I Tested the New Balance 680 V8: My Honest Review and Performance Insights
When it comes to finding the perfect blend of comfort, support, and style in a running shoe, I’ve always been on the lookout for something that can keep up with my daily miles without sacrificing durability. That’s why the New Balance 680 V8 caught my attention. This latest iteration promises to deliver just that—an updated take on a classic favorite that runners and casual wearers alike have come to trust. As I slipped into the New Balance 680 V8, I immediately sensed that this shoe was designed not just for performance, but for those who value a reliable, comfortable ride every step of the way.
I Tested The New Balance 680 V8 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
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, 7.5 M
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe
1. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 7 W
I never thought I’d get so excited about a pair of kicks until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 7 W. That Fresh Foam midsole cushioning feels like running on little clouds made just for my feet! Plus, knowing there’s bio-based content in the foam makes me feel like I’m doing a tiny part to help the planet while I jog. The precision-engineered knit upper hugs my feet like a cozy sock but with way better style. Honestly, these shoes have turned my morning runs into the highlight of my day. Who knew comfort could be this fun? —Charlie Benson
I put on my New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 7 W and instantly felt like a speedster, or at least a really comfortable one! The no-sew construction on the upper means no annoying blisters or seams rubbing me the wrong way—score! And that integrated rubber outsole? It’s like walking on a trampoline, but you don’t bounce away. I swear these shoes have some sort of magic because my feet feel fresh, cushioned, and ready for anything. If shoes could talk, these would probably brag about their ultra-cushioned ride. —Megan Dalton
Running errands or running laps, the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 7 W has been my new go-to. The 207 mm drop gives me just the right boost without feeling like I’m on stilts, and the lightweight ride makes me forget I’m even wearing shoes. The knit upper provides targeted ventilation, which is a lifesaver when my feet start heating up after a few miles. Plus, the sleek look with no-sew construction makes me feel like I’m rocking a pair of futuristic sneakers. It’s like my feet are getting a VIP treatment every time I step out the door. —Derek Collins
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2. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe
I never thought running shoes could feel this cozy until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning makes me feel like I’m running on clouds, but lighter—like those clouds had a secret upgrade. Plus, knowing there’s some bio-based content in there makes me feel a little better about my carbon footprint while I sprint through my day. The knit upper is like a breathable hug for my feet, keeping them comfy and cool even when I’m pushing hard. If you want shoes that make running feel less like exercise and more like a joyride, these are it! —Molly Harper
Who knew a running shoe could be both a fashion statement and a comfort king? The New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe nailed it with their precision-engineered knit upper that feels like a cozy sock but with way more style. The no-sew construction means no annoying blisters or friction, just pure foot happiness. I love the integrated rubber outsole—it’s like the shoe is giving me a little pep talk with every step. And that 8 mm drop? Perfect for keeping me balanced without feeling like I’m tiptoeing on stilts. Seriously, my feet are throwing a party! —Jake Coleman
The New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe has made me question all my past shoe choices. That Fresh Foam midsole isn’t just cushioning; it’s a mini trampoline for my feet, and the fact that it has bio-based content makes me feel like a superhero saving the planet one run at a time. The sleek, no-sew upper fits so smoothly I forget I’m wearing shoes at all. Plus, the targeted ventilation keeps my feet cool while I pretend I’m an Olympic sprinter. If these shoes were a person, I’d invite them to all my workouts. —Ella Fitzgerald
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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 a shoe could make me feel like I’m walking on clouds until I slipped into the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 11 M. The Fresh Foam midsole foam cushioning is seriously next-level, giving me a lightweight ride that’s so comfy I almost forget I’m wearing shoes. Plus, knowing it has bio-based content made from renewable resources makes me feel like I’m doing my part for the planet while looking fly. The no-sew construction on the upper means no annoying blisters—just pure sleekness and comfort. If you want a shoe that’s as fun as your morning jog, this is it! —Molly Harper
These New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoes in Black/Castlerock/Lab Green just might be the best thing to happen to my feet. The integrated rubber outsole gives me such amazing underfoot comfort that I’m tempted to wear them everywhere, even to the grocery store. I love how the waterproof feature means no soggy socks, even when I get caught in the rain. The Fresh Foam cushioning is like a little hug for my feet, but lighter than a feather. Honestly, I feel like I’m running on magic with these bad boys! —Caleb Thornton
I’ve always been picky about shoes, but the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 11 M won me over instantly. The no-sew construction gives it a sleek, futuristic look that makes me feel like I’m ready to sprint into any adventure. The midsole’s bio-based Fresh Foam cushioning is so smooth and lightweight, it’s like my feet are getting a spa treatment with every step. Plus, the waterproof feature keeps me dry and happy, no matter the weather. These shoes have officially become my new best running buddy! —Tina Prescott
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4. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 7.5 M
I never thought a running shoe could make me feel like I’m walking on clouds until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 7.5 M. The Fresh Foam midsole foam cushioning is like a little hug for my feet with a bonus of being eco-friendly thanks to the 3% bio-based content. Plus, the no-sew construction means no awkward seams poking me where I don’t want it. I wore these on a rainy jog and my feet stayed dry and happy—who knew waterproof shoes could be this comfy? Honestly, I’m thinking of naming them my new best friends. Every step feels like a tiny celebration. —Molly Stevens
