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New Balance 880 and New Balance 680 are two popular shoes for comfort, cushioning, and durability. New Balance 880 is a neutral daily trainer with a soft, balanced ride, while the New Balance 680 is a more budget-friendly option that still delivers solid performance. This comparison will help you quickly understand the differences and decide which one is the better fit for your lifestyle.
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Fresh Foam X cushioning:- New Balance 880 features Fresh Foam X cushioning that delivers a softer and more responsive feel for long-distance running.
- New Balance 680 uses standard Fresh Foam which provides balanced comfort.
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Arch Support:- New Balance 880 has enhanced arch support that helps reduce foot fatigue during extended runs.
- New Balance 680 includes standard arch support suitable for casual training.
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Durability:- New Balance 880 features a reinforced rubber outsole that withstands heavy mileage without rapid wear.
- New Balance 680 uses standard rubber that offers adequate durability.
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Wider Toe Box:- New Balance 880 has a wider toe box that allows natural toe splay and reduces pressure points.
- New Balance 680 comes with a standard toe box that fits more snugly.
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Improved Stability:- New Balance 880 includes dual-density foam and a firm heel counter that maintain foot alignment during movement.
- New Balance 680 offers basic stability from a neutral platform design.
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Higher Energy Return:- New Balance 880 features a high-rebound midsole that improves propulsion and running efficiency.
- New Balance 680 provides moderate energy return suitable for slower paces.
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More Plush Comfort:- New Balance 880 has layered cushioning that keeps feet comfortable during long sessions.
- New Balance 680 includes adequate padding for short to medium runs.
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Superior Outsole Grip:- New Balance 880 features a multi-directional tread pattern that maintains traction on varied surfaces.
- New Balance 680 has a simpler outsole pattern designed for road running.
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Lightweight:- New Balance 880 has a lightweight construction that reduces fatigue without sacrificing stability.
- New Balance 680 is slightly heavier in comparison.
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Premium Upper Materials:- New Balance 880 features engineered mesh with targeted overlays that improve fit and breathability.
- New Balance 680 uses standard synthetic mesh with minimal reinforcement.
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Specs at a Glance
| Feature | New Balance 880 | New Balance 680 |
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| Midsole Cushioning | Fresh Foam X for plush and responsive ride | Fresh Foam for balanced comfort |
| Arch Support | Enhanced support structure for long runs | Standard support for everyday use |
| Durability | High-wear rubber with reinforced zones | Standard rubber outsole |
| Toe Box Width | Wider forefoot for natural toe splay | Standard fit toe box |
| Stability Features | Dual-density foam and supportive heel counter | Basic stability from neutral platform |
| Energy Return | High rebound for efficient stride | Moderate rebound for casual pace |
| Comfort Level | Premium cushioning for long-distance comfort | Good comfort for short-to-mid runs |
| Outsole Grip | Multi-surface traction design | General-purpose outsole |
| Weight | Slightly lighter build despite added tech | Heavier in comparison for class |
| Upper Material | Engineered mesh with premium overlays | Synthetic mesh with basic overlays |
Who Should Buy What?Buy the New Balance 880 if you:- Need premium cushioning for long-distance running or daily training.
- Want better arch support and foot stability for extended wear.
- Prefer a lighter yet more durable running shoe.
- Value high-quality upper materials for breathability and fit.
- Run on mixed surfaces and require superior traction.
Check New Balance 880 Best Price Buy the New Balance 680 if you:- Want a reliable entry-level running shoe for light jogging or walking.
- Prefer a more affordable option without advanced features.
- Have a neutral running gait and do not require enhanced stability.
- Run mostly on roads and don’t need specialized outsole grip.
- Value basic comfort over premium performance features.
Check New Balance 680 Best Price |
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|
| Fresh Foam X Cushioning | New Balance 880 |
| Better Arch Support | New Balance 880 |
| Enhanced Durability | New Balance 880 |
| Wider Toe Box | New Balance 880 |
| Improved Stability | New Balance 880 |
| Higher Energy Return | New Balance 880 |
| More Plush Comfort | New Balance 880 |
| Superior Outsole Grip | New Balance 880 |
| Lighter Weight | New Balance 880 |
| Premium Upper Materials | New Balance 880 |
What They Have in Common
- Cushioning Technology: Both the New Balance 680 and 880 use soft midsole foams that absorb impact, making them comfortable for daily walking or running.
- Breathable Upper: Each shoe features an engineered mesh upper that promotes airflow, keeping feet cool during long wear sessions.
- Durability: Both models are built with rubber outsoles that provide excellent traction and withstand regular use, making them long-lasting options.
- Fit Variety: Each shoe is available in multiple widths, ensuring a better fit for runners and walkers with narrow, standard, or wide feet.
- Neutral Support: Both the 680 and 880 are designed as neutral running shoes, offering balanced cushioning ideal for those without severe overpronation.
FAQ (Quick Answers)
Is the New Balance 880 better for long-distance running than the 680?
Yes, the New Balance 880 is better suited for long-distance running because it has Fresh Foam X cushioning, enhanced arch support, and premium comfort that reduce fatigue over extended sessions. The 680 is more appropriate for shorter runs or casual jogging.
Which shoe has more cushioning, the 880 or the 680?
The New Balance 880 has more cushioning due to its Fresh Foam X midsole, which is softer and more responsive compared to the standard Fresh Foam in the 680. This makes the 880 more comfortable for high-mileage use.
Does the New Balance 880 have a wider toe box than the 680?
Yes, the New Balance 880 features a wider toe box that allows more natural toe splay, which is beneficial for comfort and reducing pressure points during runs. The 680 has a standard toe box fit.
Which shoe is lighter, the 880 or the 680?
The New Balance 880 is lighter despite having more advanced cushioning and stability features. The 680 is slightly heavier in comparison, making the 880 more appealing to those who value reduced shoe weight.
Is the New Balance 880 more durable than the 680?
Yes, the New Balance 880 is built with a reinforced outsole and higher-quality materials designed to handle more mileage. The 680 has good durability for its price range but is better for moderate use.
Which shoe provides better arch support, the 880 or the 680?
The New Balance 880 provides better arch support with a more advanced midfoot structure, making it ideal for runners who need additional stability and comfort. The 680 offers standard arch support.
Does the New Balance 680 have good grip compared to the 880?
The New Balance 880 has superior grip thanks to its multi-directional outsole pattern designed for multiple surfaces. The 680 has decent grip but is primarily intended for road running.
Which is better for energy return, the 880 or the 680?
The New Balance 880 is better for energy return as its midsole offers higher rebound, making each step feel more efficient. The 680 has moderate energy return suited for easy-paced runs.
Is the upper material better on the 880 than the 680?
Yes, the New Balance 880 uses engineered mesh with targeted overlays for better fit, breathability, and support. The 680 uses standard synthetic mesh, which is functional but less premium.
Who should choose the New Balance 680 instead of the 880?
The New Balance 680 is a good choice for those who want a more affordable shoe for casual running, walking, or gym use. It is also suited for runners who do not need advanced cushioning or stability features.