New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe - Cushioned is

Our review of the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 680 V8 finds it best suited for runners and walkers who want a soft, protective ride without extra bulk. The single biggest reason to buy is the Fresh Foam midsole, which combines a plush feel with lightweight response and contains approximately 3% bio-based content for a modest environmental benefit. On short runs, long walks, or daily errands this shoe balances comfort and durability while offering a modern knitted upper and supportive sole that many customers praised for fit and arch support.

Key Features

• Fresh Foam midsole: Delivers ultra-cushioned, lightweight cushioning that helps absorb impact on long walks and runs.
• Bio-based content: Approximately 3% of the midsole foam comes from renewable resources, reducing the shoe's carbon footprint compared with conventional foam.
• Precision-engineered knit upper: Offers targeted ventilation and a comfortable, flexible fit that adapts to narrow and wider feet alike.
• No-sew construction: Creates a sleek, irritation-free interior so the shoe feels smooth during extended wear.
• Integrated rubber outsole: Enhances underfoot comfort and provides reliable contact and durability on road surfaces.
• 8 mm drop: Provides a balanced heel-to-toe transition suitable for neutral runners and daily activity.

Who It's For

The Fresh Foam 680 V8 is ideal for women who want a reliable everyday running shoe that doubles as a comfortable walking or casual shoe. Runners who favor cushioned, neutral support and people with low or moderate arches looking for good arch support will appreciate the fit and cushioning.

Those seeking a racing-flat, maximalist trainer, or highly specialized trail traction should look elsewhere; this shoe targets road running and daily wear rather than high-speed racing or off-road performance.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable, plush cushioning that suits long walks and runs without feeling heavy.
• Versatile fit that works well for narrow and wider feet thanks to the knit upper and no-sew design.
• Good underfoot durability from the integrated rubber outsole for everyday use.

Cons

• The 8 mm drop is approximate and may feel different to runners who prefer a precise, minimal or maximal drop.
• Bio-based content is limited to roughly 3% of the midsole, so environmental gains are modest.

Specifications

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

Our Verdict

The New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 680 V8 is a strong choice for everyday road runners and walkers who prioritize comfort and fit without sacrificing lightness. It offers very good cushioning and reliable support for daily miles, making it a solid value for anyone who wants a versatile shoe for both exercise and errands.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for flat feet?
Yes; customers report good arch support and comfort for those with flat feet, making them suitable for many walkers and runners with low arches.

Is the knit upper breathable?
The precision-engineered knit provides targeted ventilation that keeps feet comfortable during runs and long walks.

How durable is the outsole?
The integrated rubber outsole adds durability and underfoot comfort for regular road use, though extreme trail use is not recommended.