New Balance 1500 v2 – Great test and review of the shoe

a pair of New Balance 1500The New Balance 1500 is a fast runner. This running shoe is built for high comfort and lots of speed. If you are looking for a running shoe to set PR times in, then the 1500 model from New Balance could be a really good choice. It will definitely not weigh you down:

  • Read great review of New Balance 1500
  • What should you expect from the NB 1500?
  • Advantages and disadvantages of this running shoe
  • Best price right now on New Balance 1500

NOTE: Buy New Balance 1500 v2 through iloebesko andsave 601 crowns. Normal price: 1,100 kroner – great deals right now.

iloebesko is mentioned in:

 

Price comparison

Reseller Leveringstid Country Total price Read more
1-2 dage 499 DKK Til butik
2-5 dage 712 DKK Til butik
3-5 dage 930 DKK Til butik
 

What kind of running shoe is the NB 1500?

The New Balance 1500 is a great running shoe for those who like speed and pace. On the other hand, it is not a great shoe for those who love all the soft and comfortable things in a “regular running shoe” such as the New Balance 1260 or the Nimbus from Asics.
When you manufacture a race running shoe with the aim of making the shoes so light that you can run fast in them, and maybe set your next PR time in them, you undeniably compromise on both support and cushioning.

But the reason I’m writing a little is because New Balance has made a fantastic compromise in their model 1500. Here you get a running shoe with plenty of room for speed and pace, but in a quite fantastic way, New Balance has managed to make a really supportive running shoe WITH a pronation wedge, and which is at the same time incredibly soft to step into.
For quite natural reasons, there are not the same large amounts of cushioning as in other regular running shoes, but for its class, the New Balance 1500 contains a really nice amount. Or at least you quickly get the feeling that you have good cushioning. If you choose to run a longer race, such as a marathon and maybe even a half marathon, then you probably can’t avoid the cushioning getting a little tired in the last kilometers. But that’s the case with the vast majority of running shoes that are made for racing and tempo.

So you can expect a really good combination running shoe if you choose to go with a New Balance 1500. A running shoe that has a lot of possibilities.

 

orange new balance 1500 men

 

My first run in the New Balance 1500

You’re always excited. It doesn’t matter if it’s a model you know or a brand new model of running shoe you’re going to test. The feeling was the same when I first started testing the New Balance 1500..
A new running shoe that comes out of its box for the first time just smells and feels very special. It may sound strange, but if you are a real running nerd, you know what I am talking about. And this is where the analysis and testing begins. The first impression and then of course the feeling of the different elements of the running shoe.

New Balance 1500 was a good experience all in all. The smell, the feeling and the feeling of going out on the road in a brand new running shoe were there immediately when I “un-boxed” my new NB 1500. I got a really nice and light running shoe, and you can already tell that it is a very high quality running shoe. But there was also a little bit of wormwood in the cup – but unfortunately there is always that when I unpack a tempo and race running shoe – My body, my feet and my legs have a strained relationship with running too long in these more minimalist running shoes. I am not a particularly heavy runner (83kg) but I land incredibly heavy every time, and thus I personally expose my running shoes to a large or greater load.
What appealed to me about the NB 1500 even then was that they had managed to build a little bit of pronation support into the shoe. That could be a good start for better support on long mileage rides.

My first run in New Balance was an interval run of about 5 kilometers. So it wasn’t much, but I thought I would start by testing the shoe where I would most likely use it. It will/would definitely be on the fast interval runs. The shoe fits really well, New Balance has managed to make a really good fit in the shoe, even though they have had the task of making a light and minimalist running shoe. In any case, I felt that it sat nicely on my foot, and supported me where I needed it.

So all in all, both the first impression and the first run were approved by me – but to be honest, I still had a sneaking suspicion about this shoe on long runs.

Several trips confirmed only NB 1500

After several trips in the New Balance 1500, I have now had the opportunity to evaluate it on several different distances. The longest I have been out on is 15 kilometers and I think that will also be the longest I will go beyond. I would personally say that I will use it on fast short runs. If I were to go beyond the 15 kilometers, it would be if I were to run a half marathon in it. Then I could probably bite the pain in me.
But it is important to say that it is me as a runner who has that opinion, it is not an expression of the New Balance 1500 shoe itself. Because I actually believe that it, as one of the few race running shoes, can handle the task of softness over longer distances. At least that is how it seems when you measure and weigh it. But I can’t say that with 110% certainty since I haven’t tested it on myself.

But several runs in this running shoe only confirmed what I knew after the first run. It is a flexible, comfortable and, of its kind, a good responsive running shoe. A model that probably comes close to my top 3 when we talk about competition or race running shoes.

