NEW BALANCE 880V8

£110 This popular neutral shoe from New Balance has reached its eighth edition (343g) but its evolution from V7 is minimal. That’s no bad thing, since we found V7 comfortable over distance yet fast for fartleks. The V8 retains its Trufuse midsole, which provides cushioning without losing ground sensation. Too much cushioning and you’re killing that connection and, with it, your natural injury defence. A no-sew upper protects your feet, while the Gore-Tex upper should deflect rain, but the mesh venting slightly dents that protection. It’s available in multiple widths for a more bespoke fit, but note that the UK 10.5 – our test size – did fit but was the tightest on test. So perhaps opt for a half-size up. newbalance.co.uk