New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 680 V7 Running Shoe - Cushioned Ride

In this review of the New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 680 V7 Running Shoe the bottom line is simple: these are a comfortable, lightweight daily trainer that prioritizes cushioning and value. Built around the brand's signature Fresh Foam midsole, the 680 V7 targets runners and walkers who want an ultra-cushioned, forgiving ride without a heavy price or fussy features. The shoe's engineered mesh upper and no-sew construction keep the fit breathable and sleek, while the molded insert and rubber outsole give enough structure and durability for regular road use.

Key Features

• Fresh Foam midsole cushioning: Delivers an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride that reduces impact on knees and ankles during daily runs or walks.
• Engineered mesh upper: Allows for breathability so feet stay cooler on warm runs and during all-day wear.
• No-sew upper construction: Provides a sleek fit and feel with fewer pressure points and a cleaner look.
• Molded insert: Adds extra support around the arch and heel for a more stable, comfortable stride.
• Rubber outsole: Offers durability and reliable traction for road running and everyday use.

Who It's For

The 680 V7 is best suited for recreational runners, daily walkers, and anyone who values cushioning and comfort over race-day responsiveness. Its lightweight Fresh Foam cushioning makes it a good pick for short to moderate distance runs, easy recovery miles, or commutes where comfort matters.

Serious racers or trail runners should look elsewhere for more responsive foams or aggressive off-road traction. Also, runners seeking highly personalized support or custom orthotic platforms may prefer models with removable, deeper footbeds and more advanced stability tech.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable, plush midsole that reduces impact on knees and ankles for daily use.
• Breathable engineered mesh and no-sew construction create a lightweight, sleek fit.
• Good value for the build quality and cushioning provided.
• Durable rubber outsole gives dependable traction for road surfaces.

Cons

• Not designed as a performance racing shoe; those seeking maximum responsiveness may find it too soft.
• Limited specialized stability features for runners needing heavy corrective support.

Specifications

Brand	New Balance
Model	Fresh Foam 680 V7
Cushioning	Fresh Foam midsole
Upper	Engineered mesh, no-sew construction
Support	Molded insert for extra support
Outsole	Rubber for durability and traction

Our Verdict

The New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V7 is a solid everyday running shoe that blends plush cushioning with a breathable, no-sew upper, making it an excellent value for casual runners and walkers. It is best chosen by those who prioritize comfort and durability over race-day speed, delivering dependable support for regular road miles and daily wear.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for daily running?
Yes, the Fresh Foam midsole and rubber outsole make them well suited for daily runs and regular walking, especially short to moderate distances.

Do they run true to size?
The engineered mesh upper and no-sew construction provide a conforming fit; most users find their usual size fits well, but those with wider feet should try on for comfort.

Can these handle longer training runs?
They can handle moderate training mileage, but runners seeking high responsiveness for long tempo runs or races may prefer a different, more performance-oriented model.