Whether you’re a new or experienced runner, a neutral shoe is a safe option that’s generally a good fit. When it came to testing out New Balance’s latest 880s (version 13; $179.99), Shoppers Drug Mart’s Run for Women’s Mental Health was an opportune time to test drive the shoe. Sponsored by New Balance Canada, the race raises awareness about women’s mental health and funds raised support community health programming across Canada.
As consistent as its charitable support, New Balance’s latest shoe is just as giving. Featuring the brand’s Fresh Foam X in the mid-sole, along with its NDurance rubber outsole, version 13 of the 880 delivers comfort and performance with each step.
In Toronto, Women’s College Hospital is the community partner, and the location serves as the race start line. Lining up with more than 2,000 runners and walkers is a reminder of the positive impact movement has on everyone’s mental health. Talk about inspiration! Underfoot, the shoe feels reliable and sturdy, yet also fast and propulsive. After countless iterations—thirteen, but who’s counting?—the company has done the seemingly impossible: made a shoe perfect for nearly any, and every, runner.
Inclusivity and accessibility is celebrated in the design and colourway of the 13s—intended to celebrate the welcoming spirit of running. My time at the Shoppers Drug Mart’s Run for Women’s Mental Health was inspiring, a perfect morning for the community to get together and run for an important cause. On race day, neither my choice of footwear, nor my running friends, let me down.
If you’re looking for a fairly-priced neutral race shoe, the New Balance 880v13 is just the right fit.
