Our verdict
The New Balance 608 v5 received high praises for combining style and comfort. Many commenters also raved about its fit and the availability of multiple-width options. The shoe also seemed to excel in terms of durability and underfoot support. Overall, the trainer came highly recommended because it was a comfortable training and walking companion.
Pros
- Excellent comfort
- True to size and width
- Great style
- Durable
- Excellent arch support
- Excellent traction
- Accommodates custom orthotics
- Lightweight
Cons
- Needs break-in period
- Faux-leather upper looks cheap and not durable
- Durable New balance Des Chaussettes Pixel Art 3 Paires
Who should buy the New Balance 608 v5
This New Balance 608 v5 could be a great match for you if:
- New Balance logo long sleeve t-shirt in burgundy exclusive to ASOS.
- New Balance 680 V6.
Updates to New Balance 608 v5
- The 5th iteration of the New Balance 608 comes in both men’s and women’s options. It is a versatile shoe that can be sported for gym sessions, fitness classes, walking, and light jogging.
- Stylewise, the shoe bears a strong resemblance to its predecessor. In fact, the upper has not undergone any changes, except that multiple perforations have been added throughout the unit for better breathability. Aside from that, the trainer still employs leather and additional overlays in the key areas.
- The shoe uses the same full-length foam midsole unit. However, in this version, its upper edges have been extended upwards.
- The bottom of the platform is flat, and it eliminates the curve under the midfoot which was present in the previous iterations of the shoe.
- The outsole design is fully revamped or changed. It now has a new lug pattern and some updated flex grooves
Size and fit
The New Balance 608 v5 is available in both male and female variations. Gentlemen can choose between US sizes 6.5 and 18 while the ladies’ option is offered in US sizes 5 to 12. Just like New Balance 574 trainers in navy suede, this model can be purchased in a variety of width profiles.
Men’s width profiles include D - Medium, 2E - Wide, and 4E - Extra Wide, while women’s widths range from 2A - Narrow to B - Medium and D - Wide. The leather material Graft the foot firmly, while the lace-up closure allows wearers to adjust the tightness. A pull-tab at the back gets so much appreciation because it makes it easy to put the trainer on.
Outsole
The underside of the New Balance 608 v5 is lined with rubber. This layer is durable, and it effectively protects the platform against abrasion.
It is also quite grippy since the geometrical tread pattern successfully delivers traction on gym floors and other training surfaces. The rubber, by the way, is non-marking; so wearers report that it doesn’t leave undesirable scuff marks on floors.
The outsole slightly protrudes up on the lateral side, and gym rats say that this acts as a supportive outrigger. It enhances stability during side-to-side movements. The unit also extends up at the front, covering the toes. Wearers love that this keeps them protected against bumps.
Midsole
A full-length foam unit gets the nod of many because it keeps the underfoot cushioned and supported. It's also durable enough to withstand the repeated impact of regular workouts. At the same time, it is lightweight and flexible and truly provides a comfortable in-shoe experience.
The cushioning in the heel section is amplified. Wearers point to the Abzorb technology as the main reason for this. It is a blend of lightweight and responsive foam and the hard-wearing Dupont Engage Isoprene rubber.
On top of providing nice cushioning, the midsole also contributes to lateral support. Its edges protrude upwards around the heel and on both sides of the forefoot, creating barriers that gym rats say are truly supportive. They do not let the foot slide around during multi-directional movements.
Upper
Just like its predecessors, the 5th edition of the New Balance 608 utilizes leather for its upper unit. While the material is not as flexible and stretchy as mesh, wearers love that it gives them a firm and secure foothold.
Additional leather overlays are placed around the heel and at the toes. Gymgoers can customize the tightness through the lace-up closure.
The perforations throughout the leather, the breathable mesh tongue, and the mesh lining are loved by a good number of wearers. They say that these parts of the shoe help improve airflow. A pleasant in-shoe experience is also enhanced by the padded collar and tongue.
The style, materials, and technologies of the New Balance 608 v5 make it very similar to another popular workout shoe: Ominaisuudet New balance Leveät Juoksukengät 574. Both shoes have gathered positive user reviews and are offered at the same price point.