“The cushion king that finally got its act together.”
8.4
Inside Scoop Score
Buy · 8.4 / 10
THE VERDICT
After a rocky few versions, New Balance nailed it with the 1080v13: a completely overhauled upper that actually holds your foot in place, paired with a new Fresh Foam X midsole that's simultaneously softer and more responsive than its predecessor. Reviewers across the board — from biomechanics-focused foot specialists to everyday marathon trainers — call it one of the best max-cushion daily trainers on the market. At $160 retail it's not cheap, but Amazon pricing has it moving closer to $124-130, which makes the value case a lot easier.
Anchored by Believe in the Run's review
The completely redesigned structured mesh upper replaced the notoriously sloppy stretchy knit of the v12, delivering a plush step-in feel with padded collar, gusseted tongue, and zero heel lift reported by reviewers.
Reviewers consistently note the new Fresh Foam X formulation manages a rare trick — it's described as the softest shoe some testers have ever worn while still feeling bouncy and alive at faster daily training paces.
Women's size 7.5 comes in at 8 oz and men's 10.5 at 10 oz (286g), landing squarely in standard daily trainer weight territory despite being a max-cushion shoe.
Verified owner data
Most owners are happy — only 6% of 2,400 Amazon ratings are 1–2★. These are the specific gripes worth weighing before you buy:
The v12 had such an aggressively stretchy knit upper that many runners sized up — if you did that, go back to your true size for the v13 or you'll be swimming in it.
— from Believe in the Run top reviewer transcript
lightbulb Order your standard size; the new structured mesh upper runs true to size per multiple reviewers.
Despite the plush reputation, the v13 dropped stack height by 2mm from the v12 — buyers expecting the towering stack of something like the New Balance More may be surprised by how 'normal' it feels underfoot.
— from Believe in the Run transcript
lightbulb If you want pure stack, look at the NB More v4; the 1080v13 trades some height for a lighter, bouncier feel.
New Balance kept rubber coverage sparse on purpose to let the foam breathe and bounce, which means wet pavement and polished gym floors can feel slippery until the foam warms up.
— from Believe in the Run transcript, RunRepeat editorial
lightbulb Stick to dry roads or give the shoe a few minutes of walking warmup in wet conditions before picking up pace.
High-mileage runners and marathon trainers who prioritize comfort on easy and long days and want a premium-feeling neutral shoe that doesn't beat up their legs.
Minimalist runners, heel-strikers who need firm support or motion control, or anyone who wants a single shoe that doubles as a speed trainer.
Believe in the Run • 256125
"Thomas and Meaghan review the New Balance 1080v13, featuring a softer and bouncier version of Fresh Foam X, lightweight ..."
Hes Kicks • 98109
"Buy New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13 https://bit.ly/44RQ6EU Buy New Balance Fresh Foam X Vongo v6 ..."
"The New Balance 1080 has been a much loved shoe amongst the running community for many years and I've recommended it to ..."
kofuzi • 122447
"Back in October 1080v13 instantly became one of my favorite cushioned daily trainers. And now, 4 months laters, it's still one of ..."
The Run Testers • 67839
"The Freshfoam 1080 range has long been one of New Balance's most popular shoes for cushioned daily training. However ..."
"For the past few years, the 1080 has had a bit of an identity crisis. It used to be the max cushion sibling to the 880. But then, New ..."
RunningXpert • 159217
"Subscribe to our newsletter for better deals and inspirational content ..."
Doctors of Running • 65312
"SHOP all our the team's favorite gear at our DOR Running Warehouse page! (affiliate link) ..."
