Sigh. I've used New Balance's 1060 Series for years now... had the 1062, 1063, and 1064. All were excellent shoes, good for a big guy (me), very neutral with great shock absorption and terrific fit.
And they came in widths, and were made in the USA. What's not to love?
But apparently, New Balance never heard the motto, "If ain't broke, don't fix it." The 1080, which replaces the 1060 Series, is frankly a very significant downgrade.
The fit's mostly the same, but the formerly awesome shock absorption is now just 'okay', and they don't seem to be nearly as neutral, especially once they've experienced some wear (and yes, I do replace my shoes every few months). In short, they 'feel weird', and markedly inferior to the shoes they replaced.
Funny thing too... I've mentioned this hard left-turn by New Balance to a couple of shoe store managers. The first insisted that there was nothing materially different about the 1080s than the 1060 Series, but the second admitted rather sheepishly that they were a significantly different (and worse) shoe, and she speculated that perhaps the changes were made to cut production costs.
Whatever the reason, it's very sad. New Balance had the perfect shoe, and they killed it.
They've also done what I thought wasn't possible... they've driven me back to Nike. =[
Make a 1065, and make it right, and we'll talk, NB.
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I purchased these shoes right when they came out, and my initial thought was that... New Balance did it again! I thought they had made another lighter more cush nuetral to replace the previous model. That lasted about a month. Yes, the shoe is still fits nice, but like another one of the commentors that gave two stars to this shoe stated: the shoe has a problem where it tilts your feet outwards. I havent had any issues with leg pain or injuries, but it really is annoying and I fear I might develop some issues. I'm due for a new pair of running shoes, but I will most likely try and find another pair of 1064's. Its a shame because I liked the silver and gray color scheme too. Hope the 1081's will be better.
**Update**
I found a replacement. The Brooks Glycerine 9. It's everything that I wanted the 1080 to be. Make sure you at least try these out if you are looking for a neutral plus running shoe.
Best Deals on New Balance Men's MR1080 Cushioned Running Shoe
I'm no small runner, coming in at just under 210 lbs plus I use orthotics and have a wide foot. All that said, I can't just toss on any pair of running shoes and go. These provide excellent heel cushion, but more importantly excellent midfoot cushion (where my step lands). Compared to the MR769's I just retired, these feel like they will stand the test of time better while still providing a soft ride.
For those of your using orthotic inserts, these accomodate Powerstep Pinnacle Maxx inserts with no problem or over-correction.
Honest reviews on New Balance Men's MR1080 Cushioned Running Shoe
I've been a diehard New Balance wearer. I specifically used all the 1060's series, and always hesitated to move to the new model. I sat here thinking 1064 or 1080. I found the 1080 for a steal, and thought let's go for it. If I only went with my gut instead of my wallet. This is not the shoe I expected. I thought same shoe, just minor improvements, but no. Something is totally different about these shoes. After long runs, hips, knee, and feet felt different. The hips were fatigued more, my right knee totally out of whack, and just a completely different foot strike. I might be crazy or over thinking it, but something is just not right. Threw on the worn NB 1064, headed out for an 8 miler, and not one pain, not one issue with the knee, not one issue with my hips, and not one issue with my foot strike. Sorry NB, but you missed out big time on this improvement. I hope I can stock up on 1064s. If you are a NB 1060 person, please refrain from buying the 1064 in a size 10 2EE, I need them and fear they will be gone forever.
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Although the size 11-D is the same as all my previous New Balance shoes this model is a useless for me because there is no room upfront. Snug toe box. The insole is permanent so an orthotic cannot be inserted.
