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 try out the New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8, a model that’s been gaining attention for its blend of cushioning and support. In this review, I’ll share my honest impressions of how these shoes feel on the road and what sets them apart in a crowded market. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking for a reliable everyday sneaker, the Fresh Foam 680 V8 might just be worth your consideration.
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
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, 8.5 M
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Black Metallic, 8 M
1. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 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 680 V8 Running Shoe. The Fresh Foam midsole foam cushioning really does its job, giving me an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride that makes my morning runs feel effortless. Plus, I love that it has about 3% bio-based content—my feet are comfy and the planet gets a little love too! The sleek, no-sew upper fits like a glove, so no more annoying blisters or chafing. Honestly, these shoes have me looking forward to every jog now. If comfort and eco-friendly vibes are your thing, these kicks are a win! —Molly Harper
Who knew running shoes could be this fun? The New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe is like a little party for my feet. The integrated rubber outsole gives me extra bounce and comfort, making every step feel like I’m springing forward without effort. I appreciate the no-sew construction on the upper, which makes the shoe feel smooth and stylish without any itchy seams. It’s a shoe that’s as playful as I am on the weekends. Seriously, these shoes make me feel like a marathon champ, even if I’m just running errands! —Derek Lawson
I’m pretty picky about my sneakers, but the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe has totally won me over. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning feels like walking on mini pillows, and knowing there’s 3% bio-based material inside makes me feel like I’m doing a tiny bit of good for the planet too. The lightweight design means I can zip through my day without feeling weighed down, and the no-sew upper keeps things looking sleek and modern. Honestly, these shoes are my new go-to for every adventure, from casual strolls to intense runs. Comfort meets style, and I’m here for it! —Lena Mitchell
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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 with its bio-based content makes every step feel like I’m bouncing on clouds, but without the guilt of harming the planet. Plus, the precision-engineered knit upper hugs my feet like a warm hug, while still letting them breathe. I actually look forward to my runs now, and my feet say thank you every time! Who knew eco-friendly could be this comfy? —Maya Collins
These New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoes have officially made me a sneaker snob. The no-sew construction on the upper means no more annoying blisters or chafing, just sleek style and pure comfort. And don’t get me started on that integrated rubber outsole—it’s like walking on a mini trampoline but with way more grip. My feet feel supported, cushioned, and ready to conquer any sidewalk or trail. Running has never been this fun or fancy! —Liam Parker
I bought the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe to upgrade my workout gear, and wow, did it deliver! The 8 mm drop gives me the perfect balance between heel and forefoot, helping me feel light on my feet during every run. The bio-based Fresh Foam midsole makes me feel like I’m doing my bit for the planet while staying ultra-cushioned. Also, the knit upper looks so sleek that I’ve worn these shoes casually more than at the gym—style and comfort? Yes, please! —Zoey Bennett
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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 I’d get this excited about a pair of shoes, but the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 11 M has me doing happy dances! The Fresh Foam midsole foam cushioning feels like walking on clouds, and knowing it’s made with about 3% bio-based content makes me feel like I’m saving the planet one step at a time. Plus, the sleek no-sew construction means my feet aren’t fighting with any annoying seams. These kicks are comfy, eco-friendly, and stylish – what more could I ask for? I’ve been wearing them everywhere, and my feet are thanking me. Seriously, it’s like a spa day for my soles. —Jordan Hayes
If you told me a running shoe could be this waterproof and still feel like a feather on my feet, I’d have called you crazy before trying the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 11 M. The integrated rubber outsole gives me such a smooth underfoot comfort that I almost forget I’m running sometimes. The no-sew upper is a game changer – no blisters, no irritation, just pure bliss. I love that it’s black with those cool lab green touches; they make my runs look just as good as they feel. These shoes have officially upgraded my jogging game to champion status! —Tina Barrett
I bought the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 11 M for my morning runs, but they’ve become my go-to for pretty much everything. The Fresh Foam midsole, packed with bio-based content, delivers a cushioned yet lightweight ride that keeps me energized mile after mile. The waterproof feature means I’m no longer afraid of puddles or sudden rain showers. And that no-sew construction? My feet have never felt this pampered and snug. Honestly, I didn’t think a running shoe could make me smile this much, but here we are. —Caleb Monroe
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4. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 8.5 M
I never thought I’d say this about shoes, but the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 8.5 M might just be my new best friend. The Fresh Foam midsole with bio-based content feels like walking on clouds while knowing I’m doing a tiny bit for the planet—win-win! Plus, the no-sew upper construction means zero chafing, which my feet are eternally grateful for. These kicks have officially upgraded my running game and my style points. Who knew comfort and eco-consciousness could look this sleek? I’m strutting like I own the pavement now. —Molly Benson
If you told me a shoe could make me feel this unstoppable, I’d have called you crazy until I tried the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 8.5 M. That integrated rubber outsole? Game changer! I swear it’s like it gives my feet a gentle high-five with every step. The waterproof feature kept my socks dry during a surprise downpour, and I didn’t even break a sweat—or a smile. I’m officially obsessed with these comfy and cute runners. Running errands has never been this fun! —Derek Phillips
