I’ve been excited for a while to try the New Balance 1080v14. But the time hasn’t been right and I haven’t needed a new daily trainer. So it has taken me a bit. Since the NB1080 v10, I have been a huge fan.
New Balance has built a reputation for delivering high-quality daily trainers, and the Fresh Foam X 1080v14 continues that tradition. Designed as a premium cushioned neutral running shoe, the 1080 series has been a go-to option for runners who want a plush ride without sacrificing durability. In its 14th iteration, the New Balance 1080v14 refines the upper fit and adjusts the outsole rubber coverage while maintaining the signature Fresh Foam X midsole.
If you’re looking for a comfortable, high-mileage daily trainer that can handle everything from easy runs to long walks, the New Balance 1080v14 might be worth considering.
Before trying the New Balance 1080v14, I had a few questions:
- Is the New Balance 1080v14 good? Yes, I think it’s one of the better years for this model.
- What is the New Balance 1080v14 designed for? It’s an easy run or daily run shoe. Yes, you can use it for walking too.
- Does the New Balance 1080v14 fit true to size? It does. I’ve been happy to report it fits true to size.
Now let’s get into an honest review of the New Balance 1080v14.
New Balance 1080v14 Quick Facts
- Price: $165
- Weight: 10.4 oz (Men’s) | 8.4 oz (Women’s)
- Stack Height: 38mm heel / 32mm forefoot
- Drop: 6mm
New Balance 1080v14 Upper and Fit
The New Balance 1080v14 features a redesigned mesh upper that provides a more secure and comfortable fit compared to its predecessor. It runs true to size, with a roomy toe box and a structured midfoot that locks the foot down without feeling too restrictive.
- The heel counter is firm yet padded, preventing any unwanted movement.
- The gusseted tongue stays in place and adds to the overall plush feel.
- Ventilation is moderate, making it comfortable for most conditions, but it may run warm on hot summer days.
The best running shoes disappear off your feet and the New Balance 1080v14 does just that. I haven’t had any issues with it rubbing or sliding around. Plus, it comes in wide and double wide for those who may need it.
In running shoes, I usually wear between a women’s size 10-11 wide and I’ve found the size 11 to fit the best. That’s my usual size in New Balance running shoes. There hasn’t been a New Balance shoe lately that that size does not work for me.
New Balance 1080v14 Ride:
The midsole and ride is where the magic happens right? The Fresh Foam X midsole is the star of the show, providing a soft ride that’s ideal for long, easy miles. Unlike some ultra-soft trainers that feel mushy, the New Balance 1080v14 maintains a consistent underfoot feel, thanks to strategic outsole rubber placement and a well-balanced rocker design. You don’t feel like your foot is sinking into the mushy abyss. I’m not a huge fan of super soft shoes so I’m happy to report it has felt great.
Some more info:
- Heel strikers will appreciate the posterior lateral bevel, which helps smooth out landings.
- Forefoot strikers will benefit from the wide, stable forefoot platform.
- The rocker geometry encourages fluid transitions, making it feel more smooth over long runs and recovery efforts. It doesn’t feel like you are wearing a clunky shoe that struggles with the transition from heel to toe.
Where does the New Balance 1080v14 fit into my rotation? It’s a long run, recovery run, and easy run shoe. While it has a ton of cushion, the cushioning is also not super responsive which can make it difficult to pick up the pace.
Mt first run in the New Balance 1080v14 was actually on the treadmill (because of this never ending, windy winter). I was recovering from the Mesa half marathon and my feet felt like they just needed a little more. It was the perfect protection from that. Sine then, I’ve used it for all sorts of runs from easy runs to harder efforts and I appreciate that it’s best for logging easy miles.
Outsole
The New Balance 1080v14 features a strategic rubber outsole designed to balance durability and flexibility. Unlike previous versions, this model adjusts the rubber coverage to enhance traction and provide a smoother ride. I’ve used in inclement weather as well as some light sandy trails with no issues
The rubber placement along the lateral heel and forefoot enhances grip and durability. Although it does have some exposed midsole which I worry will cause the shoe to wear out faster. Right now, I’ve put about 100 miles on the New Balance 1080v14 and there are some signs of it wearing down. I anticipate it will last about 300 to maybe 400 miles. Truthfully, I’ve never had an issue with New Balance running shoes not being durable so I’m surprised with the exposed midsole.
New Balance 1080v14 Conclusion
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14 stays true to its roots as a premium cushioned daily trainer that prioritizes comfort and durability. While it’s not the lightest or most responsive shoe on the market, it shines for easy miles, recovery runs, and all-day wear. I appreciate that it’s stayed mostly similar and you don’t have to worry about: has the shoe changed a lot? Spoiler: it has not.
Who Should Buy the New Balance 1080v14?
- Runners who want a soft, high-mileage daily trainer
- Neutral runners looking for a smooth, cushioned ride
- Walkers and those who stand on their feet for long hours
- Anyone who loved the previous 1080 models and wants a better fit
Who Should NOT Buy the New Balance 1080v14?
- Runners looking for a lightweight, responsive shoe for speedwork
- Those who prefer a firm and snappy ride
- Anyone who runs in very hot conditions, as the upper can feel warm
My Current Shoe Rotation:
Easy/Daily Runs: Mizuno Neo Zen, Topo Magnifly 5, Antepes Muscle Runners, New Balance 1080v13 Shoe Review , Newton Gravity 12, ASICS Superblast 2
Speed Work: 361 Degrees Furious Future 2.0 Nike Tempo Next%, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro, Nike ZoomX Streakfly, Nike Alphafly 3
Long Runs: Topo Specter 2, 361 Degrees Eleos Shoe Review
Trail Running/Hiking: 361 Futura, Hoka Tecton X2 Shoe Review Speedland SL: PDX,
Races: 361 Degrees Furious Future 2.0, ASICS Metaspeed Edge Paris, New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Reebok Run fast Pro ,Nike Vaporfly 3 ,
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Questions for you:
Have you tried the New Balance 1080v14?
What is your favorite running shoe?
yep, I was a 860 and sometimes an 880 guy, but I always felt there shows were my second choice…..but, I’m still On all the time