lightweight feel. The upper is made with breathable mesh material, ensuring good ventilation during long runs. With its durable outsole, the New Balance 880 provides excellent traction on various surfaces.
Overview of Brooks Ghost
The Brooks Ghost is another well-loved running shoe that is known for its cushioning and versatility. It is designed to provide a smooth and comfortable ride, making it suitable for daily training and long-distance runs.
The shoe features Brooks’ DNA Loft midsole, which offers plush cushioning and a responsive feel. The engineered mesh upper provides breathability and a secure fit. The Brooks Ghost has a durable rubber outsole that provides ample grip on both wet and dry surfaces.
Key Features Compared
Now let’s dive into the specific features and compare the New Balance 880 and Brooks Ghost in terms of their key attributes.
Cushioning
Both the New Balance 880 and Brooks Ghost excel in providing cushioning for a comfortable running experience. The New Balance 880 utilizes the Fresh Foam midsole, which offers a soft and responsive feel.
On the other hand, the Brooks Ghost features the DNA Loft midsole, which provides a balanced combination of softness and springiness. Both shoes are capable of absorbing impact and reducing stress on the joints during runs.
Support
When it comes to support, both the New Balance 880 and Brooks Ghost perform admirably. The New Balance 880 features a supportive midfoot wrap and a heel counter that locks the foot in place, providing stability and preventing excessive pronation. The Brooks Ghost incorporates a segmented crash pad and a 3D Fit Print upper, which adapts to the shape of the foot and provides support where needed.
Durability
Durability is an important factor to consider when choosing a running shoe. Both the New Balance 880 and Brooks Ghost are built to withstand the wear and tear of regular use. The New Balance 880 has a sturdy rubber outsole that offers good traction and enhances the shoe’s longevity. The Brooks Ghost incorporates durable rubber in the outsole as well, ensuring durability and grip on various surfaces.
Breathability
During long runs, breathability plays a crucial role in keeping the feet cool and comfortable. The New Balance 880 features a breathable mesh upper that allows for proper ventilation, preventing excessive sweating and discomfort.
Similarly, the Brooks Ghost’s engineered mesh upper promotes airflow, keeping the feet dry and fresh. Both shoes provide excellent breathability, enhancing the overall running experience.
Fit and Comfort
Both the New Balance 880 and Brooks Ghost prioritize fit and comfort. The New Balance 880 offers a snug and supportive fit, ensuring a secure lockdown. It is available in various widths, catering to different foot shapes.
The Brooks Ghost also provides a comfortable fit with its 3D Fit Print upper, which adapts to the contours of the foot. Both shoes prioritize comfort to minimize the risk of blisters and discomfort during runs.
Weight
In terms of weight, the New Balance 880 and Brooks Ghost are relatively similar. The New Balance 880 weighs approximately 10 ounces (283 grams), making it a lightweight option for runners.
The Brooks Ghost weighs slightly more at around 10.4 ounces (294 grams). While both shoes are not the lightest in their class, they still offer a good balance between cushioning and weight.
User Experience
Overall, users rave about the New Balance 880 and Brooks Ghost for their exceptional comfort and performance. Many runners appreciate the cushioning and support provided by both shoes, making them suitable for long-distance runs and daily training.
Users also praise the breathable materials used in the construction of the shoes, as they prevent excessive sweating and keep the feet dry. Both the New Balance 880 and Brooks Ghost have garnered a loyal following due to their reliability and comfort.
Pros and Cons
New Balance 880 Pros:
- Balanced Cushioning: The 880 provides balanced cushioning, offering a stable and comfortable ride suitable for various distances.
- Reliable Support: Designed with consistent support, making it an excellent choice for daily training and varied running distances.
- Durable Construction: Built with durable materials, the 880 is designed for long-term use, ensuring it can handle regular wear.
- High Stability: Offers high stability, particularly beneficial for neutral runners seeking a dependable shoe.
- Moderate Flexibility: Provides a good balance between flexibility and stability, accommodating a wide range of runners.
New Balance 880 Cons:
- Heavier Weight: While stable, the 880 may feel slightly heavier compared to lighter running shoes, which might not appeal to those seeking a more agile option.
- Moderate Responsiveness: The cushioning is balanced but may not offer the same level of responsiveness as shoes designed for speed or agility.
- Less Flexible: Focused more on stability, the 880 may not be as flexible as some runners prefer, especially for those who prioritize a more natural stride.
Brooks Ghost Pros:
- Soft Cushioning: The Ghost provides slightly softer cushioning, offering a smooth and comfortable ride across various terrains.
- Versatile Performance: Suitable for both daily training and medium-distance runs, making it a versatile choice for runners.
- Durable Build: Constructed with high-quality materials, the Ghost is built to withstand regular use and maintain performance over time.
- Good Stability: Delivers reliable stability, particularly for neutral runners, helping to maintain a steady stride.
- Wide Style Options: Available in a wide range of colors and styles, allowing runners to choose a look that suits their preferences.
Brooks Ghost Cons:
- Higher Heel-to-Toe Drop: With a 12mm drop, the Ghost may not suit runners who prefer a lower drop for a more natural running feel.
