New Balance Men's 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer - Everyday upper

Our review of the New Balance 608 V5 finds it is a dependable cross trainer for men who prioritize everyday comfort and stable support. The single biggest reason to buy is the underfoot cushioning system: an ABZORB heel crash pad combined with a molded PU comfort insert delivers a plush, protective feel for walking, gym sessions, and light cross-training. Constructed with a leather upper and a relaxed fit last, this shoe aims to balance durability with a roomy fit that most users will appreciate for daily wear.

Key Features

• Leather upper: provides a durable, easy-to-clean exterior that holds up to frequent wear.
• ABZORB midsole cushioning: absorbs forceful impacts in the heel to reduce shock during walking and lateral movement.
• Premium PU comfort insert: offers a molded, stable layer underfoot for longer wear without excessive fatigue.
• Relaxed fit last: gives a roomier toe box and overall fit for users who prefer less constriction.
• Support for lateral motion: the structure and cushioning combine to aid side-to-side stability during fitness activities.

Who It's For

The 608 V5 is best for men who want a comfortable, durable daily trainer for walking, gym classes, and casual cross-training. It suits buyers who value supportive cushioning and a leather construction that stands up to regular use and occasional wet conditions.

Shoppers who need narrow performance racing shoes, specialized trail traction, or precise sizing for competition running should look elsewhere; some customers report variability in how the shoe fits, so those who need exact, performance-oriented sizing may prefer a different model.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable underfoot feel thanks to the ABZORB heel pad and molded PU insert.
• Durable leather upper that balances wear resistance with a clean look.
• Good lateral support for gym movements and everyday activities.
• Considered good value for money by many customers given the feature set.

Cons

• Sizing can be inconsistent; some buyers find them true to size while others report they run small.
• Not intended as a high-performance running or trail shoe, so serious runners may find it lacking.

Specifications

Brand	New Balance
Model	608 V5
Upper	Leather
Midsole cushioning	ABZORB heel crash pad
Comfort insert	Premium molded PU
Fit	Relaxed fit last

Our Verdict

The New Balance 608 V5 is a solid choice for men seeking a comfortable, supportive everyday trainer with dependable cushioning and durable leather construction. It represents good value for casual athletes and commuters, though those needing precision fit or high-performance running features should consider specialized alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes true to size?
Customers are split; many find the 608 V5 true to size, but some report they run slightly small, so consider trying on or ordering two sizes to compare.

Is the cushioning suitable for gym workouts?
Yes, the ABZORB heel pad and PU insert provide shock absorption and lateral support that work well for general gym use and cross-training.

How durable is the leather upper?
The leather upper is durable and easy to maintain; some users report the shoes last several months even in wet conditions with regular use.