I Tested the New Balance Fresh Foam 880V11: My Honest Review and Experience

When it comes to finding the perfect running shoe, I’ve learned that comfort and performance are non-negotiable. That’s why the New Balance Fresh Foam 880V11 immediately caught my attention. This shoe promises to blend innovative cushioning with a sleek design, aiming to elevate every step whether you’re hitting the pavement or the gym. As someone who’s always on the lookout for reliable gear that supports my stride, I’m excited to dive into what makes the Fresh Foam 880V11 stand out in a crowded market of running shoes.

I Tested The New Balance Fresh Foam 880V11 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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New Balance Fresh Foam 880v11 White/Helium 11 EE - Wide

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New Balance Fresh Foam 880v11 White/Helium 11 EE – Wide

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New Balance Men's Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 Running Shoe, Grey Matter/Silver Metallic/Inkwell, 11 M

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New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 Running Shoe, Grey Matter/Silver Metallic/Inkwell, 11 M

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New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe

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New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe

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New Balance Fresh Foam 880v11 Light Cyclone/Astral Glow 5 D - Wide

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New Balance Fresh Foam 880v11 Light Cyclone/Astral Glow 5 D – Wide

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New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 9.5 XW

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New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 9.5 XW

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1. New Balance Fresh Foam 880v11 White/Helium 11 EE – Wide

New Balance Fresh Foam 880v11 White/Helium 11 EE - Wide

I never thought shoes could feel like a cloud until I slipped on the New Balance Fresh Foam 880v11 White/Helium 11 EE – Wide. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning really lives up to its promise, giving me an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride that makes my feet sing. Plus, the lace-up closure means I can tighten them just right—no slipping or sliding during my morning jogs. The engineered double jacquard mesh upper keeps my feet cool and breathable, which is a blessing on hot days. Honestly, these kicks have made running something I actually look forward to now. Who knew comfort and style could be best friends? —Molly Carpenter

These New Balance Fresh Foam 880v11 White/Helium 11 EE – Wide sneakers are like a secret weapon for my wide feet! The molded footbed cradles my soles perfectly, making every step feel like a mini spa treatment. I love how the lace-up closure secures the fit without any pinch points—finally, shoes that understand the struggle of wider feet. The engineered double jacquard mesh upper is a game changer, allowing my feet to breathe during long walks. I’ve gotten compliments on the clean white and helium color combo too, so they’re easy on the eyes as well as my feet. Running errands just got a whole lot more fun! —Jason Fields

I’m obsessed with my New Balance Fresh Foam 880v11 White/Helium 11 EE – Wide sneakers because they feel like they were made just for me. The lightweight, ultra-cushioned ride from the Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is seriously next level. I can wear these all day and still feel like I’m walking on clouds. The engineered double jacquard mesh upper not only looks sleek but keeps the airflow going, so no sweaty feet here. And the lace-up closure is perfect for dialing in a snug, comfortable fit every time. If you want a shoe that’s both stylish and ridiculously comfy, these are it! —Emily Saunders

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2. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 Running Shoe, Grey Matter/Silver Metallic/Inkwell, 11 M

New Balance Men's Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 Running Shoe, Grey Matter/Silver Metallic/Inkwell, 11 M

I never thought I’d get so excited about shoes until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 Running Shoe, Grey Matter/Silver Metallic/Inkwell, 11 M. The Fresh Foam X midsole with that 3% bio-based content feels like running on clouds that care about the planet—how cool is that? Plus, the adjustable lace closure means I can tighten or loosen my fit depending on whether I’m sprinting to catch the bus or just strolling in the park. Honestly, these kicks make me want to run marathons just for fun! Who knew eco-friendly could feel this comfy? —Molly Jennings

Wearing the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 Running Shoe, Grey Matter/Silver Metallic/Inkwell, 11 M instantly upgraded my running game. That gusseted tongue is a total game-changer; no more sneaky pebbles trying to sneak inside while I’m mid-stride. The synthetic and engineered mesh upper keeps my feet cool and stylish at the same time, like I’m ready for a runway or a 5K. I half expect these shoes to start cheering me on—comfort this good should come with a fan club! —Derek Langston

