New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V7 Running Shoe - Smooth Comfort Fit

In this review of the New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V7 Running Shoe the bottom line is simple: it is an accessible, comfortable road-running shoe for beginners and casual runners seeking soft cushioning and dependable everyday performance. The reviewer found the shoe's dual-density Fresh Foam midsole to be the single biggest reason to buy, delivering a plush yet responsive ride that makes short runs and daily wear noticeably more comfortable while the engineered air mesh keeps feet cool.

Key Features

• Dual-density Fresh Foam midsole: Provides a cushioned, balanced feel that absorbs impact and helps reduce fatigue during short to moderate runs.
• Molded insert: Adds targeted arch support for improved stability and a more secure fit through the gait cycle.
• Engineered air mesh upper: Offers breathability and a lightweight, flexible fit that reduces hotspots and keeps the foot ventilated.
• Optimal rubber outsole coverage: Enhances durability in high-wear areas so the shoe holds up to regular road use.
• Soft, comfortable fit: The overall construction and materials deliver a forgiving ride that suits new runners and those prioritizing comfort.

Who It's For

The Fresh Foam 680 V7 is best for beginner to casual runners, walkers, and anyone who values cushioning and a comfortable, breathable fit for daily exercise or errands. It excels on pavement and treadmill runs where a forgiving midsole and good ventilation matter most.

Serious racers, tempo-focused runners, or those needing aggressive motion control should look elsewhere, as this shoe emphasizes comfort and durability over race-day responsiveness or specialized stability systems.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Plush dual-density Fresh Foam midsole delivers comfortable shock absorption for everyday runs.
• Engineered air mesh upper keeps breathability high without adding weight.
• Molded insert provides supportive fit that helps maintain foot alignment.

Cons

• Not designed as a high-performance racing shoe, so advanced runners may find it lacks race-day responsiveness.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V7 is a solid choice for beginners and casual runners who want a cushioned, comfortable shoe for road miles and everyday use. Its combination of dual-density Fresh Foam, breathable mesh, and supportive insert delivers reliable comfort and durability at a fair value for runners prioritizing ease and fit over race-focused performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for daily running?
Yes. The dual-density Fresh Foam midsole and durable outsole make them well suited to regular road runs and daily wear.

Do they run true to size?
The engineered mesh upper offers a flexible fit, and most users will find their normal men's shoe size comfortable with the molded insert providing added support.

Can I use them for faster training or races?
They are primarily built for comfort and daily miles, so runners seeking race-day speed or very responsive cushioning should consider more performance-oriented models.