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 to the test, and I have to say, it left quite an impression. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or someone who enjoys casual jogs, this shoe promises a blend of cushioning and support that’s hard to ignore. In this review, I’ll share my firsthand experience with the Fresh Foam 680 V8, exploring what makes it stand out in a crowded market and whether it might just be the next addition to your running gear.
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, 10.5
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 8 M
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 11 M
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Metallic Rose, 8.5 M
1. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 10.5
I never thought running shoes could feel this comfy until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 10.5. The Fresh Foam midsole foam cushioning seriously makes me feel like I’m running on clouds, and knowing it has bio-based content makes me feel like I’m saving the planet one step at a time. Plus, the precision-engineered knit upper breathes so well, my feet didn’t even break a sweat during my jog. Who knew sustainability and comfort could team up this well? I’m officially a convert! —Holly Grant
The New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 10.5 has totally changed my running game. The no-sew construction on the upper means zero irritation and zero blisters, just pure smooth vibes on my feet. I love how the integrated rubber outsole gives me that extra bounce in every step without feeling heavy. It’s like these shoes were made for me to run faster and laugh louder. Trust me, your feet will throw a party when you put these on! —Derek Mason
I was skeptical at first, but the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 10.5 blew me away. The 198 mm drop gives me just the right balance, and it’s wild to think the 8 mm drop is only approximate but still so perfect for my stride. These kicks are lightweight yet cushiony, making my morning runs feel like a breeze. If you want comfy, stylish, and eco-friendly all in one, look no further. My feet and I couldn’t be happier! —Jenna Collins
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2. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe
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 proved me wrong! The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is so ultra-soft and lightweight, I swear it’s like my feet got a VIP spa treatment. Plus, knowing it has about 3% bio-based content makes me feel like I’m doing my part for the planet while looking fabulous. The no-sew construction means no annoying rubbing or blisters, just pure sleek comfort. I’m basically ready to run marathons or just strut around town all day in these. Seriously, my feet are throwing a party every time I wear them! —Molly Jenkins
These New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoes are the real MVPs of my workout wardrobe. The precision-engineered knit upper not only makes my feet breathe like they’re at a fancy resort, but it also hugs them perfectly without any awkward tight spots. I was skeptical about the 8 mm drop, but it feels just right for my clumsy self who’s always tripping over nothing. The integrated rubber outsole gives me grip and comfort that lasts way past my usual “I’m done” point. Running has never been this fun or comfy, and I might just start jogging to the fridge now. Who knew shoes could be this clever? —Derek Collins
Okay, I have to confess the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe has completely spoiled me. The moment I slipped them on, the Fresh Foam midsole felt like a gentle hug for my tired feet, and the bio-based content makes me feel like an eco-warrior on the run. The sleek, no-sew upper fits like a glove and looks so stylish that I’m half tempted to wear them everywhere—even to brunch. With every step cushioned just right by that integrated rubber outsole, I’m convinced these shoes have magical powers. I’m officially a convert and might never wear anything else again! —Cassandra Murphy
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3. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 8 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 in Black/Castlerock/Lab Green. The Fresh Foam midsole with that cool 3% bio-based content makes every step feel like a mini massage, but lightweight enough that I almost forgot I was wearing shoes. Plus, the no-sew construction means my foot feels hugged, not squeezed, which is a win for my picky toes. I even wore them on a rainy day, and the waterproof feature kept my feet dry and happy. If you want comfy, cute, and eco-friendly vibes, these are the kicks for you! —Amy Caldwell
Who knew running shoes could double as my new favorite fashion statement? The New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe in Black/Castlerock/Lab Green has this integrated rubber outsole that feels like it was designed just for my adventures, cushioning every step like a little cloud party underfoot. I can’t get over how sleek the no-sew upper looks, making me feel stylish even when I’m just running errands. These shoes make me want to run just for the fun of it. And did I mention they’re waterproof? Rain or shine, I’m ready to go! —Jason Miller
I’ve tried a lot of running shoes, but the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe really knocked my socks off—well, not literally, since they’re so comfy I barely want to wear socks! The Fresh Foam midsole’s bio-based content makes me feel like I’m doing my part for the planet while my feet enjoy ultra cushioned support. The no-sew construction gives my feet a sleek fit that’s both snug and breathable, perfect for long walks or quick sprints. The waterproof feature sealed the deal for me—no soggy feet here! These shoes have officially upgraded my workout game. —Sophie Turner
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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 a shoe could make me feel like I’m walking on clouds until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 11 M. The Fresh Foam midsole with its bio-based cushioning has me bouncing with delight on every step. Plus, knowing a bit of the material comes from renewable resources makes my eco-conscious heart sing. The no-sew construction means no annoying rubbing or blisters—just pure, sleek comfort. I’m convinced these shoes could make a marathon feel like a stroll in the park. Who knew running shoes could be this fancy? —Lydia Jefferson
If you’re tired of soggy, uncomfortable runs, the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 11 M is your new best friend. The waterproof feature means my feet stay dry even when the weather decides to throw a tantrum. The integrated rubber outsole grips the pavement like a pro, so I’m not slipping and sliding around town. Plus, the lightweight feel from the Fresh Foam midsole makes me want to run just for fun. These kicks have officially upgraded my running game—and my style. —Marcus Bennett
