New Balance is known for their retro-style designs. But while the 1080v8 look somewhat retro, they are modern sports shoes which are often used for running. As an all-American design, the shoes have a certain appeal to them, and their 8th version is among the up to date options from the manufacturer. There is a new Ortholite insole, blown rubber outsole and a new design with no-sew materials. This is enough for the New Balance fans but can it be the right solution for runners moving from other brands?
13 reasons to buy
- Held as a staple American design together with the rest of the 1080 line from New Balance
- Designed with an 8mm drop for a more aggressive approach to running
- Made with blown rubber outsole for improved overall durability even on highly-abrasive surfaces
- Designed with an engineered mesh which adds breathability to a level this is not immediately associated with New Balance shoes
- Insole made with no sewing for improved overall comfort
- Designed with the Ortholite insole for extra cushioning and arch support
- Lightweight for New Balance standards
- Made for neutral pronation
- Molded foam collar for improved comfort around the ankles
- Reinforced heel area offers improved stability while sprinting
- Reinforced toe box for improved durability
- Hexagonal patterns on the outsole to offer the best flexibility
- A wide range of colors to suit both men and women
1 reasons why not to buy
- Breathability needs improvement for long runs
Updates
As one of the premium designs from New Balance, the shoes offer an impressive design which is getting closer to what modern runners want. They still maintain their retro appeal but with new solutions such as the improved Ortholite support, there are closer to the needs of modern-day running. They are still based on the full-length foam cushioning but with a modern outsole and an improved and engineered upper, they are closer to what can be achieved at the moment.
With new designs which are borrowed such as the Ortholite technology or which are true to New Balance, the shoes offer a responsive design made for versatility. The weight of the shoes is considerable but still lower than expected at 11oz. The aspect of the shoes is also different with vivid colors, the manufacturer is getting closer to what the rest of the market looks like in terms of mesh design capabilities.
Outsole
The outsole is truly flexible while also being fully covered by blown rubber. With hexagonal studs, the outsole is among the options made for good flexibility from all angles. At the same time, the outsole also features grooves in the forefoot area. This area is among the most important when it comes to flexibility when compared to the heel area. The thick rubber outsole also recommends the shoes as one of the durable options for outdoor running. With improved traction on all surfaces, it can be an option to consider for intense use.
Midsole
The midsole of the shoes features the 8mm cushioning based on foam. It is among the thinner midsoles from New Balance and it offers one of the comprehensive solutions for proper biomechanics and fast running results. With the help of the Ortholite insole, it provides a supportive platform which naturally follows the contour of your foot. However, the Ortholite technology is not a staple of New Balance. It is actually patented by O2 Partners, LLC. The company sells the Ortholite design to multiple shoe manufacturers.
Upper
With a breathable upper made for proper comfort, the shoes are closer to what the runners expect on longer runs. But the breathability can still be further improved, partly due to the increased percentage of overlays, which is somewhat specific to New Balance. The engineered mesh does have positive points though. Its stretchiness and breathability are what makes it a viable option for most types of shoes.
Size And Fit
The shoes can fit a wide range of feet. You can choose from narrow, standard, wide, or extra-wide options for the best fit. However, the choices are not as complex as some other shoes from the manufacturer which can go to XX-wide. For most people though, they fit well and they offer proper comfort. If you have fallen arches, you might also consider replacing the Ortholite insole with a more specific design for your needs. But with the good fit around the ankles with the reinforced heel area, the shoes are capable to offer improved comfort with an exact fit.
Are New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v8 good for Marathon?
The entire 1080 series is considered reliable for marathon runners. However, runners should be ready to deal with a stiffer forefoot which can be felt during the slower pace running specifically to marathons.
Are New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v8 good for Half Marathon?
Being a heavy shoe at 11-ounce for a typical size 8, the shoes might not be the best for half-marathon running and long distance running in general. However, the shoes can be used in daily training and in the period leading up to the half marathon.
Are New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v8 good for 10k & 5k distance?
While the shoes can be used for 10k and 5k runs, many runners might feel they can work against them. This is seen both at higher speeds where the extra weight can be seen as an issue but even a lower paces where the lack of forefoot flexibility can make the feet sore.
Are New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v8 good for long distance running?
With a firm midsole, the shoes would seem like the right option for long distance running. However, a better option for long distance running can be found in the 1400V5. The Zante series is another great alternative for long distance runs.
Are New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v8 good for plantar fasciitis?
The stiff forefoot of the shoes is definitely an advantage when dealing with plantar fasciitis. Those with osteoarthritis can also find the shoes supportive. Custom insole orthotics can also be considered if needed.
Are New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v8 good for high arches?
The midsole of the shoe may lack a compression similar to the leading designs in the class, but they can certainly be relied upon by runners with high and very high arches. Even more, the great arch support also blends in well with the molded TPU clip.
Are New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v8 good for flat feet?
There is plenty of midfoot support with the 1080 shoes. They also work great for standard with feet and they can provide a supportive feel for those with wide feet as well. However, using the shoes for longer runs with flat feet is up for debate.
Are New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v8 good for trial running?
The neutral shoes are highly recommended for road running. The blown rubber hexagon lugs might be durable, but they can’t offer the traction needed for trails, especially not for wet trails. The crash pad and the flex grooves make the outsole quite forgiving on roads, but the demands of trails are a bit different.
Are New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v8 good for pronation?
As a neutral shoe, the 1080 series offers medium support for pronation. Most runners can find them comfortable from this perspective.
Are New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v8 good for overpronation?
Both male and female runners find the shoes supportive of overpronation. The inward roll of the foot is seen as manageable with the shoes’ medium arch. Being made true to size is an advantage as well.
Are New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v8 good for wide feet?
With a toe box which can be seen as wide and a choice between wide and extra wide widths, the shoes can certainly accommodate all types of feet.
Are New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v8 good for walking?
The 1080 feature the Fresh Foam which can be seen as comfortable for walking. While it is not as comfortable as the foam used in the Zante, it is still enough to deal with for the average length walks.
Are New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v8 good for gym?
The shoes have plenty of versatility. With an engineered mesh upper, they are certainly breathable for any type of exercise in the gym.