It contains affiliate links and Extrabux will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on Extrabux links.

0

New Balance 880 vs. Brooks Ghost 16 vs. Hoka Clifton 10: Comparison and Reviews 2025

New Balance 880 vs. Brooks Ghost 16 vs. Hoka Clifton 10: Comparison and Reviews 2025

    Three top running shoe brands known for offering comfortable, durable, and high-performing options are New Balance,Brooks and Hoka.These brands are well loved and used because they make high quality running shoes for various running styles and foot types.However,choosing a running shoe – especially as a beginner runner – can feel overwhelming.Which is better, HOKA Clifton or Brooks Ghost?New Balance vs. Brooks Ghost  vs. Hoka: which brand should you choose?One way we get to know each shoe brand and model inside and out is with a deep dive into every option out there.In this article, I'm going to be putting three most popular neutral running shoes from these brands - New Balance 880,Brooks Ghost 16 and Hoka Clifton 10 – head to head.Keep reading as Iprovide all the information to help you make an educated choice.

New Balance 880 vs. Brooks Ghost 16 vs. Hoka Clifton 9: Comparison Table


FeaturesNew Balance 880v15Brooks Ghost 16Hoka Clifton 10

Width

Narrow/Standard/Wide/X-WideNarrow/Medium/Wide/X-WideRegular/Wide/X-Wide
Heel Drop
6mm12mm8mm
Weight10.7 oz (Men)9.5 oz (Men)9.8 oz (Men)
CushionMaximumModerateMaximum
SupportNeutralNeutralNeutral
UpperBreathable and structured engineered mesh upperEngineered air meshBreathable jacquard upper
Midsole
Fresh Foam X midsole foamDNA Loft v3 foamCompression molded EVA foam
OutsoleRubber
RoadTrack rubberAbrasion rubber
Best For

Everyday running/Some faster-paced efforts

Daily training/Long-distance runs/Long walks

Everyday runs/Training

User Rating4.3/54.3/54.4/5
Price$139.99$109.95-$140$150

New Balance 880v15 Review

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 New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 has undergone a bold transformation—keeping only its price unchanged. New Balance has embraced cushioning and comfort while maintaining what runners love about this staple everyday running shoe. 

The 880 v15 features a whopping 40.5 mm of foam under the heel and 34.5 mm under the forefoot. While this is a high stack height for a daily trainer, the balanced Fresh Foam X cushioning maintains a responsive and lightweight feel, making the 880 a great choice for everyday wear and mileage. The Fresh Foam X midsole delivers an initial soft, cushioned feel, but the firmer foam and rocker geometry help keep the foot moving efficiently through toe-off. Fresh Foam consists of rubber infused with numerous small bubbles. These bubbles are larger in the heel for a cushioned impact and gradually decrease in size toward the forefoot. This design aids in a smooth transition from heel to forefoot, delivering a positive push at toe-off and enabling the runner to generate more speed. The upper fits similar to previous versions with a slightly wider fit throughout the length of the shoe.The structured engineered mesh upper offers a snug and comfortable fit around the foot, while the extra padding around the heel collar locks the foot in place and adds extra comfort and padding mile after mile. 

However,This shoe isn’t as stable and structured as the Ghost 16. Your feet will sink into the Fresh Foam while running, which provides tons of comfort but can lead to inconsistency from stride to stride. And the outsole now has less rubber coverage, raising durability concerns.

1746753985916192.png

Source:newbalance.com

New Balance 880v15 Pros And Cons

ProsCons
  • Ultimate comfort and all-day wearability.

  • Structured yet breathable upper.

  • Affordable max-stack option.

  • No heel slippage whatsoever.

  • Secure and comfortable lockdown.

  • Stable ride.

  • It is versatile enough for slow recovery runs, long runs, and even some faster-paced efforts.

  • Fairly priced.

  • It feels a little heavier overall.

  • It isn’t as stable and structured as the Ghost 16. 

  • Might be firmer than Fresh Foam fans are expecting.

  • Not the best for walking or casual use.

  • Outsole durability is now a real concern.


