Details
Brand
New Balance
Heel To Toe Drop
8mm
Breathability
9/10
Latest Version
Yes
Terrain
Road
Type
Neutral
Key Features
• Blown rubber outsole with hexagonal gripping lugs• Flex grooves in the forefoot provide greater flexibility• Fresh Foam midsole features concave hexagon patterns• Fantom Fit technology built into the upper• Engineered mesh is soft and breathable yet durable• Less responsiveness than its predecessors• Feels much heavier than it actually weighs• 8mm heel-to-toe drop• Priced out at $150
Upper
A soft yet more durable engineered mesh now constructs the Fresh Foam 1080v8’s upper. This, along with a new molded collar and no-sew inner sleeve, provides the runner with even greater comfort and security. A TPU heel counter placed at the back, as well as a midfoot cage incorporated into the lacing system, keep the foot better locked into place. A molded toe bumper is also fixed in for some added protection. Reviewers are especially happy with the shoe’s roomy toe box, which easily adjusted to their foot shape, as well as the various width options.
Midsole
Though a number of changes have been made to this line’s newest version, its namesake midsole is still present. The only difference is that the Fresh Foam material now features a concave hexagonal pattern. This was created with the intention of reducing stiffness that was noted in previous models. Though this has made some difference, with reviewers praising its firm yet comfortable cushioning, online responses indicate that it may have caused another issue. Some consumers felt that this version is not as cushiony or responsive as it previously was.
Outsole
Those who liked the previous model’s outsole are thrilled to know that the Fresh Foam 1080v8 is almost exactly the same. This blown rubber compound features hexagon-shaped lugs that provide a sufficient grip on any road surface. The crash pad near the heel is also present, this time with more rigidity. One major change to this feature is the addition of flex grooves that are carved into the forefoot. This provides the runner with greater flexibility and a much smoother ride.
Breathability
With a soft engineered mesh constructed upper, it’s pretty safe to say that the Fresh Foam 1080v8 is highly breathable. More targeted ventilation is provided all along the forefoot and across the sides, surrounding the synthetic New Balance logo. This increased airflow, bringing greater temperature and moisture control, allows for more enhanced comfort during marathon runs as well as basic indoor workouts.
Comfort
Though its responsiveness may be lacking, reviewers are extremely happy with the Fresh Foam midsole’s level of comfort. The hexagon patterns carved into the sides reduce the stiffness felt in the previous model, allowing for a softer yet supportive ride. The Fantom Fit technology built into its upper includes seamless construction, both inside and on the outside. Finally, the breathable engineered mesh upper is not only softer than its predecessor but also allows for slightly more enhanced airflow. Runners also have a number of width options available to them to ensure their best fit possible. The only negative is that this shoe’s heavier than average feel may cause muscle pain for some runners.
Style
Those who enjoyed the look of its predecessor are pleased to see that the Fresh Foam 1080v8 maintains most of its exact style. The only obvious difference is the design carved into its midsole, switched from a regular hexagon-tile pattern to a more concave one. Upon further inspection, buyers may also notice that the shoe has a less glossy midfoot cage and toe bumper as well as a less pronounced tongue. It still does have the same general structure and the same blue and green color schemes as before, in different hues of course.
Durability
Though little online information can be found about how durable the Fresh Foam 1080v8 is, the combined quality of its features indicates that it’s built to withstand extended long-term use. The blown rubber that makes up its outsole is specially made for all types of road surfaces, and its hexagonal tread pattern has received a great deal of praise for its sturdiness. Though not as responsive as it once was, the Fresh Foam midsole still provides soft yet firm cushioning even after multiple heavy uses. Though it’s slightly more durable than the average material, the engineered mesh upper is outfitted with a toe bumper and TPU heel cage to better help it maintain its structure for longer.
Protection
The Fresh Foam 1080v8 appears to be mixed when it comes to its protective features. The blown rubber outsole is quite resilient against heavy usage on concrete and cement, and its tread pattern ensures a highly secure grip as the runner moves along. Its crash pad, located in the heel, provides the additional cushioning needed for long distance runs. The upper’s breathable nature reduces the likelihood of irritations caused by excessive sweating. And its toe bumper and heel clip shield the foot from potential hazards while helping the shoe maintain its shape. On the other hand, this version’s midsole lacks the responsive qualities of its predecessors. Furthermore, the engineered mesh upper makes this shoe unfit for use in certain forms of weather.
