The New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V7 Running Shoe is a versatile and comfortable choice for runners and active individuals. Designed with Fresh Foam midsole cushioning, this shoe provides a lightweight and ultra-cushioned ride, perfect for those who value comfort during long runs or workouts. The engineered mesh upper ensures breathability, keeping feet cool and dry, while the no-sew construction enhances fit and style.
Built for both durability and performance, the molded insert offers extra support, making it suitable for various terrains and activities. The rubber outsole provides excellent traction and durability, making these shoes a reliable companion for daily runs, gym sessions, or casual outings.
Specs
Brand: New Balance
Care Instructions: Machine Wash
Origin: Imported
Sole Material: Rubber
Outer Material: Mesh
Midsole Technology: Fresh Foam cushioning for a lightweight ride
Upper Construction: Engineered mesh for breathability
Design Feature: No-sew construction for a sleek fit
Pros
Ultra-comfortable Fresh Foam cushioning
Breathable engineered mesh upper
Sleek and stylish no-sew design
Lightweight and suitable for extended use
Excellent durability with a rubber outsole
Molded insert for enhanced support
Cons
Slightly higher price point compared to similar models
Limited color options
May require breaking-in for optimal comfort
Running shoes are more than just a part of your wardrobe; they are essential companions that support and enhance every step of your fitness journey. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner, a casual jogger, or someone who enjoys long walks, having the right footwear can make all the difference. The New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V7 running shoes are thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of a wide range of users. They stand out for their exceptional blend of comfort, durability, and style, making them an excellent choice for those who value both performance and aesthetics.
At the heart of these shoes lies New Balance’s signature Fresh Foam technology, which ensures a lightweight and ultra-cushioned ride. This feature is a game-changer for runners who demand comfort during extended runs or intense training sessions. The engineered mesh upper adds to the breathability, keeping your feet cool and dry, while the no-sew construction minimizes irritation, ensuring a sleek, snug fit.
Why Choose the Fresh Foam 680 V7?
Choosing the right running shoe is a critical decision that can affect not only your performance but also your overall health and comfort. A well-designed shoe can provide the necessary support, cushioning, and durability to keep you moving efficiently while reducing the risk of injury. The New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V7 sets itself apart as an exceptional choice for both seasoned athletes and casual fitness enthusiasts due to its thoughtful combination of advanced features, quality construction, and user-focused design.
Unmatched Comfort with Fresh Foam Technology
The Fresh Foam midsole in the 680 V7 is a standout feature that redefines comfort. This innovative cushioning technology is precision-engineered to deliver an ultra-cushioned and lightweight ride, making it ideal for runners who value plush underfoot support. Whether you’re tackling long runs, engaging in high-impact workouts, or simply spending hours on your feet, the Fresh Foam technology ensures a smooth and comfortable experience.
Sleek and Secure Fit with No-Sew Construction
New Balance has incorporated a no-sew construction in the Fresh Foam 680 V7, creating a sleek and stylish look while eliminating potential irritation points. This seamless design not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the shoe but also provides a snug and secure fit, ensuring you can focus on your performance without worrying about blisters or chafing.
Key Features That Set the Fresh Foam 680 V7 Apart
When it comes to running shoes, attention to detail can make a significant difference in performance, comfort, and durability. The New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V7 incorporates cutting-edge technologies and thoughtful design elements that set it apart from its competitors. Here’s a deeper look at the features that make these shoes stand out:
Fresh Foam Cushioning: A Game-Changer for Comfort
The hallmark of this model is its Fresh Foam midsole cushioning, a proprietary technology from New Balance. Engineered for precision, this midsole delivers a plush, lightweight feel that ensures unparalleled comfort during every step. Whether you’re hitting the pavement for a long-distance run or engaging in high-impact workouts, this cushioning efficiently absorbs shock and reduces stress on your joints. The result is a smoother, more enjoyable experience, especially during prolonged use.
Why it matters: Impact absorption is crucial for runners to minimize fatigue and the risk of injury. The Fresh Foam cushioning not only provides support but also enhances energy return, helping you stay energized longer.
Engineered Mesh Upper: Breathability at Its Best
The engineered mesh upper is crafted to maximize airflow, keeping your feet cool and dry throughout your activities. The breathable material adapts to the shape of your foot, offering a custom-like fit while ensuring ventilation to prevent overheating. This feature is especially beneficial during warm weather or intense workouts when sweating can lead to discomfort.
Why it matters: Proper airflow not only keeps your feet comfortable but also reduces the likelihood of blisters and odors caused by trapped moisture.
No-Sew Construction: Seamless and Sleek Design
The no-sew construction is a design innovation that eliminates seams, reducing irritation and pressure points that can lead to blisters or discomfort. This construction creates a sleek, streamlined fit that hugs your feet without being restrictive, offering a balance between snugness and freedom of movement.
Why it matters: A seamless design is ideal for individuals who value both aesthetics and functionality, ensuring a polished look and a comfortable feel during any activity.
Molded Insert: Targeted Support for Stability
For those who require extra support, the molded insert within the Fresh Foam 680 V7 is a standout feature. This insert is designed to provide additional stability, especially for users who experience foot fatigue or require more arch support. By promoting proper alignment and reducing strain on the foot, the molded insert enhances the overall comfort and wearability of the shoe.
