After the New Balance 1080 v10 was released two years ago, the 1080 has become a dominant daily trainer on the running shoe market. The New Balance 1080 v12 has just arrived, and it is greater than ever!
This year’s model of the New Balance 1080 takes what worked from those previous generations and fixed those parts that divided people’s opinion. The polarizing heel, that people either loved or disliked, has been replaced with a more traditional heel just like the New Balance Vongo v5.
VIDEO: New Balance 1080 V12
Play
New Balance 1080 v12 – A new heel
The new heel is also a very welcomed edition in my opinion. Even though its introduction makes the shoe a tiny bit heavier, it also makes the shoe a lot more usable for most people. The problem with the old heel was how few people it fit super well, while the rest, like me had some heel slippage.
Another thing the new heel gives, is a bit more structure around ankle. This isn’t very noticeable, but it gives my ankles a tiny bit more stability on the longer runs.
I love having this shoe on, especially when I run in it. And with the addition of the new heel, this shoe will now have a space in my personal rotation, something the previous versions haven’t had.
New Balance 1080 v12 - Upper
The upper is very similar to what you found in previous generations, but I am happy about the changes they have made, which I think makes the shoe fit a lot better.
It still has the stretchy hyperknit, but with a bit more structure around the foot, and less of an elastic feel around the midfoot. A shoe that is very elastic can be very comfortable on, but it doesn’t always give the right hold. I think the new New Balance 1080 v12 nails being elastic and supportive at the same time.
The width of the shoe is also very nice. I have an average foot width and it fits me nicely, but people I know with wider feet have also tried it on and liked how comfortable the stretchy forefoot is.
Same recipe, just more of it! – New Balance 1080 v12
When it comes to how this shoe feels to run in, it doesn’t disappoint, but it doesn’t surprise you either. It follows the recipe from the last years versions and feels very similar. This is a very good thing!
If you compare the New Balance 1080v11 to the v12, then there is a bit more foam in version 12. This results in a softer running feel and a shoe that feels a tiny bit taller and bigger while running. This is the other reason why the shoe is a tiny bit heavier than last years version.
It still doesn’t feel too big in my opinion, and I must say I really enjoy running in this shoe. At sample size (M US9) this shoe hits 292g, which I find to be a nice place for a cushioned daily trainer.
That Fresh Foam X lineup!
Fresh Foam X is meant to last longer and doesn’t give the same bounce as the Fuel Cell foam from New Balance. It is a fantastic foam, and in my opinion a perfect choice for everyday training.
The reason why I like the New Balance 1080 v12 over the New Balance More v3 is that I like the responsiveness that emerges with less foam. And this is the best thing behind the Fresh Foam X line from New Balance.
If you want a soft experience, then the New Balance More v3 is the way to go. You will have a hard time finding something as soft.
If you want a soft but more versatile experience, then the New Balance 1080 v12 is right option, and if you are looking for a lower weight and a faster pace, then the New Balance Tempo v4 is your ideal shoe. All within the New Balance Fresh Foam X lineup and made to last.
For my everyday usage, the New Balance 1080 v12 hits the spot. And I am not scared to recommend it to every neutral runner out there.
Didn't you find your favorite?
See our entire collection of running shoes here:
