9
/10
BEST FOR MAX CUSHION & ACCOMMODATING WIDE FEET
9
/10
BEST FOR MAX CUSHION & ACCOMMODATING WIDE FEET
Last Updated:
Jun 30, 2025
Cloud-Like Cushion, For Every Foot – New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13
Experience Maximum Comfort and an Accommodating Fit, Whatever Your Width or Destination Demands
If long travel days frequently leave your feet aching and pleading for relief, or if you consistently struggle to find truly comfortable shoes in wider sizes that don't compromise on performance, the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 might just be the game-changing footwear you've been eagerly searching for. This max-cushion road running shoe has become a beloved and highly recommended favorite among discerning digital nomads, dedicated long-distance runners, and avid urban explorers alike, primarily for its exceptionally plush ride and its genuinely inclusive fit options that cater to a remarkably wide range of foot shapes. Our in-depth review explores if its legendary comfort and renowned versatility translate into the perfect travel companion for your demanding journeys and daily adventures.
☁️
Cushioning
9.5
The luxuriously plush Fresh Foam X midsole delivers exceptional, top-tier shock absorption and a remarkably soft underfoot feel, ideal for extended wear.
🦶
Wide Fit Comfort
9.5
A standout feature: widely available in multiple widths including Standard (D), Wide (2E), and Extra-Wide (4E), ensuring a comfortable, non-constricting, and truly personalized fit for almost any foot.
🔄
Versatility
9
Superbly transitions from being a dedicated, high-mileage daily running shoe for your morning workouts to an outstandingly comfortable all-day walker for extensive urban travel and tireless sightseeing.
👟
Smooth Ride
8.5
The noticeable rocker geometry integrated into the sole's design promotes exceptionally smooth, fluid, and efficient heel-to-toe transitions, making both running and walking feel noticeably easier and less strenuous.
Perfect For
☁️
Digital Nomads
🦶
Long-Distance Walkers
🔄
Wide Feet Travelers
👟
Urban Comfort
🚶
Vacation Runs
Quality & Comfort
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 is meticulously engineered with one primary goal: to provide a supremely cushioned and exceptionally comfortable underfoot experience from the first step. The Fresh Foam X midsole – New Balance's softest and most advanced iteration of their premier cushioning technology – is immediately noticeable for its plushness and its remarkable ability to absorb impact effectively, whether you're pounding unforgiving city pavements for 20,000 steps a day or heading out for a gentle recovery run. This maximalist level of cushioning is a principal reason why it receives such consistent and high praise from digital nomads and long-distance walkers who spend countless hours on their feet in diverse environments. However, what truly sets the 1080 v13 apart for a significant portion of travelers and runners is its exceptional availability in multiple widths: Standard (D), Wide (2E), and, crucially for many, Extra-Wide (4E) for men (with comparable and equally accommodating width options typically available for women's models). This makes it one of the most accessible and genuinely comfortable high-cushion shoes on the market, ensuring that individuals with broader or higher-volume feet no longer have to compromise on fit or suffer through the discomfort of ill-fitting footwear. Our own testers with EEEE width feet declared these a "revelation" for travel comfort, easily handling long days exploring cities like Tokyo and Kyoto without any pressure points. The engineered Hypoknit upper further contributes to the overall comfort package, providing a soft, highly breathable, and somewhat adaptive sock-like fit that works in perfect harmony with the plush underfoot sensation, effectively minimizing potential irritation points and hot spots during extended wear.
Durability
The 1080 v13 is robustly constructed as a durable daily training shoe designed to handle significant mileage for runners, and this inherent resilience generally translates very well to the varied demands and stresses of travel. The Fresh Foam X midsole compound is specifically engineered not only for its exceptional softness and responsiveness but also to maintain its cushioning properties and structural integrity over many hundreds of miles, resisting the common "packing out" or premature compression that can plague lesser quality EVA foams over time. The NDurance rubber outsole is strategically placed in high-wear areas, such as the heel and forefoot, to significantly enhance the shoe's overall lifespan and provide reliable, long-lasting traction on roads, sidewalks, and other hard urban surfaces. While the advanced Hypoknit upper is primarily designed for optimal comfort, breathability, and an adaptive fit, it is also quite resilient for its intended use as a road running and versatile walking shoe. Extremely rough or highly abrasive off-road conditions (which are not typical for its primary road and urban environment focus) could, of course, challenge the upper more than they would a dedicated, rugged trail shoe. However, for its main purpose as a highly cushioned road running shoe and an exceptionally comfortable all-day walker, users can confidently expect good durability and a satisfyingly long service life from the 1080 v13.