 

upper and sole new balance 1500

 

 

Cool facts about the New Balance 1500

Generally

  • Running style: Neutral, slight pronation
  • Fit: Slightly tight (Race)
  • Size: regular
  • Surface: Hard surface
  • Training purpose: tempo, interval & competition
  • Suggested price: 1100 DKK

Master

  • Weight: 208 grams size 42
  • Drop: 6 mm
  • Width: Standard (D)

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Lady

  • Weight: 186 grams size 39
  • Drop: 6 mm
  • Width: Standard (W)

 

Overall impression of the New Balance 1500

It can actually be said quite briefly. The overall impression is short. However, I would like to point out that this is when I evaluate it based on the category of running shoes it belongs to (competition running shoes) and I look at my own personal preferences. What I mean is that I will only use it on short tempo runs, and that is the overall impression as it should be..
I get lots of lightness, acceptable cushioning, and a running shoe that follows the movements of my feet.

I am aware that others may have a different impression of the shoe, depending on their preferences and how they intend to use this running shoe.

 

More facts about NB 1500

Need to know

  • RevLite midsole
  • T-beam (pronation)
  • PhantomFit

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Nice to know

  • Part of the New Balance “race program”
  • Race shoes WITH pronation wedge

  • Recommended: 10 to 42km
  • [/list_item]

The crooked angle

  • Women’s is produced in one width (B)
  • Men’s is produced in 2 widths (D+2E)
  • Motto: Train, Race, Win, Repeat

 

men's nb 1500

 

Choose the right size.

If you are in doubt about what each size contains – please visit our New Balance size chart.

Regarding the shoe, I don’t think there’s anything you need to pay extra attention to. You should go with the size you normally wear (if you use a different brand, look for the centimeter measurement)
Of course, you should be prepared for the shoe itself to be a bit tight around your foot, but that is more the fit and has nothing to do with the size of the New Balance 1500.

Men’s sizes: 40 – 47.5 (US 7 to 13)

Women’s sizes: 35 – 43 (US 5 to 11)

 

new balance 1500 women

 

Advantages and disadvantages

 

Benefits

Libra

The low weight is of course an advantage. It is the primary reason why one can allow it to be called a tempo and or competition running shoe. The less weight, the faster the execution of each step.

The combination

The fact that several runners find it to be a really great marathon running shoe where they get a more than acceptable lightness, and at the same time good cushioning for the entire 42.195 kilometers, proves that the New Balance 1500 hits right in the marathon eye of the hurricane.

The pronation

Many race and competition running shoes are made as minimalist, and in the vast majority of cases without a pronation wedge. So I see it as a clear advantage that in the NB 1500 there is room for a smaller support and pronation wedge. When you run the long distances like half and full marathons, you will need the pronation support, even if you are a neutral runner. The more tired your feet become, the more they tend to pronate a little. So it is clearly an advantage that the shoe contains the pronation wedge.

Fit

The tight fit, the glove-like fit will be a definite advantage for some (those who like it). You really feel like you become one with the shoe, and the shoe and feet merge into one. It's perfect for fast rides or races.

Disadvantages

The fit

It's not a mistake, the quick-witted have discovered that the fit has both advantages and disadvantages. There are some who are not particularly enthusiastic about completely tight running shoes, and on that basis the fit also becomes a disadvantage for this New Balance 1500. This will undeniably keep some from buying this model.

The arch support

This shoe has a little bit of a kick to be very close to the ground, which can be nice, but it is also very flat and around the arch, which can make it seem a little stiff. But that is one of the prices you have to pay when we are talking about race running shoes.

The price

Consider that the price may be a disadvantage, as it is a shoe that has a narrow segment for the user. It is not a lot of training running shoes that you use 8 out of 10 times. So some will probably think that the shoe is too expensive to have standing in relation to its sparse time ON the feet.


 

You should buy the New Balance 1500 if…

You want a pace and competition running shoe with a pronation wedge

You are looking for a running shoe that will be perfect for your next PR time.

You are looking for a running shoe that will be perfect for your next PR time.

 

new balance 1500 top view

 

What have others said about the running shoe?

Below you will find a very short excerpt of what other runners have said about the shoe. Not only here, but on websites all over the world, there is great praise for the Nike Air Zoom Odessey.

Bitten Kortzen, runs 3-4 times a week

  • I had to get used to running in them. I was used to a more regular running shoe with lots of cushioning. But now I'm really happy with my New Balance 1500. I wear them every time I go to a race.–Bitten Kortzen

Kaj Johansen, Runner with injured knee

  • When you have had knee surgery, you have to look carefully when choosing running shoes. I have never before dared to run in "minimal" race running shoes. But I had the opportunity to test these nb 1500, and I must say that it is possible. I don't run in them every time, only when I think I need to pick up the pace. My knee can't take any more.....–Kaj Johansen

Paw Albrectsen, Running for fun

  • I have a pair of New Balance 1500. I think it's a great running shoe, you can really feel it's light. I actually use them for everyday use too, as I think it's a super cool shoe, and it doesn't matter that my feet are less tired after a long day at work.–Paw Albrectsen

You can also see a lot of international reviews and comments.HERE. RunRepeat has reviewed and posted the New Balance 1500 for evaluation by their users.

