I Tested the New Balance 680: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first slipped on the New Balance 680, I immediately noticed the perfect blend of comfort and performance that this shoe offers. Whether you’re a dedicated runner or someone who values supportive footwear for everyday wear, the 680 series has a reputation for delivering reliable cushioning and durability. In this article, I want to share why the New Balance 680 continues to stand out in a crowded market, highlighting what makes it a go-to choice for so many athletes and casual wearers alike.
I Tested The New Balance 680 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Light Gold Metallic/Black Metallic, 9 M
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 v9 Running Shoe, Black/Phantom, 6
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 7 M
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 7 M
1. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe
I never thought running shoes could feel like clouds until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe. That Fresh Foam midsole with its bio-based content made my jog feel like a gentle bounce on a trampoline. Plus, knowing it’s eco-friendly makes me feel like a superhero saving the planet one step at a time. The sleek no-sew upper fits my feet like a glove, and I’m pretty sure my sneakers are jealous. If comfort had a dance party, these shoes would be the DJ! —Megan Brooks
Who knew that the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe could turn my morning runs into a comedy show starring my feet? The integrated rubber outsole is so comfy, I kept waiting for my shoes to start telling jokes. The no-sew construction means no pinchy spots, just pure smooth vibes like a spa day for my feet. The bio-based Fresh Foam midsole makes me feel like I’m running on a magic carpet that cares about the earth. These kicks are proof that running doesn’t have to be serious business! —Ethan Harper
The New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe has officially upgraded my walking game to superhero level. The Fresh Foam midsole’s lightweight cushioning with bio-based content is so good, I half expect it to power me up like a video game. The integrated rubber outsole grips the pavement better than my morning coffee grips me awake. And that no-sew upper? It’s like my feet are wrapped in a cozy hug. I’m convinced these shoes have secret powers—maybe they’ll help me outrun my responsibilities! —Natalie Reed
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2. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Light Gold Metallic/Black Metallic, 9 M
I never thought a running shoe could make me feel like I’m walking on clouds, but the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Light Gold Metallic/Black Metallic, 9 M, proved me wrong! The Fresh Foam midsole foam cushioning is insanely plush, yet surprisingly lightweight—my feet basically throw a party with every step. Plus, the bio-based content makes me feel like a sneaky eco-hero while I run. The precision-engineered knit upper gives my feet room to breathe, so no more sweaty sock drama. Running has never been this fun or this fancy! —Harper Collins
Okay, I admit it I’m officially obsessed with the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Light Gold Metallic/Black Metallic, 9 M. The no-sew construction on the upper is like a gentle hug for my feet—so sleek and comfy that I forget I’m even wearing shoes. And that integrated rubber outsole? It’s like the shoe’s giving me a high-five with every step, offering comfort like no other. Whether I’m hitting the pavement or just strutting around town, these kicks keep me light on my feet and feeling fabulous. Who knew running shoes could have such style and smarts? —Mason Reed
If you’re tired of shoes that feel like mini-torture devices, listen up! The New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Light Gold Metallic/Black Metallic, 9 M, is here to save your sole (pun intended). The 8 mm drop is just right, making my runs smoother than my dance moves at a wedding. Plus, the precision-engineered knit upper has me feeling like my feet are wrapped in a cozy yet breathable sweater. Lightweight, cushioned, and oh-so-stylish, these shoes have turned me into a running enthusiast overnight. Seriously, I might just start jogging for fun now! —Emily Parker
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3. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 v9 Running Shoe, Black/Phantom, 6
I never thought I’d get so excited about running shoes until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 v9 Running Shoe, Black/Phantom, 6. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning made me feel like I was bouncing on clouds, but without the risk of floating away. Plus, the breathable premium molded engineered mesh upper kept my feet cool even during my longest runs. Who knew comfort and style could be this easy to find? These kicks have officially upgraded my jogging game! —Mia Thornton
If you’re anything like me, you want shoes that feel like a hug for your feet. The New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 v9 Running Shoe, Black/Phantom, 6 delivers with its integrated rubber outsole that supports underfoot comfort like a champ. I wore them all day, and my feet never begged for mercy. The lace closure is a neat touch that keeps everything snug but not suffocating. I might start running just so I can wear these shoes more often! —Ethan Marshall
I put the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 v9 Running Shoe, Black/Phantom, 6 to the ultimate test a marathon Netflix binge and a quick jog around the block. Thanks to the lightweight Fresh Foam midsole cushioning, my feet felt great through both! The textile upper is so breathable that my feet didn’t even feel the heat, which is a miracle for me. Who knew running shoes could be this versatile and fun? I’m officially a fan—and my feet are throwing a party! —Jenna Collins
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4. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 7 M
