The Altra FWD VIA and New Balance 1080v15 are both neutral road running shoes with maximum cushioning. The FWD VIA costs about $42 less (from $128). The 1080v15 is 0.3 oz lighter (9.2 oz vs 9.5 oz) and is rated higher by buyers (4.2 vs 3.9 out of 5).
Specs side by side
| Spec | FWD VIA | 1080v15 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $128 | $169.99 |
| Rating | 3.9 / 5 (178 reviews) | 4.2 / 5 (2,132 reviews) |
| Weight | 9.5 oz | 9.2 oz |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 4 mm | 4–6 mm |
| Heel stack height | 37 mm | — |
| Cushioning | Max | Max |
| Support | Neutral | Neutral |
| Surface | Road | Road |
| Available for | Men & Women | Men & Women |
Specs and prices from Altra and New Balance, checked 2026-10-11. Weight is usually for a men's size 9–10.
Which should you get?
Get the FWD VIA if…
- you want to spend less
Get the 1080v15 if…
- you want the lighter shoe
- you want the more widely reviewed shoe
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