I've worn these shoes for about one month now, and I like them.  I have been transitioning my running form from heel striker to mid-foot striker over the past 12 months.  I previously ran with the New Balance 860 series (and 760 before that), which were "stability" shoes.  The 1080 have somewhat less cushioning in the heel area.  This seems to make the 1080 lighter and flatter, which is better-suited for a mid-foot strike.

However, the 1080 are definitely NOT ultra-light or minimalist running shoes.  Cushioning and support are good and firm all around.  If I was still a heel striker, I would prefer my old favorites (the 860), because they have more cushioning and "bounce" in the heel area.  The 1080 make running with a mid-foot strike easier and more efficient, compared to my old shoe.  But they are not so different that I needed an "adjustment period" before feeling comfortable in the 1080.

As with most New Balance shoes I have worn, the 1080 were comfortable from day one.  The heel is held firmly without tying the shoes too tightly.  The material and construction seem to be of high quality.  I hope New Balance continues with this design for "Version 3."