New Balance 1080v15 vs ASICS Novablast 6
1080v15 or Novablast 6? Here’s how they compare on feel, fit, brand specs and price, from the fitting team at The Run House.
The short answer
Want the softest cushion we carry, in a light package? Get the 1080v15.
Want springy, versatile miles? Get the Novablast 6.
Get the 1080v15 if
- You want the softer, more cushioned ride
- You want a dedicated recovery-day shoe
- You’re on your feet all day or walk a lot
- You need a roomier fit
Get the Novablast 6 if
- You’d like a little less squish underfoot
- You’ll use it for tempo runs and workouts
- You like a higher heel-to-toe drop (8mm vs 6mm)
On the run
1080v15: The softest, lightest max cushion. A big change. New Balance’s new foam is the softest of any shoe here in lab tests, noticeably bouncy and much lighter than the v14. That softness can feel a little unstable for runners who need support.
Novablast 6: The springy do-it-all. Light and springy, with a forefoot pod that snaps more the faster you go. It handles everything from easy days to workouts.
Specs side by side
| 1080v15 | Novablast 6 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $169.99 | $155 |
| Stack height (heel / forefoot) | 40 / 34mm* | 41.5 / 33.5mm* |
| Drop | 6mm | 8mm |
| Weight, men’s | 9.2 oz | 8.9 oz |
| Weight, women’s | 7.3 oz | 7.6 oz |
| Support | Neutral | Neutral |
| Plate | None | None |
| Widths | Narrow, Standard, Wide, Extra wide | Standard, Wide |
| Built for | Easy days, Long runs, Recovery runs, Walking & all-day wear | Easy days, Tempo & workouts, Long runs |
| Expected life | 300–400 miles | 400–500 miles |
Stack, drop and weight come from each brand’s own website. Numbers marked * aren’t published by the brand and come from other published specs. Weights are for the size each brand quotes. Expected life is our estimate.
Fit
1080v15. True to size. Reviewers disagree on width, with some calling it roomy and others narrow, so try it on. The heel can slip on turns.
Novablast 6. True to size with a tapered but splay-friendly toebox and a locked-in heel. It’s low over the toes, so high insteps should go wide rather than longer.
Try them on
Come try on both at The Run House in Walpole, Needham or Falmouth. Gait analysis is always free.
Shop the 1080v15 · Shop the Novablast 6 · Compare other running shoes