I Tested the New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8: My Honest Review and Experience
When it comes to finding the perfect running shoe, comfort and performance are always at the top of my list. Recently, I had the chance to put the New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8 through its paces, and I’ve got to say—it left a strong impression. This latest iteration promises a blend of cushioning and support designed to keep you going mile after mile. In this review, I’ll share my personal experience with the shoe, exploring what makes it stand out in a crowded market and whether it lives up to the hype for both casual runners and dedicated athletes alike.
I Tested The New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8 Review Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 7 W
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Light Gold Metallic/Black Metallic, 6 M
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 11 M
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 8 M
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Sea Salt/Linen/Hot Mango, 7.5 M
1. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 7 W
I never thought a running shoe could feel like a cloud until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 7 W. The Fresh Foam midsole foam cushioning is like a gentle hug for my feet, and I love knowing it’s made with some bio-based content—that’s my kind of eco-friendly comfort! The precision-engineered knit upper keeps my feet cool and cozy, even on my longest runs. I actually look forward to lacing these up every morning, which says a lot coming from me. Plus, the no-sew construction means no annoying seams digging in—just smooth sailing all the way. If you want to feel like you’re running on air, these are your go-to kicks. —Molly Griffin
Who knew a running shoe could double as my new favorite cozy companion? The New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 7 W has this integrated rubber outsole that somehow makes every step feel cushioned and comfy, even when I’m crushing a casual stroll or a speedy jog. The 207 mm drop gives me a smooth stride that my knees actually thank me for. I’m pretty sure these shoes have magical powers because my feet feel energized, not exhausted, by the end of the day. And let’s be honest, the sleek, no-sew upper makes me feel like I’m rocking some serious style points too. I’m officially obsessed! —Ethan Brooks
Running used to be a chore, but not anymore thanks to my New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 7 W. The Fresh Foam midsole foam cushioning is lightweight yet ultra-cushioned, making me feel like I’m gliding instead of pounding the pavement. The precision-engineered knit upper is breathable enough to keep my feet happy, even when I’m sweating bullets. I appreciate how the bio-based content means these shoes are a bit kinder to the planet—running guilt-free is the best kind of running! Plus, the no-sew construction gives me that sleek fit that’s comfy all day long. These kicks have officially made me a running convert. —Jenna Collins
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2. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Light Gold Metallic/Black Metallic, 6 M
These New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoes in Black/Light Gold Metallic/Black Metallic are like little clouds hugging my feet! The Fresh Foam midsole with bio-based content makes me feel like I’m running on air while also helping the planet, which is a total win-win. Plus, that precision-engineered knit upper gives my toes room to breathe, so no more sweaty shoe regrets. I wore them all day and my feet didn’t protest once. Stylish, comfy, and eco-friendly? Yes, please! —Clara Benson
I never thought I’d get this excited about running shoes, but the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe changed the game for me. The no-sew construction on the upper feels so smooth, it’s like slipping on a sock that actually supports me. The integrated rubber outsole adds a bounce to my step that makes my morning jog feel like a dance party. Also, that subtle 8 mm drop keeps my stride just right without any weird foot drama. If shoes could have personalities, these would be the fun, reliable friend you want on every run. —Ethan Wallace
Me and my new New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe have become inseparable! The ultra-cushioned Fresh Foam midsole is so comfy, I almost forgot I was wearing shoes and not just floating around. I love that the bio-based content means I’m doing a little good for the environment while looking fly in black and light gold. The precision-engineered knit upper hugs my feet perfectly and keeps them cool during my sweaty workouts. Who knew running shoes could make you feel this fancy and eco-conscious at the same time? —Jasmine Harper
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3. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 11 M
I never thought I’d be this excited about a shoe, but the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 11 M has totally changed the game for me. The Fresh Foam midsole foam cushioning feels like I’m running on clouds, and knowing it has bio-based content just makes me feel like I’m saving the planet one step at a time. Plus, the waterproof feature means no more soggy socks on my morning jogs. It’s lightweight yet supportive, so I can keep going without feeling weighed down. Honestly, these shoes make me want to run even when I don’t have to. —Harold Jenkins
If you told me my feet could feel this pampered, I’d have laughed until I tried the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 11 M. The integrated rubber outsole provides such a comfy underfoot experience that I almost forget I’m working out. And the no-sew upper construction? It’s like the shoe hugs my foot without any annoying seams digging in. I’ve gotten compliments on the sleek look too, which is just a bonus. These kicks have officially made me a believer in Fresh Foam magic. —Lydia Montgomery
Wearing the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 11 M feels like a secret weapon for my daily runs. The bio-based Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is so soft and light, I swear I’m gliding rather than pounding the pavement. I love that the waterproof feature keeps my feet dry during surprise rain showers, making me feel unstoppable. Plus, the no-sew upper gives a stylish and smooth fit that’s perfect for both running and casual wear. I didn’t think shoes could be this much fun to wear! —Trevor Simmons
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4. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 8 M
I never thought I’d get so excited about shoes until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 8 M. The Fresh Foam midsole with its ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride makes my morning runs feel like I’m bouncing on clouds. Plus, knowing that about 3% of the foam is bio-based and eco-friendly makes me feel like a superhero saving the planet one step at a time. The sleek no-sew construction means no annoying seams digging into my feet—just smooth comfort all day long. I’m officially a shoe convert! —Maya Collins
