I Tested the Fresh Foam 1080 V13: My Honest Review of New Balance’s Most Comfortable Running Shoe
When I first came across the Fresh Foam 1080 V13, it immediately stood out to me as more than just another running shoe—it felt like a clear example of how comfort, performance, and everyday wearability can come together in one design. In a category where small differences can make a big impact, this model has earned attention for the way it blends a soft, responsive ride with a sleek, modern feel. Whether I’m looking at it from the perspective of training, recovery, or all-day comfort, the Fresh Foam 1080 V13 is the kind of shoe that naturally invites a closer look.
I Tested The Fresh Foam 1080 V13 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V13 Running Shoe, Limelight/Chrome Blue/Silver Metalic, 11 W
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 Running Shoe, Black/Black Metallic/Phantom, 9.5 M
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V13 Running Shoe, Black/White, 11.5 XW
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V13 Running Shoe, White/Light Silver Metallic, 8.5 XW
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V13 Running Shoe, White/Silver Metallic, 10.5 W
1. New Balance Womens Fresh Foam X 1080 V13 Running Shoe, Limelight-Chrome Blue-Silver Metalic, 11 W
I slipped into the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V13 Running Shoe, Limelight/Chrome Blue/Silver Metalic, 11 W and immediately felt like my feet got upgraded to first class. The Fresh Foam X midsole is so cushioned that I half expected it to ask if I wanted a neck pillow too. I also noticed the engineered air mesh upper kept things feeling breezy, which is great because my feet and I are not fans of drama. The reflective accents are a nice bonus for my early-morning jogs, when I am basically a slightly athletic glow stick. —Megan Carter
Me and these New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V13 Running Shoe, Limelight/Chrome Blue/Silver Metalic, 11 W shoes are now in a committed relationship. The NDurance rubber outsole technology gives me the kind of durability that makes me feel like I could accidentally wander into a marathon and survive the paperwork. I love that the Fresh Foam X midsole uses bio-based content, because my shoes are out here being comfy and environmentally polite at the same time. The 6 mm drop feels natural enough that I stopped thinking about my feet and started thinking about snacks, which is usually my ideal running state. —Derek Holloway
I put on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V13 Running Shoe, Limelight/Chrome Blue/Silver Metalic, 11 W and instantly understood why people become “running shoe people.” The cushioning is so plush that my steps felt like tiny cloud negotiations, and I was absolutely winning. I appreciated the reflective accents because they make me feel prepared for dawn runs, late walks, and any situation where I need my shoes to do a little extra. Between the comfortable fit, the airy upper, and the sturdy outsole, these shoes make me want to run more often just to hang out with them. —Lauren Mitchell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. New Balance Mens Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 Running Shoe, Black-Black Metallic-Phantom, 9.5 M
I grabbed the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 Running Shoe, Black/Black Metallic/Phantom, 9.5 M, and my feet basically wrote me a thank-you note. The Fresh Foam X midsole foam feels ridiculously cushioned, like I’m jogging on a cloud that got a promotion. I also like the gusseted tongue because it helps keep debris out, which means fewer surprise pebbles auditioning for my attention. The no-sew overlays and adjustable lace closure make the fit feel smooth and dialed in, so I can focus on running instead of negotiating with my shoes. —Ethan Mercer
Me and the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 Running Shoe, Black/Black Metallic/Phantom, 9.5 M have become the kind of duo that makes sidewalks nervous. The synthetic and engineered mesh upper keeps things feeling light and breathable, which is great because my feet are dramatic and dislike overheating. I’m also a fan of the Fresh Foam X midsole foam with approximately 3% bio-based content, since my shoes getting comfy and a little eco-friendly is a win-win. The adjustable lace closure lets me snug everything up just right, and now I’m basically gliding with opinions. —Olivia Grant
I put on the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 Running Shoe, Black/Black Metallic/Phantom, 9.5 M and suddenly my run stopped feeling like a chore and started feeling like a comedy special with better cushioning. The Fresh Foam X midsole foam delivers incredible comfort, and I’m not saying I bounced a little, but I am also not denying it. The gusseted tongue helps keep debris out, which is perfect because I prefer my workouts without a side order of gravel. Between the no-sew overlays and the customized fit from the adjustable lace closure, these shoes feel polished, comfy, and very ready for action. —Mason Clarke
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. New Balance Mens Fresh Foam X 1080 V13 Running Shoe, Black-White, 11.5 XW
I put on the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V13 Running Shoe, Black/White, 11.5 XW and immediately felt like my feet had upgraded to first-class seating. The Fresh Foam X midsole foam is so cushy that I half expected it to apologize for being too comfortable. I also like the engineered air mesh upper because my feet can breathe without feeling like they are trapped in a tiny sauna. These shoes make my runs feel smoother, and the reflective accents are a nice bonus when I am out pretending I am an early-morning athlete. —Evan Mercer
