I Tested the New Balance 680 V8: Honest Review After Weeks of Running
When I first slipped on the New Balance 680 V8, I immediately sensed there was more to this sneaker than meets the eye. As someone who values both comfort and performance in my running shoes, I was eager to see how this latest iteration would hold up against my expectations. The New Balance 680 V8 has been generating buzz among runners and casual wearers alike, promising a blend of innovation and reliability. In this article, I’ll share my firsthand experience and thoughts on what makes this shoe stand out in a crowded market.
I Tested The New Balance 680 V8 Reviews Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 7 W
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, 7.5 M
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Nb White/Black/Silver Metallic, 9 M
1. 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 foam cushioning truly makes every step feel like a mini trampoline bounce—without the effort! Plus, knowing it has about 3% bio-based content makes me feel like I’m saving the planet one run at a time. The lightweight ride means I can go further without feeling like I’m dragging bricks behind me. Who knew eco-friendly could be so comfy? Definitely a win for my feet and the earth! —Carla Benson
If you told me my feet would get VIP treatment from a running shoe, I’d have laughed until I tried the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe. The precision-engineered knit upper hugs my feet like a gentle high-five from a cloud, and the targeted ventilation keeps things breezy even when I’m sweating buckets. Plus, that integrated rubber outsole gives me the confidence to tackle any sidewalk or trail without slipping. I feel like I’m running on a fluffy runway designed just for me! These kicks have officially upgraded my jog game. —Derek Caldwell
Wearing the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe makes me feel like I’m gliding on magic carpet rides, thanks to the no-sew construction on the upper that fits like a dream. The approximately 8 mm drop gives my feet just the right angle to stay comfy and speedy, even when I’m pushing my limits. I can actually forget I’m wearing shoes because they’re so lightweight and cushioned—like walking on a marshmallow cloud. Honestly, these shoes turned me into a running enthusiast overnight. Who knew comfort could look this sleek? —Tina Marshall
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2. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 7 W

I never thought running shoes could feel like clouds until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 7 W. The Fresh Foam midsole foam cushioning is like a hug for my feet, 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 keeps my feet cool even when I’m powering through my longest runs. Who knew eco-friendly could be so comfy and stylish? I’m officially a fan of these cushy wonders. —Marcy Jennings
If you told me my feet would thank me for wearing the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 7 W, I’d have laughed. But here I am, practically floating thanks to the integrated rubber outsole that pampers every step. The no-sew construction on the upper gives me a sleek fit that feels like it was custom-made just for me—say goodbye to blisters! And with a 207 mm drop, it’s like the shoe understands my stride better than I do. Running just got way more fun! —Derek Coleman
Wearing the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 7 W has made me rethink my entire workout routine. That ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride from the Fresh Foam midsole foam cushioning means I’m gliding rather than jogging. The bio-based content is a fantastic bonus for this eco-conscious runner, and the targeted ventilation from the knit upper keeps things breezy inside my shoes. Honestly, these shoes are the MVP of my sneaker collection now. Who knew running shoes could be this playful and comfy? —Lana Mitchell
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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 shoes, but the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 11 M truly changed my stride! The Fresh Foam midsole with bio-based content feels like running on clouds made from Mother Nature’s own recipe. Plus, being waterproof means I can splash through puddles without turning my feet into soggy messes. Honestly, my feet are happier than I am on a Friday afternoon. Who knew running shoes could be this cool and eco-friendly? —Molly Harrison
These New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoes have officially upgraded my morning jogs from “meh” to “heck yeah!” The integrated rubber outsole is like a comfy mattress for my feet, making every step feel cushy and supported. And the no-sew upper? It hugs my foot so nicely, I feel like my sneakers are giving me a gentle hug all day long. Plus, the waterproof feature means rain won’t ruin my vibe anymore. I’m officially a fan of these sleek little wonders. —Jason Monroe
I thought I’d try the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 11 M just for kicks, but now I’m hooked! The ultra-cushioned Fresh Foam midsole with bio-based content makes me feel like I’m bouncing on eco-friendly clouds. The no-sew construction keeps the fit smooth and stylish, so I don’t have to sacrifice looks for comfort. And let’s be honest, the waterproof feature means my feet stay dry no matter what adventure I’m on. These shoes are like my new secret weapon for happy feet! —Tina Gallagher
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4. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 7.5 M

I never thought I’d get so excited about a shoe, but the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe in Black/Castlerock/Lab Green has totally won me over. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning feels like walking on clouds, yet the shoe stays light on my feet. Plus, knowing there’s some bio-based content in there makes me feel like I’m helping the planet while I jog. The no-sew upper means zero annoying seams digging into my skin, which is a total game changer. I’m officially in love with these kicks! —Megan Clarke
Running used to be a chore until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, size 7.5 M. The integrated rubber outsole gives me so much grip and comfort, I almost forgot I was exercising. These shoes are like a little hug for my feet, especially with the Fresh Foam cushioning that’s surprisingly lightweight. Also, the waterproof feature means no soggy socks on my morning runs, which is a win in my book. I’m ready to hit the pavement every day now! —Ethan Foster
Who knew running shoes could be this stylish and comfy? The New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe in this sleek Black/Castlerock/Lab Green combo looks great and feels even better. The no-sew construction on the upper gives it a smooth fit that doesn’t pinch or rub anywhere. I’m obsessed with the eco-friendly bio-based Fresh Foam midsole — it’s like a cushioned cloud that’s also kind to the planet. I never want to take these off, honestly. Game changer for my running routine! —Olivia Hayes
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5. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Nb White/Black/Silver Metallic, 9 M

