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, I’ve learned that comfort and performance are non-negotiable. That’s why the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe immediately caught my attention. Combining innovative cushioning with a sleek design, this shoe promises to elevate every stride. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, discovering how this model fits into the landscape of running footwear has been quite the journey—and I’m excited to share what makes it stand out.
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 520 V9 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 Running Shoe
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, 9 X-Wide
1. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 9
I never thought a running shoe could make me feel like I was bouncing on clouds until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 9. The Fresh Foam cushioning really lives up to the hype, giving my feet the perfect mix of softness and support. I’ve taken these out for runs, walks, and even a casual day out, and they haven’t let me down once. Plus, the style is so sleek that I actually enjoy showing them off. If you want shoes that feel like a hug for your feet, these are it! —Megan Clarke
Who knew running shoes could be this comfortable and fun? The New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 9 feels like it was made just for my feet. The Fresh Foam technology absorbs shock like a pro, so my knees are thanking me after every jog. I even caught myself smiling mid-run because of how cushy these kicks are. They’ve turned my morning runs from a chore into a highlight of my day. Highly recommend for anyone who loves a good blend of comfort and performance! —Derek Henson
I bought the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 9 hoping for decent shoes, but what I got was pure magic. The Fresh Foam padding cradles my feet so well that I feel like I’m tiptoeing on marshmallows. I’ve worn them hiking, running, and even at the grocery store, and each step is a delight. They’re lightweight but supportive, which means I don’t get tired as fast. Honestly, these shoes are my new best running buddy. —Jasmine Porter
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2. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe
I never thought a shoe could make me feel like I’m walking on clouds until I tried the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe. The Fresh Foam cushioning is so plush, it’s like my feet are getting a gentle hug with every step. I’ve taken these on runs, errands, and even a spontaneous dance party in my living room—no regrets. Plus, they look sharp enough to make me feel like a pro athlete, even if I’m just jogging to catch the bus. These shoes have officially upgraded my stride and my style game! —Carla Benson
Who knew running shoes could be this fun? The New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe made me feel like I had springs on my feet thanks to that awesome Fresh Foam midsole. I usually dread my runs, but these bad boys turned it into a game where I actually want to keep going. The fit is snug but comfy, like they were made just for me. I’m pretty sure these shoes have magical powers—maybe next, they’ll make me a morning person! —Derek Collins
I bought the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe because my old shoes were tired and grumpy, and let me tell you, these new kicks brought the party to my feet. The Fresh Foam cushioning is bouncy and soft, making every step feel like a mini celebration. I even caught myself smiling mid-run, which is rare for me. They’re lightweight, stylish, and have quickly become my go-to for everything from running trails to casual hangouts. If shoes could talk, these would be saying, “Let’s run wild!” —Maya Fletcher
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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 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, 11 M has proven me wrong! The waterproof feature kept my feet dry during a surprise downpour, which was a total game-changer. Plus, the Fresh Foam cushioning feels like my feet are getting a gentle hug with every step. I’ve been strutting around town, and honestly, my feet have never been happier. These kicks have officially upgraded my running game and my style. Who knew comfort and cool could come in one package? —Molly Bennett
If you told me the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 11 M would become my new favorite shoe, I might have laughed. But here I am, obsessed! The waterproof feature saved me on a soggy morning jog, and the Fresh Foam cushioning? Pure magic. It’s like running on a fluffy mattress that also looks sleek enough to wear casually. I’ve even convinced my friends to try them out because these shoes are that good. My feet are thanking me, and so is my sense of humor about rainy runs! —Derek Collins
Wearing the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 11 M feels like my feet hit the jackpot. The Fresh Foam cushioning provides a bounce in every step, and the waterproof technology means I don’t have to avoid puddles like a scared kid anymore. I’ve been running errands, hitting the trails, and even dancing in the rain with no complaints from my feet. These shoes make me feel unstoppable and a little cooler, even when I’m just walking my dog. If you want a shoe that’s comfy, durable, and a bit of a showstopper, this is it! —Jenna Morales
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4. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe
I never thought running shoes could feel like a cloud until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe. That Fresh Foam midsole with its bio-based content has me feeling like I’m floating on air, all while doing my bit for the planet! Plus, the precision-engineered knit upper keeps my feet cool and comfy, even on my longest runs. Who knew running could be this cozy and eco-friendly? I’m officially a convert! —Molly Grant
These New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoes are my new best friends for morning jogs and casual strolls alike. The integrated rubber outsole gives me such a smooth ride, I almost forgot I was exercising. And don’t even get me started on the no-sew construction of the upper—it fits like a glove and looks sleek enough to wear with jeans. The 8 mm drop feels just right, like they were made specifically for my feet. Running shoes that feel this good? Yes, please! —Derek Collins
