New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13

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91%
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New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13: Review

β€œA plush and responsive daily trainer for road runners.”

Overview


The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 is a premium running shoe designed for maximum comfort and cushioning on the road. This shoe stands out for its plush Fresh Foam X midsole, which provides a soft and responsive ride, and its engineered mesh upper that offers a breathable and adaptive fit.

Key Features:

  • Updated Rocker Geometry: A more pronounced rocker effect enhances smooth transitions during runs.
  • Evolved Fresh Foam X Midsole: Offers a higher level of softness for a plush underfoot feel.
  • Engineered Mesh Upper: Delivers comfort, support, and improved breathability.

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize comfort and cushioning for daily running. Its updated design offers a luxurious feel, making it suitable for a wide range of runners, especially those with a neutral pronation (the foot lands on the outside of the heel and rolls inward in a moderate amount, distributing weight evenly) and a preference for a medium toe box (the front part of the shoe where the toes sit, offering a balance between space and snugness).

With an average review score of 91%, it's in the highest rated 10% of similar running shoes. Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently in the most expensive 20% of running shoes today.

Verdict

The consensus on the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13


The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 has been widely recognized as a top-tier daily trainer, offering a blend of softness, comfort, and responsiveness. Runners with a neutral gait (a type of foot movement during running where the foot lands on the outside of the heel and then rolls inward slightly to absorb shock) and those seeking a cushioned ride for long distances will find this shoe to be a reliable partner. The updated rocker geometry (the shoe's sole shape that promotes a rolling motion during the gait cycle) and Fresh Foam X midsole contribute to smoother transitions and a more comfortable run. However, it may not be the best fit for those looking for a shoe with high energy return or stability features. Overall, the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 is a solid choice for runners who value a soft and protective shoe for their daily miles.

Comparable Shoes


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The ASICS Novablast 3 is known for its energetic bounce, offering a different ride compared to the plush cushioning of the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13. Runners seeking a more responsive feel may prefer the Novablast 3.

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Compared to the HOKA Clifton 9, the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 provides a similar level of cushioning but with a more traditional fit and feel. The Clifton 9 may appeal to those looking for a maximalist cushioning experience.

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The Brooks Ghost Max is another competitor in the cushioned running shoe category. While both shoes offer ample cushioning, the Ghost Max may be preferred by runners who value a slightly firmer and more stable ride.

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The Saucony Triumph 21 offers a firmer ride compared to the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13's soft cushioning. It's a versatile option for runners who want a mix of comfort and responsiveness.

6 New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 Pros & Cons


3 Pros

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 offers a plush and responsive ride, ideal for daily training.
The engineered mesh upper provides a breathable and adaptive fit, accommodating a variety of foot shapes.
Durability is enhanced with a well-designed outsole that resists wear and maintains grip on the road.

3 Cons

The shoe may lack the energy return desired by runners looking for a more dynamic bounce.
Stability features are minimal, making it less suitable for runners who require additional support.
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 may not be the best choice for fast-paced running due to its plush cushioning.

In Depth


Upper

The engineered mesh upper of the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 provides a comfortable and adaptive fit. It wraps around the foot securely, offering support while maintaining breathability. This design choice contributes to a lighter shoe that doesn't sacrifice the feeling of comfort and protection with every step.

Midsole

The Fresh Foam X midsole is the heart of the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13, delivering an evolved level of softness. The hexagonal shapes in the foam adapt to impact, providing greater absorption and support. This feature is particularly beneficial for runners looking for a plush ride during their daily runs.

Outsole

Durability is a key aspect of the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13, with the outsole's hexagonal pattern changing in density and distribution to enhance the shoe's lifespan. This design ensures reliable grip and wear resistance, making it a durable choice for regular road running.

Size/fit

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 fits true to size, offering a snug and secure feel without being overly tight. The medium toe box accommodates a variety of foot shapes, making it a versatile option for many runners.

Comfort

Comfort is a standout feature of the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13, with the shoe's soft midsole and breathable upper providing a luxurious feel. The plush heel collar and gusseted tongue add to the overall comfort, ensuring a pleasant experience on both short and long runs.

Cushioning

The cushioning of the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 is highly praised for its softness and responsiveness. The Fresh Foam X technology ensures a bouncy and comfortable ride, suitable for high mileage and recovery runs.