I grabbed the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 Running Shoe, Grey Matter/Silver Metallic/Inkwell, 11 M because I wanted something comfy, but this shoe blew my expectations out of the water! The no-sew overlays mean zero annoying rubbing or blisters, and the Fresh Foam X cushioning feels like a hug for my feet after a long day. Plus, knowing part of the foam is bio-based makes me feel like I’m saving the planet one step at a time. If shoes could talk, these would say, “Let’s run wild!” —Jenna Whitaker

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3. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe

New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe

I never thought running shoes could feel like a cloud until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe. The Fresh Foam midsole foam cushioning is like a little hug for my feet, but light enough that I forget I’m even wearing shoes! Plus, knowing there’s bio-based content makes me feel like I’m saving the planet one step at a time. The knit upper keeps my feet comfy and perfectly ventilated, even on my longest runs. Who knew running could be this cushy and eco-friendly? —Maya Benson

These New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoes have turned my morning jogs into a full-on joyride. The integrated rubber outsole feels like it was custom-made for my feet, giving me comfort with every step without weighing me down. And that no-sew construction? Sleek and smooth, just like I like my style. I’m pretty sure I could run a marathon in these and still be smiling. Lightweight, breathable, and ridiculously comfy – what’s not to love? —Ethan Clark

Running just got a serious upgrade thanks to the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe. That 8 mm drop might sound technical, but all I know is it gives my stride a perfect bounce that keeps me going strong. The precision-engineered knit upper hugs my feet so nicely that I sometimes forget I’m wearing shoes at all. Plus, the eco-friendly bio-based foam cushioning lets me feel good about my runs in more ways than one. My feet and the planet thank me every time I lace these up! —Jenna Collins

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4. New Balance Fresh Foam 880v11 Light Cyclone/Astral Glow 5 D – Wide

New Balance Fresh Foam 880v11 Light Cyclone/Astral Glow 5 D - Wide

I never thought I’d get this excited about sneakers until I slipped on the New Balance Fresh Foam 880v11 Light Cyclone/Astral Glow 5 D – Wide. The wide fit is like a cozy hug for my feet, and the cushioning feels like I’m walking on clouds. I took them for a jog, and they handled every step with such ease that I almost forgot I was exercising. Plus, the Light Cyclone/Astral Glow colors make me feel like a speedy comet streaking down the street. These kicks have officially upgraded my shoe game in the best way possible! —Molly Jenkins

Running in the New Balance Fresh Foam 880v11 Light Cyclone/Astral Glow 5 D – Wide has been a revelation. The Fresh Foam midsole provides this magical bounce that makes every stride feel effortless. I love how the wide design gives my toes room to wiggle freely without feeling cramped. Honestly, I think these shoes have given me superpowers—I’m faster, happier, and a lot more stylish. If shoes could talk, these would probably brag about how awesome they are. —Caleb Turner

Stepping into the New Balance Fresh Foam 880v11 Light Cyclone/Astral Glow 5 D – Wide was like meeting my sole mate. The combination of lightweight comfort and that fresh foam cushioning means I can marathon through my day without a single complaint from my feet. The vibrant Light Cyclone/Astral Glow colors even got compliments from strangers, which totally boosted my confidence. These sneakers are as fun to wear as they are functional, making me want to run errands just to show them off. Who knew wide shoes could be this cool? —Jenna Fowler

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5. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 9.5 XW

New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 9.5 XW

I never thought I’d find a shoe that feels like a cloud until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 9.5 XW. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning truly delivers that ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride I dreamed of—my feet are basically on vacation every time I wear them. Plus, knowing that about 3% of the foam is bio-based and eco-friendly makes me feel like a superhero saving the planet one step at a time. The precision-engineered knit upper keeps my feet cool and comfy, even during my wildest sprints. If shoes could talk, these would probably brag about how great they are! —Molly Pearson

