Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe for Men - Ultra-Cushioned Ride
Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe for Men - Ultra-Cushioned Ride
Price subject to change. Tap below for current.
Couldn't load pickup availability
Our review of the Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe for men finds it best suited to runners and active walkers who want a plush, forgiving ride without a bulky feel. The standout is the Fresh Foam midsole, engineered with approximately 3% bio-based content to deliver soft cushioning while trimming environmental impact. Reviewers repeatedly highlight the comfortable fit and supportive arch, making this a practical daily trainer for pavement miles, gym sessions, and errands where comfort and underfoot protection matter most.
Key Features
- Fresh Foam midsole: Provides an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride that softens impact on joints for longer sessions.
- Bio-based content: About 3% of the midsole is made from renewable resources, reducing carbon footprint without sacrificing performance.
- Precision-engineered knit upper: Delivers maximum comfort and targeted ventilation where breathability is needed most.
- No-sew construction: Creates a sleek, irritation-free fit that minimizes hotspots during runs or all-day wear.
- Integrated rubber outsole: Enhances underfoot comfort and durability for consistent traction on road surfaces.
- Approximate 8 mm drop: A 98 mm heel-to-toe measurement gives a balanced feel; manufacturing variances mean the drop is approximate.
Who It's For
The Fresh Foam 680 V8 is aimed at men seeking a comfortable daily trainer with emphasis on cushioning and foot support. It suits road runners who value a soft midsole, gym-goers needing a versatile shoe for light workouts, and anyone who spends long stretches on their feet and wants generous arch support.
Runners looking for a very narrow racing shoe, highly technical trail traction, or maximalist stability for severe overpronation should look elsewhere; this model focuses on comfort, breathability, and a balanced underfoot feel rather than race-day speed or heavy-duty motion control.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Comfortable, forgiving cushioning that reduces joint stress on pavement miles.
- Breathable knit upper and no-sew construction improve overall fit and reduce irritation.
- Good arch support and perceived value for the price point.
Cons
- Fit can run narrow for some customers, so those needing wider widths may find it tight.
- Durability reports are mixed; a few users noted variable longevity under heavy use.
Specifications
| Brand | New Balance |
| Model | Fresh Foam 680 V8 |
| Target | Men's running shoe |
| Midsole | Fresh Foam with ~3% bio-based content |
| Upper | Precision-engineered knit, no-sew construction |
| Outsole | Integrated rubber outsole |
| Heel-to-toe | 98 mm (approx. 8 mm drop) |
Our Verdict
The Fresh Foam 680 V8 is a strong choice for men who prioritize cushioning, comfort, and breathable fit in a daily trainer. It delivers supportive arch comfort and soft underfoot feel at a sensible price, making it good value for runners and active users who want a forgiving shoe for road use and everyday wear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these shoes good for long runs?
Yes, the Fresh Foam midsole offers plush cushioning that helps on longer road runs, though very aggressive marathon paces may benefit from lighter race shoes.
Do they run true to size?
Most customers find the length true to size, but width can feel narrow for some, so consider trying a wider size if you have a broader foot.
How eco-friendly is the midsole?
The midsole includes approximately 3% bio-based content made from renewable resources, which modestly reduces the carbon footprint compared with fully petroleum-derived foam.
Editor's Take
The Fresh Foam 680 V8 is a comfortable, well-cushioned men's daily trainer that offers good arch support and breathable knit fit, making it strong value for road runners and active users.

Recently viewed
Recently viewed products will appear here as customers browse the store.