Running Shoes

New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13

by New Balance

4.6score
★★★★★Verdict score · 4.6/5.0

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13 continues its legacy as a top-tier neutral cushioned trainer, delivering plush comfort and reliable durability for daily mileage and recovery runs.

  • Plush all-day comfort
  • Breathable adaptive fit
  • Smooth ride transitions
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Ranked #2 of 60Category avg 4.6/5232 mi tested

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The verdict

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13 continues its legacy as a top-tier neutral cushioned trainer, delivering plush comfort and reliable durability for daily mileage and recovery runs. While it comes at a premium price, the plush ride and refined fit make it a worthwhile investment for runners prioritizing comfort over speed.

Key features

  • Fresh Foam X midsole cushioning
  • Hypoknit engineered mesh upper
  • Ortholite comfort sock liner
  • Rearfoot and forefoot flex grooves
  • Durable rubber outsole with blown rubber in forefoot

Pros & cons

PROS What we loved

  • Plush, premium cushioning ideal for long runs
  • Breathable and adaptive Hypoknit upper fits well
  • Smooth heel-to-toe transition
  • Generous toe box for wider feet
  • Stylish, updated colorways for 2024

CONS Worth noting

  • Higher price point than typical daily trainers
  • Slightly heavier than performance-focused shoes
  • Break-in period needed for optimal upper flexibility
  • Limited ground feel due to thick cushioning

Specifications

Weight
10.4 oz (men's size 9)
Stack Height
32mm heel / 24mm forefoot (8mm drop)
Midsole
Fresh Foam X foam
Upper Material
Hypoknit engineered mesh
Outsole
Blown rubber with durable rubber coverage

Full review

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13 delivers a premium running experience built for those who log serious miles and demand plush comfort with every stride. This latest iteration in the celebrated 1080 series features an updated Fresh Foam X midsole that offers a soft yet responsive ride, cushioning the foot without sacrificing energy return. Runners who prioritize comfort during long distances will appreciate how the shoe absorbs impact while still providing enough structure to keep pace during faster efforts, making it a versatile choice for daily training, recovery runs, and everything in between.

Constructed with a breathable Hypoknit upper, the 1080v13 wraps the foot in a sock-like fit that moves naturally with every step. The engineered mesh promotes airflow to keep feet cool during extended runs, while the seamless design reduces friction points that can cause irritation or blisters over time. A padded tongue and collar add another layer of comfort, ensuring the shoe feels dialed in from the first mile to the last. The updated upper also strikes a balance between structure and flexibility, cradling the midfoot securely without feeling restrictive.

Underfoot, a durable rubber outsole provides reliable traction across a variety of surfaces, from pavement to light trail transitions, while strategically placed flex grooves support a smooth, natural gait cycle. The shoe's stack height and platform design cater to neutral runners seeking maximum cushioning without excessive weight, keeping the ride nimble despite its plush feel. Available in a range of colorways, the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13 combines performance-driven technology with everyday wearability, making it a standout option for runners who refuse to compromise between comfort, durability, and style in their training rotation.

Customer reviews

JM Jessica M.2024-03-15 ★★★★★
Best cushioning I've experienced

I've run in several 1080 models and this version feels like the most plush yet. Great for my weekly long runs and recovery days.

TR Tom R.2024-02-28 ★★★★★
Great shoe, pricey though

The comfort is unmatched, but the price tag makes me hesitate to buy multiple pairs. Still, worth it for marathon training.

AK Angela K.2024-04-02 ★★★★☆
Perfect for wide feet

Finally a shoe that doesn't pinch my toes. The upper is soft and the cushioning is incredibly smooth.

MD Marcus D.2024-01-20 ★★★★★
Solid daily trainer

Not the lightest shoe out there, but the durability and comfort make up for it. Great for easy and moderate paced runs.

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