New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe - Ultra Cushioned Fit

In this review of the New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, the bottom line is simple: runners and everyday walkers who prioritize plush cushioning and a comfortable fit will appreciate these shoes. The biggest reason to buy is the Fresh Foam midsole, which delivers an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride with approximately 3% bio-based content for a slightly greener footprint. The shoe balances comfort and daily durability, making it a sensible choice for road running, long walks, and all-day wear.

Key Features

• Fresh Foam midsole: Provides ultra-cushioned, lightweight shock absorption that feels forgiving on joints during runs or long days on your feet.
• Bio-based content: About 3% of the midsole foam is made from renewable resources, reducing carbon footprint without compromising cushioning performance.
• Precision-engineered knit upper: Offers targeted ventilation and a comfortable, adaptive fit that helps keep feet cooler during activity.
• No-sew construction: Creates a sleek, irritation-free interior that improves comfort and reduces hotspots on longer efforts.
• Integrated rubber outsole: Enhances underfoot comfort and provides dependable contact with pavement for daily road running and errands.

Who It's For

The Fresh Foam 680 V8 is best suited to recreational runners and active people who want a soft, cushioned ride for road running, brisk walking, or multi-hour wear. Those with neutral gait patterns who value comfort and arch support will likely enjoy the plush midsole and engineered knit upper.

Shoppers seeking a race-day racing-flat or a maximalist trail shoe should look elsewhere; the 8 mm nominal drop and integrated rubber outsole prioritize everyday comfort over aggressive performance or off-road traction. Also, buyers who need a very narrow fit may want to try them on first, as sizing feedback is mixed.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Exceptionally comfortable cushioning that many describe as forgiving on joints and like walking on gel.
• Quality construction and materials, including a knit upper that balances comfort and ventilation.
• Good arch support and a wide toe box option appreciated by several users for everyday wear.
• Eco-conscious element with bio-based midsole content without sacrificing feel.

Cons

• Sizing impressions are mixed; some users find them roomy while others report a smaller fit, so trying before committing is recommended.
• Durability opinions vary, with a few customers noting wear concerns over long-term heavy use.

Specifications

Brand	New Balance
Model	Fresh Foam 680 V8
Midsole	Fresh Foam with approx 3% bio-based content
Upper	Precision-engineered knit with no-sew construction
Outsole	Integrated rubber outsole
Heel-to-toe drop	Approximately 8 mm

Our Verdict

The New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 680 V8 is a strong choice for runners and active users who want a comfortable, well-cushioned everyday shoe that balances quality materials with a modest eco-conscious element. It offers good value for anyone prioritizing cushioning and fit, though buyers should confirm sizing to ensure the best fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for long runs?
Yes, the Fresh Foam midsole and supportive upper make them suitable for many long road runs, especially for runners who prefer a softer ride.

Do they run true to size?
Sizing feedback is mixed; some users report a comfortable, roomy toe box while others find them slightly small, so trying them on or checking return options is advised.

How sustainable is the shoe?
The midsole contains about 3% bio-based content derived from renewable resources, which modestly reduces the shoe's carbon footprint compared with fully petroleum-based foam.