New Balance Kids 680 V6 Hook and Loop Running Shoe - Youth Fit

In this review of the New Balance 680 v6 Hook and Loop running shoe for kids, the bottom line is simple: parents seeking a reliable everyday athletic sneaker that balances comfort and durability will appreciate this model. The shoe is built around a streamlined silhouette and a practical hook and loop closure that makes dressing quicker for younger children, while the ABZORB midsole provides noticeable impact absorption during play. The no-sew construction and mixed leather and mesh upper give a neat, modern look without sacrificing flexibility, making it a strong choice for school days and light running activities.

Key Features

• Hook and loop closure: Makes the shoe easy for kids to put on and take off while keeping the fit secure for active play.
• No-sew construction: Provides a smooth, comfortable interior with fewer pressure points for all-day wear.
• Leather and mesh upper: Balances durability and breathability so the shoe holds up to frequent use while staying ventilated.
• ABZORB midsole: Absorbs impact through cushioning and compression resistance for a softer ride on hard playground surfaces.
• Stitched-down tip and foxing details: Add structural support and extend the shoe's lifespan in typical kid wear zones.
• Streamlined silhouette: Delivers a contemporary look that transitions easily from classroom to after-school activities.

Who It's For

The 680 v6 is aimed at parents of younger children who need an everyday athletic shoe that is easy to fasten and comfortable enough for long wear. It suits elementary school kids who run at recess, walk between classes, and need a sneaker that manages both play and casual wear without looking overly sporty.

Children who need specialized running shoes for competitive events, orthotic support, or very wide feet may want to consider alternatives tailored to those needs. This shoe focuses on general comfort, durability, and ease of use rather than race-day performance or custom fit options.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Easy hook and loop closure speeds dressing and keeps the fit secure for active kids.
• ABZORB midsole provides reliable cushioning that reduces impact during everyday play.
• No-sew construction and mixed materials create a comfortable, breathable shoe that still looks tidy.
• Reinforced tip and foxing details improve durability in common wear areas.

Cons

• Not designed as a high-performance racing shoe, so serious junior runners may prefer a specialized model.

Specifications

Model	680 v6 Hook and Loop
Closure	Hook and loop strap
Upper	Leather and mesh
Midsole	ABZORB cushioning
Construction	No-sew construction with stitched-down tip
Use	Kids everyday running and playground wear

Our Verdict

The New Balance 680 v6 Hook and Loop is a practical, well-constructed kids sneaker that delivers comfortable cushioning and easy on-off convenience. It represents good value for parents who want a durable daily shoe with modern styling and dependable impact absorption, though families seeking specialized athletic performance should look elsewhere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes easy for young kids to fasten?
The hook and loop closure is designed for quick, independent fastening by younger children while maintaining a secure fit.

Do they provide good cushioning for playground use?
Yes, the ABZORB midsole offers cushioning and compression resistance suitable for typical playground running and school activities.

Is the upper breathable and durable?
The combination of leather and mesh balances breathability with reinforcement in high-wear areas like the stitched-down tip and foxing details.