New Balance 1080 v14 vs Fresh Foam X More v5: Two Max-Cushion Daily Trainers Compared

Introduction

New Balance currently offers two neutral, maximum-cushion, premium daily trainers built on Fresh Foam X: the 1080 v14 and the Fresh Foam X More v5. On the surface they look similar, but they serve noticeably different runners. The 1080 v14 leans toward the traditional neutral trainer experience, while the More v5 adds structure, a higher stack, and a more cradled fit. This comparison breaks down where they differ so you can pick with confidence.

Specs at a Glance

The 1080 v14 weighs 10.4 oz (300 g) in a men’s size 9.5, with a 38 mm heel stack, 32 mm forefoot, and a 6 mm drop. In a women’s size 8 it comes in at 8.3 oz (235 g). It uses Fresh Foam X, a softer and compliant foam that absorbs load well. It is not the most bouncy option, but it is consistent and durable, and it handles plenty of daily miles.

The Fresh Foam X More v5 is a touch heavier: 11 oz (312 g) in a men’s size 9, with a taller 43 mm heel stack, 39 mm forefoot, and a 4 mm drop. The women’s size 8 weighs 9.2 oz (260 g). It shares the same foam family, just with more of it underfoot.

Uppers and Fit

Both uppers are relatively plush with a decently padded heel collar and a heel counter. The key fit difference is the bucket sensation in the More v5. Its higher sidewalls hold and lock the heel, midfoot, and forefoot, creating a cradle effect that also shapes the ride.

In the midfoot, both shoes offer a decently spacious fit that accommodates wider feet. The More v5 runs a little wider in the toe box, while the 1080 v14 is slightly narrower but still on the roomy side.

Ride and Handling

Fresh Foam X feels very similar across both shoes, but the More v5 simply has more foam underfoot. Both use gentle rocker platforms with no plate, and both outsole patterns add a touch of stiffness, producing a gradual rocker with mild structure.

The difference is in guidance. The More v5’s tall sidewalls resist medial and lateral movement, giving runners a more structured experience despite the heavier weight. The 1080 v14 offers gentle sidewall flaring but far less of it, keeping things traditional and neutral. Its generous outsole coverage firms up the foam slightly, so you still get some ground feel.

Both shoes feel secure on foot and are built to log serious mileage, so neither choice is a wrong one.

Which One Should You Pick?

If you want a more structured, guided ride with a wider toe box and you do not mind a little extra weight, the More v5 is the clear pick. Its cradled heel and tall sidewalls make it a stable, protective trainer for long miles.

If you prefer the traditional neutral trainer feel with slightly less stack and drop, the 1080 v14 is the better fit. It is lighter, more classic in its ride, and still delivers plenty of compliant cushioning.

Both options are solid daily trainers that can handle high mileage comfortably, so the decision mostly comes down to how much structure you want around your foot.

Conclusion

The 1080 v14 and Fresh Foam X More v5 share the same foam and the same max-cushion mission, but they split on execution: one traditional and light, the other taller, wider, and more guided. Choose the More v5 for structure and cradle, or the 1080 v14 for a classic neutral ride.