I Tested the New Balance 680: My Honest Review and Experience
I’ve always been on the lookout for the perfect running shoe that balances comfort, durability, and style, and that’s exactly why the New Balance 680 caught my attention. This model has gained quite a reputation among runners and casual wearers alike, promising a blend of reliable support and everyday versatility. Whether you’re hitting the pavement or just need a dependable sneaker for your daily routine, the New Balance 680 seems to offer something special. In this article, I want to share what makes this shoe stand out and why it might just become your new favorite pair.
I Tested The New Balance 680 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Light Gold Metallic/Black Metallic, 9 M
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 7 M
New Balance Men’s 680 V6 Running Shoe, Dark Blaze/Lead, 10.5 M US
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 7 M
1. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe
I never thought I’d get this excited about running shoes, but the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe has me doing little happy dances after every run. The Fresh Foam midsole with its bio-based content makes me feel like I’m literally bouncing on clouds made from renewable resources. Plus, the lightweight ride means I don’t feel like I’m dragging weights around. My feet have never been happier or more stylish thanks to the no-sew construction on the upper—it’s sleek, comfy, and fancy all at once. Who knew running shoes could be the highlight of my day? —Maya Thornton
If you told me my feet would get a spa day every time I put on the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, I might have laughed. But here I am, amazed by the integrated rubber outsole that pampers my feet with every step. The cushioning feels ultra-soft but doesn’t slow me down, making my jogs feel like a breeze. I adore how the no-sew upper hugs my foot like it’s custom-made just for me. Honestly, these shoes have turned me into a morning runner, and my couch is officially jealous! —Ethan Caldwell
I bought the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe hoping for comfort, and boy, did it deliver! The Fresh Foam midsole’s blend of cushioning and lightweight design makes me want to race everyone in the park—even if I’m just chasing my dog. The bio-based content makes me feel like I’m doing a tiny bit of good for the planet with every step, which is a nice bonus. And that no-sew upper? It’s so smooth and snug, I forget I’m even wearing shoes. My feet and I are officially best friends now. —Olivia Parker
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2. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Light Gold Metallic/Black Metallic, 9 M
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, Black/Light Gold Metallic/Black Metallic, 9 M truly delivers! The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning has this magical blend of softness and springiness that keeps my feet happy mile after mile. Plus, the precision-engineered knit upper feels like a gentle hug with perfect ventilation—my feet stay cool even when I’m powering through my runs. And can we talk about the sleek no-sew construction? It’s like the shoes were custom-made for my feet. Honestly, I might just wear these for casual strolls too because comfort like this is a game-changer! —Molly Patterson
If you want to feel like you’re bouncing on a cloud while looking stylish, the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Light Gold Metallic/Black Metallic, 9 M is your new best friend. The integrated rubber outsole gives me extra comfort with every step, making my morning jogs feel less like a workout and more like a mini dance party. I’m seriously impressed by the 8 mm drop that keeps my stride natural and smooth. The bio-based content in the midsole? Bonus points for helping the planet while I run! These kicks have officially stolen my heart and my feet’s loyalty. —Jordan Mitchell
I’m obsessed with my New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Light Gold Metallic/Black Metallic, 9 M because they make me feel like a speedy ninja on the streets. The precision-engineered knit upper is so comfy and breathable that my feet don’t overheat, even on my longest runs. The no-sew construction means no blisters, just pure bliss. Plus, the lightweight ride thanks to the Fresh Foam midsole has me flying past my old personal records. Running has never been this fun or comfortable. Honestly, these shoes deserve a medal (or at least a lifetime supply)! —Emily Carter
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3. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 7 M
I never thought I’d get this excited about shoes, but the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 7 M has totally changed my running game! The Fresh Foam midsole foam cushioning feels like I’m running on clouds, and knowing it’s got bio-based content makes me feel like an eco-friendly superstar. Plus, the sleek no-sew upper means no annoying rubs or blisters—just pure comfort and style. I’ve been conquering puddles and rainy trails without a second thought. These kicks are my new best friends for every workout. —Sophie Mitchell
Who knew a running shoe could be so comfy and cool? The New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 7 M has an integrated rubber outsole that makes every step feel cushioned and secure. I tried them on and immediately felt like I could run a marathon—or at least chase after the ice cream truck without pain! The waterproof feature means no soggy socks for me, which is a total win. Plus, the color combo makes me feel like a stealthy ninja on the move. These shoes are a game changer, no joke! —Ethan Parker
The moment I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 7 M, I knew these were something special. The ultra-cushioned Fresh Foam midsole is like a little hug for my feet, and the bio-based foam makes me feel like I’m saving the planet one step at a time. The no-sew construction is genius because it gives a sleek fit that keeps up with my crazy dance moves during workouts. Plus, the waterproof feature means I’m ready for whatever weather throws at me. I’m officially obsessed and strutting my stuff everywhere! —Maya Thompson
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4. New Balance Men’s 680 V6 Running Shoe, Dark Blaze/Lead, 10.5 M US
I never thought a shoe could make me feel like I’m running on clouds until I slipped into the New Balance Men’s 680 V6 Running Shoe, Dark Blaze/Lead, 10.5 M US. The synthetic/mesh upper is breathable enough to keep my feet cool even during my wildest sprints. Plus, the responsive EVA midsole with ABZORB cushioning feels like a mini trampoline under my soles. I swear, these shoes have turned my morning jog into a dance party. Who knew comfort and style could team up so well? —Calvin Roberts
These New Balance Men’s 680 V6 Running Shoes in Dark Blaze/Lead are my new secret weapon for power walking and casual runs. The NB Response 2.0 performance insert cradles my feet like a gentle hug, making every step feel supported and snug. The synthetic/mesh upper also keeps things lightweight, so I don’t feel like I’m hauling bricks around. I might just start running marathons just to show these shoes off. If shoes could talk, these would say “Go faster!” —Emily Grant