Breathability

The engineered mesh upper of the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 enhances the shoe's breathability. This feature keeps the feet cool and dry, making it an excellent choice for runners who value a well-ventilated shoe.

Stability

While the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 is designed for neutral runners, it offers a stable ride thanks to its wide platform. However, runners seeking targeted stability features may need to look at other models designed for stability.

Durability

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 is built to last, with a durable outsole that withstands regular use on the road. The strategic placement of rubber in high-wear areas ensures the shoe can handle the demands of daily training.

Grip

The outsole of the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 provides reliable grip on various road conditions. Whether running in dry or wet weather, the shoe maintains traction, contributing to a secure running experience.

Who should buy the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13?


The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 is best suited for runners who seek a cushioned and comfortable shoe for their daily runs. It's particularly well-suited for those with a neutral pronation and those who appreciate a medium toe box. The shoe's plush cushioning makes it a great choice for high-mileage runners looking for a protective ride.

Who should not buy the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13?


Runners in need of a shoe with high energy return or significant stability features may not find the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 to be the best fit. Those who prefer a firmer ride or require a shoe for quick-paced running should consider other options.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13: What's it good for?


The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 excels as a daily trainer for road running. Its cushioning and comfort make it ideal for long runs and recovery days. The shoe's design also allows for occasional speedier workouts, although it's not specifically tailored for high-intensity sessions.

4 New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 FAQs


Is the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 suitable for long-distance running?

Yes, the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 is designed with a plush Fresh Foam X midsole that provides ample cushioning, making it suitable for long-distance running and high mileage.

Can the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 accommodate custom orthotics?

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 features a removable insole, allowing runners to replace it with custom orthotics if needed.

How does the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 perform in wet conditions?

The outsole of the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 provides reliable grip, ensuring a secure running experience even in wet conditions.

What type of arch support does the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 offer?

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 is designed for runners with a neutral arch, offering a comfortable fit without additional arch support.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 alternatives

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released
Released
Sep 2023
Dec 2020Apr 2024May 2024Feb 2023
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Expert Review Score
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Weight
Weight
M: 261 g
W: 207 g
M: 306 g
W: 261 g
M: 278 g
W: 230 g
M: 258 g
W: 227 g
283 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
31 mm
44 mm
29 mm
31 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
6 mm
10 mm
5 mm
10 mm
10 mm
9 mm
Heel
Heel
37 mm
39 mm
49 mm
39 mm
40 mm
Usages
Usages
Daily running
Daily runningDaily runningSpeed trainingDaily runningDaily runningDaily running
Brand
Brand
New Balance
adidasHokaOnBrooksNike
Strike Type
Strike Type
Fore/Midfoot strike
Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
Comfortable
ComfortableMaximalistMaximalist
ComfortableComfortableMaximalist
Breathable
Breathable
Rocker
Rocker
Carbon fiber plate
Carbon fiber plate
Techs
Techs
New Balance Fresh FoamOrthoLite
adidas Ultraboost
Brooks BioMoGo DNA
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
Vegan β“‹SustainableVegan β“‹SustainableVegan β“‹
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New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13: what the experts say (2 reviews)

New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13: 9 Expert video reviews

New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 characteristics and specifications

Characteristics
SportsRunning (+2049)
TerrainRoad (+1362)
UsagesDaily running (+1132)
BrandNew Balance (+125)
Support TypeNeutral (+1603)
Pronation TypeNeutral pronation (+1578)
Strike TypeFore/Midfoot strike (+1116)
Arch TypeHigh arch (+1525)
Shoe TypeComfortable (+239)
FitMedium toe box (+855)
FeaturesBreathable (+753)Orthotic friendly (+456)Removable insole (+439)Rocker (+177)
MaterialsKnit (+212)Reflective (+181)
TechsNew Balance Fresh Foam (+63)OrthoLite (+13)
ColorwaysBlack, Grey Matter / Shadow Grey, Sea Salt / Coastal Blue / Gulf Red L, Steel, White, White / Blue
Specificationsvs Average
Released
Sep 2023
Measurements
Weight
M: 261 g
W: 207 g
Heel to toe drop
6 mm
Heel
37 mm
Forefoot
31 mm

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AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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