New Balance Men's 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer (Style 5F7J)

In this review of the New Balance 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer, the conclusion is straightforward: these are everyday trainers built for comfort and durability. The shoe is aimed at men who want a dependable, supportive sneaker for walking, light gym work, and all-day wear, with the standout being its combination of ABZORB cushioning and a molded PU comfort insert that creates a noticeably softer landing underfoot. Construction focuses on long-term wear rather than flashy performance, making the 608 V5 a sensible choice for those who prioritize comfort, support, and value.

Key Features

• NDurance rubber outsole: provides superior durability in high-wear areas so the shoes maintain traction and structure longer.
• ABZORB midsole: absorbs impact through cushioning and compression resistance to reduce heel and forefoot shock during daily use.
• Lightweight EVA foam: the injection-molded midsole gives responsive cushioning without adding unnecessary weight to the shoe.
• Premium PU comfort insert: offers a molded, supportive footbed that improves underfoot feel for extended standing or walking.
• Relaxed fit last: allows a more generous interior volume for everyday comfort and modest foot swelling over a long day.

Who It's For

The 608 V5 suits men who need a reliable, comfortable cross trainer for everyday wear, light gym sessions, and walking. It works well for people who value cushioning and a sturdy build over a narrow, race-oriented fit, and for anyone seeking good arch and heel support paired with durable leather construction.

Those who need a very lightweight racing shoe, a minimalist trainer, or highly specialized performance footwear should look elsewhere. Also, buyers who require a precise narrow fit may want to try them on first, as customer feedback shows mixed experiences with sizing and width.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable cushioning from the ABZORB midsole and molded PU insert that reduces impact fatigue.
• Durable NDurance outsole and leather upper that stand up to regular wear and retain shape.
• Supportive fit in the arch and heel suited to standing or walking for long periods.
• Good overall value given the build quality and long-lasting components.

Cons

• Sizing is inconsistent among wearers, so trying them on or checking return options is advised.
• Not designed for specialized speed work or minimal-feel running, so it may feel heavy for dedicated runners.

Specifications

Brand	New Balance
Model	608 V5
Outsole	NDurance rubber
Midsole	ABZORB cushioning with injection-molded EVA foam
Insert	Premium molded PU comfort insert
Fit	Relaxed fit last for everyday comfort

Our Verdict

The New Balance 608 V5 is a solid everyday cross trainer for men who prioritize cushioning, durability, and supportive underfoot feel. It represents good value for those seeking reliable leather construction, long-lasting NDurance outsole wear, and comfortable ABZORB impact protection, though shoppers should verify sizing before committing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do these run true to size?
Customer reports are mixed; some find them true to size while others say they run slightly small, so try them on if possible.

Are they good for walking and standing all day?
Yes, the ABZORB midsole and PU comfort insert provide cushioning and support well suited to extended walking and standing.

Can they be used for gym cross-training?
They work well for light gym sessions and general cross-training, but are not optimized for high-speed running or specialty sport shoes.