New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 Running vs Nike Women's Run Swift 3 Road Running Shoes,
Updated August 2026 — New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 Running wins on comfort and cushioning, Nike Women's Run Swift 3 Road Running Shoes, wins on value.
The New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 offers superior cushioning and advanced features, making it the better choice for serious runners. However, the Nike Women's Run Swift 3 is a more budget-friendly option.
Why New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 Running is better
Cushioning
New Balance has superior Fresh Foam X technology.
Versatility
New Balance is suitable for both daily wear and racing.
Sales Rank
New Balance has a slightly better sales rank.
Why Nike Women's Run Swift 3 Road Running Shoes, is better
Price
Nike is significantly cheaper at $85.00.
Weight
Nike is likely lighter and more comfortable for casual use.
Design
Nike offers a more vibrant and eye-catching style.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 Running | Nike Women's Run Swift 3 Road Running Shoes, |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | New Balance | Nike |
| Current Price | $129.99 | $85.00 |
| Cushioning Tech | Fresh Foam X | Foam |
| Weight | N/A | N/A |
| Sales Rank | 1578 | 1650 |
Dimension comparison
Price Comparison
When it comes to pricing, the Nike Women's Run Swift 3 is about 34% cheaper than the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 1080 V14, priced at $85.00 compared to $129.99. This significant difference makes the Nike model a more budget-friendly option for runners looking to save money while still enjoying a quality product. While the New Balance offers advanced features and a focus on comfort, the lower price point of the Nike shoe may appeal to casual runners or those looking for a reliable everyday shoe without breaking the bank.
Comfort and Cushioning
In terms of comfort, the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 excels with its Fresh Foam X midsole, designed to provide superior cushioning for an incredible running experience. This shoe focuses on delivering a smooth transition from landing to push-off, which can enhance performance for both everyday and race-day runners. In contrast, the Nike Women's Run Swift 3 features foam cushioning that offers a plush feel with every step, although it may not match the advanced cushioning technology of the New Balance. Thus, for dedicated runners prioritizing maximum comfort during long runs, the New Balance may be the better choice.
Support and Stability
Support and stability are crucial elements in running shoes, and both models offer unique features. The New Balance shoe includes a gusseted tongue to keep debris out, along with a no-sew overlay for a sleek fit. On the other hand, the Nike model incorporates Flywire cables that help secure the foot when tightening the laces, ensuring stability during runs. While both shoes provide adequate support, the Nike's Flywire technology may offer a more personalized fit, making it particularly appealing for runners who need additional foot security during their activities.
Design and Aesthetics
When it comes to design, personal preference plays a significant role. The New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 presents a sleek and modern look with its Black/Phantom/Sea Salt color scheme, which can easily match various athletic outfits. Conversely, the Nike Women's Run Swift 3 showcases a more vibrant style with its White/Black-Pearl Pink-Peony combination, appealing to those who prefer a more eye-catching appearance. Ultimately, the choice between these two designs will depend on the runner's style and color preferences.
Versatility
The New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 is marketed as a versatile running shoe suitable for both daily wear and competitive racing, making it an excellent option for runners who participate in different types of running activities. The Nike Women's Run Swift 3, while also a capable running shoe, is better defined as a road running option, which may limit its versatility. For runners who enjoy mixing their running routine with casual wear, the New Balance may provide a more adaptable solution.
Weight and Performance
While specific weights are not provided, the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 is designed for smooth transitions and a soft, premium upper, which can enhance overall performance during runs. The Nike Women's Run Swift 3, with its foam cushioning and stability features, is tailored for a comfortable running experience but may not match the advanced performance attributes of the New Balance. Runners looking for a lightweight shoe focused on speed and efficiency might lean towards the New Balance, while those prioritizing comfort may find the Nike suitable for their needs.
Sales Rank and Popularity
Both shoes have respectable sales ranks, with the Nike Women's Run Swift 3 holding a bestseller rank of 1650 and the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 slightly higher at 1578. This indicates that both models are popular among consumers, but the New Balance has a slight edge in terms of sales performance. A higher sales rank often suggests greater customer satisfaction, which may influence potential buyers when deciding between the two.
Which should you buy?
Choosing between the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 and the Nike Women's Run Swift 3 ultimately depends on your specific running needs and budget. If superior cushioning and advanced technology are your priorities, the New Balance is the clear choice, albeit at a higher price of $129.99. Conversely, if you are looking for a more economical option, the Nike model at $85.00 delivers comfort and style without compromising too much on performance. Consider your running habits, aesthetic preferences, and budget to make the best choice for your needs.