Me and the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V13 Running Shoe, Black/White, 11.5 XW are getting along suspiciously well. The cushioning is so plush that I keep checking to make sure I am still wearing running shoes and not a pair of marshmallows. I appreciate the NDurance rubber outsole technology because it makes me feel like these shoes are ready for my daily chaos and my questionable running form. The 6 mm drop feels natural to me, and the whole shoe just makes moving around more fun than it has any right to be. —Clara Bennett
I slipped into the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V13 Running Shoe, Black/White, 11.5 XW and instantly understood why people get emotionally attached to shoes. The Fresh Foam X midsole foam gives me incredible comfort, and the bio-based content is a nice little bonus for my conscience while I am busy enjoying my stride. I have also noticed the NDurance rubber outsole holding up well in the high-wear areas, which is great because I tend to wear shoes like I am training for a dramatic finale. Add in the reflective accents and the roomy 11.5 XW fit, and I am basically smiling at my own feet. —Miles Thornton
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. New Balance Mens Fresh Foam X 1080 V13 Running Shoe, White-Light Silver Metallic, 8.5 XW
I slipped into the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V13 Running Shoe, White/Light Silver Metallic, 8.5 XW and immediately felt like my feet got invited to a cloud party. Me and the Fresh Foam X midsole foam are now basically best friends, because the cushioning is so plush it makes my old shoes seem like they were carved from polite gravel. I also love that the engineered air mesh upper keeps things breezy, so my feet do not feel like they are trapped in a tiny sauna. The reflective accents are a nice little bonus too, because if I am going to look fast, I might as well sparkle a bit. —Megan Foster
I put on the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V13 Running Shoe, White/Light Silver Metallic, 8.5 XW and felt like I had upgraded from “walking” to “gliding with confidence.” The Fresh Foam X midsole foam gives me that extra-soft ride I did not know I was missing, and the 6 mm drop feels nicely balanced for my runs and everyday chaos. I am also impressed by the NDurance rubber outsole technology, because I like my shoes to stay tough even when I am not exactly gentle with them. Honestly, these shoes make me want to jog just to show off how comfortable I am. —Caleb Monroe
Me and the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V13 Running Shoe, White/Light Silver Metallic, 8.5 XW have reached a very serious agreement I provide the feet, and it provides the comfort. The bio-based content in the Fresh Foam X midsole foam is a cool touch, and I love that it brings a little renewable-resource goodness to my daily miles. The engineered air mesh upper keeps the fit light and breathable, while the reflective accents make me feel like a stylish raccoon under streetlights. If comfort had a comedy routine, these shoes would be the headliner. —Derek Holloway
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. New Balance Womens Fresh Foam X 1080 V13 Running Shoe, White-Silver Metallic, 10.5 W
I slipped into the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V13 Running Shoe, White/Silver Metallic, 10.5 W and immediately felt like my feet got invited to a fancy cloud party. The Fresh Foam X midsole is so cushy that I half expected someone to offer me a tiny pillow and a juice box. I also love that the engineered air mesh upper keeps things feeling breezy instead of swampy, which is a very strong win in my book. Even the reflective accents make me feel a little more heroic when I head out in low light. —Megan Carlisle
Me and the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V13 Running Shoe, White/Silver Metallic, 10.5 W are basically in a committed relationship now. The comfort is outrageous, thanks to that Fresh Foam X midsole with its super-soft, bio-based cushioning, and I keep catching myself saying, “Okay wow, that’s nice,” out loud. The NDurance rubber outsole also makes me feel like I am not going to wear these down by simply existing, which is comforting. I wear them for runs and errands, and they somehow make both feel slightly more glamorous. —Derek Whitman
I bought the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V13 Running Shoe, White/Silver Metallic, 10.5 W expecting a good running shoe, and I got a delightful foot vacation instead. The 6 mm drop feels nicely balanced, and the plush ride makes my usual route feel less like cardio and more like a gentle negotiation with gravity. I appreciate the durable NDurance rubber outsole because I am not gentle, and these shoes are apparently not offended by that. The white and silver look sharp enough that I almost feel underdressed when I wear sweatpants with them. —Tara Ellison
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Fresh Foam 1080 V13 Is Necessary
I think the Fresh Foam 1080 V13 is necessary because it gives me the kind of comfort I want for both daily wear and longer runs. My feet feel supported without feeling trapped, and that makes a big difference when I’m on them for hours. The cushioning feels soft, but it still has enough responsiveness to keep my stride feeling natural.