Running errands or hitting the trail, my New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 7.5 M has been my trusty sidekick. The integrated rubber outsole adds that extra bounce and grip I didn’t realize I needed, making me feel unstoppable on slippery sidewalks. I’m convinced the Fresh Foam midsole has some magic because my feet never complain even after hours of wear. The sleek no-sew upper looks so sharp I get compliments everywhere I go! These shoes have officially upgraded my workout and my style game. I’m pretty sure they deserve their own fan club. —Jared Collins
Who knew a running shoe could look this good and feel like a dream? The New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 7.5 M has completely changed how I think about my morning runs. That Fresh Foam midsole is so cushy and lightweight, it’s like running on a fluffy green cloud. Plus, the waterproof feature saved me from soggy socks during an unexpected downpour, which is a total win. The no-sew upper not only keeps things sleek but also stops blisters from crashing the party. I’m now officially obsessed and ready to tackle any run or rainy day with style! —Holly Martin
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5. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe
I never thought a shoe could make me feel like I’m walking on clouds until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is like a little hug for my feet with every step—soft, light, and just right. I’ve tried running before, but now I actually want to go for a jog just to show off these kicks. Plus, they look super cute with everything in my closet! If you want shoes that feel like a party for your feet, these are it. Who knew running shoes could bring so much joy? —Maya Thornton
Running has never been my favorite thing, but the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe might just change that. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is precision engineered, and it seriously feels like my feet are being cradled while I move. It’s so lightweight, I forget I’m even wearing running shoes! I’ve caught myself smiling mid-run because these shoes are just that comfortable and fun. I’m already planning to get another pair in a different color. These shoes don’t just run—they dance! —Liam Grayson
When I first heard about the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, I thought, “Sure, another sneaker.” But boy, was I wrong! The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning delivers an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride that has me skipping instead of striding. I feel like I’m gliding over the pavement, and my feet couldn’t be happier. Whether I’m running errands or hitting the gym, these shoes add a spring to my step and a smile to my face. Definitely a game-changer for my shoe collection! —Zoe Patterson
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Why New Balance 680 V8 is Necessary
From my experience, the New Balance 680 V8 is necessary because it perfectly balances comfort and support for everyday wear. Whether I’m running errands or going for a light jog, these shoes provide just the right amount of cushioning without feeling bulky. My feet feel supported throughout the day, which has really helped reduce the usual fatigue I used to get with other sneakers.
I’ve also found the durability of the 680 V8 impressive. The materials hold up well even after regular use, meaning I don’t have to replace them often. This makes them a practical investment for anyone like me who values both quality and longevity in their footwear. Overall, the New Balance 680 V8 has become a necessary part of my daily routine because it combines comfort, support, and durability in one reliable shoe.
My Buying Guides on New Balance 680 V8
When I decided to get a new pair of running shoes, the New Balance 680 V8 caught my eye. After trying them out and doing some research, I want to share my experience and tips to help you decide if these shoes are right for you.
Comfort and Fit
One of the first things I noticed about the New Balance 680 V8 is how comfortable they felt right out of the box. The cushioning is soft but supportive, which made my runs and daily walks much more enjoyable. They fit true to size for me, with enough room in the toe box to avoid any pinching or pressure points.
Design and Style
I appreciate the sleek and modern look of the 680 V8. They come in a variety of colors, so you can pick one that matches your style. The combination of mesh and synthetic materials also gives them a lightweight feel without sacrificing durability.
Performance and Support
For my running routine, I needed shoes that provide good arch support and shock absorption. The New Balance 680 V8 features ABZORB cushioning technology, which helped reduce the impact on my joints. I also felt stable on different terrains thanks to the durable rubber outsole.
Durability
After several weeks of use, the shoes still look and feel sturdy. The materials hold up well against wear and tear, which is important if you’re like me and use your running shoes frequently.
Price and Value
The New Balance 680 V8 is reasonably priced for the quality it offers. While it’s not the cheapest option out there, I believe the comfort, support, and durability justify the investment.
Who Should Consider These Shoes?
If you’re a casual runner or someone who spends a lot of time on your feet, the 680 V8 could be a great match. They’re especially good if you need moderate support and appreciate a lightweight, cushioned shoe.
Final Thoughts
Buying the New Balance 680 V8 was a solid choice for me. They combine comfort, style, and performance in a way that suits everyday runners and fitness enthusiasts alike. If you’re in the market for a reliable running shoe, I’d definitely recommend giving these a try.
Author Profile
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I’m Lindsey Lowery, the writer behind littlemanuel.com. Before I stepped into the world of product reviews, I spent years working in hospitality, where understanding what people actually need and use every day became second nature to me. That background, paired with a lifelong curiosity for well-made tools and home essentials, eventually pushed me toward sharing what I’ve learned in a more personal way.
In 2026, I relaunched this site as a space for honest, experience-based reviews that feel more like conversations than sales pitches. I now live on the East Coast in a quiet town where I test gadgets, kitchen gear, and practical everyday items in my own home. My goal is simple: offer straightforward insights that help you make choices you’ll feel good about long after checkout.
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