The New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8 running shoes are designed for everyday runners seeking a balance of comfort and performance. They excel in providing a smooth, cushioned experience for both daily training and longer distances, making them a reliable choice for consistent use. However, while versatile, they may not offer the highly specialized features required for extreme trail conditions or competitive racing.
Fresh Foam Midsole: Delivers a plush, cushioned ride, absorbing impact effectively for enhanced comfort over various distances.
Engineered Knit Upper: Provides superior breathability and an adaptive, secure fit that conforms to your foot.
Targeted Ventilation Zones: Strategically placed areas in the upper to keep your feet cool and comfortable during intense activity.
Padded Ankle Collar & Cushioned Insole: Offers additional comfort and support around the ankle and underfoot, reducing pressure points.
Durable Integrated Rubber Outsole: Ensures excellent traction on diverse surfaces and enhances the shoe's overall durability.
Secure Lace Fastening: Allows for a customizable and secure fit, preventing slippage during runs.
New Balance Branding: Integrated design elements that confirm authenticity and brand quality.
Superior comfort for everyday runs
Smooth and well-cushioned ride
Enhanced breathability keeps feet cool
Adaptive and secure fit
Excellent traction on various surfaces
Suitable for daily training and long-distance running
May not offer highly specialized features for extreme trail conditions
Less aggressive traction than dedicated trail shoes
Not designed for competitive racing where minimal weight is critical
Superior comfort for everyday runs
Smooth and well-cushioned ride
Enhanced breathability keeps feet cool
Adaptive and secure fit
Excellent traction on various surfaces
Suitable for daily training and long-distance running
May not offer highly specialized features for extreme trail conditions
Less aggressive traction than dedicated trail shoes
Not designed for competitive racing where minimal weight is critical
The New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8 is engineered to be a workhorse for your daily running routine. The core of its performance lies in the Fresh Foam midsole, which provides a responsive yet soft feel underfoot. This cushioning is particularly beneficial for mitigating impact during longer runs, helping to reduce fatigue.
For daily training, the 680 V8 offers consistent comfort and support. The engineered knit upper adapts to your foot's shape, providing a snug yet breathable environment. This helps prevent overheating during moderate-intensity runs. The integrated rubber outsole ensures reliable grip on pavement, treadmills, and light gravel paths, making it a versatile option for urban and suburban runners.
When tackling longer distances, the combination of the plush Fresh Foam and the cushioned insole maintains a high level of comfort, which is crucial for sustained performance. The padded ankle collar adds to the secure feel without causing irritation, even after many miles. These features make the 680 V8 a strong contender for runners who prioritize comfort and consistent performance on longer efforts.
Getting started with your New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8 is straightforward:
Lacing: Ensure the laces are threaded through all eyelets. Use the secure lace fastening to achieve a snug but not overly tight fit. A good rule of thumb is to be able to wiggle your toes comfortably.
First Run: For your initial runs, start with shorter distances to allow your feet to adapt to the shoes' cushioning and fit.
These shoes are designed primarily for road running and light trail running. They are compatible with various running surfaces, including:
Pavement and asphalt
Treadmills
Track surfaces
Well-maintained gravel paths and light dirt trails
They are ideal for runners looking for a reliable shoe for daily mileage, recovery runs, and long-distance training.
Proper care extends the life and performance of your shoes:
Cleaning: After runs, especially on dirty surfaces, gently brush off loose dirt. For a deeper clean, use a mild soap and cold water with a soft brush or cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals.
Drying: Always air dry your shoes at room temperature. Do not use direct heat sources like radiators or tumble dryers, as this can damage the materials and adhesives.
Storage: Store your shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight when not in use. Stuffing them with newspaper can help absorb moisture and maintain their shape.
Rotation: If you run frequently, consider rotating between two pairs of shoes. This allows the cushioning to fully recover between uses, potentially extending the lifespan of each pair.