New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe - Cushioned Ride 602

Our review of the New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 680 V8 finds a reliable, everyday road-running shoe that prioritizes cushioning and comfort. Built around a precision-engineered Fresh Foam midsole with a small amount of bio-based content, this shoe is best for runners and walkers who want a soft, forgiving ride without extra weight. The combination of a knit upper and integrated rubber outsole makes it a sensible pick for people who move between runs and daily errands and value a smooth underfoot feel.

Key Features

• Fresh Foam midsole: Delivers an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride that absorbs impact for joint comfort during long runs or long days on your feet.
• Bio-based content: Approximately 3% of the midsole comes from renewable resources, reducing carbon footprint without sacrificing performance.
• Precision-engineered knit upper: Provides targeted ventilation and a comfortable stretch that conforms to the foot for improved breathability.
• No-sew construction: Ensures a sleek fit and minimizes irritation from seams for a cleaner, more comfortable inside feel.
• Integrated rubber outsole: Offers dependable underfoot comfort and everyday traction while keeping the shoe feeling light.
• Approximate 8 mm drop: A 602 mm drop reference that yields a balanced forefoot-to-heel transition for typical road running.

Who It's For

These shoes suit recreational road runners, fitness walkers, and anyone seeking cushioned support for daily activities. The comfortable cushioning and arch support noted by customers make them especially useful for people who feel joint strain in firmer shoes or who prefer a softer landing.

Runners looking for a very narrow, race-oriented trainer or those requiring highly specific stability features should look elsewhere, as the 680 V8 is focused on cushioning and general comfort rather than minimal weight or motion-control elements.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Generous, forgiving cushioning that many users compare to walking on gel, reducing impact on joints.
• Comfortable knit upper and no-sew construction that reduce hot spots and improve breathability.
• Solid build quality and sensible outsole give good everyday durability and traction.
• Subtle eco benefit from bio-based midsole content for buyers mindful of materials.

Cons

• Fit opinions are mixed; some users find the sizing tight in the toe box, so trying before committing is advisable.
• Durability reports vary, with a few users noting wear over time on high-mileage use.

Specifications

Model	Fresh Foam 680 V8
Midsole	Fresh Foam cushioning with ~3% bio-based content
Upper	Precision-engineered knit with no-sew construction
Outsole	Integrated rubber outsole
Heel-to-toe drop	Approximate 8 mm (602 mm reference)
Use	Road running and everyday wear

Our Verdict

The New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8 is a strong choice for runners and active walkers who prioritize comfort and cushioning over race-day lightness. It offers good value as a durable, everyday trainer with breathable knit construction and a smooth, protective midsole, though shoppers should confirm sizing because toe box fit can vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for long runs?
Yes, the Fresh Foam midsole provides durable cushioning suited to longer road runs and extended periods on your feet.

Do they run true to size?
Fit is mixed in customer reports; many find the fit accurate but some note a snug toe box, so try them on if possible.

Is the midsole eco-friendly?
The midsole contains approximately 3% bio-based content made from renewable resources to reduce environmental impact.