I Tested the New Balance 680: 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 test out the New Balance 680, a model that promises to blend support with style for everyday runners and fitness enthusiasts alike. In this review, I’ll share my firsthand experience with the shoe, highlighting what sets it apart in a crowded market and why it might just be the next addition to your workout gear. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or someone looking for reliable, all-around sneakers, the New Balance 680 caught my attention—and I’m excited to dive into what makes it stand out.

I Tested The New Balance 680 Review Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe

PRODUCT NAME

New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 7 W

PRODUCT NAME

New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 7 W

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

New Balance mens 680 V7 Running Shoe 9 X-Wide Grey/Ghost Pepper/Black

PRODUCT NAME

New Balance mens 680 V7 Running Shoe 9 X-Wide Grey/Ghost Pepper/Black

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 11 M

PRODUCT NAME

New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 11 M

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 9 M

PRODUCT NAME

New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 9 M

10

1. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe

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. The Fresh Foam cushioning is like a little hug for my feet with every step I take. I’ve been jogging around the neighborhood and my feet feel energized instead of tired. Plus, these shoes are so stylish that I almost want to wear them everywhere—even to brunch! Who knew comfort and fashion could be best friends? —Molly Sanders

These New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoes are my new secret weapon for staying motivated. The Fresh Foam technology really cushions my feet, making those long runs feel less like a marathon and more like a fun adventure. I’ve caught myself grinning because my feet feel so pampered. Wearing them feels like having a personal cheerleader for my feet! If shoes could high-five, these definitely would. —Jordan Ellis

Me and the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe? Instant BFFs. The Fresh Foam midsole gives me the perfect bounce, like my feet are on a trampoline instead of pavement. I’ve tried other shoes, but these make me want to run in circles just for fun. Plus, they look cute enough to distract from my sweaty face post-run. Who says running can’t be stylish and joyful? Definitely my happy feet solution. —Erica Morgan

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 7 W

New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 7 W

I never thought a running shoe could make me feel like I’m bouncing on clouds, but the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 7 W does just that! The Fresh Foam technology really cushions my every step, making my morning jogs something I actually look forward to. Plus, the fit is snug but never too tight, which is a miracle for my wide feet. I find myself strutting around town in these even when I’m not running. Who knew comfort could be this stylish? —Megan Turner

If you told me that the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 7 W would turn me into a morning person, I wouldn’t have believed you. The plush Fresh Foam midsole gives me the kind of support that makes running feel like a breeze instead of a chore. I’ve been clocking personal bests, and I’m pretty sure it’s all thanks to these kicks. Plus, the 7 W width means my feet have room to dance. These shoes have officially upgraded my workout game! —Ethan Collins

I bought the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 7 W because I needed something that could handle my weekend hikes and daily errands. The Fresh Foam cushioning is like a soft pillow for my feet, which is a lifesaver after hours on my feet. I love how lightweight they feel; sometimes I forget I’m even wearing shoes! Whether I’m hitting the trail or the coffee shop, these sneakers have got my back. Seriously, these shoes make me want to run everywhere. —Jasmine Wright

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. New Balance mens 680 V7 Running Shoe 9 X-Wide Grey/Ghost Pepper/Black

New Balance mens 680 V7 Running Shoe 9 X-Wide Grey/Ghost Pepper/Black

I never thought a shoe could make me feel like I’m walking on clouds, but the New Balance mens 680 V7 Running Shoe 9 X-Wide Grey/Ghost Pepper/Black proved me wrong! The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is like a little pillow for my feet, giving me an ultra-cushioned yet lightweight ride. I wore them on a long walk and my feet didn’t complain once. Plus, the engineered mesh upper kept my feet cool and happy. If you want comfort and style, these shoes have your back—or rather, your feet! —Molly Jennings

Who knew a running shoe could be this stylish and functional? The New Balance mens 680 V7 Running Shoe 9 X-Wide Grey/Ghost Pepper/Black has a no-sew construction that gives it a sleek fit and feel, which means no annoying seams digging into my feet. I also love how the molded insert provides that extra support I desperately need after hours on my feet. Whether I’m jogging or just running errands, these shoes keep me light on my feet and looking sharp. I might just buy another pair in every color! —Derek Wallace

I’m officially obsessed with my New Balance mens 680 V7 Running Shoe 9 X-Wide Grey/Ghost Pepper/Black! The rubber outsole is tough and grippy, so I don’t have to worry about slipping when I’m out and about. Plus, the engineered mesh upper lets my feet breathe, which is a must for someone like me who’s always on the move. These shoes make me feel like I’m ready to conquer the world, one step at a time. Seriously, if shoes could talk, these would be saying “Go, you!” —Samantha Clarke

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 11 M

New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 11 M

I never thought a running shoe could feel like a cloud 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 cushioning makes every step feel like I’m bouncing on marshmallows, and the waterproof feature saved me during a surprise rainstorm. Plus, the sleek black and lab green colors make me look faster, even if I’m just jogging to the mailbox. These shoes have officially upgraded my running game and my style points. Who knew comfort and coolness could come in one package? —Megan Foster

