New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe - Cushioned Ride 515

Our review of the New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 680 V8 finds a durable, well-cushioned daily trainer best suited to runners and walkers who want a forgiving, comfortable ride without flashy features. The single biggest reason to buy is the Fresh Foam midsole, which blends lightweight cushioning with about 3% bio-based content for a plush feel that still keeps the shoe responsive for road use. Fit and build are straightforward: a precision-engineered knit upper and no-sew construction deliver a smooth, secure fit while the integrated rubber outsole adds underfoot durability.

Key Features

• Fresh Foam midsole: Delivers ultra-cushioned, lightweight shock absorption that helps reduce impact on joints during runs or long days on your feet.
• Bio-based content: Approximately 3% of the midsole foam is made from renewable resources, reducing the carbon footprint without compromising cushioning.
• Precision-engineered knit upper: Offers targeted ventilation and comfort where it matters most, keeping the foot cooler and reducing pressure points.
• No-sew construction: Creates a sleek fit and minimizes irritation from seams for a smoother, more comfortable inside feel.
• Integrated rubber outsole: Enhances underfoot comfort and durability to handle regular road use and everyday wear.
• Approximate drop: Built with a 8 mm target drop (listed as 515 mm due to variation), which supports a neutral running stance.

Who It's For

The Fresh Foam 680 V8 is ideal for recreational runners, walkers, and anyone seeking a comfortable daily trainer with generous cushioning and supportive arch feel. It suits people who prioritize joint comfort-several users described the shoe as forgiving on knees and ankles and likened the cushioning to walking on gel.

Those who need a very narrow fit, a minimal racing shoe, or a trail-ready outsole should look elsewhere; opinions on sizing vary, and a few users noted the fit felt small while others liked the wider toe box. If you need heavy-duty durability for extreme mileage, consider a shoe with reinforced high-wear materials.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Very comfortable cushioning that reduces joint impact on daily runs and walks.
• Quality construction and knit upper provide a soft, secure fit with good ventilation.
• Integrated rubber outsole adds reliable underfoot comfort and longevity for road use.
• Appealing looks and sensible design make it versatile for errands as well as training.

Cons

• Sizing is mixed across customers; some find the fit too small while others praise the toe box width.
• Durability opinions vary with heavier runners questioning longevity under very high mileage.

Specifications

Brand	New Balance
Model	Fresh Foam 680 V8
Midsole	Fresh Foam with ~3% bio-based content
Upper	Precision-engineered knit, no-sew construction
Outsole	Integrated rubber outsole
Drop	Approximate 8 mm (listed 515 mm due to variation)

Our Verdict

The New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8 is a solid choice for runners and everyday users who want plush cushioning and comfortable support at a fair value. It stands out for its soft Fresh Foam ride and comfortable knit upper, making it a reliable daily trainer if you accept mixed sizing and moderate durability trade-offs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for long runs?
Yes, the Fresh Foam midsole provides plush cushioning that helps on longer runs, though very high-mileage runners should monitor outsole wear.

Do they run true to size?
Sizing is mixed among customers; many find the fit accurate while some recommend trying a half size up or checking toe box width if you have wider feet.

Is the shoe environmentally friendly?
The midsole contains approximately 3% bio-based content made from renewable resources, which modestly reduces its carbon footprint compared with fully petroleum-based foam.