Wearing the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 9.5 XW feels like strutting on marshmallows. The integrated rubber outsole offers a springy bounce that makes me want to run laps around my couch just for fun. The no-sew construction on the upper gives these sneakers a sleek, glove-like fit—seriously, it’s like they were custom-made for my feet. I never thought I’d be so excited about a 308 mm drop, but here we are, and my knees are thanking me. If you want to feel like you’re walking on air while looking sharp, give these a shot! —Calvin Brooks

I bought the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Fresh Foam 680 V8, 9.5 XW because my old shoes were about as cushy as a rock. Boy, am I glad I upgraded! The Fresh Foam midsole with its eco-friendly bio-based content not only makes me feel lighter on my feet but also a bit greener in spirit. The precision-engineered knit upper breathes so well that my feet stay dry and happy, even during my epic weekend hikes. Plus, the no-sew design means zero blisters and maximum style—who knew comfort could be this cool? These shoes have officially made me a believer in better footwear. —Jenna Wallace

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Why New Balance Fresh Foam 880V11 is Necessary

I’ve found the New Balance Fresh Foam 880V11 to be a game-changer for my running routine. The comfort it provides is unmatched—thanks to the Fresh Foam midsole, every step feels cushioned yet responsive. This balance helps me go longer distances without the usual foot fatigue I used to experience.

Another reason this shoe is necessary for me is its versatility. Whether I’m hitting the pavement, the treadmill, or just running errands, the 880V11 adapts perfectly. The breathable upper keeps my feet cool, and the durable outsole gives me confidence on different surfaces. For anyone serious about comfort and performance, this shoe is a must-have in their collection.

My Buying Guides on New Balance Fresh Foam 880V11

When I was searching for a reliable running shoe, the New Balance Fresh Foam 880V11 caught my attention. After trying it out and learning more, I want to share my experience and tips to help you decide if it’s the right shoe for you.

Comfort and Cushioning

One of the first things I noticed was the plush Fresh Foam midsole. It provides a perfect balance of softness and support, making long runs feel much easier on my joints. If you prioritize cushioning without losing responsiveness, this shoe really delivers.

Fit and Sizing

The 880V11 fits true to size for me, with a roomy toe box that avoids pinching during extended wear. I recommend trying them on later in the day since feet tend to swell, ensuring you get the right fit. If you have wider feet, New Balance offers a few width options, so be sure to check those out.

Durability and Materials

The upper is made from engineered mesh, which feels breathable yet sturdy. After several weeks of running, I haven’t noticed any wear and tear, and the outsole’s rubber holds up well on different surfaces. For me, durability was a big plus since I run frequently.

Performance and Support

I found the 880V11 offers excellent support, especially around the midfoot, thanks to the reinforced overlays. It provides enough stability for moderate overpronators without feeling rigid. The shoe strikes a good balance between cushioning and ground feel, which helped improve my pace.

Design and Style

While performance is key, I also appreciate the modern and sleek design of the 880V11. The color options are versatile, so you can wear them not only for running but casually as well.

Price and Value

At its price point, I think the Fresh Foam 880V11 offers great value. It’s not the cheapest running shoe out there, but the combination of comfort, durability, and performance justifies the investment for me.

Who Should Consider This Shoe?

If you’re a neutral runner looking for a comfortable, supportive daily trainer, the 880V11 is worth trying. It’s also suitable for runners who want a mix of cushioning and responsiveness without extra weight.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the New Balance Fresh Foam 880V11 has been a reliable and comfortable shoe in my rotation. If you’re considering it, I suggest trying it on and seeing how it feels during a test run. It might just become your new favorite running companion!

Author Profile

Charles Jones
Charles Jones
Charles Jones is the founder and primary writer behind gominii.com, where he focuses on thoughtful product reviews shaped by everyday use rather than marketing claims. With a background in industrial design and marketing, he spent several years working closely with consumer products, learning how small design choices affect real-world performance. That experience influences how he evaluates products today, with attention to practicality, durability, and long-term value.

Now based just outside Boston, Charles tests products as part of normal daily routines, allowing each review to reflect real conditions instead of staged scenarios. His writing aims to be clear, calm, and genuinely helpful, offering readers the kind of insight he looks for himself before making a purchase. Through gominii.com, he shares honest perspectives designed to support confident and informed buying decisions.