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

Our review of the New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 680 V7 Running Shoe finds it best suited for everyday runners and walkers who want a reliably cushioned, lightweight shoe without extra fuss. The single biggest reason to buy is the Fresh Foam midsole cushioning, which provides a plush underfoot feel that reduces knee and ankle strain during short runs and daily wear. Reviewers repeatedly mention comfort, lightweight construction, and good value for money, making this a pragmatic option for routine training and casual use.

Key Features

• Fresh Foam midsole cushioning: Delivers an ultra-cushioned yet lightweight ride that helps absorb impact on runs and walks.
• Engineered mesh upper: Allows for breathability across the forefoot and midfoot to keep feet cooler during activity.
• No-sew construction: Creates a sleek, smooth fit that reduces friction points for a more comfortable wear over time.
• Molded insert: Adds targeted support in the midfoot area to improve stability during short runs and everyday use.
• Rubber outsole: Provides durability and dependable traction on road surfaces and sidewalks.

Who It's For

This shoe is aimed at recreational runners and walkers who log daily miles, short jogs, or use a single pair for commuting and gym sessions. The lightweight feel and cushioning make it especially suitable for someone doing 1-3 mile runs, brisk walking, or who needs comfortable footwear for all-day wear.

Runners seeking maximal performance features, race-day spikes, or highly specialized support for long-distance training should look elsewhere; this model prioritizes balanced cushioning and everyday comfort over specialized racing geometry or highly technical stability systems.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable Fresh Foam cushioning that protects knees and ankles on short runs.
• Breathable engineered mesh upper helps keep feet ventilated during activity.
• No-sew upper construction yields a smooth fit and reduces irritation.
• Durable rubber outsole gives reliable traction for road running and walking.

Cons

• Not designed as a high-performance racing shoe or for very long training runs where specialized support is needed.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V7 is a solid choice for everyday runners and walkers who want dependable cushioning, breathability, and a lightweight feel without paying for high-end racing features. It represents good value for money and performs well for short runs, daily jogs, and all-day comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for daily running?
Yes, they are well suited for daily short runs and walks thanks to the Fresh Foam cushioning and lightweight design.

Do they run true to size?
Most customers report a standard fit; the no-sew upper provides a snug, comfortable feel without extra tightness.

Are they durable for regular use?
The rubber outsole and quality construction make them durable for regular road running and everyday wear.