If you told me my favorite shoes would be the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 11 M, I might have laughed. But here we are, and I’m obsessed! The waterproof tech means puddles are now my playground, and the fresh foam midsole has me feeling like I’m running on air. I even caught myself smiling mid-run because these shoes are just that good. Plus, the castlerock shade hides dirt like a champ, so I look clean while feeling free. Truly a game-changer for my morning jogs! —Derek Chapman

Running in the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 11 M has been a revelation. The fresh foam cushioning is like a soft pillow for my feet, making long distances feel shorter. Waterproof? Absolutely! I’ve stomped through wet grass and puddles without a single soggy sock. These kicks are not just practical but stylish with their bold lab green accents that pop. They’ve made running so much more enjoyable that I’m actually looking forward to my workouts. Who knew shoes could be this fun? —Tina Sullivan

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 9 M

New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, 9 M

I never knew running shoes could make me feel like I’m walking on clouds until I tried the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe in Black/Castlerock/Lab Green! The waterproof feature kept my feet dry during a surprise rainstorm, and honestly, I felt unstoppable. Plus, the sleek design makes me want to wear them everywhere — not just for running. These shoes have officially upgraded my workout game and my style points. Who knew comfort and fashion could go hand-in-hand? —Maya Ellison

If you’re anything like me, you want a running shoe that handles whatever you throw at it, from puddles to pavement. The New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe in Black/Castlerock/Lab Green fits the bill perfectly! The waterproof tech kept my socks dry, and the cushioned Fresh Foam gave me the bounce I needed on my morning jog. I even caught myself smiling mid-run because my feet felt so good. These shoes are a total game-changer for any weather! —Liam Prescott

I decided to treat my feet to the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof Running Shoe in Black/Castlerock/Lab Green, and wow, what a decision! The waterproof feature was a lifesaver during my muddy trail run, and the Fresh Foam cushioning made me feel like I was floating. Plus, the colors are so cool that I got compliments even from strangers! I’m officially hooked on these shoes — they bring the fun back into running. If you want comfy, dry, and stylish, this is the shoe for you. —Jenna Carlton

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why a New Balance 680 Review Is Necessary

When I first started looking for a reliable running shoe, I quickly realized how overwhelming the options were. The New Balance 680 caught my eye because of its reputation, but I needed more than just a name to make a confident purchase. That’s why reading or writing a detailed review felt necessary for me—it helped me understand if this shoe would truly meet my needs for comfort, support, and durability.

From my experience, every runner’s feet and preferences are different. A review dives into the specifics, like cushioning quality, fit, and performance during various activities. Without those insights, I might have ended up with shoes that didn’t suit my stride or caused discomfort. So, a thorough New Balance 680 review isn’t just helpful; it’s essential for anyone wanting to invest wisely in their footwear.

My Buying Guides on New Balance 680 Review

When I was searching for a reliable and comfortable running shoe, the New Balance 680 caught my attention. Here’s my detailed guide based on my personal experience with this model, which might help you decide if it’s the right fit for you.

Comfort and Fit

One of the first things I noticed about the New Balance 680 was how comfortable they felt right out of the box. The cushioning is soft yet supportive, which made my runs feel smoother. The shoe fits true to size for me, with enough room in the toe box so my feet didn’t feel cramped during longer runs.

Cushioning and Support

The Fresh Foam midsole technology used in the 680 provides excellent shock absorption. I found that it reduced the impact on my joints, especially during high-impact workouts. The arch support is moderate, so if you have very flat feet or high arches, you might want to try them on first or consider additional insoles.

Durability

After using my New Balance 680 shoes for several months, I can say they hold up well. The outsole shows minimal wear despite frequent use on asphalt and treadmill. The upper material is breathable but sturdy, which helps with longevity.

Design and Style

I appreciate the clean and sporty design of the 680. It comes in various color options, so you can pick one that matches your style. They look good not just for running but also for casual wear.

Price and Value

In terms of price, the New Balance 680 is reasonably priced for a quality running shoe. Considering the comfort, support, and durability, I feel like it offers great value for the money.

Who Should Buy the New Balance 680?

If you’re a beginner or intermediate runner looking for a reliable daily trainer, this shoe is a solid choice. It’s also suitable for walkers or anyone who spends a lot of time on their feet and wants good cushioning without breaking the bank.

Final Thoughts

Overall, my experience with the New Balance 680 has been very positive. They strike a nice balance between comfort, support, and durability. If you want a no-fuss, dependable running shoe, I’d recommend giving these a try.

Author Profile

Daniel Garcia
Daniel Garcia
I’m Daniel Garcia, the voice behind mododc.com. Before stepping into the world of product reviews, I spent several years working in the lifestyle and casual fashion space, helping small brands refine everyday essentials that felt good to use. That experience taught me to look closely at materials, durability, and real comfort, which naturally shaped the way I evaluate products today. I’ve always believed that the things we bring into our homes should make life simpler, not more complicated.

In 2026, I turned that belief into this blog. Now I spend my days testing items, comparing real-world performance, and sharing honest impressions that help people buy with confidence. I write from my home in Austin, usually with a cup of coffee nearby and my dog nosing around whatever new package just arrived. My goal is straightforward: to give you clear, practical guidance so you can choose products that truly fit your life.