MT876

I think this might be the perfect trail running shoe. I ran my first 100 mile ultramarathon 3 years ago. Since then I have used many different shoes. The 900 series was ok with the 908 being the best but later changes being disappointing because of addition of Gortex in the 910 which is useless in a serious trail shoe and the liner collapsing in the 909. The 876 has all the essential features a serious trail shoe needs: Rockstop, fast draining liner, solid toe protection without being too bulky, and great traction even in moving water over mossy rocks. I have used this shoe almost a month and it is getting better with time. I only hope that no changes are made to this model, and this shoe is kept in production just the way it is. It fits my needs perfectly.

I walk with this shoe almost every day for an hour and cover about 3 1/4 miles. This is a great shoe that fits nicely. It has 2 negatives: It's easier to put on with a shoe horn and every step makes a squawk sound. Still, I'll probably buy another pair.

I agree with the previous comments, this may be the perfect trail running shoe and NB's hidden secret. The 900 line over indulged in gimmicks and technology and has ceased to provide the ultra marathon community with a shoe for serious excursions. I recently ran the eastern route of the Alps competing in the Goretex TransAlpine Trail race. 305km total distance and 13.5km of elevation gain gave the 876 a comprehensive workout. Good foot support, above average grip, confidence inspiring in technical descents and as a bonus, no blisters or foot pain - even when confronted with the occasional pavement section. I intend to order another five pairs before NB 'upgrade' the design.

Excellent cushioning and traction for trail running. However, as noted in the product description this shoe has a "LockDown Liner™ integrated into the lacing to provide a custom fit without smothering your foot." Basically, the shoe's tongue is sewn to both sides of the upper. Moreover, the tongue does not stretch. This doesn't provide a "custom fit", it narrows the shoe's fit in the lace area and eliminates the ability to loosen lace tension to accommodate thick socks. Effectively, these shoes are about 2 widths narrower than marked, but only in the lace area. From my perspective, this was not a good product design decision. I would NOT recommend these shoes unless you try them on before purchase with the socks you intend to use for running.

I purchased 2 pairs of new balance shoes on the same day. This particular pair after 3 months formed holes on the inner heel causing blisters as I ran. New Balance requested me to ship them back and they would give me another pair. I received the 2nd pair, and within 3 months the same holes started to appear, to the point I cannot use them for running. The other pair I purchased are great. The styling and softness of this shoe is great, but this defect is a burden. I wish I would have requested a different shoe the first time. Anyway, Love the brand, hate this particular shoe.