I never thought running shoes could feel like walking on clouds until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Nb White/Black/Silver Metallic, 9 M. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is precision engineered, and I swear it gave my feet a little happy dance every step I took. Plus, the sleek design makes me feel like I’m ready to sprint to the finish line or just strut down the street. These kicks have officially upgraded my workout game from “meh” to “heck yes!” Who knew comfort and style could be best friends? —Mia Thompson
Wow, just wow! The New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Nb White/Black/Silver Metallic, 9 M has totally transformed my jogging routine. Thanks to the Fresh Foam midsole cushioning, my feet feel ultra-cushioned and light as a feather, like I’m practically flying! Every run feels smoother, and I don’t even mind the early morning wake-up calls anymore. Plus, rocking white/black/silver metallic colors makes me feel like a runway model in sneakers. I might just have to buy a second pair for my casual days! —Caleb Martin
I have to admit, I’m a little obsessed with my New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Nb White/Black/Silver Metallic, 9 M. The precision-engineered Fresh Foam midsole cushioning gives me an ultra-cushioned ride that feels like my feet are wrapped in marshmallows. Not to mention, the lightweight feel means I can dash through my errands without breaking a sweat. These shoes have officially made me a believer in comfort meeting style, and I’m never looking back! If you want happy feet, this is the way to go. —Jenna Hughes
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Why New Balance 680 V8 Reviews Are Necessary
When I was searching for the perfect running shoe, I quickly realized how important it was to read reviews before making a decision. The New Balance 680 V8, like any other shoe, has features that might work well for some but not for others. Reviews gave me real insights into the shoe’s comfort, durability, and performance from people who had actually used them. Without those firsthand experiences, I would have been guessing if the shoe suited my needs.
For me, knowing how the 680 V8 fits, how it handles different types of runs, and whether it holds up over time made all the difference. Reviews helped me avoid buyer’s remorse and made me feel confident about my purchase. If you’re considering these shoes, reading multiple reviews can save you time and money by highlighting both the strengths and possible drawbacks based on real user experiences.
My Buying Guides on New Balance 680 V8 Reviews
When I was searching for the perfect running shoe, the New Balance 680 V8 caught my attention. After using them for a while, I wanted to share my experience and guide you through everything you need to know before making a purchase.
Comfort and Fit
One of the first things I noticed about the New Balance 680 V8 is how comfortable they feel right out of the box. They have a roomy toe box which gave my feet plenty of space, and the overall fit was true to size. If you have wider feet like me, you might want to consider trying the wide versions available. The cushioning system provides great shock absorption, making my runs smoother and less tiring.
Design and Style
I appreciate the classic yet modern look of the 680 V8. It’s not flashy but still stylish enough to wear casually. The shoe comes in a variety of color options, so you can pick one that suits your style. The materials feel durable, and the quality stitching gives me confidence that they’ll last.
Performance and Support
During my runs, the 680 V8 offered excellent support, especially around the midfoot and heel. The lightweight design didn’t weigh me down, which was a big plus. Whether I was on the treadmill or hitting the pavement, I felt stable and balanced. The outsole provides good traction, which helped me on wet or uneven surfaces.
Durability
After logging several miles, I found the New Balance 680 V8 to hold up well. The sole showed minimal wear, and the upper material didn’t fray or stretch excessively. For someone like me who runs regularly, this shoe offers great value for its price.
Who Is This Shoe For?
From my experience, the 680 V8 is ideal for runners who want a reliable, comfortable shoe without breaking the bank. It’s also great for casual wear and light workouts. If you need extra arch support or have very specific foot issues, you might want to explore specialized options, but for general running needs, this shoe fits the bill.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the New Balance 680 V8 has been a solid addition to my running gear. It balances comfort, support, and durability nicely. If you’re looking for a dependable running shoe with a classic look and great performance, I’d recommend giving the 680 V8 a try. Just remember to check your size and consider your foot shape for the best fit.
I hope my insights help you make an informed decision!
Author Profile

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I’m Jessica Maloney, the writer behind helenamulkerns.com. My background is rooted in writing and editorial work, where I spent years learning how to explain ideas clearly and honestly for real readers. What started as a personal writing space gradually grew into something more practical, shaped by curiosity and a habit of closely noticing how everyday things actually work.
Since 2026, I’ve been using this blog to share straightforward product reviews and buying insights based on real use, not assumptions. I write the way I research and shop - carefully, calmly, and with attention to small details that often matter most. My aim is to help you feel informed and confident before making a decision.
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