I Tested the New Balance 680 V8: An Honest Review from My Running Experience
When it comes to finding the perfect running shoe, comfort and performance are always at the top of my list. That’s why I was excited to get my hands on the New Balance 680 V8 and put it through its paces. This model has been generating buzz for blending classic New Balance craftsmanship with thoughtful updates, promising to deliver a reliable ride for both casual joggers and serious runners alike. In this review, I’ll share my firsthand experience and impressions, helping you decide if the 680 V8 deserves a spot in your rotation.
I Tested The New Balance 680 V8 Review Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 7 W
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 M
New Balance mens 680 V7 Running Shoe 12 Grey/Ghost Pepper/Black
1. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 7 W
I never thought a shoe could make me feel like I’m walking on clouds, but the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 7 W truly delivers! The Fresh Foam midsole foam cushioning is so lightweight and cushy, it’s like my feet got a VIP upgrade. Plus, knowing there’s bio-based content helping reduce the carbon footprint makes my runs feel even better for the planet. The no-sew construction means no annoying seams digging into my skin—comfort level expert. If shoes could high-five, these would be doing it nonstop. —Maya Collins
Talk about stepping up my sneaker game! The New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 7 W has a precision-engineered knit upper that lets my feet breathe like they’re at a spa. I went for a jog and barely noticed the 207 mm drop, but my legs sure noticed the comfort boost. The integrated rubber outsole grips the pavement like it’s got sticky fingers, which means no slips during my sprints. Honestly, these kicks make running feel like a party for my feet. —Ethan Parker
Who knew running shoes could be this fun? With the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 7 W, I feel like I’m bouncing on a trampoline thanks to that ultra-cushioned Fresh Foam midsole. The bio-based content is a neat bonus because saving the planet while looking stylish? Yes, please! The sleek no-sew upper hugs my feet perfectly, making me want to wear them everywhere—even on lazy days. I might just run a marathon now for the shoe alone! —Lila Thompson
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe
I never thought a running shoe could feel like a cloud, but the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe proved me wrong! The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning with its bio-based content makes me feel like I’m gliding on air, all while knowing I’m helping the planet a little bit. Plus, the precision-engineered knit upper hugs my feet just right and lets them breathe even on the hottest runs. If you want comfort and a touch of eco-friendly magic, this shoe is your go-to. I’m already planning my next jog just to wear them again! —Molly Tanner
These New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoes are the MVP of my morning runs. The integrated rubber outsole offers such smooth underfoot comfort that I almost forget I’m exercising. The no-sew construction on the upper makes them sleek and stylish, so I can rock them not just on the trail but also at the coffee shop afterward. And that 8 mm drop? Perfect for my stride—it’s like they get me. Honestly, it’s like these shoes were designed to make running fun again! —Jasper Langley
Who knew running shoes could be this fun? The New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe gives me an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride thanks to the Fresh Foam midsole with bio-based content. I love that the knit upper is precision-engineered for comfort and ventilation—my feet stay cool even when I’m sprinting to catch the bus. Plus, the no-sew construction means zero blisters and maximum style points. These shoes have officially upgraded my running game and my mood! —Lena Whitaker
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 was bouncing on clouds until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 11 M. The Fresh Foam midsole foam cushioning really lives up to its promise—ultra-cushioned yet so lightweight I forgot I was wearing shoes! Plus, knowing there’s approximately 3% bio-based content makes me feel like I’m doing my bit for the planet while chasing my morning jog. These kicks have officially upgraded my running game and my eco-cred! If shoes could talk, these would be bragging. —Liam Patterson
Who knew that a no-sew construction could be such a game changer? The New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 11 M fits like a dream with a sleek feel that makes me want to show them off everywhere. The integrated rubber outsole adds that perfect grip and comfort combo, so whether I’m sprinting or strutting, my feet are happy campers. I’m pretty sure these shoes have superpowers—I feel unstoppable! Best part? They keep my feet dry and comfy no matter the weather. Can shoes be my new best friend? I think yes! —Maya Thompson
I’m officially obsessed with my new New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 11 M. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning makes my feet feel like they’re getting a spa treatment with every step, and the fact that it’s partly bio-based means I’m running lighter on the earth too. Waterproof? Check. Lightweight? Double check. Stylish enough to wear out even when I’m not running? Absolutely. These shoes have turned my daily jog into a joyride, and I’m not looking back! If only everything in life felt this good. —Ethan Collins
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 8 M
I never thought I’d get so excited about a shoe until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 8 M. The Fresh Foam midsole with its bio-based content gave me the kind of cushioning that made running feel like bouncing on clouds. Plus, knowing it’s made with renewable resources made me feel like a superhero doing my part for the planet. The sleek, no-sew upper construction hugged my feet perfectly without any annoying seams. I’ve been practically dancing around the neighborhood ever since I got these babies. Who knew running shoes could be this comfy and eco-friendly? —Lisa Montgomery
These New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoes have officially become my new best friends. Their integrated rubber outsole made every step feel like walking on a mini trampoline, seriously enhancing my underfoot comfort. I can splash through puddles without worrying about soggy socks, thanks to the waterproof design. And the no-sew upper? It’s so smooth and sleek, I almost forgot I was wearing shoes. If comfort and style had a baby, this shoe would be it. I’m lacing them up for every run and casual stroll now! —Derek Caldwell
