The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V12 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v12 is a versatile running shoe designed for easy to moderate runs. Its notable cushioning is particularly beneficial for runners seeking protection and stability over long distances.

Lab data reveals that the well-distributed foam enhances comfort, translating into improved performance during extended sessions. The shoe's design effectively balances traditional elements with modern advancements, making it suitable for various running styles.


Pros

  • Smooth transitions
  • Stable when cornering
  • Comfy upper
  • Welcomes wide feet
  • No lace bites
  • Great heel hold
  • An eye-catcher

Cons

  • Not for narrow feet
  • Bottom-heavy for fast runs
  • Questionable breathability

Key Features

  • Soft Fresh Foam X midsole provides increased cushioning without adding weight.
  • Solid rubber outsole ensures higher stiffness in the forefoot during toe lifts.
  • Curved profile promotes a smoother, more natural transition from heel to toe.

Specifications

  • Sole material: Rubber
  • Shaft height: Ankle Strap
  • Outer material: Synthetic
  • Inner material: Synthetic

New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V12 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v12 New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v14 Saucony Kinvara 15 New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi v4
Price $160 $165 $120 $70
Pace Daily running Daily running Daily running Daily running
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 10.1 oz / 286g 10.1 oz / 285g 6.8 oz / 194g 8.5 oz / 242g
Lightweight
Drop lab Drop brand 3.3 mm 4.2 mm 4.4 mm 7.7 mm
Strike pattern Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot
Size True to size True to size Slightly small True to size
Midsole softness Soft Soft Balanced Soft
Difference in midsole softness in cold Normal Normal Small Big
Toebox durability - Good Bad Bad
Heel padding durability - Decent Good Bad
Outsole durability - Good Good Good
Breathability - Moderate Breathable Moderate
Width / fit Narrow Medium Medium Medium
Toebox width - Narrow Medium Medium
Stiffness Moderate Moderate Flexible Flexible
Torsional rigidity Moderate Stiff Flexible Flexible
Heel counter stiffness Flexible Stiff Flexible Flexible
Rocker
Heel lab Heel brand 26.9 mm 37.0 mm 27.9 mm 28.1 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 23.6 mm 32.8 mm 23.5 mm 20.4 mm
Widths available Narrow Narrow Normal Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season - All seasons Summer All seasons
Removable insole
Ranking Top 44% Top 47% Bottom 34% Bottom 1%
Popularity Top 27% Top 1% Top 42% Top 4%