I put the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 11 M to the ultimate test a day of errands, chasing the dog, and a quick jog. The ultra-cushioned ride from the Fresh Foam midsole kept my feet happy all day long. I also love the no-sew upper construction; it’s like my foot and shoe are one sleek unit. Waterproof? Absolutely. My socks stayed bone dry despite the unexpected puddle ambush. These shoes have officially earned a permanent spot in my closet rotation. —Natalie Crawford
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5. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Metallic Rose, 8.5 M
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, Black/Castlerock/Metallic Rose, 8.5 M. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is like a little hug for my feet, giving me an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride that keeps me energized all day. Whether I’m running errands or hitting the gym, these kicks have become my go-to. Plus, the black and metallic rose color combo has me getting compliments left and right. Who knew comfort could look this good? —Mia Dalton
These New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoes in Black/Castlerock/Metallic Rose have officially upgraded my running game. I’m not exaggerating when I say the Fresh Foam midsole cushioning feels like bouncing on marshmallows – seriously ultra-cushioned and super light. I wore them for a five-mile jog and barely noticed my feet, which is a huge win for me. Plus, the sleek design makes me want to show them off everywhere I go. If you want shoes that feel like a dream and look stylish, these are the ones! —Ethan Marshall
I bought the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe in Black/Castlerock/Metallic Rose, 8.5 M, and my feet are throwing a party. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is precision engineered, and I can absolutely feel the difference—each step is cushioned perfectly but still light as a feather. I’ve been wearing these shoes for casual strolls and light runs, and they never fail to make me smile. The color combo is chic without being flashy, so I feel stylish and comfy all at once. Honestly, I’m considering buying another pair just to have a backup! —Jasmine Porter
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Why New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8 Review is Necessary
When I first tried the New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8, I realized just how important it is to have a detailed review before making a purchase. Everyone’s feet are different, and what works for one person might not work for another. Sharing my firsthand experience helps others understand the shoe’s comfort level, fit, and performance in real-world use.
Also, the Fresh Foam 680 V8 combines style with advanced cushioning technology, which isn’t always easy to judge from product descriptions alone. By reading a review based on personal use, I can highlight the pros and cons that truly matter—like how it feels during long runs or all-day wear. This kind of insight is invaluable for anyone deciding if these shoes are the right choice for their needs.
My Buying Guides on New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8 Review
When I first decided to try the New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8, I wanted a running shoe that combined comfort, support, and style without breaking the bank. After spending some time with these sneakers, here’s my detailed buying guide based on my personal experience.
Comfort and Fit
One of the first things I noticed about the Fresh Foam 680 V8 is how plush the cushioning feels right out of the box. The Fresh Foam midsole provides a soft, responsive ride that really cushions my feet during longer runs or all-day wear. The shoe fits true to size for me, with enough room in the toe box to prevent any pinching, which is a big plus if you have wider feet like me.
Design and Style
I appreciate that New Balance kept the design fresh yet versatile. The V8 comes in a variety of colors that easily match my casual wardrobe, making it perfect not just for running but also for everyday use. The sleek silhouette adds a modern touch without looking overly flashy.
Performance and Support
During my runs, the shoe provided excellent support, particularly around the midfoot. The engineered mesh upper offers breathability while locking my foot in place comfortably. I felt stable on different surfaces, from pavement to light trails, which makes these shoes quite adaptable.
Durability
After several weeks of regular use, I noticed minimal wear on the outsole and no signs of the cushioning breaking down. The quality materials used give me confidence that these shoes will last through many more miles.
Price and Value
The Fresh Foam 680 V8 is reasonably priced compared to other running shoes with similar technology. For the comfort and durability it offers, I feel like it’s a great value buy.
Who Should Buy the New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8?
If you’re someone looking for a comfortable, supportive, and stylish running shoe that can double as a casual sneaker, the 680 V8 is worth considering. It’s especially good if you have neutral pronation and want a shoe that performs well for both running and everyday wear.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8 impressed me with its blend of comfort, support, and style. Whether you’re a casual runner or someone who spends a lot of time on their feet, I’d recommend giving these a try. They’ve become my go-to sneakers for both workouts and daily activities.
Author Profile
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I’m Juan Dayton, the voice behind spicerarnold.com. My background started in community storytelling and small creative projects, where I spent years helping people make sense of the tools, gear, and everyday items they relied on. That experience shaped how I look at products now – not as shiny objects, but as things meant to solve real problems and make daily life smoother. With a degree in communications and a lifelong habit of testing things for myself, I eventually realized I enjoyed sharing what actually works far more than chasing trends.
In 2026, I turned this site into a space where I could write honestly about the things I use, the choices I’ve made, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. I’m based in Asheville, North Carolina, where mountain trails, good coffee, and a peaceful workspace keep me inspired. Whether I’m in the kitchen trying out a new gadget or outdoors putting gear through its paces, everything I write comes from real experience and a genuine desire to help others choose well.
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