REVIEW: New Balance Ellipse – Your next Comfort Running Shoe?

Here I am again to tell you about the latest from New Balance. As always, before I started writing this review, I did a bit of research and found that the debut of the New Balance Ellipse isn’t just a marketing move, but a deliberate strategic choice by the Boston-based brand. In spirit, the Ellipse shares some similarities with the softer ride characteristics of the  New Balance 1080v13 and New Balance 1080v14. While the new New Balance 1080v15 has adopted Infinion foam in the midsole to deliver a more dynamic performance, the Ellipse has been designed from the ground up to prioritise a soft, snug fit.

We’re talking about a neutral running shoe designed for everyday runs at an easy pace and for recovery sessions, where comfort naturally takes priority over speed.

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Fabio’s overall Score for the New Balance Ellipse

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Upper & Fit: Soft Engineered Mesh with a Snug, Sock-Like Feel

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The upper of the Ellipse is made from multi-layered engineered mesh. The construction is clean and free of rigid overlays, relying entirely on the fabric’s density to provide a secure and supportive hold on the foot.
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Inside, there is a lining designed to eliminate the risk of chafing. It feels like a cosy shoe that almost invites you to wear it without socks for short distances. 

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Midsole & Cushioning: Fresh Foam X for Maximum Comfort and Impact Protection

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At the heart of the shoe’s comfort lies the New Balance Fresh Foam X midsole, which is the real star here. With a substantial stack height (around 38mm at the heel and 30mm at the forefoot) the Ellipse offers excellent impact protection while maintaining an 8mm drop that promotes a smooth transition.
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The sole’s geometry features elliptical capsules that allow controlled lateral compression of foam, enhancing that ‘cloud-like’ sensation underfoot without making you feel unstable.
This underfoot sensation absorbs energy and reduces pressure on the joints for controlled landings

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Running Experience: Best for Easy Runs, Walking & Recovery Days

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In field testing, the Ellipse performs at its best at relaxed paces. Its moderate rocker follows the foot’s natural movement, making it easy to roll forward without requiring excessive effort.

It is not a shoe designed for pushing the pace or for speed work (for that, I would suggest looking at the New Balance FuelCell Rebel or New Balance SC Elite), but it proves to be one of the best options for walking and for those who spend many hours on their feet.

The Ndurance rubber outsole ensures consistent grip on asphalt, although traction does drop off when urban surfaces become slippery.

I’ve also tried using the Ellipse across a mix of faster long and short distances, but speed is simply not what these shoes are built for.

A minor technical detail to point out: on very smooth surfaces, the concave heel geometry can produce a “popping” sound—almost like a suction effect caused by trapped air. 

Furthermore, I noticed a slight reduction in perceived bounce during longer efforts, which is then naturally restored by the foam after a few hours of rest. On very hot days, the thickness of the padding can make the Ellipse feel less breathable.

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Verdict: A Comfortable Max-Cushion Daily Trainer for Easy Miles

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In my opinion the New Balance Ellipse is a solid running shoe. It is clearly not a racing model—that goes without saying—but it successfully focuses on overall foot comfort and protection making it a great cushioned running shoe for beginners. It’s also an ideal choice for everyday runners looking for cushioning on easy runs, as well as for those who want a versatile model that can be worn in day-to-day life.

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Would you like to hear more from Fabio Giudici? Follow him on Instagram and stay up to date with his latest running adventures.ㅤ

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