New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V7 Running Shoe - Cushioned Ride Men's

In this review of the New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V7 running shoe the bottom line is simple: this is a daily road-running trainer for men who want plush, lightweight cushioning without excess bulk. The most compelling reason to choose the 680 V7 is its dual-density Fresh Foam midsole, which delivers a responsive but soft ride that makes daily miles feel easier and reduces the fatigue that comes with harder, cheaper soles. The shoe is built with breathable engineered mesh and a no-sew upper for a clean fit, so it performs like a straightforward everyday trainer rather than a specialized racing spike.

Key Features

• Dual-density Fresh Foam midsole: Provides an ultra-cushioned yet lightweight ride that soaks up road impact and keeps longer runs comfortable.
• Engineered mesh upper: Offers breathability and airflow to help feet stay cooler during daily training sessions.
• No-sew construction: Creates a sleek, low-irritation fit with fewer seams to rub during repeated wear.
• Molded insert: Adds targeted support under the foot to improve stability without adding noticeable weight.
• Rubber outsole: Delivers durable traction on pavement to extend the life of the shoe under regular road running use.

Who It's For

The Fresh Foam 680 V7 is aimed at runners who log regular road miles and prioritize cushioned comfort over race-day speed. It suits recreational runners, walkers who prefer a supportive trainer, and anyone looking for a durable everyday shoe for mixed activities around town.

Serious racers seeking a minimal, ultra-light racing shoe or trail runners who need aggressive grip and rock protection should look elsewhere; the 680 V7 is optimized for road comfort and daily durability rather than competition or off-road terrain.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable, plush ride from the dual-density Fresh Foam midsole ideal for daily training.
• Breathable engineered mesh upper helps reduce overheating on warm runs.
• Sleek no-sew upper and molded insert improve fit and support without extra bulk.
• Durable rubber outsole offers reliable traction for road surfaces.

Cons

• Not intended as a lightweight racing shoe, so it can feel heavier compared with performance flats.
• Upper focus on simplicity means fewer adjustment or lockdown features for aggressive runners.

Specifications

Product	Fresh Foam 680 V7 running shoe
Midsole	Dual-density Fresh Foam cushioning
Upper	Engineered mesh with no-sew construction
Support	Molded insert for extra support
Outsole	Rubber for durability and traction
Intended use	Road running and daily training

Our Verdict

The New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V7 is a strong choice for everyday men's road running where cushioning and comfort matter more than racing weight. Its Fresh Foam midsole and breathable, no-sew upper make it a versatile trainer that delivers good value for runners who want reliable, comfortable mileage without excessive frills.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for long runs?
The dual-density Fresh Foam midsole provides plush cushioning suitable for longer daily runs and recovery miles.

Do they fit narrow or wide feet?
The engineered mesh and no-sew upper offer a snug, supportive fit; those needing extra width should check specific size options or try a wider fit model.

Are they durable for daily use?
Yes, the rubber outsole and sturdy midsole construction are designed to stand up to regular road running and daily wear.