New Balance Women's 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer (Style S34M)

Our review of the New Balance 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer finds it best suited for women who want a dependable, supportive daily shoe for walking, light gym sessions, and all-day wear. The single biggest reason to buy is its thoughtfully engineered cushioning system: between the ABZORB midsole and a molded PU insert the shoe delivers noticeable impact absorption and a comfortable underfoot feel that makes long days on your feet much easier. Fit is relaxed with a roomy toe box, so comfort-focused shoppers will notice the difference immediately.

Key Features

• NDurance rubber outsole: provides superior durability in high-wear areas so the shoes hold up longer under regular walking and light training.
• ABZORB midsole: absorbs impact through a blend of cushioning and compression resistance to reduce foot fatigue during extended wear.
• Injection-molded EVA foam midsole: offers lightweight cushioning that keeps the shoes feeling less bulky while still supportive.
• Molded PU insert: adds structure underfoot to enhance stability and deliver a more controlled stride on pavement or gym floors.
• Relaxed fit last: provides a wider toe box and more room overall for those who prefer a less constricted fit.

Who It's For

The 608 V5 is aimed at women who prioritize comfort and support over fashion-forward silhouettes: daily walkers, retail or service workers who spend hours on their feet, and casual gym users who do low-impact training. The combination of ABZORB and EVA cushioning makes it a sensible choice for anyone needing shock absorption and easy daylong wear.

Those seeking a narrow, performance running shoe or a lightweight racing trainer should look elsewhere, as this model favors a relaxed fit and durable construction over minimal weight or race-day responsiveness.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable cushioning system absorbs impact for longer walks and standing shifts.
• Supportive molded PU insert and steady midsole keep the foot stable during daily activity.
• Durable NDurance rubber in high-wear zones improves lifespan under typical use.
• Relaxed fit with roomy toe box is forgiving for wider feet and orthotic inserts.

Cons

• Sizing can vary between users, with some reporting the shoes run small, so trying them on or ordering carefully is advisable.
• Durability reports are mixed; a minority of customers note the shoes may not last beyond a year with heavy use.

Specifications

Product	608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer
Target	Women
Outsole technology	NDurance rubber for high-wear durability
Midsole	ABZORB plus injection-molded EVA foam
Underfoot support	Molded PU insert
Fit	Relaxed fit last with roomy toe box
Intended use	Everyday walking, casual cross training

Our Verdict

The New Balance 608 V5 is a practical, value-oriented choice for women who need dependable cushioning and support for daily wear. It stands out for its comfortable ABZORB midsole and stable PU insert, making it a smart buy for walkers and on-your-feet jobs, provided you check sizing and accept a mixed long-term durability record.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do these run true to size?
Some customers report the 608 V5 runs small, so try on in person or consider ordering a half size up if you are between sizes.

Are they good for arch support?
Yes, the molded PU insert and supportive midsole provide noticeable arch support suitable for walking and light gym use.

How durable are the soles?
The NDurance outsole is designed for durability in high-wear areas, though user reports on long-term lifespan are mixed depending on usage intensity.