New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 680 V7 Running Shoe - Comfortable Fit

In this review the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 680 V7 running shoe emerges as a sensible entry-level trainer for women who want a comfortable, supportive shoe without fuss. The single biggest reason to buy is the dual-density Fresh Foam midsole, which delivers a cushioned yet responsive ride that makes short runs and daily walks feel noticeably softer underfoot. The shoe also blends breathable engineered air mesh and a molded insert for added support, making it a practical choice for new runners and anyone prioritizing comfort over advanced race-day features.

Key Features

• Dual-density Fresh Foam midsole: Provides layered cushioning that balances softness with support for comfortable daily running and walking.
• Molded insert: Adds arch support and helps maintain foot stability during longer strides or varied paces.
• Engineered air mesh upper: Delivers breathable airflow to keep feet cooler on warm runs and reduce sweat buildup.
• Optimal rubber coverage: Reinforced outsole areas extend durability in high-wear zones for longer life on road surfaces.
• Soft overall feel: The combination of midsole, insert, and upper creates a gentle ride suited to beginners and recovery runs.

Who It's For

The Fresh Foam 680 V7 is best for women breaking into running, walkers who want a cushioned daily shoe, and those who prefer a predictable, comfortable fit over race-focused performance. Its cushioning and breathable upper make it ideal for short to moderate road runs and daily activity.

Serious racers or runners needing aggressive stability corrections should look elsewhere, since this model emphasizes general comfort rather than specialized motion control or ultralight race performance.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable Fresh Foam midsole cushions everyday miles and recovery runs.
• Breathable engineered mesh upper improves airflow during warmer conditions.
• Molded insert supports the arch and helps keep the foot positioned comfortably.
• Durable rubber coverage protects high-wear areas on road surfaces.

Cons

• Not designed as a lightweight racing shoe, so competitive runners may find it heavier than preferred.
• Provides moderate support but lacks the aggressive stability features some runners require.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 680 V7 is a reliable, comfortable option for new runners and anyone seeking a softly cushioned daily shoe. It pairs breathable mesh with a supportive molded insert and durable outsole coverage, delivering good value for those prioritizing comfort and longevity over lightweight race performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for beginners?
Yes. The cushioned Fresh Foam midsole and supportive molded insert make them a good entry-level running shoe.

Do they breathe well for warm-weather runs?
The engineered air mesh upper is designed to improve airflow and help keep feet cooler during runs.

Are they durable for regular road use?
Yes. Optimal rubber coverage on the outsole increases durability in high-wear areas, making them suitable for regular road running.