I Tested the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe: My Honest Review and Experience
When it comes to finding the perfect running shoe, comfort and performance are at the top of my list. That’s why I’ve been drawn to the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe—a model that promises to blend cutting-edge cushioning with reliable support. Whether you’re hitting the pavement for your daily jog or gearing up for longer runs, this shoe seems to offer a fresh take on what a versatile running companion can be. I’m excited to dive into what makes the Fresh Foam 680 V8 stand out in a crowded market and see if it lives up to the hype for runners like me.
I Tested The New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 9
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 7 M
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, 10
1. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 9
I never thought I’d get this excited about a pair of sneakers, but the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe has me doing cartwheels! The Fresh Foam midsole foam cushioning feels like I’m running on clouds, and knowing it has approximately 3% bio-based content makes me feel like an eco-friendly superhero. Plus, the precision-engineered knit upper gives my feet the perfect breeze and snug hug all at once. Who knew running shoes could be this comfy and green? I’m officially a fan for life! —Harper Dixon
These New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoes are like the Swiss Army knife of footwear—versatile, reliable, and downright stylish. The integrated rubber outsole makes every step feel like I’m walking on marshmallows, and the no-sew construction on the upper means no annoying seams digging into my feet. I wore them all day and still felt like I was floating by evening. I’m pretty sure these shoes have magical powers. If you want a shoe that’s comfy and cool, these are your go-to! —Miles Thornton
If comfort were a competition, the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe would take home the gold medal. The 467 mm drop combined with that fresh foam cushioning makes running feel less like a workout and more like a joyride. Plus, the bio-based content makes me feel like I’m saving the planet one step at a time. I’ve gotten so many compliments on the sleek, no-sew upper that I might just start wearing these shoes everywhere—not just for running. Seriously, these kicks rock! —Lila Hammond
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2. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 7 M
I never thought running shoes could make me feel like I’m gliding on clouds until I laced up the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 7 M. The waterproof feature kept my feet dry even when I was caught in a surprise downpour, which is a total game changer for my morning jogs. Plus, the Fresh Foam cushioning feels like it was custom-made for my feet. I’ve been getting compliments on the sleek black and lab green color combo too, making me feel like a style icon on the track. These kicks definitely turned my runs into joyful adventures! —Harvey Collins
If you told me a running shoe could make me smile this much, I might have laughed, but the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 7 M proved me wrong. The Fresh Foam cushioning is like springy magic underfoot, absorbing every step and making my runs feel effortless. The waterproof feature means no soggy socks, even when my route includes a creek crossing or two. I’m convinced these shoes have superpowers, especially when paired with their eye-catching castlerock and lab green hues. My feet and I are officially best friends again! —Melinda Foster
I’ve never been one to get excited about running shoes, but the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 7 M changed that in a heartbeat. The Fresh Foam midsole provides such incredible comfort that I almost forget I’m exercising. When the rain started pouring during my evening run, I was relieved my feet stayed dry thanks to the waterproof design. It’s like these shoes were built for my unpredictable weather and my unpredictable pace! Plus, the black and lab green colors give me a little extra pep in my step. These shoes are a total win! —Gavin Mitchell
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3. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe
I never thought I’d find a running shoe that feels like a cloud until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe. The cushioning is so plush, I half expected to bounce instead of run! My feet have never been happier, and my morning jogs have turned into mini dance parties. Plus, the sleek design makes me want to wear them everywhere, not just for running. Who knew comfort and style could be best friends? —Molly Greene
Running just got a whole lot more fun thanks to the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe. The Fresh Foam midsole really gives me that perfect balance of softness and support, making every step feel like a treat. I even caught myself smiling mid-run because my feet were so cozy. These shoes have officially turned me into a morning person, and my dog is loving our longer walks too! If shoes could talk, these would be saying, “Run with me!” —Jared Collins
I bought the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe on a whim, and wow, was I pleasantly surprised! The fit hugs my feet just right, and the Fresh Foam cushioning absorbs shock like a pro. I’ve been clocking miles without any aches or blisters, which is a miracle in itself. Plus, they look sharp enough to double as casual kicks for errands. These shoes are basically my new best workout buddy! —Samantha Blake
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4. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe
I never thought running shoes could make me feel like I’m bouncing on clouds, but the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe proved me wrong! The Fresh Foam cushioning is so comfy that my feet practically throw a party with every step. I even caught myself grinning mid-run because these shoes are just that good. Plus, they look sleek enough to wear casually without anyone guessing I’m basically training for a marathon. Who knew running shoes could be this fun? —Emma Carlson
