New Balance Men's 608 V5 Leather Cross Trainer - Cushioned Support

In this review the New Balance Men's 608 V5 stands out as a dependable daily cross trainer for men who prioritize comfort and lasting support. Built with a leather upper and an ABZORB midsole cushioning system, this shoe aims to soften heel strikes and provide stable lateral support for everyday wear and light training. The molded PU comfort insert and relaxed fit last contribute to an easy, forgiving underfoot feel, making it a sensible choice for people who want a straightforward, comfortable trainer without fuss.

Key Features

• Leather upper: Provides durable coverage and a classic look that resists wear while maintaining structure over time.
• ABZORB midsole cushioning: Helps absorb forceful impacts at the heel to reduce fatigue during long days on your feet.
• PU comfort insert: Delivers a cushioned footbed that adds immediate underfoot comfort straight from the first wear.
• Relaxed fit last: Offers a slightly roomier toe box and overall shape for easy all-day wear and reduced pressure points.
• Lateral support: The construction supports side-to-side motion, useful for gym routines and casual cross-training.

Who It's For

The 608 V5 is aimed at men seeking a sturdy, comfortable cross trainer for daily use, light gym sessions, and everyday walking. It performs well for people who value cushioning and support over a minimal or race-focused feel, and those who prefer a leather upper for durability and a traditional appearance.

Those who need a very narrow or highly performance-tuned running shoe should look elsewhere, as the relaxed fit and classic cushioning prioritize comfort and stability rather than a race-oriented, aggressive ride.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Consistent cushioned feel from the ABZORB midsole makes long wear comfortable.
• Leather upper provides durability and a clean, versatile look.
• PU comfort insert improves immediate comfort straight out of the box.
• Good lateral support for cross-training and everyday movement.

Cons

• Sizing is inconsistent for some buyers; select fit carefully as some report it runs small.
• Not optimized for high-mileage road running for those seeking a lightweight race shoe.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The New Balance Men's 608 V5 is a practical choice for men who want a comfortable, supportive everyday trainer that holds up to regular use. Its leather upper and ABZORB cushioning deliver dependable durability and reduced impact, making it good value for anyone prioritizing comfort and support over lightness or racing performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for gym cross-training?
Yes, they offer solid lateral support and cushioning suitable for general cross-training and gym work.

Do they run true to size?
Customers report mixed sizing; some find them true to size while others say they run slightly small, so trying your normal size or consulting the retailer sizing guide is advised.

How durable is the leather upper?
The leather upper is built for durability and maintains structure over time, with customers noting good wear for months under regular conditions.