Why it matters: Extra support is essential for maintaining comfort and preventing overuse injuries, particularly for individuals who spend extended periods on their feet or engage in demanding physical activities.
Rubber Outsole: Durability Meets Versatility
The rubber outsole of the Fresh Foam 680 V7 is built for durability and traction. It offers exceptional grip on a variety of surfaces, from smooth pavements to gym floors, ensuring stability and confidence with every step. Additionally, the outsole is designed to withstand regular wear and tear, making it a long-lasting investment.
Why it matters: A durable outsole not only extends the life of the shoe but also enhances safety by providing reliable traction on different terrains, reducing the risk of slips and falls.
Comparison With Other Brands
New Balance Fresh Foam 880 v14 A neutral running shoe offering a balance of cushioning and responsiveness, suitable for daily training and various distances.
New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v13 Designed for runners seeking maximum cushioning, ideal for long-distance runs with its plush underfoot feel.
Asics Gel-Nimbus 26 A well-cushioned neutral running shoe known for its comfort and support, suitable for long-distance runners.
Brooks Ghost 14 A versatile neutral running shoe offering smooth transitions and soft cushioning, great for daily training.
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38 A reliable neutral running shoe with responsive cushioning and a breathable upper, suitable for various running activities.
Here’s a detailed comparison table of the New Balance Fresh Foam 680 v7 Running Shoe and its top alternatives:
Feature
New Balance Fresh Foam 680 v7
New Balance Fresh Foam 880 v14
New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v13
Asics Gel-Nimbus 26
Brooks Ghost 14
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38
Material
Engineered mesh upper
Engineered mesh upper
Hypoknit upper
Breathable engineered mesh
Mesh upper
Engineered mesh
Cushioning
Fresh Foam midsole
Fresh Foam X midsole
Fresh Foam X with additional plush
Gel technology and FlyteFoam
DNA Loft cushioning
Nike React foam and Zoom Air units
Weight
Lightweight
Slightly heavier
Moderate
Moderate
Lightweight
Lightweight
Best For
Daily training, moderate distances
Daily running, all distances
Long-distance runs
Long-distance and endurance running
Versatile daily training
Tempo runs and versatile training
Support Type
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Durability
High
High
Very high
Very high
High
Moderate
Heel-to-Toe Drop
10mm
10mm
8mm
10mm
12mm
10mm
Breathability
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
Price Range
$$
$$
$$$
$$$
$$
$$
Key Features
Balanced cushioning, lightweight
Durable, balanced ride
Maximum cushioning, plush feel
Excellent shock absorption
Smooth transitions, versatile use
Responsive, great for speed workouts
Availability
Widely available
Widely available
Widely available
Widely available
Widely available
Widely available
Key:
$: Budget-friendly
$$: Mid-range
$$$: Premium pricing
New Balance Women’s Running Shoe: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are these shoes true to size?
Yes, the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V7 generally runs true to size, making it easy for most users to find their perfect fit. However, it’s always a good idea to refer to the size chart provided by the retailer or the official New Balance website. For those with specific foot shapes, such as wide or narrow feet, double-checking measurements ensures optimal comfort and fit.
Can I use these shoes for trail running?
While the Fresh Foam 680 V7 is durable and provides excellent traction with its rubber outsole, it’s primarily designed for paved surfaces, gym floors, and everyday use. For rugged or uneven terrains, a trail-specific shoe with enhanced grip and added protection would be a better choice. However, for light trail use or mixed-surface runs, these shoes can handle the task without compromising comfort.
Are they suitable for wide feet?
Absolutely! One of the strengths of New Balance is its inclusive sizing options, and the Fresh Foam 680 V7 is no exception. It is available in wide and extra-wide sizes to cater to individuals with broader feet. The engineered mesh upper also adds flexibility, ensuring a comfortable fit without feeling restrictive.
What is the return policy?
The return policy for the Fresh Foam 680 V7 depends on the retailer from which you purchase. Most retailers offer a window of 30 to 60 days for returns or exchanges, provided the shoes are in their original condition. Some stores and the official New Balance website may also have extended return policies for unworn items.
Can these shoes be used for everyday wear?
Yes, these shoes are versatile enough for both athletic and casual use. Their lightweight design, stylish appearance, and comfortable fit make them an excellent option for daily activities like walking, errands, or commuting.
Conclusion
The New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V7 Running Shoe stands out as a smart and valuable investment for individuals who prioritize comfort, performance, and style in their footwear. This model combines innovative technology, premium materials, and thoughtful design to deliver a product that caters to a wide variety of needs, from serious athletic pursuits to casual daily wear.
The star of the shoe is its Fresh Foam midsole cushioning, which offers unparalleled comfort and impact absorption, ensuring your feet feel supported even during the most demanding activities. This, combined with the breathable engineered mesh upper, provides a perfect blend of functionality and comfort, keeping your feet cool and dry throughout the day. The no-sew construction adds a sleek and irritation-free fit, while the molded insert provides extra stability for enhanced performance.