@raddadbodtv
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13 full review! I was not paid for this review, in fact I paid for the shoes myself. This is a pretty much max cushion daily trainer that is a lot of fun. Great for a lot of people but for myself I found that these might be a little TOO squishy. Overall I think the shoe is somewhat polarizing #runningshoereviews #runningshoes #dailyrunningshoe #cushionedrunningshoe #beginnerrunningshoe @newbalance
favorite 1.1K
@selenasamuela
I’m obsessed with the @New Balance 1080 V13’s best all around shoe hands down. Ive trained for marathons in them, I’ve done my hot mama power walks in them, mess around and run errands in them, they’re THE sneaker. #newbalance #sneakers #Running
favorite 688
@corcortheherbivore
My initial thoughts on the @New Balance 1080 v13’s. I still have some testing to do, but so far i love them for easy daily miles 🙌🏻 #runtok #runner #runningshoes #run #runningcommunity
favorite 222
@kylee.mastin
just my opinion😊 (every foot is different) #shoereview #newbalance1080 #run #Running #distancerunner #xc #runner #runnerthings #crosscountry #crosscountryrunner #runners
favorite 1.8K
@podiatristelliott
As a podiatrist, I frequently encounter patients suffering from bunions, a common and often painful foot condition. Today, I had a patient who came in wearing the New Balance Fresh Foam 1080, a shoe that caught my attention due to its promising features. Let's delve into why this particular shoe might be a good choice for those dealing with bunions. Key Features of the New Balance Fresh Foam 1080: 1. Exceptional Midsole Cushioning One of the standout features of the New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 is its midsole cushioning. This cushioning is crucial for anyone with foot deformities, such as bunions, as it helps in several ways: Impact Absorption: The foam midsole effectively absorbs the impact from walking or running, reducing stress on the feet. Support During Pronation: It provides excellent support as the foot goes from pronation, which is particularly beneficial for those with abnormal foot mechanics. 2. Wide Toe Box For patients with bunions, the shape and size of the toe box are critical. The New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 features a wide toe box that allows ample space for the toes. This reduces pressure on the bunion, preventing further irritation and pain. New Balance has done an excellent job in ensuring their toe box design accommodates foot deformities comfortably. Patient Insights My patient, @Betsy , shared some personal experiences with the New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 that highlight additional benefits: Knitted Upper Material This knitted upper material of the shoe is soft, flexible & doesn't impede movement, making it comfortable for running or walking. The soft material reduces friction against the bunion, which can help in minimizing pain and inflammation. Heel Support Another noteworthy feature is the shoe's heel support. Betsy mentioned that her ankles are not very stable, and she finds the stiffer bracing around the heel particularly helpful. This additional support secures the ankle during activities, preventing unwanted movements that could exacerbate foot conditions. Conclusion The New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 emerges as a strong candidate for individuals with bunions. Its combination of exceptional midsole cushioning and a wide toe box addresses two primary concerns: reducing impact and providing enough space for the toes. Additionally, the knitted upper material and robust heel support enhance overall comfort and stability. If you have bunions and are in search of a comfortable and supportive shoe, the New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 is worth considering. As always, consult with your podiatrist to ensure any footwear choice aligns with your specific needs and condition. #newbalance #newbalancefreshfoam #whiteshoes #whitesneaker #whitesneakers #whitesneakersoutfit #freshfoam #nb1080 #nb1080v11 #nb1080v12 #nb1080v13 #newbalance1080 #newbalance1080v10 #newbalance1080v11 #newbalance1080v12 #newbalance1080v13 #whitenewbalance #whitenewbalances #newbalancesneakers #newbalancesneaker #newbalanceshoes #newbalanceshoe #newbalanceshoesarethebest #bunion #bunions #bunioncorrector #bunionsurgery #bunionsurgeryrecovery #bunionawareness #bunioncorrection #bunionsplint #halluxvalgus #halluxvalgusoperation #halluxvalgustreatment #halluxvalgussurgery #bunionshoes #shoesforwomen #shoesforbunions #singaporepodiatry #singaporepodiatrist #newbalancesg #newbalancesingapore #sneakerfyp #sneakerfypシ
favorite 9.4K
@preezie_
I decided Im rocking with @New Balance #newbalance #freshfoam1080v13 #1080v13 #Running #beginnerrunner #run #kotd #review
favorite 36
@kgagnon07
Réponse à @Falbala Cloutier ✨ #Running #run #shoes #review #newbalance1080
favorite 155
@emiliooofernandez
Might be my new all time favorite shoes. Too bad they have permanent stinkiness or I’d wear them for another 400. This is obviously not sponsored, just an honest review🔥 @New Balance #Running #shoereview #runningshoereview #newbalancefreshfoam1080 #newbalancefreshfoam
favorite 6.0K
Pros · Exceptional comfort · Outstanding breathability · Incredibly soft ride · Long-lasting outsole · Lightweight for its size · High-quality ...
The Fresh Foam X midsole provides a soft landing with each step, yet it's responsive enough that I didn't feel like I was sinking into the shoe.
It's comfortable, responsive, and works for all kinds of running, from recovery days to long runs. I would put the 1080v13 in the same category ...
It is super soft as it's a new version of fresh foam X cushioning. It's definitely the softest shoe we've ever used!
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13 is an incredibly plush, higher stack premium daily training shoe for those who want a soft neutral ride for daily miles.
"This is one of those shoes where you lace it up and kind of forget you're wearing it — soft, bouncy, and it works at more than just slow paces."
Believe in the Run (transcript)
"An incredibly plush, higher stack premium daily training shoe for those who want a soft neutral ride for daily miles."
Doctors of Running (editorial)
"I'm obsessed — best all around shoe hands down. I've trained for marathons in them and done my power walks in them."
TikTok — @selenasamuela
Men's Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 Running Shoe
$123.74
Amazon
The 1080v13 is what the whole line should have been for years — New Balance finally stopped fumbling and delivered a max-cushion daily trainer that earns every dollar of its price tag.
Buy on Amazon open_in_newScoped 7 days ago across 34 sources on 5 platforms.