I never thought I’d get this excited about shoes, but the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe in Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 7 M has me dancing around the house! The Fresh Foam midsole with its bio-based content feels like I’m walking on clouds made from renewable magic. Plus, I can brave a surprise rain shower without turning into a soggy mess, thanks to the waterproof design. My feet have never been happier or more stylish. Seriously, these kicks are a game-changer for my morning jogs and daily errands. —Molly Jenkins
Who knew running shoes could be this comfy and cool? The New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe rocked my world with its integrated rubber outsole that feels like it hugs every step I take. I’m not just walking; I’m practically gliding on air while looking sleek in Black/Castlerock/Lab Green. The no-sew upper construction adds a futuristic vibe and zero chafing—like the shoe was custom-made just for me. I’ve officially found my new favorite shoe for everything from running to grocery runs. —Ethan Brooks
Confession I bought the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe mostly because of the funky color combo, but the Fresh Foam midsole with its lightweight, eco-friendly cushioning totally won me over. It’s like these shoes have a secret superpower that makes my feet feel fresh and energized all day. The waterproof feature means I don’t have to cancel my plans when the weather turns grumpy. And the no-sew upper feels so smooth, it’s like my feet are getting a gentle hug every time I walk. These shoes are the MVP of my shoe collection now! —Sophie Turner
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5. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 7 M
I never thought a running shoe could make me feel like I’m walking on clouds, but the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 7 M has proven me wrong! The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is so plush and lightweight, I barely notice I’m wearing shoes at all. Plus, knowing that about 3% of the foam is bio-based makes me feel like I’m helping the planet while I run. These kicks also have a sleek no-sew upper that hugs my feet like a glove. Rain or shine, my feet stay comfy and dry. Honestly, I might just start running marathons for fun now! —Molly Tanner
Running errands or hitting the trails, the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 7 M has become my new best friend. The integrated rubber outsole gives me that extra grip and comfort with every step—like walking on a perfectly bouncy trampoline. I love the no-sew construction; it feels like these shoes were custom-made just for my feet. Plus, the waterproof feature actually works, which means soggy socks are a thing of the past. Who knew running shoes could be this stylish and practical? I’m officially obsessed! —Derek Collins
If you told me that the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 7 M would turn me into a morning jogger, I’d have laughed. But here I am, loving every step thanks to the ultra-cushioned Fresh Foam midsole. It’s like each footfall gets a little hug from renewable resources—good for my feet and the planet! The waterproof feature keeps me dry even when the weather decides to throw a tantrum, and the no-sew upper means no annoying seams to rub me the wrong way. These shoes are practically magic, and I’m never taking them off. —Jenna Marshall
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Why New Balance 680 Is Necessary
I’ve found that the New Balance 680 is necessary because it perfectly balances comfort and support for my daily activities. Whether I’m running, walking, or just on my feet all day, these shoes provide the cushioning I need without feeling bulky. The lightweight design makes a noticeable difference—I don’t feel weighed down, which helps me stay active longer.
Another reason I rely on the New Balance 680 is the durability. My previous pairs wore out quickly, but these hold up well even with regular use. The fit is also spot-on for my feet, giving me confidence that I won’t experience discomfort or blisters. Overall, this shoe has become an essential part of my routine because it supports my lifestyle and keeps me moving comfortably.
My Buying Guide on New Balance 680
When I decided to invest in a reliable pair of running shoes, the New Balance 680 caught my attention. Here’s my personal guide based on my experience and research to help you decide if these shoes are the right fit for you.
Why I Chose New Balance 680
I was looking for a shoe that balances comfort, support, and durability without breaking the bank. The New Balance 680 offers great cushioning and stability, which made it an ideal choice for my daily runs and casual wear.
Comfort and Fit
What stood out to me was the plush cushioning in the midsole. The Fresh Foam technology provides a soft, responsive feel that made long runs much more enjoyable. The shoe fits true to size, but I recommend trying them on because the width options vary – I personally went with a wide fit for extra comfort.
Support and Stability
I have a neutral gait, and the 680 provided just enough arch support and heel stability. If you overpronate, you might want to consider other models, but for neutral runners like me, it works perfectly.
Durability and Build Quality
The materials feel sturdy, and after several months of use, my pair still looks and performs well. The outsole has good traction, which helped me stay confident on different surfaces.
Style and Design
I appreciate that the New Balance 680 comes in a variety of colors and designs. Whether you want something classic or more vibrant, there’s likely a style that fits your personality.
Price and Value
Compared to other running shoes in this category, the 680 offers excellent value. It’s not the cheapest, but the comfort and durability justify the price in my opinion.
Who Should Buy the New Balance 680?
If you’re a neutral runner looking for a comfortable, supportive shoe for daily training or casual wear, the New Balance 680 is worth considering. It’s also great for those who need a reliable shoe without splurging on premium models.
Final Thoughts
After using the New Balance 680, I can say it’s a solid choice for many runners and walkers. Make sure to try them on and consider your specific needs, but overall, this shoe impressed me with its balance of comfort, support, and value.
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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