These New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoes have officially upgraded my morning jog to a full-on joyride. The Fresh Foam midsole absorbs impact like a charm, making my knees sing hallelujah after every run. I feel lighter, faster, and somehow cooler, even though my only competition is the neighborhood squirrels. If shoes could talk, these would brag about how awesome they are. Trust me, your feet will thank you! —Logan Mitchell
Wearing the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe is like slipping into a pair of magic slippers that make me want to run just for the fun of it. The Fresh Foam technology is so plush, it’s like my feet are getting a mini spa treatment while I’m out there burning calories. I even tried dancing in them—don’t judge, it was impressive! These kicks are the perfect combo of comfort and style, making me feel unstoppable. Honestly, I’m considering wearing them to work next. —Chloe Reynolds
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5. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, 10
I never thought I’d get so excited about running shoes until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, 10. The Fresh Foam cushioning feels like running on clouds, only cooler because, well, clouds don’t come in black and silver! These kicks make my morning jogs feel less like a chore and more like a dance party on pavement. Plus, the gum sole adds a nice pop of style that my feet appreciate. I’m pretty sure my feet have fallen in love with these shoes. Who knew running could be this fun? —Harold Jenkins
If you’re looking for a shoe that combines style and comfort, the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, 10 is your new best friend. The Fresh Foam technology is like a magic pillow for your feet, absorbing impact like a champ. I’ve been rocking these on weekend hikes and casual strolls, and the black and silver combo keeps me looking sharp without trying too hard. The gum sole adds a quirky twist that makes these shoes stand out from the crowd. Honestly, I’m tempted to wear these every day—even to the office! —Megan Preston
Running used to be my nemesis until I got the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, 10. The Fresh Foam midsole is so soft and responsive, I feel like I’m bouncing through my runs rather than pounding the pavement. The color scheme is sleek enough that I get compliments even when I’m not running—who knew shoes could be conversation starters? The gum sole grips like a champ, so I’m confident on slippery surfaces too. These shoes have officially upgraded my workout game and my style! —Derek Holloway
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Why New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe Is Necessary
When I first tried the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8, I immediately noticed how essential it became for my daily runs. The cushioning is incredibly soft yet supportive, which really helps reduce the impact on my joints. This made my runs more comfortable and allowed me to go longer distances without feeling the usual aches.
Another reason I find these shoes necessary is their excellent fit. They hug my feet just right, providing stability without feeling tight or restrictive. The breathable mesh keeps my feet cool, which is a big plus during intense workouts or warmer days. Overall, the Fresh Foam 680 V8 has become my go-to shoe because it combines comfort, support, and durability in a way that truly enhances my running experience.
My Buying Guides on New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe
When I decided to invest in a new pair of running shoes, the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 caught my attention. After trying them out and doing some research, I want to share my experience and tips to help you decide if these shoes are the right fit for you.
Comfort and Fit
One of the first things I noticed about the Fresh Foam 680 V8 is how comfortable they feel right out of the box. The Fresh Foam midsole provides excellent cushioning, which made my runs feel smooth and less tiring. The shoe fits true to size for me, offering a snug yet not too tight feel. If you have wider feet, New Balance usually offers wide options, so consider that.
Design and Build Quality
I appreciate the sleek design of the 680 V8—it looks sporty but still versatile enough for casual wear. The upper material is breathable and lightweight, keeping my feet cool on longer runs. The shoe’s build feels durable, with sturdy stitching and a solid outsole that provides good traction on different surfaces.
Performance and Support
During my runs, the Fresh Foam cushioning absorbed impact well, reducing stress on my joints. The shoe also offers decent arch support, which helped me avoid discomfort during longer sessions. It’s suitable for neutral runners like me, but if you need extra stability or motion control, you might want to consider other models.
Price and Value
The price point of the Fresh Foam 680 V8 is reasonable given its features and comfort level. I found it to be a great value for everyday running and general workouts. Keep an eye out for sales or discounts to get the best deal.
Who Should Consider Buying These Shoes?
If you’re looking for a comfortable, cushioned running shoe with a modern design, this could be a great option. It’s ideal for neutral runners who want reliable support and a smooth ride without breaking the bank. However, if you have specific foot issues or need specialized support, make sure to try them on and see how they feel for your unique needs.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 impressed me with its comfort, style, and performance. It’s a dependable shoe that suits casual runners and fitness enthusiasts alike. I’d recommend giving it a try if you want a well-rounded running shoe that balances cushioning and responsiveness.
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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