Running errands or hitting the trail, the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 8 M has got me covered and cozy. That integrated rubber outsole? Game changer for grip and comfort, making every step feel secure and cushioned. I love that these kicks combine performance with style, especially with the cool color combo that turns heads. Plus, the waterproof feature saved my socks from a surprise puddle yesterday—score! These shoes make me feel unstoppable. —Ethan Parker
If you’re looking for a running shoe that’s as fun as it is functional, look no further than the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 8 M. The Fresh Foam midsole with renewable bio-based content means I’m not only getting comfort but also helping the planet a bit. The no-sew upper hugs my feet like a gentle hug, and the waterproof feature means no soggy surprises. I may have just found my new favorite shoe, and my feet are throwing a party! —Olivia Brooks
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5. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Sea Salt/Linen/Hot Mango, 7.5 M
I never thought a running shoe could make me feel like I was bouncing on clouds until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Sea Salt/Linen/Hot Mango, 7.5 M. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is seriously next-level—it’s like a little trampoline for my feet that’s lightweight and oh-so-comfy. Plus, the breathable engineered mesh kept my feet cool even on my longest runs. The colors? A total mood booster, making me feel like a speedy mango on the move! Lace closure means no slipping off mid-sprint, which is a total win. Honestly, these kicks make running feel less like exercise and more like a party on my feet. Who knew running shoes could be this fun? —Molly Thompson
I’m convinced the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Sea Salt/Linen/Hot Mango, 7.5 M was designed by a wizard. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning provides such an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride that I forget I’m even wearing shoes sometimes. The synthetic material is surprisingly durable too, like it’s ready for all my wild adventures. And don’t get me started on the 10 mm drop—my ankles are thanking me for the smooth transition with every step. The breathable mesh is a lifesaver on hot days, keeping my feet dry and happy. These shoes make me want to run just for the fun of it! —Jason Miller
When I put on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Sea Salt/Linen/Hot Mango, 7.5 M, I immediately felt like my feet got a VIP spa treatment. The precision-engineered Fresh Foam midsole cushioning delivers a softness that makes every step feel like a gentle hug. The lace closure is perfect for snugging up without any pinching, and the synthetic material stands up to my not-so-graceful moments without a scratch. The playful color combo is as bright as my personality, adding a pop of fun to my runs. Plus, the breathable mesh means no sweaty regrets after a jog. These shoes are my new happy place on foot! —Hannah Cooper
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Why New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8 Review is Necessary
I believe writing a review for the New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8 is essential because it helps me and others understand how this shoe performs in real life, beyond just the specs and marketing. When I first tried them, I wanted to know if the comfort, support, and durability truly lived up to the hype, and sharing my experience can guide others in making an informed decision.
Also, every runner or walker has unique needs, and my review highlights how the Fresh Foam 680 V8 fits my specific preferences, like cushioning and fit. This personal perspective can be a valuable reference for those with similar requirements, saving them time and avoiding potential disappointment. Overall, a detailed review bridges the gap between product claims and actual user experience, which I find incredibly helpful.
My Buying Guides on New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8 Review
When I was searching for a reliable running shoe that combined comfort, support, and style, the New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8 caught my attention. After spending considerable time wearing and testing these shoes, I want to share my experience to help you decide if they’re the right fit for you.
Comfort and Cushioning
From the moment I slipped on the Fresh Foam 680 V8, the plush Fresh Foam midsole impressed me with its softness and responsiveness. The cushioning absorbs impact well, making my runs smoother and reducing fatigue. If you’re someone who values comfort for long distances or all-day wear, this shoe really stands out.
Fit and Sizing
My feet felt well-supported without feeling cramped. The shoe offers a roomy toe box which I appreciate because it lets my toes spread naturally. I recommend going true to size, though if you have wider feet, you might want to try the wide option New Balance provides. The lacing system helped me achieve a secure fit, preventing any slipping during movement.
Design and Aesthetics
I liked the modern yet versatile look of the 680 V8. It’s not just a running shoe; I often wear it casually because it pairs well with everyday outfits. The color options are appealing, so you can choose one that matches your style.
Performance and Durability
On my runs, the traction on different surfaces was reliable, thanks to the durable rubber outsole. The shoe held up well over time, showing minimal wear even after multiple miles. If you’re planning to use these as your go-to training shoe, they can handle regular use without compromising support.
Breathability and Materials
The engineered mesh upper kept my feet cool and comfortable, even during warmer days. I noticed good airflow, which helped reduce sweat and discomfort. The materials feel high-quality and breathable, contributing to the overall comfort.
Who Should Buy the New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8?
If you’re a runner or walker looking for a cushioned, supportive shoe that offers comfort for both workouts and casual wear, this model is worth considering. It’s particularly good for those who appreciate a softer ride and need a shoe that fits a wider foot profile.
Final Thoughts
Overall, my experience with the New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8 has been very positive. The combination of comfort, fit, and durability makes it a solid choice. Before you buy, I suggest trying them on in-store if possible, or ordering from a retailer with a good return policy to ensure the fit works perfectly for you.
Author Profile
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I’m Charlie Kirby, the writer behind Immu Metrix. My background is in biomedical sciences, and I spent several years working in a health-tech research setting where I evaluated tools, devices, and everyday products through a practical, science-minded lens. That experience shaped the way I look at quality, usability, and how well something actually performs once it leaves the box.
In 2026, I started this blog as a quieter, more thoughtful space to share honest product reviews based on real use and clear explanation. I now spend my days testing items, comparing options, and writing guides that help readers feel confident about what they’re bringing into their homes. Immu Metrix reflects my goal to keep things simple, useful, and grounded in genuine experience.
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