Our verdict

86
Great!

Touted as a daily training staple, the twelfth iteration of the NB 880 remains the "bread and butter" for recovery and easy days. Seeing some nice and well-received improvements, the ride delivers a nice blend of comfort and responsiveness. Overall, if you're a new or seasoned runner looking to log miles or find a couch for your tired feet, you won't go wrong with the New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v12.

Tecnologias New balance Jakke Printed Impact Run Light Pack Pros

  • Cushy upon step-in
  • Forgiving ride for long miles
  • Snappy toe-offs
  • Stable
  • Protective cushion
  • Tank-like outsole
  • Opens up to wide feet
  • Reflective for low-light runs
  • Great grip on pavement
  • For beginners

Tecnologias New balance Jakke Printed Impact Run Light Pack Cons

  • Slips on snow and slick roads
  • brand new with original box New Balance AM574CBL

Who should buy the NB Fresh Foam X 880 v12

Cop the Fresh Foam X 880 v12 if you're looking to buy a:

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v12 new-balance-fresh-foam-x-880-v12-logo

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If you're looking for a more lively ride for faster runs, the NB Fresh Foam More v3 comes in highly recommended by experts. Searching for something fast, breathable, and grippy? Take the New Balance FuelCell Rebel v2

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v12 new-balance-fresh-foam-x-880-v12-toebox

New Balance 880 v12 vs. v11

As testers put it, this is the "best 880 ride yet," thanks to these changes: 

  • more protection and comfort because of the added stack height (from 32-mm heel; 22-mm forefoot to 37-27 mm, respectively)
  • a snappier toe-off because of the two-part midsole—the softer Fresh Foam Tecnologias New balance Jakke Printed Impact Run Light Pack FuelCell midsole
  • Tecnologias New balance Jakke Printed Impact Run Light Pack
  • a wider rear platform for added stability
  • more pliable upper to accommodate more foot shapes and sizes

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v12 new-balance-fresh-foam-x-880-v12-outsole-heel

New Balance 57 40 Stellar Blue 

New Balance has billed the Fresh Foam X 880 v12 as the softest 880 yet. True enough, reviewers can't help but praise this shoe. According to them, "the step-in is sublime;" it feels like the Brooks Glycerin, which says a lot about the comfort it offers. 

For context, it's not the sink-in type of soft like the Hoka Clifton, but it's "forgiving enough", as an expert has described it, for recovery days when your feet and legs "completely feel trashed." 

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v12 new-balance-fresh-foam-x-880-v12-back

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Midsole aside, the upper also speaks volumes about the New Balance 880's comfort. It's soft, and despite its tongue "being on the thick side," it doesn't rub the skin. Plus, the ankle collar is decently padded. 

Not for summer but is warm for winter

"A sweater for the feet." This is how experts describe the NB Fresh Foam X 880 v12. It's warm; those who have tested it under hot conditions find their feet sweaty after several miles. Those who live in colder places, however, all agree that the upper makes them feel cozy. 

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v12 new-balance-fresh-foam-x-880-v12-upper

The NB 880 v12's ride is the perfect mix of everything

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v12's ride is THE main event. The heel is wide, stable, soft, and bouncy. It's then perfectly complemented by the "touch firmer" forefoot that allows a snappy toe-off, making it fun and enjoyable. 

Beat-up feet no more

With the added stack, multiple reviewers say there's a "good amount of protection from the pavement." There are NO reports of strained feet and legs. 

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v12 new-balance-fresh-foam-x-880-v12-outsole-front

Just the right fit

The toe box is quite roomy and unstructured; foot swelling is welcome and the natural splay of the toes is encouraged. 

The upper update is a bummer for quick-paced runs

"Relaxed fit," "poor upper," and "more comfort-oriented"—this is how hordes of experts find the New Balance Fresh Foam 880 v12. According to them, it feels good at easy paces, but when the pace starts to pick up, they find their feet "swimming around." 

On the upside, broad-footed runners are happy with the more pliable wrap.  

Tecnologias New balance Jakke Printed Impact Run Light Pack | Provides visibility for night runs

The 880 v12 has a reflective New Balance logo that runners find "handy" for low-light runs. 

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v12 new-balance-fresh-foam-x-880-v12-laces

Concepts Releasing Fruit-Themed New Balance 992

The outsole has a "monstrous amount of rubber;" critics guarantee that it's going to outlive any other part of the shoe. Heck, they even say "you'll quit the outsole rubber before it quits you." After 50 miles of heavy wear testing, it still hasn't shown excessive signs of wear. 

Traction-wise, it translates to a very tacky grip on dry pavement. But when faced with snow and wet surfaces, it slips.