© Provided by Runner's World UKLong runs, short runs, fast stuff, relaxed stuff - the New Balance 1080 V11 has it all down. Here's what we thought of the running shoe.
- Weight 263g (M) 229g (W)
- Heel-To-Toe-Drop: 8mm
- Type: road/neutral
- Price: £135
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Buy now - women's
RW summary
Long runs, short runs, fast stuff, relaxed stuff - this has it all down.
© newbalance.co.ukFresh Foam 1080v11
£135.00
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The 1080 is one of New Balance's best-selling shoes. It's a premium quality neutral cushioned shoe and, while once it was suitable only for long slow runs, the evolution of technology and overall lowering of shoe weights means it is now much more adaptable and has given many runners a lot of joy over everything from 5K races to marathons.
Anything new?
Version 11 has been changed very little, with just two small tweaks: the upper has a new laser pattern and has been made a tad stretchier to allow better freedom of movement. And the heel counter has been reduced in overall dimensions to try and cut down on any Achilles rubbing - but again, the change is minimal.
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Slim pickings
It's a shoe that is particularly suited to narrow footed runners. That's not to say those of a standard width won't get on to it but they'll find it on the performance-y side rather than having enough wriggle room for any significant foot swelling. Happily, though, New Balance is one of the few brands that still offers multiple widths in many of its shoes, including this one, so you can find the fit that works for you.
Stand out cushioning
This has always been, and remains, a supremely cushioned shoe, and NB has refined the feature again and again over time, mostly by reducing weight while not losing any of the gorgeous bounce ad plushness.
Great value
It might sound odd to say that of a shoe that costs £135, but in consideration of where the market is at these days, with shoes going up to as much as £250 in some cases, it's increasingly difficult to find a truly reliable and genuinely versatile shoe such as this for under £120. This is why we say that those who are looking for value for money may consider investing in a pair of these as the durability is also very impressive. The outsole rubber won't be falling off any time soon.
Conclusion
Unless you have very specific requirements this will more than cover most of your training needs.
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