Analysis Part 1: Who can use the New Balance 1500

Running style

It is for him or her who runs with a very mild pronation or maybe neutral. It is a running shoe that actually covers a little more in a very elegant way than just a regular neutral running shoe for example. Since the shoe has a small pronation wedge on the inside, it is ideal for neutral runners for long distance runs, as the feet/legs/muscles then have time to get tired, and quite automatically start to pronate a little inward when you run. On the other hand, there is not too big a wedge in it for a neutral runner to also use it on sprint runs.
Those who pronate also get a little support on the inside from the start, maybe not as much as they are used to, but support nonetheless. And that is not always easy to find in a pace and competition running shoe.

Did you know that New Balance is the running brand in Denmark associated with manufacturing running shoes in multiple widths?

Price level

There are both pros and cons to the price. As previously mentioned, some runners will think that with a suggested retail price of 1100,- it is on the expensive side, as it is a running shoe with limited use (short trips or races). But if I had to judge it solely based on the price level and what you get, compared to other shoes in the same category, I actually think it is a cheap running shoe. I think I got a lot for my money.
And let’s assume that now, like all other running shoes, they will be involved in a minor price war online, so you can probably quickly get down to a price of 8 or 900,-

Type of shoe

We’ve been talking about this a lot. It’s a definite race and competition running shoe. So we’ll say it again – you have to be prepared for some things to be cut in terms of support and cushioning to make the running shoe as competitive as possible.

Drop

The New Balance 1500 has a 6mm drop. It gives you a great feel for the ground, and you are very close to the ground. When we talk about competition running shoes, this shoe has a unique feel.

 

overview new balance 1500

 

Analysis part 2: The structure of NB 1500

Outsole

A classic outsole that is built to grip solid surfaces. It may stand out a little in that the pattern or studs on the outsole are a bit thick. But this is to provide better grip on the surface.

Midsole

RevLite midsole which is really light, in fact it is about 30% lighter than the classic New Balance midsole, but it has the same softness and flexibility.

Heel

A heel section that I think fits as it should. I didn’t really notice the heel, and that’s usually a good sign. When the heel is neutral and you don’t experience any “discomfort”, it’s because it’s doing its job as it should.

Middle

Here, New Balance uses a system called T-Beam. It is a stabilizer that is placed in the middle of the foot. It ensures that the shoe maintains its stability while providing good support for the arch.

Forefoot

Flexible forefoot, which also has the advantage of being fitted with RevLite. This means that there is good cushioning in the forefoot when you take off, and you are helped along in your push-off.

Upper part

FantomFit. That’s where the magic begins. An ultra-light and seamless upper ensures that with very few resources (the upper is very light) it gives your foot optimal support, while allowing your feet to breathe due to the thin and comfortable material.

Analysedel 3: New Balance 1500 i brug

In fine clothes

Solid ground. You’ll be zipping along on asphalt or maybe a gravel path in this New Balance 1500. You probably shouldn’t try to run either hardcore or minor trail in this running shoe. The sole isn’t built for that, and the upper isn’t at all.

Durability

If you stick to the recommendations, you’ll get plenty of mileage out of the shoe. But again, be aware of the slightly fragile upper. Stay away from terrain where there are thorns, branches, and the like that could get caught in the upper of the shoe. It’s very soft, and will most likely end up with a crack or a boring hole.

Fit

The same FantomFit upper, which may be a bit fragile, is also the upper that makes this New Balance 1500 unique. It is the upper that ensures you a unique fit in the shoe.

Comparisons

The New Balance 1500 belongs to a relatively narrow category of running shoes, and therefore there are not many direct comparisons. But one that definitely deserves a mention is Nike LunarTempo. It has a bit of the same thing as the New Balance 1500, in that you actually get a “real running shoe” feeling when you wear it, and don’t think too much about it being a competition running shoe.
The alternative could be another model from Nike, Nike Free RN, and if you then choose Free RN Flyknit, sAnd you are assured of an even tighter upper if that is what you are looking for in your competition shoes.

Summary

The whole summary must be said to be easy. I am completely excited about the New Balance 1500. I think it has a lot to offer, and even though it belongs to a category where it is difficult to stand out, it does it a little anyway, I think it is great when a running shoe manages to do that..
There will always be room for some improvements, and as you can read in the review, it is not flawless, but sometimes it is about comparing those flaws to the overall impression and what you get out of the product, and then see if it would have made a difference. And in my case, I don’t think it would have.

Best price on New Balance 1500

We have collected some of the best prices for New Balance 1500 for you. There are prices from webshops in Denmark, Germany and England.

 

Reseller Leveringstid Country Total price Read more
1-2 dage 499 DKK Til butik
2-5 dage 712 DKK Til butik
3-5 dage 930 DKK Til butik