Description
- ABZORB midsole absorbs impact through a combination of cushioning and compression resistance
- Suede upper
- Lightweight injection-molded EVA foam midsole provides lightweight cushioning
- Internal midsole shank adds midfoot structure and support
- Dual density collar foam offers support and comfort for ankles
- Phantom Liner interior has minimal seaming to help reduce irritation
Brent –
The Bottom Line: If you are on your feet for double-digit hours on hard surfaces, these offer the rare “no-break-in” comfort that actually holds up by hour fourteen.
The “Referee” Test: I purchased these specifically for officiating USAV volleyball matches. My first weekend out involved standing for 14 hours, and I was bracing for the usual foot fatigue or arch pain. To my surprise, my feet felt perfectly fine by the end of the day. There was zero “new shoe” soreness or rubbing.
Key Performance Observations:
Fit & Sizing: These are remarkably true to size. I ordered my standard size and they fit like a glove immediately out of the box. No need to size up for extra sock room.
Support: The 608 V5 provides a very stable base. On a gym floor, the traction is reliable, and the internal cushioning doesn’t “bottom out” after several hours of standing.
Aesthetics: They maintain a professional, clean look suitable for “official” duties or business-casual settings while providing the performance of a cross-trainer.
Pros:
Immediate comfort with zero break-in period.
True-to-size dimensions (no guessing games with ordering).
Consistent arch support that lasts through long shifts.
Cons:
Like most cross-trainers, they are a bit bulkier than a standard running shoe, but the trade-off for support is worth it.
Who is this for? Perfect for sports officials, healthcare workers, or anyone in a service industry job where you are stationary or walking on hard floors for 10+ hours at a time.
Don S. –
I’m 6’4″ and retired and I’ve bought New Balance for the last 10yrs, I used to be a Nike guy but a friend always wore New Balance so I gave them a try and WOW just WOW!! