New Balance
Fresh Foam 680 v9
Product Judgment
Solid
7.8
Category: Daily Trainer
Release year: 2026
Evidence base: Extensive
Reviewers agree on comfort, durability, and limited stability.
Price Judgment
Strong Buy
Common retail price: ~$85
Availability: Widely Available
Based on manual research as of Sep 24, 2026
Description
Entry-level daily trainer in New Balance's Fresh Foam lineup. Prioritizes comfort, versatility, and value for budget-conscious runners. Consistently rated as a reliable, no-frills option for everyday use.
Soft, flexible ride with moderate cushioning and strong ground feel. Predictable and easygoing character, lacking aggressive responsiveness or structure. Durable outsole and upper stand out for longevity in daily mileage.
Ideal for beginners, budget-minded runners, and those seeking a simple, comfortable shoe for easy runs or all-day wear. Best for neutral runners who value flexibility and fit variety over stability or performance. Remains a practical choice for casual training despite limited breathability and support.
Performance Scores
Comfort
8Soft Fresh Foam midsole and flexible upper provide above-average comfort for daily use.
Energy Return
6Midsole offers moderate rebound, suitable for easy runs but not speed sessions.
Stability
5Flexible platform and low heel counter stiffness limit support for overpronators.
Durability
8Generous outsole rubber and abrasion-resistant upper ensure strong durability.
Fun to Ride
6Simple, predictable ride prioritizes comfort over excitement or responsiveness.
Run Fitness
Daily
8Best suited for daily runs thanks to comfort and reliable cushioning.
Long
7Moderate cushioning supports longer efforts, though not as plush as max-stack shoes.
Tempo
5Lacks the energy return and structure for faster-paced training.
Race
4Weight and muted ride limit suitability for racing or speedwork.
Recovery
7Soft foam and flexible feel make it comfortable for easy recovery runs.
Pros & Cons
- Soft, comfortable ride
- Durable outsole
- Multiple width options
- Lightweight for price
- Limited stability
- Below-average breathability
Fresh Foam midsole delivers a soft, comfortable experience for daily training and all-day wear.
Generous rubber coverage and abrasion-resistant upper provide strong durability for high mileage.
Available in standard, wide, and extra wide fits to accommodate various foot shapes.
Lightweight build makes it easy to wear for extended periods compared to other budget trainers.
Flexible platform and low heel counter stiffness reduce support, making it less suitable for overpronators.
Engineered mesh upper is less breathable, leading to moderate moisture retention during longer runs.
Specifications
Best for paces
5:30–7:00 min/km
Drop
8 mm
Stack height
30 mm heel / 22 mm forefoot
Weight
276 g
Drop
8 mm
Stack height
30 mm heel / 22 mm forefoot
Weight
276 g
Pronation
Neutral
Width
medium
Terrain
Road
Technologies
Fresh Foam midsole, Engineered mesh upper, Durable rubber outsole
Plate
no
Best for paces
5:30–7:00 min/km
Comparable Models
New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 supplies a broad, supportive platform, addressing the 680 v9's limited stability while trading natural flexibility for a stiffer ride.
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New Balance Fresh Foam X Ellipse combines plush comfort with stable, smooth transitions, offering more structured easy-run support than the flexible 680 v9.
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ASICS Gel Pulse 17 emphasizes protective cushioning and a rigid, controlled platform, while the 680 v9 favors flexible comfort and ground feel.
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Adidas Galaxy 8 offers strong upper ventilation, addressing the 680 v9's breathability limitation but trading away its flexible ride and durable upper.
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Nike Downshifter 14 prioritizes firm ground contact and narrow lockdown for short runs, while the 680 v9 offers a softer, more flexible everyday feel.
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