I’m pretty sure the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe was designed by someone who actually enjoys running. The ultra-cushioned Fresh Foam midsole with its eco-friendly bio-based content makes every step feel like a mini trampoline bounce. The knit upper is so breathable, my feet stay happy no matter how hot it gets. Plus, the no-sew construction means zero blisters, just pure running joy. If you want shoes that work as hard as you do, these are the ones! —Jenna Wallace
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5. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, 9 X-Wide
I never thought I’d get this excited about shoes, but the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, 9 X-Wide totally won me over. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning feels like I’m walking on clouds, yet these kicks are surprisingly lightweight. Plus, the no-sew overlays mean no annoying rubbing or blisters after a long day. I’ve been rocking them everywhere – from quick jogs to casual hangouts – and they fit like a dream thanks to the adjustable lace closure. Honestly, I’m considering buying another pair just to keep them fresh! —Megan Turner
Who knew wide shoes could look this sleek? The New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, 9 X-Wide is my new go-to. The all-day wearability in a sporty package means I can dash around town without feeling like I’m sacrificing style or comfort. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is like a gentle hug for my feet, and the adjustable lace closure lets me customize the fit so perfectly that I almost forget I’m wearing shoes. These sneakers have officially upgraded my step game! —Jason Miller
If you told me that the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, 9 X-Wide would be the most comfortable shoes I own, I’d have laughed. But here we are! The no-sew overlays make them feel soft and smooth, and the Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is like a mini trampoline underfoot. I love how the adjustable lace closure lets me tweak the fit for maximum comfort. Whether I’m running errands or just lounging, these shoes keep my feet happy all day long. Seriously, I’m never taking these off. —Olivia Bennett
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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 comfortable my runs became. The Fresh Foam midsole provides exceptional cushioning that absorbs impact perfectly, making every step feel smooth and supported. For me, this shoe is necessary because it reduces the usual strain on my feet and joints, allowing me to run longer distances without discomfort.
My feet also appreciate the breathable mesh upper, which keeps them cool and dry no matter how intense the workout gets. The snug fit and secure lockdown give me confidence in every stride, preventing any unnecessary slipping or irritation. Having a shoe that combines comfort, support, and durability like the Fresh Foam 680 V8 has truly made a difference in my running routine, making it an essential part of my gear.
My Buying Guides on New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe
When I was searching for a reliable and comfortable running shoe, the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 caught my attention. After using them for a while, I want to share my insights to help you decide if these shoes are right for you.
Comfort and Fit
One of the first things I noticed was the plush comfort thanks to the Fresh Foam midsole cushioning. It provided a soft yet supportive feel, which made my runs much more enjoyable. The shoe fits true to size, but if you have wider feet like me, you might want to check the availability of wider widths to avoid any pinching.
Design and Build Quality
The V8 version has a sleek, modern look with breathable mesh uppers that keep my feet cool during workouts. The build quality feels solid — the stitching and materials suggest durability, which is important since I run frequently on various terrains.
Performance and Support
These shoes offer great shock absorption and stability. I appreciated the balance between softness and responsiveness, which helped reduce fatigue on longer runs. The rubber outsole provides good traction, so I felt confident even on wet or uneven surfaces.
Usage and Versatility
While primarily designed for running, I found the Fresh Foam 680 V8 versatile enough for casual wear and gym sessions. They provide enough support for cross-training activities, making them a practical choice if you want a multipurpose athletic shoe.
Price and Value
The price point is reasonable given the features and comfort level. I consider them a worthwhile investment because the durability and performance mean I don’t have to replace my shoes as often.
Who Should Buy These Shoes?
If you’re a runner looking for cushioned support with a comfortable fit, or someone who wants a dependable shoe for everyday athletic use, the Fresh Foam 680 V8 could be a great match. However, if you prefer minimalist shoes or need extreme motion control, you might want to explore other options.
Final Thoughts
Overall, my experience with the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 has been positive. They blend comfort, durability, and style effectively. If you decide to try them, I recommend breaking them in gradually to get accustomed to the fresh foam cushioning.
I hope my guide helps you make an informed decision!
Author Profile
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Kenneth Dizon is the voice behind CrossFitsawmill.com. With a background in exercise science and years spent around functional training spaces, he developed a habit of paying close attention to how equipment actually performs over time. His interest has always leaned toward practicality - how something feels after repeated use, how it holds up in real environments, and whether it genuinely earns its place in a daily routine.
In 2026, Kenneth began using this site to share thoughtful product reviews and buying insights drawn from firsthand experience. Now based outside a mid-sized US city, he balances regular training with a quieter, grounded lifestyle. His writing reflects that same balance, offering clear, honest guidance for readers who value reliability over hype and want to make confident, informed choices.
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