New Balance - Athletico - The Global Running Community

New Balance 1080v14 Review: The Comfiest Daily Trainer Yet?

Prateek Mishra / 1 Comment / New Balance, Running Shoes / November 6, 2024

The New Balance Fresh FoamX 1080 series has long held a reputation as a solid choice for daily training, particularly for its comfort and versatility. With the latest 1080v14, New Balance promises refined features designed to improve stability, durability, and breathability. But with only slight visual changes from the previous model, can these adjustments truly elevate the v14 over the v13?

Dubbed a “do-it-all” shoe, the 1080v14 is built to support everything from easy daily miles to high-mileage training. New Balance touts it as “the perfect blend of cushioning, lightweight feel, and progressive upper design.” This update features a new midsole geometry, an engineered mesh upper for added breathability, and enhanced durability in the outsole rubber. Let’s dive deeper to see how these upgrades hold up in real-world running conditions.

Key specifications:

Brand: New Balance
Model: Fresh FoamX 1080v14
Weight: 300g (Men’s), 235g (Women’s) for US 9 model
Heel: 38 mm
Toe: 32 mm
Heel drop: 6 mm
Type: Neutral/Road Running

Cushioning & Ride

Amount of cushioning: Highly cushioned
Best For: Beginners, easy runs, long runs, high-mileage runners

Price of New Balance 1080v14

Price: $165 USD
Release date: Early October 2024

New Balance 1080v14 vs v13: What’s New?

The v14 shares a close resemblance to the v13 in appearance but introduces several functional improvements focused on stability and support. The midsole geometry has been adjusted to provide a smoother ride, while the engineered mesh upper increases breathability and security across the foot. These adjustments broaden the appeal of the 1080v14, making it suitable not only for runners but also for casual wearers who prioritize comfort and versatility, similar to popular trainers like the Hoka Clifton.

Fit

The 1080v14 fits true to size with a secure midfoot hold and a slightly narrower profile than the v13. New Balance has slightly reduced the volume of the upper, resulting in a shallower toe box. This adjustment may feel subtle at first glance, but it becomes more noticeable on longer runs. The engineered mesh upper, paired with a reduced amount of padding around the tongue and heel collar, strikes a good balance between comfort and breathability, making it feel stable yet not overly plush.

Performance

In terms of performance, the Fresh FoamX midsole is well-suited for a wide range of paces. The foam provides ample cushioning without excessive bounce, absorbing impact with each step for a steady, comfortable ride. The rocker geometry helps encourage a smooth transition from heel to toe, particularly for midfoot strikers. Additionally, New Balance has added more rubber coverage on the outsole for durability, which also contributes to a more guided feel through each stride.

Stability

While the 1080v14 isn’t a stability shoe, it incorporates features that enhance stability and control. The shoe’s wider midfoot and forefoot provide a solid platform, particularly beneficial for those who land further forward. Heel strikers will appreciate the beveled heel, which offers a smooth landing and transition. The forefoot rocker geometry adds subtle guidance through push-off, making the 1080v14 feel supportive without restricting natural motion.

What I Liked About the New Balance 1080v14 ?

Comfortable for Long Runs: One of the most comfortable shoes, ideal for various paces and distances.
Versatile Performance: Works well for new runners and seasoned marathoners alike.
Improved Fit: Slightly narrower fit and enhanced upper stability create a secure feel.

What I Liked About the New Balance 1080v14 ?

Heavy Cushioning: The generous foam may lack ground feel for runners who prefer minimalistic shoes.
Limited Aesthetic Appeal: The initial colorways may not appeal to everyone.
Similar to v13: Runners who didn’t enjoy the previous version may find only subtle differences in this update.

Verdict

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14 is a versatile, comfortable option for daily training. Its enhanced upper and stable platform make it an excellent choice for runners looking for cushioning and support across varying distances. While the changes are conservative, the v14 retains the qualities that fans of the 1080 series appreciate, with a more secure fit and improved durability.

For those debating between the v13 and v14, the latest model delivers enough refinement to justify the upgrade, especially if you prioritize stability in a daily trainer. With its well-rounded performance and comfort, the 1080v14 remains a strong contender in the daily trainer category.

