New Balance Ellipse vs 1080v15

Ellipse or 1080v15? Here’s how they compare on feel, fit, brand specs and price, from the fitting team at The Run House.

The short answer

Want a soft, comfortable daily trainer that looks great? Get the Ellipse.

Want the softest cushion we carry, in a light package? Get the 1080v15.

Get the Ellipse if

You like a higher heel-to-toe drop (8mm vs 6mm)
You’d rather spend $25 less

Get the 1080v15 if

You want more foam underfoot (3mm more at the heel)
You want a dedicated recovery-day shoe
You prefer a lower drop (6mm vs 8mm)

On the run

Ellipse: Soft, stylish everyday miles. Deliciously soft and comfortable, with good energy return and a smooth heel rocker. Stability is limited.

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.

Specs side by side

	Ellipse	1080v15
Price	$144.99	$169.99
Stack height (heel / forefoot)	37 / 29mm*	40 / 34mm*
Drop	8mm	6mm
Weight, men’s	9.6 oz	9.2 oz
Weight, women’s	7.7 oz	7.3 oz
Support	Neutral	Neutral
Plate	None	None
Widths	Narrow, Standard, Wide, Extra wide	Narrow, Standard, Wide, Extra wide
Built for	Easy days, Long runs, Walking & all-day wear	Easy days, Long runs, Recovery runs, Walking & all-day wear
Expected life	300–400 miles	300–400 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

Ellipse. True to size with a well-balanced fit and a premium upper. Narrow through extra-wide.

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.

Try them on

Come try on both at The Run House in Walpole, Needham or Falmouth. Gait analysis is always free.