Packability
As a shoe built with a maximalist cushioning philosophy, the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 is, by its nature, not the most ultralight or highly compressible option if your packing strategy rigorously demands absolute minimalism and every single cubic inch of luggage space is critically accounted for. It is inherently bulkier and carries more weight than true minimalist travel shoes or even some standard lightweight daily trainers – this is a direct and expected trade-off for its exceptional and generous level of underfoot cushioning. However, its significant value in terms of packing efficiency comes from its impressive versatility. If you consistently plan to maintain a running routine during your travels and also require a supremely comfortable shoe for extensive periods of walking and sightseeing, the 1080 v13 can effectively and admirably serve both purposes. This multi-role capability can thereby potentially reduce the need to pack an entirely separate, dedicated pair of running shoes, which in turn can save valuable space and weight in your luggage. For many travelers who prioritize its exceptional cushioning, smooth ride, and critically accommodating fit above all other factors, the most practical approach is often to wear the 1080 v13 during transit days, thus maximizing their available packing space for other essential travel items.
Functionality
Functionally, the Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 is meticulously designed and engineered to provide maximum underfoot comfort and promote an exceptionally smooth, efficient ride for neutral runners and walkers alike. The prominent rocker geometry of the shoe's sole is a key functional element, thoughtfully incorporated to facilitate fluid and almost effortless heel-to-toe transitions, which makes both running and walking feel less strenuous and more naturally propulsive. Its primary and most valued function for travelers is to deliver outstanding, long-lasting cushioning that effectively mitigates foot fatigue during extensive days spent on foot, particularly when navigating hard and unforgiving urban surfaces like concrete sidewalks, cobblestone streets, and endless museum floors. The comprehensive availability of multiple width options is a crucial and highly significant functional benefit for a substantial portion of the population, ensuring not only a comfortable fit but also proper foot alignment and the prevention of common discomforts and issues often caused by shoes that are too narrow or ill-fitting. It performs with distinction as a dedicated daily running shoe, a comfortable recovery run option for tired legs, and an outstanding all-day walking shoe for individuals who appreciate, prefer, or medically require a soft, highly protective, and exceptionally forgiving underfoot experience.
Value
Priced typically around $160-$165, the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 resides comfortably within the premium cushioned running shoe category. Its value proposition is particularly compelling and notably high for travelers who specifically require or prefer wide (2E) or extra-wide (4E) fits, as comfortable, high-performance footwear options in these often-underserved sizes can be surprisingly limited across the market. The potent combination of maximalist Fresh Foam X cushioning, a remarkably smooth and efficient ride, and highly versatile performance suitable for both dedicated running and all-day walking further solidifies its value for individuals seeking a single, highly comfortable shoe capable of adeptly covering multiple activities during their travels. If plush underfoot comfort, an accommodating and inclusive fit that caters to a variety of foot shapes, and a reliably smooth, protective ride are your foremost priorities in a travel and daily running shoe, the 1080 v13 offers a cloud-like experience that represents a very worthwhile and satisfying investment for your journeys.
The 1080s are amazing for travel. Super comfortable for walking all day and great for runs. Plus, the wide sizes are a lifesaver for my EEEE feet!
Digital Nomad Forum User (User Sentiment from Freaking Nomads Digital Nomad Recommendations14 & Reddit r/Newbalance travel discussions23)
Did You Know?
Fresh Foam X is New Balance's premier cushioning technology, created using data-to-design principles, where pressure mapping data from real runners informs the midsole's geometric shaping for optimal softness and energy return.
Quick Verdict
✕
Performance Scores
Smooth Ride
8.5
Versatility
9
Comfort (Fit)
9.5
Cushioning
9.5
Cushioning
9.5
Comfort (Fit for Wide Feet)
9.5
Versatility (Run/Walk/Travel)
9
Smooth Ride
8.5
The VOYAGER ULTRALIGHT transitions seamlessly from trail to terminal
The VOYAGER ULTRALIGHT transitions seamlessly from trail to terminal
Performance Analysis
Pros and Cons
Pros
✓
Maximum Fresh Foam X cushioning delivers a plush, soft, and highly protective comfort experience underfoot.
