New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 680 V8 Sneakers - Cushioned Road Running

Our review of the New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 680 V8 Sneakers finds them best suited to runners and everyday users who prioritize plush cushioning and a comfortable fit. The single biggest reason to consider these shoes is the Fresh Foam midsole, which delivers an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride with about 3% bio-based content for a slightly greener footprint. They balance comfort and everyday durability, making them a strong pick for road running, gym sessions, and long days on your feet.

Key Features

• Fresh Foam midsole: Provides soft, responsive cushioning that smooths out impact for road miles and long walks.
• Bio-based content: Approximately 3% of the midsole comes from renewable resources, reducing carbon footprint without changing ride quality.
• Precision-engineered knit upper: Offers a breathable, form-fitting feel with targeted ventilation where heat and sweat build up.
• No-sew construction: Creates a sleek, irritation-free fit that reduces hot spots and improves overall comfort.
• Integrated rubber outsole: Enhances underfoot comfort and provides a consistent feel from heel to toe.
• Approximate 8 mm drop: Delivers a traditional running shoe geometry that many road runners prefer for a balanced stride.

Who It's For

These sneakers are aimed at men who want a cushioned, comfortable road-running shoe that also works as an everyday trainer. They are especially appealing to people who value comfortable cushioning and a soft knit upper for casual wear, gym use, and short to moderate runs.

Shoppers who need very long-lasting, heavy-duty trail shoes or those who require exacting size precision might look elsewhere; customers reported mixed sizing and some disagreement on durability, so when fit and extreme longevity are critical, try them on or compare more durable models.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Plush Fresh Foam midsole offers excellent cushioning and a lightweight feel for daily miles.
• Comfortable knit upper and no-sew construction reduce rubbing and feel soft against the foot.
• Integrated rubber outsole improves underfoot comfort and delivers steady contact on road surfaces.
• Appearance and arch support receive consistent positive feedback from customers.

Cons

• Sizing is inconsistent among customers; some find them perfect for wide feet while others report they run small.
• Durability reports are mixed, with a few customers saying the shoes wore out sooner than expected.

Specifications

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

Our Verdict

The New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8 is a comfortable, well-cushioned road running shoe that offers good value for people who want a soft ride and a breathable knit upper. It is best for runners and daily wearers who prioritize comfort and a lightweight feel, though shoppers should try them on for fit and be aware that durability reports vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for long road runs?
Yes, the Fresh Foam midsole provides cushioning suited to long road miles, though individual durability may vary.

Do they run true to size?
Customers disagree on sizing; try them on if possible because some found them roomy for wide feet while others reported they run small.

How eco-friendly are these shoes?
The midsole contains approximately 3% bio-based content made from renewable resources, a small step toward reducing carbon footprint.