First Look at the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v14
A crowd favourite for long runs in comfort, the New Balance 1080 got updated for improved speed last time out, keep reading to find out how New Balance have updated the Fresh Foam X 1080 v14.
New Balance described the 1080v13 as “The world’s best shoe for everyone” which was quite the claim. But if that’s true (and hey, it was pretty damn good) how would they approach the update for the 1080v14?
Key Info
Price: £159.99
Foot type: Neutral
Weight: 302g (Men’s) / 237g (Women’s)
Stack height: 32mm – 26mm
Heel drop: 6mm
Surface: Road
Best for: Versatile road-running shoes that excel at long distances
History
Traditionally seen as a comfort shoe perfect for longer, slower runs in comfort, New Balance (NB) decided to change the story with the 1080v13.
By stiffening up the forefoot outsole rubber, they managed to keep the soft comfort underfoot that is so important to a 1080 runner, while adding a faster feel that rocks you through your stride with extra speed when you want to step it up, making it a more versatile shoe, still ideal for long runs in a rotation, but now also a great shoe for a one shoe runner.
Closer Look
Perhaps the first thing you notice about any shoe is the upper, and in the 1080v14 NB have gone all out to create a layer that operates as a peak specialist running shoe but feels and looks as good as your favourite pair of comfy sneakers.
Its an engineered mesh yes, increasing breathability in key areas as you would expect, but the rich depth and texture of the upper stands it in a different class, making it perfect to wear beyond your daily run.
Elsewhere in the shoe NB have Doubled down on the success of the 1080v13, they have made the outsole rubber through the forefoot a further 9% stiffer in the 1080v14 and given the midsole geometry and update. This extra stiffness gives you the power to step up the pace and feel like the shoe wants to go with you, and if the shoe inspires a little extra speed every now and then, then a little extra stability is welcome. Achieved by using higher sidewalls and a more vertical sidewall geometry NB have managed to inherently increase the underfoot stability.
But as I mention stiffening up the outsole rubber and higher sidewalls, don’t get the feeling that this is a firm shoe. Its predecessor was soft and squidgy, and the 1080 v14 is still all about premium, plush comfort.
Conclusion
Already a favourite, the updates to the 1080 make this icon of luxurious cruising an even more wearable shoe, from the glorious upper to the faster feel underfoot the 1080v14 could be the only shoe you need, for running and beyond.
Recovery runs, easy runs, long runs, tempos, intervals, the gym or heading out to the shops, the 1080 makes it look, and feel great.
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