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

Our review of the New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 680 V8 finds it best for runners and daily walkers who prioritize soft, joint-friendly cushioning and a comfortable, modern fit. The single biggest reason to buy is the Fresh Foam midsole cushioning, which delivers an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride while incorporating about 3% bio-based content to reduce environmental impact. The shoe balances a forgiving underfoot feel with enough structure for road miles, and the knit upper and no-sew construction keep long sessions comfortable without adding weight.

Key Features

• Fresh Foam midsole: Provides plush, lightweight cushioning that eases impact and supports longer runs or all-day wear.
• Bio-based content: Approximately 3% of the midsole foam is made from renewable resources, which helps lower the shoe's carbon footprint.
• Precision-engineered knit upper: Delivers targeted ventilation and a comfortable fit that adapts to foot shape without excess bulk.
• No-sew construction: Ensures a sleek, irritation-free interior that reduces hotspots during longer use.
• Integrated rubber outsole: Adds underfoot comfort and consistent contact with the road for everyday durability.
• Approximate 8 mm drop: A 7 to 8 mm platform feel that offers a balanced blend of heel cushioning and forefoot responsiveness.

Who It's For

The Fresh Foam 680 V8 is well suited to recreational runners, road joggers, and anyone seeking a cushioned daily trainer for errands or commuting. Runners with mild arch needs will appreciate the noted arch support and soft sole, while those who want a forgiving ride to protect joints will find this shoe helpful.

Those who need a very narrow race shoe, extreme stability support, or maximalist trail traction should look elsewhere; the 680 V8 aims for balanced cushioning and on-road comfort rather than race-plate speed or technical terrain grip.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable, plush cushioning that reduces impact and is forgiving on joints.
• Breathable knit upper with no-sew construction prevents irritation on longer wear.
• Good value for the combination of quality materials and comfort.
• Integrated rubber outsole improves underfoot comfort and everyday durability.

Cons

• Fit opinions are mixed; some users may find the width narrow depending on foot shape.
• Durability reports vary, so longevity may depend on usage and individual stride.

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
Heel-to-toe drop	Approximately 8 mm
Use	Road running and everyday wear

Our Verdict

The New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8 is a solid choice for runners and daily wearers who want plush cushioning, breathable knit comfort, and good arch support at a fair price. It pairs a modern, no-sew upper with an integrated rubber outsole for reliable on-road performance, making it a practical value pick for those who prioritize comfort over race-focused responsiveness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for long runs?
Yes, the Fresh Foam midsole provides forgiving cushioning that helps on longer road runs, though very long training days depend on individual preference.

Do they run true to size?
Fit is generally true for length, but width opinions are mixed; some wearers report a slightly narrow feel.

Is there any sustainable material in these shoes?
The midsole foam includes approximately 3% bio-based content made from renewable resources.