New Balance 1080 v14 Review

Posted Yesterday

My favourite everyday running shoe is up to its 14th edition! The New Balance 1080 v14 built upon its legacy as one of the most comfortable max-cushioned trainers in the game. This shoe has been in my weekly rotation for 5+ years. Unboxing a new pair of 1080s in the Sea Salt with Vintage Indigo and Hot Mango colourway did not disappoint, its refined sleek aesthetics, an updated midsole shape, and an improved upper make it look and feel premium. The streamlined design hints at performance without losing its identity as a compliant daily trainer.

Ride & Performance

New Balance is still utilising the fresh foam X in the midsole in the v14, delivering it’s usual super soft ride but slightly more stiffer than the v13 which I am enjoying. The midsole composition provides excellent shock absorption while maintaining enough responsiveness to keep transitions smooth and efficient. The slight rocker geometry promotes a natural forward roll, reducing the strain on the lower legs over longer distances.

Despite its max-cushioned status, the shoe remains relatively nimble. This shoe is not designed for speed work and it doesn’t handle uptempo paces very well. Due to the compliance of the midsole foam it felt like my legs and feet had to work harder to pick up the pace. That being said, the v14 is slightly firmer than its previous models. With the v14 you see the outsole extending through the midline of the shoe which helps to increase stiffness and durability. This shoe is extremely good at maintaining its cushioning properties over a long period of time. Making it the perfect shoe for session or race warm ups and cool downs, recovery or slower longer runs. The outsole also provides solid traction across multiple surfaces, reinforcing its status as a reliable daily trainer. 

Upper & Fit

The engineered mesh upper is soft enough so you get to experience that premium daily trainer feel but not too soft that your foot is unstable or moves around within the shoe. The toe box remains accommodating, reducing pressure points and allowing for natural toe splay. Particularly beneficial for runners experiencing forefoot discomfort.

One of the biggest updates is the redesigned heel counter, which better cradles the Achilles for improved lockdown without causing irritation. This makes the shoe highly compatible with custom orthotics and maintaining rearfoot stability while allowing for necessary mid-foot movement. In the v14 you also see increased cushioning within the heel counter and tongue. 

Who Is This Shoe For?

The 1080 v14 is a top-tier choice for runners looking for a max-cushioned daily trainer that still offers a balanced ride. It excels on easy runs, long miles, and recovery days. It’s a solid pick for runners who prioritise comfort and efficiency, whether they’re logging high mileage or just seeking a plush everyday option. This shoe also works well when walking or standing for longer periods of time. I find the mild rocker and overall feel of the shoe also makes it a great option for work or walking. 

Podiatry & Biomechanical Insights

• Cushioning & shock absorption: The Fresh Foam X midsole absorbs impact exceptionally well, making it a strong option for runners with plantar fasciopathy, osteoarthritis (back, hip. Knee, ankle and foot), forefoot pathologies and medial tibial stress syndrome.
  
• Rocker Geometry: The subtle rocker helps reduce strain on the Achilles and forefoot, making it beneficial for runners managing Achilles tendinopathy or forefoot overload.
  
• Forefoot transition & Energy Conservation: Much like New Balance’s race-day shoes, the geometry of the 1080 v14 aids in reducing fatigue by promoting efficient propulsion, which can be particularly useful in marathon training blocks.
  
• Foot-Friendly Fit: The wide toe box and engineered knit upper minimize pressure on common problem areas, accommodating conditions like mild to moderate bunions, forefoot bursitis and Morton’s neuroma.
  
• Neutral Base with Mild Stability Elements: While this is a neutral trainer, the broad platform and structured heel provide mild supportive properties to assist with the natural instability of the soft midsole.
  
• Orthotic Compatibility: The refined heel counter and spacious interior work well with custom orthotics, ensuring a stable fit without excessive movement or pressures.
  

Note: This is a neutral shoe with high cushioning capabilities. Therefore in general I would not recommend this shoe for anyone with pronated or supinated foot types. Something also worth noting is that not everyone responds the same way to different midsole properties. Some will prefer highly cushioned shoes, some will prefer firmer shoes. 

The Bottom Line 

The New Balance 1080 v14 refines what made its prior models great—enhanced comfort, a smooth ride, and an accommodating fit—while integrating small but meaningful improvements. Drawing inspiration from the advancements seen in race-day technology, this version strikes a balance between plush cushioning whilst still seeing some energy return. As an elite runner, I appreciate its versatility for easy days when my legs are tired. They hold an important spot in my weekly shoe rotation to be able to clock a substantial amount of kilometres through the week.

As a podiatrist, I see real value in its ability to support runners dealing with foot-related conditions. If you’re after a premium daily trainer that prioritizes comfort and biomechanics without sacrificing too much responsiveness, the 1080 v14 should be high on your list. However if you do prefer a stiffer or more responsive daily trainer, I would recommend the Newbalance 880. 

Follow along with Stephanie on her Instagram: @pod_run_repeat
And our clinic here: @thefeetpeopleaustralia