Where To Buy New Balance 880v15?

Saving Tip:

If you like online shopping, don't forget to sign up at Extrabux!(What is Extrabux) , then you can enjoy up to 30+% cashback on your purchase from Extrabux! Sign-Up Bonus: Free to join it & get $20 welcome bonus! Student Benefits:As long as you are a student at school, you can get a free whole year long VIP Card worth $199.

Extrabux.com cooperates with many merchants, such as: Walmart (Up to 4% cashback), Sephora(4% -5% cash back),Dior (Up to 6% cash back), Moosejaw (5% -6% cash back), LOOKFANTASTIC (Up to 10% cash back), Microsoft (Up to 7% cash back) and so on. You can save on buying daily necessities, fashion, beauty, electronic products, broadband installation, mobile communication, air tickets, hotels and other aspects of life!

Brooks Ghost 16 Review

The Brooks Ghost is the popular daily trainer in the Brooks line-up.The Ghost is mid-priced neutral running shoe from Brooks that is at ease both for long mileage training and some long distance racing. Universally praised for its balanced cushioning and comfortable upper fit is a great first choice for both beginners and experienced runners.

The Brooks Ghost 16 marks a subtle yet positive evolution in the series—particularly beneficial for heel strikers seeking a reliable everyday shoe. Two big changes in this version the shoe. The first is the visible change to the outsole which now has RoadTrack Rubber and should provide better traction on your runs.The second change is the one you’ll feel.Brooks uses an updated nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 foam to deliver a lightweight, bouncy and soft ride.The upper of the Brooks Ghost 16 features an engineered air mesh that offers good ventilation and efficiently adapts to the shape of the foot, improving the fit without compromising comfort.Its lightweight design and balanced cushioning gives it a grounded feel that makes walking, running, and any kind of activity feel comfortable—even at long distances. 

The Brooks Ghost 16, like its predecessor, is a Certified Carbon Neutral product. This is achieved through the increased use of recycled materials and Brooks’ support of verified carbon offsetting projects that serve to neutralize any remaining emissions.

1746756335942341.png

Source:brooksrunning.com

Brooks Ghost 16 Pros And Cons

ProsCons
  • Neutral ride.

  • Comfortable fit.

  • Durability.

  • Good ventilation.

  • Optimal for heel strikers.

  • Great stability.

  • Improved energy return.

  • Great arch support.

  • Versatile for multiple activities.

  • Maintains affordable price.

  • Available in a slew of colors.

  • Super-supportive footbed.

  • Less cushioning.

  • Tongue not gusseted.

  • Low toebox volume.

  • Stiff heel counter.

  • Not much to offer in terms of unique geometries, responsiveness, or experience.

  • A bendier toe bed than past versions.


Where To Buy Brooks Ghost 16?

Hoka Clifton 10 Review

The Hoka Clifton series has always been the neutral workhorse for the brand. One of the best-selling shoes in the marketplace, it's become a legacy series not only for runners, but also everyday people who are on their feet for much of the day due to its consistent comfort. 

For the 10th iteration of the Clifton, the shoe geometry is reworked from heel to toe. Ushering in a new era of plush performance, this next-generation update delivers a revitalized underfoot experience with an additional 3mm in heel-to-toe drop. The Clifton 10 sports a familiar CM EVA (Compression Molded Ethylene vinyl acetate) foam in the midsole that provides a plush and cushioned feel while still being responsive for a smooth, efficient stride.Delivering the same ultralight cushioning that made the Clifton a fan favorite, Hoka has fine-tuned the fit and added a breathable jacquard upper with double-lace lock to mitigate tongue migration.The Clifton 10 has also increased volume on the toe box.

There are downsides too, as the weight gain, outdated foam, and flatter ride make it less lively than before. Still, for comfort-seekers chasing a stable, everyday option, it remains a solid pick that’s likely to sell fast once again.

1746762334440432.png

Source:hoka.com

Hoka Clifton 10 Pros And Cons

ProsCons
  • Wider toebox improves toe splay.

