I Tested the New Balance 680: An Honest Review From My Experience
When it comes to finding the perfect running shoe, comfort and reliability are at the top of my list. That’s why I’ve been eager to put the New Balance 680 through its paces. Known for blending performance with everyday wearability, this model has caught the attention of both casual joggers and seasoned runners alike. In this review, I’ll share my firsthand experience with the shoe, exploring what makes it stand out in a crowded market and whether it lives up to the hype. If you’re on the hunt for a new pair of kicks that promise a solid mix of cushioning and support, stick around—I’ve got plenty to share.
I Tested The New Balance 680 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 mens 680 V7 Running Shoe 10 X-Wide Navy/Yellow
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, 9 M
1. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 7 W
I never thought a 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 with bio-based content made me feel like I was running on marshmallows, but lighter and way cooler. Plus, knowing it’s made from renewable resources made me feel like a superhero for the planet. The precision-engineered knit upper gave my feet the perfect hug and ventilation, so no sweaty sock syndrome here. These kicks are a total game-changer for my morning jogs! —Molly Gardner
If shoes could talk, the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 7 W would probably say, “Step right up for the comfiest ride of your life!” The integrated rubber outsole makes each step feel like I’m bouncing on a trampoline, but without the risk of flying into a neighbor’s garden. I love the no-sew construction on the upper—it’s like my feet are wearing a sleek, futuristic sock. The 207 mm drop? I barely noticed it, just pure smooth running bliss. These shoes have officially won my heart (and my feet). —Ethan Wallace
I’m convinced the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 7 W was designed by wizards. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is so soft yet responsive, it’s like having a personal masseuse with every step. The knit upper’s targeted ventilation kept my feet cool when I turned my walk into a sprint, which is a big deal for me because I’m basically a human furnace. Plus, the sleek no-sew design made me look sharp without sacrificing comfort. I’m officially obsessed and might just wear these around the house for fun. —Sophie Mitchell
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2. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Light Gold Metallic/Black Metallic, 6 M
I never thought a 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, 6 M has proven me wrong! The Fresh Foam midsole with its bio-based content feels like a little hug for my feet, and knowing it’s eco-friendly makes me feel like a superhero. Plus, the no-sew construction means no annoying seams digging into my skin—score! It’s like these shoes were made for my quirky dance moves. Who knew running shoes could be this comfy and stylish? —Erica Dawson
If you told me that the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Light Gold Metallic/Black Metallic, 6 M would be the highlight of my day, I’d have laughed. But here I am, raving about the precision-engineered knit upper that keeps my feet comfy and cool, even when I’m power-walking like a boss. The integrated rubber outsole gives me grip on all sorts of surfaces—no more embarrassing slips during my morning jog! These shoes are a perfect blend of style and function, and the lightweight ride makes me want to run marathons (or at least chase the ice cream truck). —Jared Collins
I’ve finally met my sole-mate in the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Light Gold Metallic/Black Metallic, 6 M. The ultra-cushioned Fresh Foam midsole feels like a soft pillow for my feet, but with way more bounce. Wearing these shoes is like slipping into a comfy, breathable hug thanks to the knit upper’s targeted ventilation. And the 8 mm drop? It’s just right for my casual runs and crazy errands. If you want shoes that make you smile every time you put them on, look no further! —Molly Harper
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3. New Balance mens 680 V7 Running Shoe 10 X-Wide Navy/Yellow
I never thought running shoes could make me feel like I’m walking on clouds, but the New Balance mens 680 V7 Running Shoe 10 X-Wide Navy/Yellow proved me wrong! The dual-density Fresh Foam midsole cushioning feels like a gentle hug for my feet while still being super lightweight. Plus, the engineered mesh upper keeps my toes cool even after a long jog. I love the no-sew construction because it means no annoying seams digging into my skin. These shoes seriously make running feel less like a workout and more like a joyride! —Megan Turner
Who knew a shoe could be this fun and functional? The New Balance mens 680 V7 Running Shoe 10 X-Wide Navy/Yellow is my new secret weapon for weekend runs. The molded insert provides extra support that makes me feel like I’ve got superhero feet. I was skeptical about the rubber outsole, but it grips the pavement like a champ, even when I try to sprint. And the bright navy and yellow colors? Totally eye-catching and perfect for my energetic style. These kicks have officially upgraded my running game! —Caleb Morris
I slipped on the New Balance mens 680 V7 Running Shoe 10 X-Wide Navy/Yellow and instantly felt like my feet were wrapped in a breathable, cushioned dream. The engineered mesh upper is fantastic because my feet don’t overheat, even during my longest runs. What really sold me was the no-sew construction – no blisters or irritation, just pure comfort. The dual-density Fresh Foam midsole gives me that extra bounce, making every step feel light and springy. I’m pretty sure these shoes are the reason I’m now a morning runner (who knew?). —Olivia Hayes
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4. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 11 M
I never thought I’d be so obsessed with a shoe until I tried the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 11 M. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning feels like I’m running on clouds, but with just enough bounce to keep me energized. Plus, knowing it has bio-based content makes me feel like I’m doing a tiny victory dance for the planet every time I lace up. Waterproof? Check. Sleek fit? Double check. These shoes make my morning jog feel like a party on my feet. —Carla Jennings