New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 1080v14

New Balance Men's Fresh Foam X 1080v14

New Balance 1080v14 Review: The Comfiest Daily Trainer Yet? Read More »

New Balance Rebel v4 Review

Prateek Mishra / 2 Comments / New Balance, Running Shoes / March 17, 2024

Ever feel like running shoes are getting a bit too complicated and pricey? Well, fear not because New Balance has heard our pleas and delivered the perfect solution: the New Balance Rebel v4!

This latest addition to the running scene keeps it simple with its design and won’t break the bank. But don’t let its modest appearance fool you – it packs a punch when it comes to performance. Whether you’re hitting the pavement for a quick jog or gearing up for a longer training session, the Rebel v4 has got you covered. So, if you’re in the market for a reliable daily running shoe, look no further. Let’s dive into the features of the Rebel v4 in this New Balance Rebel v4 review!

Specifications

Brand: New Balance
Model: Rebel v4
Type: Road Running shoe
Weight: 7.1 oz or 201 gm (for US men’s 9)
Heel: 30 mm
Toe: 24 mm
Heel drop: 6 mm
Sizing: True to size

Cushioning & Ride

Amount of cushioning: High cushioning
Stability: Neutral
Usage: Daily Trainer and tempo miles

Price & Availability

Price: $140
Release date: March 1st, 2024

What’s new in New Balance Rebel V4?

The latest iteration of the New Balance Rebel, the V4, brings some exciting updates for runners seeking peak performance and comfort. New Balance has revamped the Rebel’s midsole, blending PEBA and FuelCell foam to create a higher stack (from 27.5 mm to 30 mm) and broader platform, enhancing protection and stability for longer runs without compromising its signature bounce. This means more speed and responsiveness for those intense workouts. The redesigned upper, featuring Fantom Fit engineering, maintains a lightweight yet secure feel, while the updated forefoot design offers ample space for toe splay, accommodating even wider foot shapes comfortably. With its sleek, futuristic appearance exuding speed and agility, the Rebel V4 is sure to win over runners looking for both style and substance.

Design and Fit

The New Balance Rebel v4 maintains its signature lightweight feel and low stack height, with a slight increase in height this time around. Featuring an updated version of New Balance’s FuelCell foam in the midsole, this blend of EVA foam and Peba-based material offers a softer, more responsive ride compared to previous models. Despite the increased stack height, the shoe remains light, with a wider design that enhances stability while maintaining a consistent 6mm drop. The wider fit around the midfoot ensures comfort, while the minimal padding on the tongue and collar, combined with the lightweight mesh upper, provides a snug yet breathable feel. While the lack of padding may give a looser hold around the back of the shoe, I didn’t experience any discomfort or irritation, even around the Achilles tendon, which can be an issue with heavily padded shoes.

Running Performance

The New Balance Rebel v4 offers a distinct sensation with every step, yet it maintains the stellar performance of its predecessor, the Rebel v3, particularly for shorter runs. Notably, it brings added comfort and stability to longer distances. While some may desire more cushioning for extended runs, I found the Rebel v4 to be reassuringly comfortable. While other trainers may provide more propulsion with features like plates or higher midsole stacks, the simplicity and shorter stack of the Rebel v4 appealed to me. Although I’ve trained extensively in plated shoes, many runners now prefer to reserve them for race days and intense speed sessions, opting instead for the Rebel v4’s more natural feel.

PROs & Cons

Pros:
The New Balance Rebel v4 is a versatile shoe that excels in providing pace variability, adapting effortlessly to the energy you exert. Whether you’re pushing the tempo or tackling longer, progressive-paced runs, this shoe responds eagerly, helping you pick up speed even in the final miles. It’s particularly impressive for tempo runs, offering a level of responsiveness that keeps you motivated throughout your workout. Even at slower paces, it maintains a satisfactory performance, although it lacks the plushness of a maximally cushioned trainer.

Cons:
Despite its impressive performance, the New Balance Rebel v4 may not be suitable for everyone due to its roomy interior volume. For runners with narrow feet like mine, the spaciousness can be a bit too much, almost feeling like it’s designed for wider feet. Even with the standard/regular width option, I found the shoe to be excessively roomy, necessitating extra effort to cinch down the laces for a snug fit. This excess roominess might pose discomfort or stability issues for some runners, especially those who prefer a more secure feel during their runs.

Our Verdict

The New Balance Rebel v4 is a top-notch shoe, hands down. It outshines even the Asics Superblast, which, while fantastic in its own right, can’t quite match the Rebel’s agility and value. If you’re after a speedy companion for training or race day and don’t need a carbon plate weighing you down, the Rebel v4 is the clear champion.