  • Stable ride despite its high stack height.

  • Works well for heel strikers.

  • MetaRocker is smooth.

  • Excellent cushioning-to-weight ratio.

  • Surprisingly responsive.

  • Achilles-friendly heel collar design.

  • Secure fitting upper.

  • Ideal for long runs.

  • Versatile for daily walking or jogging.

  • Needs a better foam ASAP.

  • Narrow midfoot and forefoot.

  • Thick upper can feel stuffy.

  • Notable weight gain from v9.

  • Non-gusseted tongue.

  • Average-to-below-average durability.

Where To Buy Hoka Clifton 10?

Conclusion: Which One Should You Choose?

The New Balance 880v15,Brooks Ghost 16 and HOKA Clifton 10 have their merits and can serve different types of runners well. Ultimately, the choice among these three comes down to personal preference and specific running needs. 

If you're looking for a shoe with soft cushioning that offers a smooth, comfortable running experience without sacrificing comfort, the New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 V15 is an excellent choice. It's ideal for runners who engage in long training sessions or are looking for a shoe that provides a comfortable feel over time.The Brooks Ghost 16 is best when you need something lighter for uptempo training and want extra stability and heel cushioning. Ideal for daily training and easy runs, the Clifton 10 provides a stable, cushioned and responsive ride runners expect from the Clifton franchise.

When you want a shoe that helps achieve your running goals, it isn’t just about picking something that looks good. You also need to determine the right fit for your natural gait and foot type to ensure proper biomechanics and consider the types of shoes for different training styles. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the New Balance 880 good for?

Ideal for neutral runners seeking a max-stack shoe without the usual premium cost. A solid daily trainer for those who aren't hard on outsoles and prefer joint-friendly cushioning without a bulky or overly wide midsole.

What is Brooks Ghost 16 good for?

If you have a neutral stride and are looking for standard cushioning support, the Brooks Ghost shoe should be at the top of your list to take out on a test run or walk. No matter if you're new or an experienced runner, these award-winning shoes were designed to keep your feet secure and comfortable throughout your run.

Are Ghost 16 good for plantar fasciitis?

Yes. The Ghost is a great option to help with plantar fasciitis.The Ghost offers a 10mm drop from heel to toe which helps to put your weight more in the forefoot and away from the plantar in your heel.

Are Hoka Clifton good for walking?

Hoka's sneakers are comfortable, supportive and provide shock absorption. That's why she says they're a good option for frequent walkers or anyone who stands a lot during the day.

Is the Hoka Clifton 10 worth it? 

If you are looking for a running or walking shoe that has the versatility of a trail runner, then the Clifton 10 is definitely worth it. The strengths of this shoe is the comfort, support, versatility, and performance!For under $150, it's tough to match the Clifton 10’s versatility and value.

【Read More】

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v12 vs. v11 vs. v10: Differences and Reviews 2025

New Balance 860 vs. 880 vs. 890 vs. 1080: Differences and Reviews 2025

Brooks Ghost Max vs. Hoka Clifton vs. New Balance 1080 vs. ASICS Gel-Nimbus: Comparison and Reviews 2025

Brook Ghost Max vs. Max 2 vs. Ghost 15 vs. 16: Differences and Reviews 2025

Brooks Ghost 15 vs. 14 vs. 13 vs. 12: Differences and Reviews 2025

Hoka Bondi 8 vs. Clifton 9 vs. Gaviota 5 vs. Bondi SR: Differences and Reviews 2025

HOKA Gaviota vs. Arahi vs. Clifton vs. Bondi: Differences and Reviews 2025

0
2025-05-08 19:56146

WE CARE ABOUT YOUR PRIVACY!

Your privacy is important to Extrabux so we've updated a Privacy Policy that covers how we collect, use, share and protect your personal information. We have also increased the information on your rights, for example how you can request to see what personal information we hold about you and how to erase your account.

In addition, Extrabux uses cookies to help us to provide you with a good shopping experience. By continuing to use our site, you are agreeing to the use of such cookies.

For further information, please read our full Privacy Policy.