Review of New Balance 1080 v14 Running Shoes: A Top-Notch Jack-of-All-Trades in Footwear Industry
Looking for a reliable running buddy for high-mileage marathons or casual jogs? The New Balance 1080 v14 could be your perfect mate. This neutral running shoe offers supreme comfort and plush cushioning, making it a standout in New Balance's stellar running lineup.
If you're comparing it to shoes from other brands, it's best to consider it alongside everyday running heroes like the Asics Novablast or the Saucony Ride. These shoes are your go-to pair for soaking up miles and cushioning your joints through easy runs and tough slogs.
Want to know if the New Balance 1080 v14 is right for you? Check out our detailed reviews of various running shoes to find your ideal match.
New Balance 1080 v14 running shoes review
Testing the New Balance 1080 v14
Over the course of a month, we've tested the New Balance 1080 v14, racking up several hundred miles on short easy runs, long hard ones, and even a few tempo and speed sessions. We traversed various terrains, from track to road, light trail, and even the treadmill. We wore these shoes in all conditions, from heatwaves to downpours, and assessed their comfort, any hotspots, lacing issues, and the durability of the outsole, keeping an eye out for any signs of wear and tear.
Design
The latest update to the New Balance 1080 v14 brings some minor tweaks, primarily focused on improving durability. The midsole geometry has been slightly altered, and more rubber has been added to areas subject to increased friction. For long-distance runners or those who care about value for money, this means you can expect to get plenty of miles out of these shoes.
The forefoot is a touch stiffer than in the previous model, catering to those who felt it was too soft for their needs. The soft yet bouncy run with a great energy return remains, making the shoe extremely comfortable.
The upper is lightweight, super breathable, and holds your foot securely without requiring any fiddling around with laces. It's worth noting that New Balance shoes tend to run small, so be sure to consider this when selecting your size. The design is stylish and distinctive, coming in various colorways that embody the New Balance brand without being overly loud or flashy.
Performance
If you're looking for a lightweight, fast shoe for your all-out efforts, look elsewhere. The New Balance 1080 v14 is an everyday trainer that is still responsive and light enough for tempo or threshold work, or even short faster runs on the road if required. The Fresh Foam X midsole offers a soft, bouncy run that can feel energetic with hard work or kind on your tired legs during long runs.
Should you buy the New Balance 1080 v14?
- You want a fantastic all-rounder: The New Balance 1080 v14 is hard to beat when it comes to dependable, durable comfort for everyday running.
- You like value for money: With improvements to the shoe's durability, you can expect to get hundreds of miles out of it.
- You haven't checked your size: Keep in mind that New Balance shoes often come up small, so it's essential to verify your size against your usual fit in other brands.
- The New Balance 1080 v14, with its enhanced durability, makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a reliable everyday running shoe that offers value for money.
- For those looking for a versatile running shoe that can handle both easy and tough runs, the New Balance 1080 v14 is worth considering due to its supreme comfort and lightweight yet breathable design.
- Style-conscious runners may appreciate the New Balance 1080 v14, as it comes in various colorways that blend the brand's distinctive design with a subtle, unflashy aesthetic suited to a range of lifestyles, from fashion-and-beauty to home-and-garden.
