The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v14 is a running shoe designed for stability, making it suitable for runners seeking support during easy runs and recovery jogs. However, lab tests indicate a noticeable weight increase compared to its predecessor, which may affect performance for some users.

The tapered toebox has been identified as restrictive, potentially impacting comfort during walks. Despite these factors, the shoe demonstrates notable durability and features a highly breathable upper, enhancing overall wearability.

Additionally, the increased stack height contributes to a cushioned experience, allowing for comfortable transitions on smoother surfaces.


Pros

  • Amazing step-in feel
  • Excellent durability
  • Cloud-soft midsole
  • Ideal for forefoot and midfoot strikers
  • Perfect for recovery runs
  • Airy upper
  • Fairly priced for a premium daily trainer
  • Stability improvements

Cons

  • Noticeable weight increase
  • Tapered toebox limits toe splay
  • Midsole could be too soft for some
  • Lacks energy return

Key Features

  • Fresh Foam X Midsole: The cushioning system is crafted with approximately 3% bio-based content, providing excellent comfort while being eco-friendly.
  • Debris-Resistant Gusseted Tongue: This design feature helps keep dirt and debris from entering the shoe, enhancing your running experience.
  • No-Sew Overlays: These overlays reduce weight and improve durability without compromising flexibility.
  • Synthetic and Engineered Mesh Upper: This combination offers breathability and support, ensuring your feet remain comfortable during long runs.
  • Adjustable Lace Closure: Tailor the fit of your shoes for personalized comfort and security.

Specifications

  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole Material: Rubber
  • Outer Material: Mesh
  • Inner Material: Synthetic

New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v14 New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 New Balance Fresh Foam X Balos New Balance Fresh Foam X Kaiha Road
Price $165 $140 $200 $100
Pace Daily running Daily running Daily running Daily running
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 10.1 oz / 285g 10.1 oz / 286g 8.7 oz / 247g 9.9 oz / 281g
Lightweight
Drop lab Drop brand 4.2 mm 4.3 mm 5.9 mm 3.8 mm
Strike pattern Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot
Size True to size Slightly small True to size True to size
Midsole softness Soft Soft Soft Soft
Difference in midsole softness in cold Normal Small Small Normal
Toebox durability Good Decent Bad Bad
Heel padding durability Decent Good Good Bad
Outsole durability Good Decent Good Good
Breathability Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate
Width / fit Medium Medium Medium Medium
Toebox width Narrow Medium Medium Medium
Stiffness Moderate Stiff Moderate Stiff
Torsional rigidity Stiff Stiff Stiff Stiff
Heel counter stiffness Stiff Stiff Stiff Moderate
Rocker
Heel lab Heel brand 37.0 mm 39.7 mm 37.8 mm 35.8 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 32.8 mm 35.4 mm 31.9 mm 32.0 mm
Widths available Narrow Narrow Normal Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season All seasons All seasons All seasons All seasons
Removable insole
Ranking Top 47% Bottom 45% Top 19% Bottom 20%
Popularity Top 1% Top 9% Top 14% Top 5%