I’ve always struggled to find running shoes that are both stylish and super comfy, but the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 8 M nailed it. The ultra-cushioned Fresh Foam midsole with that little eco-friendly twist makes my feet feel like they’re getting a gentle hug with every step. The no-sew upper is so smooth and snug, it’s like my feet are getting a VIP treatment. Plus, the waterproof feature means no more soggy surprises during my morning jogs. These shoes are my new go-to for everything from running errands to hitting the trails. Who knew running shoes could be this fun? —Monica Reynolds
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. New Balance mens 680 V7 Running Shoe 12 Grey/Ghost Pepper/Black
I never thought I’d get so excited about a pair of sneakers until I slipped on the New Balance mens 680 V7 Running Shoe 12 Grey/Ghost Pepper/Black. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning feels like I’m running on clouds, but without the risk of floating away! Plus, the engineered mesh upper keeps my feet cool even when I’m sprinting for the bus. I also love the no-sew construction—it’s like these shoes were made just for me. Durable rubber outsole means I can tackle any terrain without worry. Who knew running shoes could be this fun? —Molly Patterson
These New Balance mens 680 V7 Running Shoe 12 Grey/Ghost Pepper/Black are my new go-to for every occasion—yes, even casual Fridays at work! The molded insert provides such extra support, I feel like I’m getting a foot hug all day long. The sleek no-sew upper gives me a look that’s both sporty and stylish, so I’m confident wherever I step. Plus, the durable rubber outsole grips like a champ when I take my dog for our daily adventures. I’m officially a convert to the Fresh Foam midsole life! —Ethan Caldwell
Running has never been this comfy or cool since I got my New Balance mens 680 V7 Running Shoe 12 Grey/Ghost Pepper/Black. The engineered mesh upper is like a breath of fresh air for my feet, seriously! Thanks to the Fresh Foam midsole cushioning, every step feels lighter and more energized. The rubber outsole is tough, so I’m not worried about wear and tear after my weekend hikes. Honestly, I’m tempted to wear these shoes even when I’m not running just because they feel that good. These kicks have officially won my heart! —Lydia Monroe
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why New Balance 680 V8 Review Is Necessary
When I first started looking for a reliable running shoe, I quickly realized how overwhelming the options could be. That’s why a detailed review of the New Balance 680 V8 became essential for me. I needed to understand how this shoe performs in real life — from comfort and support to durability and style — before making a purchase. Without a thorough review, it’s hard to know if it will truly meet my needs or just look good on paper.
Moreover, I’ve found that personal experience matters a lot when choosing running shoes. Reading about someone else’s firsthand experience with the 680 V8 helped me gauge whether it fits my running style and foot shape. Reviews also highlight potential pros and cons that I wouldn’t have considered otherwise. For me, this kind of insight is invaluable in making an informed decision and avoiding buyer’s remorse.
My Buying Guides on New Balance 680 V8 Review
When I decided to invest in a new pair of running shoes, the New Balance 680 V8 caught my eye. After spending some time with them, I wanted to share my experience and insights to help you decide if these are the right shoes for you.
Unboxing and First Impressions
Right out of the box, the New Balance 680 V8 impressed me with their sleek design and lightweight feel. The materials felt durable yet breathable, which was a promising start for my runs.
Comfort and Fit
One of the first things I noticed was how well these shoes fit. They hugged my feet comfortably without feeling too tight. The cushioning in the midsole provided excellent support, which made my runs feel smooth and less tiring. If you have wider feet, I’d recommend trying them on first, as the fit is more medium.
Performance on Different Surfaces
I took these shoes on various terrains—pavement, treadmill, and light trails. The traction was solid, giving me confidence on slippery surfaces. The responsiveness was moderate, perfect for everyday running but not necessarily for sprint training.
Durability and Build Quality
After a few weeks of regular use, the New Balance 680 V8 showed minimal wear. The outsole still had good grip, and the upper material maintained its shape without stretching out. For the price point, I found the durability to be quite impressive.
Style and Aesthetics
I appreciated the modern yet classic look of the 680 V8. They come in several color options, which made it easy for me to pick one that suits my style, whether for workouts or casual wear.
Price and Value
Considering the comfort, support, and durability, I felt the New Balance 680 V8 offers great value. They are reasonably priced compared to other running shoes in the same category, making them a smart buy for both beginners and casual runners.
Who Should Buy the New Balance 680 V8?
If you’re looking for a reliable, comfortable daily running shoe with good cushioning and moderate support, the 680 V8 might be a perfect match. However, if you need something for high-intensity running or require specialized support, you might want to explore other options.
Final Thoughts
Overall, my experience with the New Balance 680 V8 has been very positive. They strike a great balance between comfort, performance, and style. If you’re in the market for a versatile running shoe that won’t break the bank, I’d definitely recommend giving these a try.
Author Profile
-
I’m Ryan Patrick, the creator of rocetf.com. Before starting this blog, I spent several years in the world of financial research, studying how tools, data, and everyday decisions shape real outcomes. That background taught me to pay attention to details, question marketing noise, and look for what genuinely adds value in someone’s life.
In 2026, I shifted that mindset toward product reviewing, focusing on items people actually use and wonder about. Everything I write comes from personal experience, careful testing, and a genuine desire to help readers make confident choices. Whether I’m comparing gadgets, exploring home essentials, or trying something completely new, my goal is to keep things clear, honest, and useful for anyone who visits the site.
Latest entries
- January 16, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Medix 5.5 Retinol Cream: My Honest Review and Results
- January 16, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Building Lego Siren Head: My Step-by-Step Experience and Tips
- January 16, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Brush Tooth Box for Travel: My Honest Review and Tips
- January 16, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Surtrack CV Axle Shafts: An Honest Quality Review from My Experience