There are tons of running shoes for you to choose from and this creates a lot of confusion. In your search for the ideal running shoes you have probably already stumbled upon Brooks and New Balance.
I have tried both of them one and both are amazing options. However, they have slight differences. Brooks is more ideal for casual running, jogging sessions. If you combine running and everyday workout, then Brooks Ghost is for you.
However, I primarily focus on running and this is why I choose New Balance. It offers the comfort and responsiveness to help me run an extra mile. But, before making your own decision, checkout the entire article.
Brooks Ghost vs New Balance 880: Major Differences
Take a look at the only differences you need to know between Brooks Ghost and New Balance 880. Knowing these contrast will help you finalize your decision.
Sole Unit
The Brooks Ghost has a segmented crash pad that provides a smooth heel-to-toe transition and a softer landing. In addition, the midsole is made of BioMoGo DNA foam, an amazing product of modern technology that adapts to my stride and provides sufficient cushioning and support.
The New Balance 880 features a TruFuse midsole that combines two types of foam for more balanced cushioning, offering better responsiveness. There’s also a blown rubber outsole for enhanced durable traction.
Upper Unit
The Brooks Ghost has a lightweight and breathable engineered mesh upper featuring a 3D Fit Print overlay for added support. On the other hand, the New Balance 880 has a no-sew engineered mesh upper with a synthetic overlay for more durability and support.
As a hardcore runner, I personally like the New Balance 880. But if you are only into casual running, pick Brooks Ghost. You don’t need the extra security of the New Balance 880 in this case.
Durability
Both shoes are equally durable. However, I noticed that the Brooks Ghost is particularly resilient in the sole unit. On the contrary, the New Balance 880 is more robust in the upper unit.
This means if you want to workout and stay within the gym, get a pair of Brooks Ghost. Its sturdy sole will withstand the rough movements for gym workouts for years. The upper unit of the New Balance 880 is sturdier, making it a better option for running. The strong upper keeps the feet balanced and healthy while running. In addition, there’s added comfort as well.
Overall Opinion
Just like every other product from Brooks, Brooks Ghost is a comfortable and versatile shoe, suitable for runners of all levels. The smooth ride and extra cushioning it offers are unique and simply amazing.
The New Balance 880, on the other hand, is a reliable and sturdy shoe with a good balance of cushioning and responsiveness. I like this shoe because it can handle a variety of workouts and is a good, if not the best, option for runners.
Brooks Ghost vs New Balance 860: Major Differences
Now lets analyze the contrasts between Brooks Ghost and New Balance 860. Both are amazing shoes but they have their subtle contrasts.
Sole Unit
The sole unit of a running shoe has a lot to do with its cushioning and support, and the Brooks Ghost’s BioMoGo DNA foam sole offers both. Foot and leg stress can also be reduced by the segmented crash pad, which makes heel-to-toe transition smoother and absorbs impact forces.
The New Balance 860, on the other hand, features a TruFuse midsole, which combines two types of foam for cushioning and responsiveness, as well as a medial post to ensure the foot is stable and supported throughout the run. The shoe is especially useful for runners who tend to overpronate, where the feet tend to roll inward during strides, since it assists in adjusting the foot’s position and reduces injury risk.
Upper Unit
The upper unit is responsible for holding your foot in place and protecting it from external elements, such as dirt, debris, and water. This Brooks Ghost features a lightweight and breathable mesh upper that lets air circulate freely and keeps your feet cool and dry. This 3D Fit Print overlay ensures your foot stays firmly in place thanks to the additional support it provides.
New Balance 860, on the other hand, has an engineered mesh upper with synthetic overlays, so it’s a no-sew shoe. Also included in the upper unit is dual-density collar foam that cushioned around the ankle area, reducing blisters and chafing.
Durability
When it comes to durability, both shoes are well-known for their longevity, but each has its strengths. The Brooks Ghost’s sole unit is exceptionally durable thanks to the segmented crash pad’s design and the BioMoGo DNA foam’s robustness. These features ensure that the shoe can withstand the high levels of impact and wear and tear associated with long-distance running.
Meanwhile, the New Balance 860’s upper unit is highly durable, thanks to its no-sew engineered mesh and synthetic overlay. These materials provide additional protection to the upper unit, reducing the likelihood of wear and tear from friction or exposure to external elements.
Overall Opinion
The Brooks Ghost and New Balance 860 are both excellent running shoes with unique features. The Brooks Ghost is versatile and comfortable, making it an ideal choice for runners of all levels. Its cushioned sole unit and breathable upper unit provide ample support and protection, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride.
The New Balance 860, on the other hand, is an excellent choice for runners who overpronate or require additional support and stability. Its TruFuse midsole and medial post help correct foot positioning and prevent injuries, while the durable upper unit protects the foot and provides comfort.
Conclusion
If you have given this entire article a read, you have probably made up your mind. With proper direction, finding the right shoe is not a trouble. Looking for a shoe for running and workout? Go for Brooks Ghost. Want a shoe that excels at running?
New Balance is the right option for you. However, if you don’t have any specific preference, you can go with either. Trust me, you cannot go wrong here if your options are Brooks and New Balance.