At Flawless Shoe Reviews, we often get asked: What’s the difference between the Rebel v5 and the 1080 v14? Both are top-tier neutral running shoes from New Balance, but they’re designed for very different purposes—especially when it comes to running performance vs. day-to-day comfort.
Let’s break down how they compare in terms of cushioning, stability, upper fit, and best use.
Midsole & Cushioning: PEBA vs Fresh Foam X
Rebel v5
- Midsole: EVA/PEBA blend (approx. 80% EVA, 20% PEBA)
- Stack Height: 35 mm heel / 29 mm forefoot
- Drop: 6 mm
- Feel: Light, responsive, and explosive
The Rebel v5 uses a lightweight PEBA-infused foam, similar to what you’d see in racing shoes. This gives it a springy and fast feel, ideal for speed work or race-day performance.
1080 v14
- Midsole: Fresh Foam X
- Stack Height: 38 mm heel / 32 mm forefoot
- Drop: 6 mm
- Feel: Plush, soft, and cloud-like
In contrast, the 1080 v14 focuses on comfort. The Fresh Foam X midsole offers a more cushioned experience, great for walking, long days on your feet, or recovery runs.
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Stability & Base of Support
While both models are neutral shoes, they include subtle stability elements:
- Both shoes feature sidewalls on the medial and lateral sides.
- The 1080 v14 has a broader base and more sidewall support for those who need a little more structure.
- The Rebel v5 still feels stable underfoot, especially through the midfoot, but it’s less structured overall—more tuned for fast turnover.
Running Experience: Speed vs Comfort
- The Rebel v5 is ideal for:
- 5K to half marathon distances
- Uptempo workouts, strides, daily training
- Runners who like a snappy, responsive ride
- The 1080 v14 is better suited for:
- Walking, standing all day, and lifestyle wear
- Recovery runs or easy efforts
- Runners who prefer plush cushioning over speed
Despite their shared drop (6mm), the geometry is very different:
- The Rebel v5 has an aggressive toe spring and firmer ride for quicker transitions.
- The 1080 v14 offers a more gradual, plush ride and is not built for speed.
Weight & Upper Fit
Rebel v5
- Weight: ~225g (US men’s size 9)
- Upper: Thin engineered mesh
- Fit: Wide toe box, snug midfoot/heel for lockdown
- Tongue: Thin, gusseted
- Heel: Flexible, minimal padding
1080 v14
- Weight: ~298g (US men’s size 9)
- Upper: Plush engineered mesh, thicker for warmth
- Fit: Wider overall, available in wide and extra-wide
- Tongue: Thick and gusseted
- Heel: More padding, firmer heel counter
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Final Verdict: Which Should You Choose?
✅ Choose the Rebel v5 if:
- You want a lightweight, fast, and responsive shoe
- You’re training for races or want to run uptempo
- You enjoy a roomy toe box and flexible ride
✅ Choose the 1080 v14 if:
- You prioritise comfort, softness, and underfoot cushioning
- You want a shoe for walking, standing, or daily wear
- You’re doing easy running or recovery sessions
Alternative options for the Rebel V5 include the Hoka Mach 6 and the Brooks Hyperion 3 while the Brooks Glycerin Max and the Hoka Clifton 10 are excellent alternatives to the 1080 v14.
