A good unlaced running sneaker is one that possesses key features like exceptional comfort, including good cushioning to support prolonged running and walking. It should have a secure and adjustable fitting and be easy to wear. Also, it should be lightweight and breathable, stable on various terrains, and durable. These features should be crowned with sleek aesthetics since most runners are fashion-conscious.
The big brands have unlaced running shoes, but designing the right fit is always challenging. Notable challenges are too tight or extra roomy toe boxes. However, New Balance has mastered the art of putting enough structure to the upper. It combines this feature with glove-like upper construction. Besides, the stretchy upper material is also New Balance's way of ensuring that unlaced sneakers meet the fitting need of runners.
There are standard features in the New Balance Fresh Foam x 1080 Unlaced sneakers, one of the bestselling unlaced running shoes. The stretchy, non-restrictively supportive upper and the marshmallow fresh foam X midsole makes this shoe desirable for all-day walking and long-distance running.
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 Unlaced Upper Design and Fitting
The upper of New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 Unlaced features a double lightweight, stretchy, breathable engineered knit mesh with supportive elements. The stretchiness makes the upper snugly from heel to toe. The toe box is roomy, with spaces in the right places. It can also accommodate a preferable insert. The slip-on is excellent. I find it easy to wear and get off. Besides, the fitting is true-to-size fitting and consistent.
It is noticeable how the laceless design has simplified the upper and given it a stylish appearance while retaining functional aspects like support and comfort.
The soft inner lining and generous padding keep the foot comfortable. The instep is amazing, courtesy of the generously padded insole, which also complements the soft, cushioned midsole foam. Still, the insole offers moderate arch support.
While the tongue folds when I slip it on, this is not a major issue. My biggest issue is the lack of a wide range of colorways to choose from.
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 Unlaced Midsole Design and Performance
Fresh Foam X 1080 Unlaced has a low stacked newly soft Fresh Foam X midsole foam. It is the same midsole foam in the New Balance Fresh Foam X more 4. The soft midsole is flexible and adaptable to the running surface. The underfoot ride is soft, just like in the Fresh Foam X. Moreover, the low-stacked midsole foam makes the ride exceptionally comfortable.
Using the Fresh Foam X midsole foam makes Fresh Foam X 1080 Unlaced easily a recovery running shoe or for long-distance running at a moderate speed. You will notice that the outsole rubber pads compress to provide rebound. I am using Fresh Foam X for long miles and as a daily walking shoe due to its soft underfoot feel.
Who Should Buy New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 Unlaced
It fits someone who wants to manage pain in the foot. Runners with pain issues have reported that the soft midsole cushioning and less restrictive upper structure of Fresh Foam X 1080 Unlaced relieve pain, especially when they add their preferable inserts.
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 Unlaced also suits a runner who prefers unlaced max cushioned shoes with a low profile, for instance, someone who loves the Fresh Foam X More 4 except for its overly stacked midsole.
It suits someone who wants comfortable unlaced sneakers for all-day walking or as casual wear.
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 Unlaced is also for those looking for comfortable shoes for racking weekly miles without straining. Besides, New Balance has wide sizes for wide-footed runners.
Who Should Not Buy Fresh Foam x 1080 Unlaced?
A runner who doesn't like the lack of laces can opt for the laced version, Fresh Foam X 1080v12.
What to Expect for New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 Unlaced
- Snug fitting
- True to size
- Super comfort
- Premium and sleek appearance
- Supportive and breathable upper
- Roomy toe box
- Underfoot soft ride with a rebound
- Limited colorways
By Kyle Parker
Parker is a gym trainer, runner, and shoe lover who enjoys everything to do with fitness and shoes. He deeply understands the relationship between wearing a good running /training shoes and excellent training. He is also a shoe lover.