- Moderate Weight: Similar to the 880, the Ghost has a moderate weight, which may not appeal to those seeking a lighter shoe.
- Less Aggressive Support: While supportive, the Ghost may not provide the same level of aggressive support as some other running shoes, particularly for runners with specific needs.
Price Comparison
When it comes to price, the New Balance 880 and Brooks Ghost are comparable. Both shoes fall within the mid-range price category for running shoes. The exact pricing may vary depending on the specific model and any promotional offers or discounts available. It’s always a good idea to check with retailers or online marketplaces for the most up-to-date pricing information.
Which is Better – New Balance 880 vs Brooks Ghost?
After thorough evaluation and considering the key features, user experience, and price comparison, it can be concluded that both the New Balance 880 and Brooks Ghost are excellent running shoes. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences and specific needs.
If you prioritize cushioning and a snug fit, the New Balance 880 may be the better choice for you. Its innovative Fresh Foam midsole ensures a comfortable and responsive ride, and the shoe’s supportive features provide stability and prevent overpronation.
On the other hand, if you value versatility and plush cushioning, the Brooks Ghost may be the right shoe for you. Its DNA Loft midsole offers a balanced combination of softness and responsiveness, making it suitable for various types of runs.
In summary, both the New Balance 880 and Brooks Ghost are reputable running shoes that have their strengths and unique features. It’s advisable to try them on and consider factors such as fit, comfort, and personal preferences before making a final decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here, we will answer some common queries about the New Balance 880 and the Brooks Ghost running shoes. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, we hope to provide you with the information you need to make an informed choice between these two popular models.
Which shoe is better for long-distance running, the New Balance 880 or the Brooks Ghost?
Both the New Balance 880 and the Brooks Ghost are great options for long-distance running. The New Balance 880 offers a supportive and cushioned ride, with a responsive midsole that provides excellent energy return.
On the other hand, the Brooks Ghost features a plush and comfortable feel, with a smooth heel-to-toe transition that makes it ideal for logging miles. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference, so we recommend trying both shoes to see which one feels better for your specific needs.
Are the New Balance 880 and the Brooks Ghost suitable for runners with pronation issues?
Yes, both the New Balance 880 and the Brooks Ghost are designed to provide support and stability for runners with pronation issues. The New Balance 880 features a medial post in the midsole that helps control overpronation, providing a balanced and stable ride. Similarly, the Brooks Ghost incorporates a Progressive Diagonal Rollbar (PDRB) to guide the foot and prevent excessive inward rolling. These features make both shoes suitable for runners who need pronation support.
Do the New Balance 880 and the Brooks Ghost have similar cushioning?
While the New Balance 880 and the Brooks Ghost both offer cushioning, they have slightly different approaches. The New Balance 880 uses a combination of responsive foam and plush cushioning to provide a balanced feel, suitable for a wide range of runners. On the other hand, the Brooks Ghost prioritizes a soft and plush underfoot experience, making it well-suited for runners who prefer a more cushioned ride.
Ultimately, the choice between these shoes depends on your preferences and needs. If you prefer a firmer and more responsive feel, the New Balance 880 might be a better fit. If you prioritize maximum cushioning and comfort, the Brooks Ghost could be the right choice for you. We recommend trying both shoes to see which level of cushioning feels most comfortable for your feet.
Are the New Balance 880 and the Brooks Ghost suitable for different types of running surfaces?
Both the New Balance 880 and the Brooks Ghost are versatile running shoes that can handle a variety of surfaces. They are suitable for road running, gym workouts, and even light trail running. However, if you primarily run on trails or uneven terrain, you may want to consider a trail-specific shoe for added traction and stability.
It’s worth noting that the New Balance 880 and the Brooks Ghost are primarily designed for road running. They excel on paved surfaces, providing a smooth and comfortable ride. If you frequently run on roads or treadmills, both of these models are excellent options.
Which shoe offers a wider range of color options, the New Balance 880 or the Brooks Ghost?
When it comes to color options, the New Balance 880 tends to offer a wider range compared to the Brooks Ghost. New Balance often releases multiple colorways for the 880 model, allowing you to choose from a variety of hues and designs. On the other hand, the Brooks Ghost usually has a more limited selection of color options.
If having a wide selection of colors is important to you, the New Balance 880 may be the better choice. However, if color variety is not a crucial factor in your decision-making process, the Brooks Ghost still offers attractive and stylish designs to suit most preferences.
Summary
So, to sum it up, when comparing the New Balance 880 and the Brooks Ghost running shoes, there are a few things to consider.
Firstly, the New Balance 880 is great for runners who want a well-cushioned shoe and extra stability. It’s perfect for people who overpronate or have flat feet. On the other hand, the Brooks Ghost is a good choice if you’re looking for a lightweight and comfortable shoe that offers a smooth ride. It’s suitable for neutral runners who don’t require as much stability.
Both shoes have their pros and cons. The New Balance 880 provides excellent support and durability but may feel slightly heavier. Meanwhile, the Brooks Ghost delivers a plush feel and energy return, but some runners might find it less supportive.
In the end, the best shoe for you depends on your running style, foot type, and personal preferences. Remember to try them on and go for a test run to see which one feels the most comfortable and suits your running needs. Happy running!