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New Balance Just Dropped a Dad Shoe from the Future

Comfortable midsole made for running? Check. Colorway that pairs well with slacks? Double check.

Light gray New Balance sneaker with mesh fabric and suede accents, featuring the "N" logo on the side.New Balance
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By Jack Seemer

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Though far from an official category, dad shoes tend to follow a familiar script: a midsole designed for running paired with a neutral colorway that looks good with slacks.

All to say, the new 1080v15 might be New Balance’s most technical dad shoe to date, not to mention an easy contender for future classic.

Pair of light gray New Balance running shoes with mesh uppers and thick white soles.
The 1080v15 adopts a classic gray colorway inspired by the brand’s ’80s and ’90s icons.
New Balance

Now available in a classic gray color scheme as part of the brand’s annual Grey Days collection, this 1080 trades its high-vis upper for one inspired by retro running shoes of the ’80s and ’90s.

Pair of light gray New Balance 1080 running shoes with mesh uppers and cushioned collars, viewed from above.
The upper still prioritizes performance with its lightweight, breathable mesh.
New Balance

The next-gen midsole, meanwhile, is anything but vintage.

Pair of light gray New Balance sneakers shown from the back with white midsoles and black outsoles.
The TPEE-based compound replaces EVA foam for the 1080 franchise.
New Balance

New Balance calls the TPEE-based compound Infinion, and its arrival in early 2026 ushered in a new chapter of cushioning that follows the Fresh Foam era.

Light gray New Balance sneaker with mesh upper and thick white sole.
Is this what “retro” dad shoes will look like in another decade or two?
New Balance

Infinion is light, comfortable and highly resilient, making it a clear upgrade over the EVA-based compounds found in the 990 series, for example.

In other words, don’t be surprised if this what dad shoes look like in another decade or two.

White and black textured rubber outsole of a shoe with hexagonal and oval patterns.
Even the outsole is gray.
New Balance

Availability and pricing

The 1080v15 Grey Days is available starting May 1, along with the rest of the Grey Days collection.

It costs $170, the going rate of other 1080v15 variants.

About the Author:

Jack Seemer is the executive editor at Gear Patrol, with over a decade of experience in product journalism. He currently reports on a wide range of topics, including footwear, watches, EDC, cookware and more.

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