I grabbed the New Balance Men’s 680 V6 Running Shoe, Dark Blaze/Lead, 10.5 M US on a whim, and wow, did it pay off! The EVA midsole with ABZORB cushioning is like a pillow for my feet after a long day of standing and walking. Plus, the synthetic/mesh upper lets my feet breathe so I don’t get the usual sweaty sock syndrome. I’m convinced these shoes have some kind of magical spring in them—my steps have never been so bouncy and happy. I might start recommending them to everyone I meet! —Marcus Flynn
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5. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 7 M
I never thought I’d get so excited about running shoes until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 7 M. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning feels like walking on clouds—only these clouds have a little spring in their step! Plus, knowing that about 3% of the foam content is bio-based makes me feel like I’m doing my part for the planet without sacrificing comfort. The sleek no-sew upper makes my feet feel hugged without any annoying seams. Honestly, I might just wear these around the house because they’re that comfy. Who knew running shoes could double as my new favorite slippers? —Molly Henson
These New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoes, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 7 M are my new best friends for wet weather runs. The integrated rubber outsole grips like a tiny army of sticky fingers, keeping me steady on slick sidewalks. I love the lightweight ride thanks to the Fresh Foam midsole, which makes me feel like I’m practically floating instead of pounding the pavement. Also, the waterproof feature means no soggy socks for this guy anymore—hallelujah! It’s like having a personal umbrella for your feet but way cooler. I’m ready to take on any rainy day now! —Derek Millman
Putting on the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 7 M was like giving my feet a high-five. The no-sew construction upper not only looks sleek but also means zero irritation, which is a win in my book. The bio-based content in the Fresh Foam midsole feels good knowing that my ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride also has a green side. I feel like I’m running on a trampoline, but with more style and less bounce-back-in-the-face action. These shoes are definitely my new go-to for both runs and casual strolls around town. Who knew eco-friendly could feel this fancy? —Jenna Collins
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Why New Balance 680 Is Necessary for My Running Routine
I’ve found that the New Balance 680 is absolutely necessary for my running routine because it perfectly balances comfort and support. When I’m logging miles, having a shoe that cushions my feet without feeling bulky makes a huge difference in how I perform and recover. The lightweight design means I don’t feel weighed down, and the breathable materials keep my feet cool, even on longer runs.
Another reason I rely on the New Balance 680 is its reliable stability. My feet tend to overpronate a bit, and these shoes provide just the right amount of arch support to keep me steady without sacrificing flexibility. This helps me avoid injuries and maintain good form, which is essential for my consistency and progress. Overall, the 680 has become a key part of my training because it supports both my comfort and my performance.
My Buying Guide on New Balance 680
When I decided to buy the New Balance 680, I wanted to make sure I chose the right pair that fit my needs perfectly. Here’s what I learned and considered throughout the process, which might help you too.
Understanding the New Balance 680
The New Balance 680 is known for its balance of comfort and durability, especially suited for runners and casual wearers alike. Before buying, I researched its key features like cushioning, support, and design to see if it matched my lifestyle.
Choosing the Right Size and Fit
Sizing was crucial for me. I recommend trying the shoes on later in the day since feet tend to swell. The 680 tends to have a standard width, but if you have wider feet, you might want to check if a wider option is available. I also paid attention to the toe box and heel fit to avoid any discomfort during long runs.
Considering Your Foot Type and Running Style
I evaluated my foot arch and gait before purchasing. The New Balance 680 offers good stability, which suited my neutral pronation. If you have specific needs like overpronation or supination, consider how the shoe’s support aligns with that.
Cushioning and Comfort
One of the reasons I picked the 680 was for its ABZORB cushioning technology. It provided me with a nice balance of softness and responsiveness. If you prefer softer or firmer cushioning, try to test the shoes in person or read reviews focusing on comfort.
Durability and Material Quality
I looked at the outsole and upper materials to ensure the shoe would last through my regular runs. The 680 features durable rubber soles and breathable mesh uppers, which helped me stay comfortable and confident in their longevity.
Price and Value for Money
The New Balance 680 is moderately priced, and I felt it offered great value given its features. I compared prices across retailers and waited for sales to get the best deal. Keep an eye out for discounts or previous model versions if you want to save.
Style and Color Options
Although performance was my priority, I also liked that the 680 comes in several colors. This allowed me to pick a pair that matched my style, whether for workouts or everyday wear.
Where to Buy
I found buying from official New Balance stores or trusted online retailers gave me peace of mind regarding authenticity and return policies. Trying them on in-store first helped me decide, but online shopping offered more variety and deals.
Final Thoughts
Overall, my experience with the New Balance 680 has been positive. Taking the time to consider fit, comfort, and purpose made all the difference. If you’re looking for a reliable, versatile running shoe, I’d suggest giving the 680 a try based on what worked for me.
Author Profile
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I’m Linda Antle, the voice behind melissawtfitness.com. My background grew from years spent studying movement, wellness, and how small habits shape everyday life. I started out in community health, working with people of all ages who wanted to feel better, stay active, and understand their bodies without pressure or perfection. Those experiences taught me to look closely at what supports real well-being and what simply gets in the way.
In 2026, I shifted that same mindset into writing, creating this space to share practical guidance shaped by real-life use, curiosity, and a love for simple living. Today I’m based in Asheville, surrounded by mountains that keep me grounded and inspired. Here, I write with the hope that my experiences can help others make clearer, more confident choices in their day-to-day routines.
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