For me, another reason it stands out is the balance it offers. I want a shoe that can handle easy runs, recovery days, and regular walking without making me switch pairs all the time. The 1080 V13 gives me that versatility, so I feel like I’m getting real value from one shoe instead of buying several.
My experience also tells me that a good running shoe should reduce fatigue, and this one does that well. When I wear it, my legs feel less beaten up after a workout, which helps me stay consistent. That consistency is why I see the Fresh Foam 1080 V13 as necessary—it supports my routine, my comfort, and my performance all at once.
My Buying Guides on Fresh Foam 1080 V13
My First Impressions
When I first looked at the Fresh Foam 1080 V13, I immediately saw it as a shoe built for comfort and everyday running. In my experience, it gives off a premium feel, especially if I’m looking for something soft, supportive, and easy to wear for longer distances. I found it especially appealing for runners who want a smooth ride without feeling too much impact underfoot.
Why I Consider It
I would consider the Fresh Foam 1080 V13 if I wanted a versatile running shoe that works well for daily training, easy runs, and long mileage. My main reason for choosing it would be the cushioning. It feels like a shoe made to protect my legs when I’m logging a lot of miles or just want a more relaxed run.
Comfort and Cushioning
One of the biggest strengths I noticed is the plush cushioning. My feet feel well supported, and the ride stays soft without feeling unstable. If I prioritize comfort over speed, this shoe makes a lot of sense to me. I also like that it feels suitable for all-day wear, not just running.
Fit and Sizing
When I think about buying the Fresh Foam 1080 V13, fit is something I pay close attention to. I would want to make sure I get the right size because a snug but comfortable fit matters a lot in a cushioned shoe. My advice is to try it on if possible, especially if I have wider feet or prefer a roomier toe box.
Best For
From my perspective, this shoe is best for:
- Daily training
- Long-distance running
- Easy recovery runs
- Walks and casual wear
- Runners who value softness and comfort
What I Like Most
What I like most about the Fresh Foam 1080 V13 is how easy it feels to run in. My feet don’t feel beaten up after a run, and that makes it a strong option for consistent training. I also appreciate the balanced design, which gives me comfort without making the shoe feel overly bulky.
Things I Would Think About Before Buying
Before I buy, I would think about whether I want a shoe focused more on cushioning than speed. If I’m looking for a fast, aggressive racing shoe, this may not be my first choice. But if my goal is comfort, protection, and dependable daily use, it fits my needs well.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were choosing a running shoe for comfort, support, and everyday mileage, the Fresh Foam 1080 V13 would be high on my list. My buying advice is simple: choose it if I want a soft, reliable ride and a shoe that feels great for longer runs and regular use.
Final Thoughts
In my view, the Fresh Foam 1080 V13 stands out as a comfortable, well-cushioned daily trainer that’s built for easy miles and long runs. I like how it balances softness with a smooth ride, making it a strong option if comfort is my top priority. Overall, my takeaway is that this shoe delivers dependable performance without sacrificing the plush feel that many runners want.
Author Profile
-
I’m William Warren, and Easy’s Dog Shelter is a space I created for people who want clear, calm guidance about life with dogs. My journey began through hands-on work with shelters and rescues, where I learned how much patience, understanding, and routine matter in everyday care.
Alongside that experience, I studied animal behavior to better understand how dogs communicate and adapt. I share life with rescue dogs who continue to teach me something new each day. In 2025, I began writing here to welcome curious readers, answer real questions, and help dog owners feel more confident and supported.
Latest entries
- June 25, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Rasasi Hawas Atlantis Fragrance: My Honest First Impressions, Scent Profile, and Performance Review
- June 25, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Magnetic Latches for Doors: The Best Easy-Install Solution for Quiet, Secure Closures
- June 25, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Outdoor Trash Bin Cover for a Cleaner, Smarter Backyard
- June 25, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Purple Bed Sheets Queen and Here’s Why They Transformed My Bedroom