✓
Available in multiple widths, including Standard (D), Wide (2E), and Extra-Wide (4E) for men, ensuring an accommodating and comfortable fit for diverse foot shapes.
✓
A prominent rocker profile design in the sole promotes smooth, efficient, and less strenuous heel-to-toe transitions during both walking and running.
✓
100% waterproof knit (no coating)
Cons
x
Heavier than minimalist footwear or more lightweight travel-specific shoes, reflecting its max-cushion build.
x
Breathability of the Hypoknit upper is generally good but may not be the absolute coolest option for extremely hot and humid conditions.
x
Some individuals who prefer a very firm ride or maximum direct ground feel might find its highly cushioned nature too soft or insulating.
x
The athletic styling, while modern and appealing to many, might not be as universally versatile for all types of travel wardrobes as a more classic or understated sneaker.
Final Verdict
9
Plush
Max Cushion, Wide Fit, All-Day Comfort for Every Foot.
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 is a top-tier choice for travelers who demand maximum cushioning and an accommodating fit, especially those with wider feet who often struggle to find comfortable performance footwear. Its luxuriously plush Fresh Foam X midsole delivers exceptional comfort and shock absorption for long days of urban exploration or for maintaining your running routine while on the road. The availability of multiple widths (up to 4E for men) ensures a truly personalized and comfortable fit that enhances overall foot health and performance.
While bulkier than minimalist options, its versatility as both a highly capable running shoe and an outstanding all-day walker makes it a valuable asset for many travelers seeking ultimate underfoot protection. If you prioritize a soft, forgiving ride, need options beyond standard width, and want a shoe that feels like a cloud underfoot no matter how many miles you cover, the 1080 v13 offers a supremely comfortable and reliable experience for all your journeys.
SHOP NOW
Compare Alternatives
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13
$164.99
Fresh Foam X Midsole
Multiple Width Options (D, 2E, 4E)
Engineered Hypoknit Upper
SHOP NOW
We may earn a commission when you purchase through our links, at no additional cost to you.
You Might Also Like
Max Cushion Versatility
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13
Experience Maximum Comfort and an Accommodating Fit, Whatever Your Width or Destination Demands
9
SCORE
Max Cushion, Wide Fit, All-Day Comfort for Every Foot.
Last Updated:
Jun 30, 2025
If long travel days frequently leave your feet aching and pleading for relief, or if you consistently struggle to find truly comfortable shoes in wider sizes that don't compromise on performance, the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 might just be the game-changing footwear you've been eagerly searching for. This max-cushion road running shoe has become a beloved and highly recommended favorite among discerning digital nomads, dedicated long-distance runners, and avid urban explorers alike, primarily for its exceptionally plush ride and its genuinely inclusive fit options that cater to a remarkably wide range of foot shapes. Our in-depth review explores if its legendary comfort and renowned versatility translate into the perfect travel companion for your demanding journeys and daily adventures.
✓
Strengths
Maximum Fresh Foam X cushioning delivers a plush, soft, and highly protective comfort experience underfoot.
Available in multiple widths, including Standard (D), Wide (2E), and Extra-Wide (4E) for men, ensuring an accommodating and comfortable fit for diverse foot shapes.
A prominent rocker profile design in the sole promotes smooth, efficient, and less strenuous heel-to-toe transitions during both walking and running.
Highly versatile, excelling as both a dedicated daily running shoe and an exceptionally comfortable all-day walker for urban travel and sightseeing.
X
Consider
Heavier than minimalist footwear or more lightweight travel-specific shoes, reflecting its max-cushion build.
Breathability of the Hypoknit upper is generally good but may not be the absolute coolest option for extremely hot and humid conditions.
Some individuals who prefer a very firm ride or maximum direct ground feel might find its highly cushioned nature too soft or insulating.
The athletic styling, while modern and appealing to many, might not be as universally versatile for all types of travel wardrobes as a more classic or understated sneaker.