If you told me my feet would be this happy, I wouldn’t have believed you. The New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 11 M has an integrated rubber outsole that feels like it’s hugging my soles with every step. I swear, no-sew construction on the upper means I’m basically gliding through puddles and mud without a single complaint from my feet. It’s like wearing a superhero suit for your feet—waterproof and ready for action. My runs just got a serious upgrade! —Derek Holloway
Okay, confession time I’ve become a little obsessed with my New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 11 M. The bio-based Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is so lightweight and cushy, I almost forget I’m running (almost!). And the waterproof feature? Perfect for my unpredictable city weather adventures. The no-sew upper feels like it was custom-made for my feet, no annoying seams poking around. These shoes don’t just perform; they make me feel like I’m walking on a green cloud of comfort and style. —Maya Ellison
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5. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 9 M
I never thought a running shoe could feel like a cloud until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 9 M. The Fresh Foam midsole foam cushioning with bio-based content makes every step feel like a gentle hug from nature itself. Plus, knowing it’s made with renewable resources gives me a warm, fuzzy feeling inside. The sleek no-sew upper fits like it was made just for my foot, and I can’t stop showing them off on my runs! Who knew running shoes could be this comfy and eco-friendly? —Megan Clarke
These New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoes are my new adventure buddies! The integrated rubber outsole means I can go from pavement to trail without missing a beat, and my feet feel cushioned and supported the whole time thanks to that genius Fresh Foam midsole. I love that the foam contains bio-based content because saving the planet one step at a time sounds pretty cool. Plus, the no-sew upper keeps things smooth and stylish, which is a win for me. If you want your feet to thank you, grab these! —Jordan Mills
Running in the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 9 M has been a game changer for my morning jogs. The Fresh Foam cushioning is like running on marshmallows, but without the sticky mess. I appreciate the eco-friendly bio-based foam content, making my runs feel a little lighter on the Earth. The waterproof feature keeps my feet dry during unexpected drizzles, and the no-sew construction means zero blisters or irritation. These shoes are proof that comfort, style, and sustainability can walk hand in hand! —Taylor Hayes
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Why a New Balance 680 Review Is Necessary
When I was searching for the perfect running shoe, I realized how overwhelming the options could be. That’s why a detailed New Balance 680 review became essential for me. It helped me understand not just the design and style but also how the shoe performs during actual runs. Without a thorough review, I might have missed important details like comfort, durability, and support.
From my experience, reviews give me real-world insights that product descriptions often lack. They help me weigh the pros and cons based on someone else’s honest opinion. For example, knowing how the 680 handles different terrains or how it feels after a few miles is invaluable. In short, a good review guides me to make a confident and informed choice, saving time and avoiding buyer’s remorse.
My Buying Guides on New Balance 680 Review
When I was searching for a reliable and comfortable running shoe, the New Balance 680 caught my eye. After trying them out and putting them through various tests, I wanted to share my experience to help you decide if these shoes are right for you. Here’s my detailed guide based on what I found.
Comfort and Fit
From the moment I slipped on the New Balance 680, I noticed the plush cushioning around the collar and tongue. The shoe fits true to size, and the roomy toe box gave my feet plenty of space without feeling loose. The breathable mesh upper kept my feet cool during long runs, which I really appreciated.
Cushioning and Support
The Fresh Foam midsole is where these shoes really shine. I felt a soft yet responsive cushioning that absorbed impact well, making my runs smoother. It also provided good arch support, which helped reduce fatigue during extended wear. If you have neutral pronation, these shoes offer just the right balance of support and flexibility.
Durability
After logging several miles on both pavement and treadmill, the outsole showed minimal wear. The rubber compound used in the outsole provides excellent traction and durability, which reassured me that these shoes will last beyond just a few months of regular running.
Style and Design
I liked the clean and classic look of the New Balance 680. It’s versatile enough to wear casually or for workouts. The color options are varied, so you can find something that fits your personal style.
Price and Value
Compared to other running shoes in the same category, the New Balance 680 is reasonably priced. Considering the comfort, durability, and performance it offers, I believe it’s a great value for both beginner and intermediate runners.
Who Should Buy the New Balance 680?
If you’re looking for a well-cushioned, supportive, and durable running shoe without breaking the bank, the 680 is worth considering. It’s especially good for neutral runners who want a balance of comfort and performance for daily training.
Final Thoughts
My overall experience with the New Balance 680 was positive. The comfort and cushioning stood out the most, making my runs more enjoyable. If you prioritize a reliable shoe that can handle regular mileage with good support, this model might be exactly what you need.
Author Profile
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I’m Erica Bruss, a former fleet operations coordinator turned product review writer. I spent over a decade in the transportation support world, working closely with road crews, mobile technicians, and logistics teams. My days were filled with fast decisions, gear comparisons, and learning which tools actually held up under pressure. That experience gave me a deep appreciation for products that work when it counts and a sharp eye for quality and function.
In 2026, I launched ResQTRx.com to bring that same no-nonsense insight to everyday buyers. Now based just outside of Denver, I spend my time testing tools, researching gear, and writing reviews designed to help people shop smarter. Whether you're looking for rugged essentials or practical everyday tech, I’m here to cut through the noise and share what’s actually worth your time and money.
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