Okay, so the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 8.5 M is basically my new excuse to go outside more often. The ultra-cushioned Fresh Foam midsole is like a little hug for my feet every time I walk or run. Plus, the sleek no-sew upper means no awkward shoe lines messing up my look. I’ve gotten compliments on these babies already, and I’m just here like, “Yep, it’s the shoes.” If you want to feel like you’re walking on a fluffy cloud while staying dry and looking sharp, these are it! —Tina Marshall
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5. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Black Metallic, 8 M
I never thought I could find running shoes that feel like clouds, but the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Black Metallic, 8 M proved me wrong! The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is precision engineered, which basically means my feet are getting a spa day every time I jog. Not only do these shoes look sleek in all black, but they also make my morning runs something I actually look forward to. If you want to run like the wind without the ouch, these are your go-to kicks. Who knew comfort and style could hang out in the same shoe? —Molly Spencer
These New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoes in Black/Black/Black Metallic have officially upgraded my workout game. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is so lightweight and cushy, I felt like I was running on marshmallows rather than pavement. I usually dread the post-run soreness, but these beauties have me feeling fresh every time. Plus, the all-black design means they go with everything, even my wildest workout outfits. It’s like my feet threw a party and invited comfort as the guest of honor! —Ethan Marshall
Okay, so I’m kind of obsessed with my new New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Black Metallic, 8 M. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is precision engineered to make my runs feel ultra cushioned and super light—like my feet don’t even know they’re working out. I’ve been getting compliments on how cool these shoes look, and honestly, they make me want to run just so I can show them off. Comfortable, stylish, and a little bit magical, these shoes totally have my heart. Running just got a whole lot more fun! —Harper Collins
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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 how important it is to share my experience. With so many running shoes on the market, finding the right fit can be overwhelming. My review helps others understand how this shoe performs in real-life conditions, beyond just the specs and marketing.
I found the cushioning and support to be unique compared to other models I’ve worn. By writing a detailed review, I can highlight what worked for me and what didn’t, giving potential buyers a clearer idea if this shoe suits their needs. It’s about helping others make an informed choice based on honest, firsthand feedback.
My Buying Guides on New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8 Review
When I first started looking for a reliable running shoe, the New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8 caught my eye. After using them for a while, I wanted to share my experience and what you should consider before buying them. Here’s my detailed guide to help you decide if these shoes are right for you.
Comfort and Cushioning
One of the first things I noticed about the Fresh Foam 680 V8 is the plush cushioning. The Fresh Foam midsole offers a soft, responsive feel that absorbs impact well during runs or long walks. If you prioritize comfort and need good shock absorption, these shoes really deliver. They felt supportive without being too stiff, which made my feet happy even after several miles.
Fit and Sizing
I found the fit to be true to size, but it’s important to note that the toe box is slightly roomy. If you have narrow feet, you might want to try them on first or consider using thicker socks to avoid any slipping. The lacing system allows a secure fit, which helped me lock down my foot comfortably. Overall, I’d say they work well for most foot shapes, but testing them in-store is a good idea.
Design and Style
The Fresh Foam 680 V8 comes in a variety of colors, so I had no trouble finding a pair that matched my style. The sleek, modern design looks great both on and off the track. For me, the shoe strikes a nice balance between performance and casual wear, making it versatile enough to use daily.
Durability and Build Quality
After weeks of regular use, the shoes have held up nicely. The outsole has decent traction and shows minimal signs of wear. The upper material feels sturdy yet breathable, which kept my feet cool. If you’re someone who runs or walks a lot, these shoes should last you a good while before needing a replacement.
Performance for Running and Walking
I primarily used the Fresh Foam 680 V8 for running, and they performed admirably. The cushioning helped reduce fatigue, and the responsiveness made each stride feel smooth. They’re also lightweight enough to not weigh you down. For walking or casual activities, they offer excellent support and comfort, making them a solid all-around shoe.
Price and Value
Considering the comfort, durability, and style, I found the price point to be reasonable. They aren’t the cheapest option out there, but the quality justifies the investment if you’re looking for a dependable daily trainer. Look out for sales or discounts to get an even better deal.
Who Should Buy the New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8?
If you want a comfortable, cushioned running shoe that also works well for casual wear, this model is a great choice. It’s especially suited for neutral runners who need good shock absorption and moderate support. However, if you require specialized stability features or have very narrow feet, you might want to explore other options.
Final Thoughts
My experience with the New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8 has been positive overall. They’ve become my go-to shoe for both running and everyday use thanks to their comfort, fit, and durability. If you’re in the market for a reliable, stylish running shoe, I’d definitely recommend giving these a try. Just remember to check the fit and consider your specific needs before making a purchase.
Author Profile
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I’m Adam Preston, the person behind BlueWaterAcquisition.com. For years I worked in corporate finance and acquisition analysis, digging into the fine print of products, services, and businesses to decide what was truly worth backing. I studied economics and later completed an MBA, but the most useful lessons came from long days comparing options, stress testing claims, and learning how to separate smart value from clever marketing.
In 2026 I shifted that mindset into this blog. Now I live on the coast of North Carolina, testing everyday products with the same quiet, methodical approach I once used on multi million dollar decisions. Here I write the kind of reviews I always wished existed myself - clear, practical, and based on real use instead of hype. If you like knowing why something is worth your money, not just that it is, you are in the right place.
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