View Current Price
Compare
☁️
Cushioning
9.5
🦶
Comfort (Fit for Wide Feet)
9.5
🔄
Versatility (Run/Walk/Travel)
9
👟
Smooth Ride
8.5
🌧️
Weather
9.2
Performance
☁️
Digital Nomads
🦶
Long-Distance Walkers
🔄
Wide Feet Travelers
👟
Urban Comfort
🚶
Vacation Runs
Perfect For
Quality & Comfort
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 is meticulously engineered with one primary goal: to provide a supremely cushioned and exceptionally comfortable underfoot experience from the first step. The Fresh Foam X midsole – New Balance's softest and most advanced iteration of their premier cushioning technology – is immediately noticeable for its plushness and its remarkable ability to absorb impact effectively, whether you're pounding unforgiving city pavements for 20,000 steps a day or heading out for a gentle recovery run. This maximalist level of cushioning is a principal reason why it receives such consistent and high praise from digital nomads and long-distance walkers who spend countless hours on their feet in diverse environments. However, what truly sets the 1080 v13 apart for a significant portion of travelers and runners is its exceptional availability in multiple widths: Standard (D), Wide (2E), and, crucially for many, Extra-Wide (4E) for men (with comparable and equally accommodating width options typically available for women's models). This makes it one of the most accessible and genuinely comfortable high-cushion shoes on the market, ensuring that individuals with broader or higher-volume feet no longer have to compromise on fit or suffer through the discomfort of ill-fitting footwear. Our own testers with EEEE width feet declared these a "revelation" for travel comfort, easily handling long days exploring cities like Tokyo and Kyoto without any pressure points. The engineered Hypoknit upper further contributes to the overall comfort package, providing a soft, highly breathable, and somewhat adaptive sock-like fit that works in perfect harmony with the plush underfoot sensation, effectively minimizing potential irritation points and hot spots during extended wear.
Durability
The 1080 v13 is robustly constructed as a durable daily training shoe designed to handle significant mileage for runners, and this inherent resilience generally translates very well to the varied demands and stresses of travel. The Fresh Foam X midsole compound is specifically engineered not only for its exceptional softness and responsiveness but also to maintain its cushioning properties and structural integrity over many hundreds of miles, resisting the common "packing out" or premature compression that can plague lesser quality EVA foams over time. The NDurance rubber outsole is strategically placed in high-wear areas, such as the heel and forefoot, to significantly enhance the shoe's overall lifespan and provide reliable, long-lasting traction on roads, sidewalks, and other hard urban surfaces. While the advanced Hypoknit upper is primarily designed for optimal comfort, breathability, and an adaptive fit, it is also quite resilient for its intended use as a road running and versatile walking shoe. Extremely rough or highly abrasive off-road conditions (which are not typical for its primary road and urban environment focus) could, of course, challenge the upper more than they would a dedicated, rugged trail shoe. However, for its main purpose as a highly cushioned road running shoe and an exceptionally comfortable all-day walker, users can confidently expect good durability and a satisfyingly long service life from the 1080 v13.
Packability
As a shoe built with a maximalist cushioning philosophy, the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 is, by its nature, not the most ultralight or highly compressible option if your packing strategy rigorously demands absolute minimalism and every single cubic inch of luggage space is critically accounted for. It is inherently bulkier and carries more weight than true minimalist travel shoes or even some standard lightweight daily trainers – this is a direct and expected trade-off for its exceptional and generous level of underfoot cushioning. However, its significant value in terms of packing efficiency comes from its impressive versatility. If you consistently plan to maintain a running routine during your travels and also require a supremely comfortable shoe for extensive periods of walking and sightseeing, the 1080 v13 can effectively and admirably serve both purposes. This multi-role capability can thereby potentially reduce the need to pack an entirely separate, dedicated pair of running shoes, which in turn can save valuable space and weight in your luggage. For many travelers who prioritize its exceptional cushioning, smooth ride, and critically accommodating fit above all other factors, the most practical approach is often to wear the 1080 v13 during transit days, thus maximizing their available packing space for other essential travel items.
Functionality
Functionally, the Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 is meticulously designed and engineered to provide maximum underfoot comfort and promote an exceptionally smooth, efficient ride for neutral runners and walkers alike. The prominent rocker geometry of the shoe's sole is a key functional element, thoughtfully incorporated to facilitate fluid and almost effortless heel-to-toe transitions, which makes both running and walking feel less strenuous and more naturally propulsive. Its primary and most valued function for travelers is to deliver outstanding, long-lasting cushioning that effectively mitigates foot fatigue during extensive days spent on foot, particularly when navigating hard and unforgiving urban surfaces like concrete sidewalks, cobblestone streets, and endless museum floors. The comprehensive availability of multiple width options is a crucial and highly significant functional benefit for a substantial portion of the population, ensuring not only a comfortable fit but also proper foot alignment and the prevention of common discomforts and issues often caused by shoes that are too narrow or ill-fitting. It performs with distinction as a dedicated daily running shoe, a comfortable recovery run option for tired legs, and an outstanding all-day walking shoe for individuals who appreciate, prefer, or medically require a soft, highly protective, and exceptionally forgiving underfoot experience.
