The flashy, speedier (and often pricier) shoe reviews tend to get a lot of focus and love, but what about someone who is looking for something that is reliable and comfortably-priced as their next solemate? Well, if that’s you, make sure you swipe right on New Balance’s 680v9.
The New Balance 680 line continues to live up to its reputation for being a solid daily trainer for new to mid-level runners. Allowing you the ability to run in a sneaker actually designed for running without breaking the bank.
New Balance is a household name in the running world, and they continue to not only offer a wide range of options from entry level to elite, but they also provide thoughtful updates across all of their lines.
There is a reason this line has seen 8 prior versions of this sneaker. So, let’s dive into their latest v9.
Who is it Good For?
- Wide Feet: Go for the Wide (W and M) or Extra Wide (M) options!
- Heavier Runners: The Fresh Foam cushioning on this line is plush but not as durable as their Fresh FoamX. It will hold up well over time if the runs are kept short.
- Long Runs: While the outsole is durable and will last you for many overall runs, it may not feel fresh in those later long miles.
- Front of the Pack: This line isn’t designed for speed, it’s designed for the days you just want to cruise a couple laps.
If you find yourself needing to reach for a dependable sneaker with just enough cushioning without feeling too firm to run a few easy miles in, or walk your dog in, or even head to the gym in, the 680v9 would be a great choice.
New Balance 680v9 Overview
I still remember the first time I bought a “real” pair of running shoes. (And not just whatever sneakers I had laying around that I also went for a run in.) I couldn’t wait to go out for my next run around my neighborhood to show them off. I felt like a real runner!
The 680v9’s can be that same shoe for someone! While this shoe has just enough technical specs to be a great option for those newer runners, I can totally see the price point drawing in even mid-level, casual runners.
I test drove this shoe on some light, shorter mile runs and a few walks with my dog. As someone who loves cushioning on their easy miles, I appreciated the bit of softness underfoot but personally would like a bit more.
However, on my walks with my dog these were wonderful as I wrangled in my little hellion. Just the right balance of firmness and softness to keep my feet happy while my dog actually walked ME.
Their Fresh Foam is made up of 3% bio-based content made from renewable resources to help reduce our carbon footprint. Running and looking out for our planet is always a win!
Fresh Foam is their initial single-density foam which launched in 2014. They have since updated to Fresh Foam X (and others) in their more plush, responsive sneaker lines.
Keeping the initial foam standard in the 680 line could be a possible reason for the lower price point.
The upper was updated with a premium molded engineered mesh, offering both comfort and breathability, not to mention an overall more modern look. With a wave-like looking midsole and a smaller but sleeker NB side logo, I feel like the v9 really outshines its predecessor in terms of aesthetics.
New Balance 680v9 Specs
- Weight: 9.7 oz (M) 6.7oz (W)
- Stack Height: 29 mm
- Heel Drop: 8 mm
- Available in 6 Colors
- Available in wide (M and W) and Extra Wide (M)
- Available at newbalance.com for $85
There are no crazy fads or anything that might deter the average person from buying this sneaker. It is simple and clean but not outdated.
And while New Balance offers six color options for this line, I do wish they offered a few more bright/neon options. We’re heading into Summer, and some of us like our feet to show it!
Quick Take
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Great entry-level option for those new to running
- Fresh Foam offers just enough cushion without going overboard
Cons
- Limited to easier uses, not ideal for speed or racing
- Does not have premium features, if you’re looking for more
New Balance 680v9 Fit
When it comes to the fit, I do think the 680v9 was made with the average foot in mind, so I would definitely recommend the wide fit for wider feet. The toe box is also average, allowing my toes to fit comfortably but not spread out much.
The tongue sits at a great length and has just enough cushioning without feeling too padded.
The sneaker fits true to size, but I did feel like my heel was not as snug as I’d like it to feel. The laces were long enough to allow me to do a heel lock, and that helped my heel stay where it should.
Once fitted snuggly, the padded heel collar was comfortable, and did not rub or irritate my ankles.
New Balance 680v9 Feel
The Fresh Foam cushioning in the 680v9 felt incredibly light and offered a smooth and controlled feeling on my runs, while also having just enough plushness for overall comfort.
However, the lower stack height does mean less shock absorption, so I wasn’t willing to go much further than 4-5 miles on them.
So, if you’re looking for a sneaker that gives less ground feel and can limit additional muscle fatigue on longer runs, you’d be better off checking out their 1080 or Fresh Foam X lines.
But if you are just looking to cruise for a handful of easy miles a few days a week, then this sneaker could provide that for you for a long time.
Similar Shoes to the New Balance 680v9
We’ve tested a few that feel similar to this low stack running shoe, but different based on the brand fit:
- Saucony Kinvara 16 – similar stack height, cushion feel, easier to pick up the pace, a little more narrow fit
- Altra Experience Flow 3 – 4mm drop with a wide toe box, fairly firm cushion
- Hoka Mach 7 – A little softer with more cushion, a little more rocker to pick up the pace, but also light weight and doesn’t lose ground feel
My personal tastes (more cushion in daily trainers and more tech in speedier sneakers) would not have me reaching for these sneakers for a run.
However, I will absolutely be using these as my latest walking sneakers. (To be fair, my previous walking sneakers are old high-milage retired running sneakers, so having a new pair of walking sneakers is a treat!)
But if you are a casual runner looking for a budget-friendly option, I think these are worth checking out.
New Balance 680 vs 880 vs 1080
One of the common shoe buying issues is that brands have multiple shoes that start to look really similar. Luckily our team has reviewed all three shoes so we can help to make this decision a little easier.
The New Balance 880 v15 is considered their daily trainer for those doing half and marathon training. While the 680 is often referred to as a great walking shoe, though as we noted it’s plenty of shoe for those who like a little less cushion or are running a few times per week.
The New Balance 1080 v15 is their max cushioned daily trainer, which has a lot more bounce and can leave the legs feeling fresher after longer miles in marathon training.
- 680 lowest price point
- 1080 most cushioned, might feel less stable to some
- 1080 highest price point, more durable than the 680
- 680 better for those who want more ground feel
- 880 sweet spot in the middle for enough cushion and good durability, but might not feel as “fun” as the ride in the 1080
Our Verdict
This is a great entry level shoe for those putting in a few runs a week or runners who simply prefer a more low stack running shoe. Many runners are finding their ankles and hips don’t need to work has hard going back to a more moderate cushion. Only drawback is these aren’t as durable as some other New Balance shoes.
Who Tried It?
Lindsay Bileau found running at age 35 and has run every distance from the 5K to the marathon. A week after completing her first marathon, she decided to be a part of a cross country ultra relay team that spans from CA to NYC, where she’ll run 138 miles across Nevada in 5 days. (Just your typical running trajectory, ya know?) Unlike most runners, she actually enjoys treadmill miles, which are a requirement when you live through Maine Winters. She’s a big fan of racing for fun, and getting a medal for a training run. If she’s not running, she’s either walking her dog, exploring downtown areas with her husband, or curled up with a good romantasy book.
What to Read Next?
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