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The Fresh Foam 1080v13 continues New Balance's tradition of delivering a premium, plush ride tailored for daily training and long-distance comfort.

The Verdict

The Fresh Foam 1080v13 continues New Balance's tradition of delivering a premium, plush ride tailored for daily training and long-distance comfort. Its updated engineered mesh upper and refined Fresh Foam X midsole make it a top choice for runners prioritizing comfort over speed, though the price and softness may not suit everyone.

Key Features

  • Fresh Foam X midsole cushioning
  • Hypoknit engineered mesh upper
  • Ortholite comfort sock liner
  • Rounded outsole design for smooth transitions
  • Reflective details for low-light visibility
  • Available in standard and wide width options

+ What we liked

  • Plush, cloud-like cushioning ideal for long runs
  • Smooth heel-to-toe transition
  • Breathable and adapts well to foot shape
  • Generous toe box room
  • Lightweight for a max-cushion trainer
  • Wide range of width and color options

Worth noting

  • ✕ Premium price point compared to competitors
  • ✕ Midsole can feel too soft for speed workouts
  • ✕ Break-in period needed for optimal comfort
  • ✕ Slightly bulkier profile than minimalist shoes

Technical Specs

W
Weight
10.5 oz (men's size 9)
M
Midsole
Fresh Foam X foam
U
Upper Material
Engineered Hypoknit mesh
H
Heel-to-Toe Drop
8 mm
A
Available Widths
Standard, Wide, X-Wide

The Full Review

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13 stands as one of the most refined entries in the long-running 1080 lineage, a neutral running shoe engineered for runners who log serious mileage and want plush, dependable comfort underfoot. Built around New Balance's Fresh Foam X midsole compound, the shoe delivers a soft, cushioned ride that absorbs impact without feeling mushy or unstable, striking a balance that makes it equally suited to easy recovery jogs and longer training runs. The updated midsole geometry in the v13 iteration offers a smoother heel-to-toe transition than previous versions, thanks to subtle tweaks in the foam's shape and a slightly more responsive feel that doesn't sacrifice the plushness loyal wearers expect from this franchise.

Up top, the 1080v13 wears a re-engineered Hypoknit upper that wraps the foot in a breathable, sock-like fit while still providing structure where it matters most. The knit construction flexes naturally with the foot's movement, reducing irritation points and improving airflow during warmer runs, while a padded tongue and heel collar add a touch of plush comfort that keeps the shoe feeling premium mile after mile. The fit runs true to size for most runners, with a roomy toe box that accommodates natural toe splay, making it a strong option for those with wider feet or anyone who prefers a touch more room in their daily trainer.

Underfoot, a durable rubber outsole with a strategically placed tread pattern provides reliable traction on roads, tracks, and light urban terrain, while also contributing to the shoe's overall longevity. The 1080v13 maintains the moderate 6mm heel-to-toe drop that fans of the model have come to trust, supporting a natural stride without feeling too aggressive or too flat. Available in a wide range of colorways and standard, wide, and extra-wide sizing options, this shoe caters to a broad spectrum of runners, from those chasing daily training consistency to walkers seeking all-day comfort, cementing its reputation as a versatile, go-to choice within New Balance's performance running catalog.

Customer Reviews

Marcus T.★★★★★
Best cushioning I've felt

After years in stability shoes, switching to the 1080v13 was a revelation. My knees thank me after every long run.

2024-03-15
Elena R.★★★★★
Great for daily miles

Super comfortable straight out of the box. Only reason it's not five stars is the price tag.

2024-02-28
Danny K.★★★★★
Perfect marathon trainer

Used these throughout my marathon training block. Consistent comfort even past 18 miles.

2024-04-02
Priya S.★★★★★
Wide fit finally fits right

Got the wide version and my toes finally have room to breathe. Cushioning is fantastic too.

2024-01-19
Sam W.★★★★★
Reliable upgrade from v12

Noticeable improvement in upper breathability compared to the previous version. Highly recommend.

2024-03-30