Responsiveness
The overall responsive nature of the Fresh Foam 1080v8 appears to be mixed, according to most reviewers. The blown rubber outsole provides durable traction, even during long distance runs, and the wider toe box is able to expand and adjust to the runner’s individual shape. The wide forefoot area even allows for a more stable run and smoother foot transition. On the other hand, many reviewers have claimed that this version’s Fresh Foam midsole is not as responsive as its predecessors. While online details can’t exactly point out why, there is speculation that the new concave hexagonal patterns carved into its sides are to blame.
Support
A number of reviewers stated that the Fresh Foam 1080v8 was one of the most supportive shoes that they’ve ever owned. This is thanks primarily to its namesake midsole, which is designed to provide long-term cushioning and energy transfer even after many months of usage. Though several consumers claim that this model is not quite as responsive as its predecessors, they still state that it keeps them well cushioned throughout long distance runs. This is aided even further by the outsole’s blown rubber compound, which makes for an extremely durable and flexible base. While the mesh upper does not provide much support on its own, it’s aided greatly by synthetic overlays and a TPU heel clip.
Terrain
The Fresh Foam 1080v8 is designed for extended use on different types of roads and pavements. This is thanks to its lightweight yet durable blown rubber outsole, as well as the hexagonal lugs featured on its tread pattern. This specific shape has been known to provide incredibly strong traction and withstand heavy usage. Reviewers have said that this particular tread pattern on another shoe design could work very well on more rugged terrains. Of course, the poor responsiveness of its midsole and lack of protective features in its upper limits this shoe’s capabilities just a bit.
Price
One of the most frequent complaints about the Fresh Foam 1080v8 is its higher than average price tag of $150. Though its durability and comfort level make it worth the cost to some buyers, others have noted that they were able to find similar, more responsive models for a much lower cost. Thankfully for some consumers, lower prices can easily be found on Amazon and eBay, just as long as they check the listing reviews first.
Drop
The Fresh Foam 1080v8 features a heel-to-toe drop height of 8mm, slightly less than the usual height of 10mm. Although this wouldn’t exactly be considered a low-drop platform, it is still enough to allow a more natural stride while satisfying those who require additional heel support. Furthermore, with a heel height of 27mm and a toe height of 19mm, it provides ample cushioning for both light jogs and long distance runs.
Stability
All long-distance running shoes are required to have stability features in place to ensure a secure run and reduce the runner’s likelihood of long-term pain. The outsole’s blown rubber compound stays sturdy even after extended use, and its hexagonal gripping lugs provide a strong grasp on most road surfaces. Though it lacks a number of responsive qualities, its Fresh Foam midsole is still able to keep the foot cushioned and supported throughout many extended wears. When these features are combined, a smooth transition is guaranteed. A synthetic midfoot cage across the upper, as well as the TPU heel counter and lacing system, ensure that the shoe’s shape is maintained and the foot is better locked into place.
Flexibility
Several measures have been taken to ensure that the Fresh Foam 1080v8 is more flexible than its predecessors. Flex grooves have been carved across the forefoot area to ensure a more natural range of motion. The Fresh Foam midsole has swapped out the hexagon tile pattern for a more concave design to reduce stiffness and give a softer run. Of course, it’s the engineered mesh upper that truly allows free and comfortable movement.
Traction
Reviewers are thrilled to see that the Fresh Foam 1080v8 features the exact same tread pattern as its predecessor. Several different brands have used similar hexagonal gripping lugs on their running shoes, as they are known to provide a particularly secure grip on most surfaces. This specific pattern is able to grip a number of different road surfaces and keep the runner secure for both mild jogging and marathon runs. While its tread pattern could work on more rugged terrains, the lacking qualities of the shoe’s midsole and upper do limit its potential usage.
Bottom Line
Fans of New Balance’s Fresh Foam line are very happy to know that many of its most acclaimed features are still present in its 1080v8 model, while some needed improvements have been made. The cushiony support of its midsole and durable yet flexible traction of its outsole provide the runner with an incredibly smooth and stable ride that can keep them going throughout long distance runs. Its mesh upper is now engineered to have more durability while still retaining its softness, and the multiple width options that are available allow runners to find their best fit possible. There are some changes that have not been so well received, such as the midsole’s lack of responsiveness or the shoe’s heavier feel. Even so, this shoe could still prove useful for runners of all levels.