New Balance Rebel v4 Review Read More »

New Balance FuelCell SC Elite v4 – Review

Prateek Mishra / 3 Comments / New Balance, Running Shoes / March 2, 2024

New Balance has just unleashed the powerhouse of performance – the FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4 (hereafter, shortened to “SC Elite v4”). The 100% PEBA midsole that not only increases the energy return but also treats your feet to an indulgent soft ride. And that’s just the beginning. The carbon plate has undergone a sleek redesign, now boasting an energy arc that seamlessly collaborates with the midsole, propelling you into an even faster toe-off. What’s caught my attention is that, despite its lightning speed, the SC Elite v4 manages to stay impressively stable. Thanks to its wide platform, this shoe offers substantial support, catering not only to speed demons but also to those of us who occasionally indulge in walk breaks.

This year, the SC Elite v4 has undergone a radical transformation, with almost every aspect of the shoe getting a significant upgrade. Comparing it to its predecessor, the Elite v3, feels like comparing apples to oranges – or, in this case, high-tech footwear evolution. Let me tell you, the SC Elite v4 is not just a running shoe; it’s a performance revolution.

Specification

Brand: New Balance
Model: Fuelcell SuperComp Elite v4
Weight: 8.4 oz (237g) for US9.5
Heel: 40 mm
Toe: 36 mm
Heel drop: 4mm
Sizing: True to size

Cushioning & Ride

Amount of cushioning: High cushioning
Stability: Very much stable
Usage: Tempo runs and racing

Price & Availability

Price: $250
Release date: February 1 2024

Upper

New Balance has amped up the style game with the newly launched FuelCell SuperComp Elite V4. Unlike its predecessor, the V3, the V4 boasts a more dynamic and attention-grabbing design. Gone are the days of a plain vanilla aesthetic – the SC Elite V4 features faceted geometric edges on the midsole and an array of triangular shapes scattered across the vibrantly colored upper in various sizes and hues. But it’s not just about looks; New Balance has stepped up its game with the upper. The SC Elite V4 introduces the innovative Fantomfit technology, providing the thin mesh upper with the necessary structure precisely where it’s needed. Say goodbye to the ordinary and hello to a new era of style and performance in the FuelCell SuperComp Elite V4.

Midsole

New Balance has taken a bold leap with the midsole of the FuelCell SC Elite v4 by introducing an innovative 100% PEBA foam composition, marking a first for the brand. This revamped midsole not only showcases a shiny new aesthetic but also undergoes precision carving, accompanied by a strategic thinning and reshaping of the carbon fiber plate. The result is not only visually striking but surprisingly imparts enhanced stability to the midfoot, particularly noticeable during sharp turns. This isn’t your average midsole; it’s a burst of exuberance. If you fancy a shoe that delivers a tall, giddy, and occasionally slightly unpredictable feel, then look no further. New Balance has crafted a midsole that stands out in its bounce and liveliness, making it a perfect choice for those who seek the utmost energy return in their running experience.

Outsole

The outsole of the newly launched New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4 is a standout feature, showcasing an enhanced rubber composition compared to its predecessor, v3. Notably, the forefoot now boasts three robust strips of rubber, concealing the EnergyArc plate that was previously visible. The added protection and grip are immediately noticeable, especially when you push the pace and feel the rubber actively engaging with the asphalt. At the rear, two generous patches safeguard the FuelCell midsole. The increased rubber thickness and strategic layout not only contribute to the shoe’s phenomenal grip but also suggest impressive durability. Despite a slight weight gain, the outsole’s performance on various surfaces underscores the tangible impact of this thoughtful upgrade.

Is the New Balance SC Elite v4 worth $250?

Priced at $250, the New Balance SC Elite v4 might not catch your eye, but it certainly stands its ground among counterparts in the same price bracket. Despite a $20 increase from its previous version, the v4 proves its value by delivering enhanced performance with an upgraded midsole material compared to the v3. This improvement positions it as a true contender against other high-performance shoes at a similar price point. If the budget allows, the SC Elite v4 is a solid investment for avid runners. However, it’s important to emphasize that choosing the right running shoe is about personal fit and lifestyle alignment, regardless of whether there’s a race in the future. The true measure of a running shoe’s worth lies in its ability to complement individual goals and preferences.

New Balance FuelCell SC Elite v4 – Review Read More »