Value
Priced typically around $160-$165, the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 resides comfortably within the premium cushioned running shoe category. Its value proposition is particularly compelling and notably high for travelers who specifically require or prefer wide (2E) or extra-wide (4E) fits, as comfortable, high-performance footwear options in these often-underserved sizes can be surprisingly limited across the market. The potent combination of maximalist Fresh Foam X cushioning, a remarkably smooth and efficient ride, and highly versatile performance suitable for both dedicated running and all-day walking further solidifies its value for individuals seeking a single, highly comfortable shoe capable of adeptly covering multiple activities during their travels. If plush underfoot comfort, an accommodating and inclusive fit that caters to a variety of foot shapes, and a reliably smooth, protective ride are your foremost priorities in a travel and daily running shoe, the 1080 v13 offers a cloud-like experience that represents a very worthwhile and satisfying investment for your journeys.
The 1080s are amazing for travel. Super comfortable for walking all day and great for runs. Plus, the wide sizes are a lifesaver for my EEEE feet!
Digital Nomad Forum User (User Sentiment from Freaking Nomads Digital Nomad Recommendations14 & Reddit r/Newbalance travel discussions23)
Plush
Max Cushion, Wide Fit, All-Day Comfort for Every Foot.
8.8
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 is a top-tier choice for travelers who demand maximum cushioning and an accommodating fit, especially those with wider feet who often struggle to find comfortable performance footwear. Its luxuriously plush Fresh Foam X midsole delivers exceptional comfort and shock absorption for long days of urban exploration or for maintaining your running routine while on the road. The availability of multiple widths (up to 4E for men) ensures a truly personalized and comfortable fit that enhances overall foot health and performance.
While bulkier than minimalist options, its versatility as both a highly capable running shoe and an outstanding all-day walker makes it a valuable asset for many travelers seeking ultimate underfoot protection. If you prioritize a soft, forgiving ride, need options beyond standard width, and want a shoe that feels like a cloud underfoot no matter how many miles you cover, the 1080 v13 offers a supremely comfortable and reliable experience for all your journeys.
SHOP NOW
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13
$149
✓
Fresh Foam X Midsole
✓
Multiple Width Options (D, 2E, 4E)
✓
Engineered Hypoknit Upper
SHOP NOW
We may earn a commission when you purchase through our links, at no additional cost to you.
About The Author
Shaun
Travel Gear Editor
Shaun's recommendations stem from direct experience traveling 24 countries and living across 4 continents (currently based in Canada after years in the UK and Australia). Witnessing the gap between marketing claims and actual performance, he created this platform dedicated to unbiased, experience-driven gear reviews you can trust, free from paid promotions.
"From UK cobblestones to Aussie beaches and Canadian winters – living across continents teaches you what travel gear really needs to endure. That's the standard here."
📍
🇨🇦
Currently Based
🏠
🇬🇧
Hometown Country
🕒
7+
Years Travelling
🌎
25+
Countries Visited
Shaun's recommendations stem from direct experience traveling 24 countries and living across 4 continents (currently based in Canada after years in the UK and Australia). Witnessing the gap between marketing claims and actual performance, he created this platform dedicated to unbiased, experience-driven gear reviews you can trust, free from paid promotions.
"From UK cobblestones to Aussie beaches and Canadian winters – living across continents teaches you what travel gear really needs to endure. That's the standard here."
📍
🇨🇦
Currently Based
🏠
🇬🇧
Hometown Country
🕒
7+
Years Travelling
🌎
25+
Countries Visited
About The Author
Shaun
Travel Gear Editor
About The Author
Shaun
Travel Gear Editor
Shaun's recommendations stem from direct experience traveling 24 countries and living across 4 continents (currently based in Canada after years in the UK and Australia). Witnessing the gap between marketing claims and actual performance, he created this platform dedicated to unbiased, experience-driven gear reviews you can trust, free from paid promotions.
"From UK cobblestones to Aussie beaches and Canadian winters – living across continents teaches you what travel gear really needs to endure. That's the standard here."
📍
🇨🇦
Currently Based
🏠
🇬🇧
Hometown Country
🕒
7+
Years Travelling
🌎
25+
Countries Visited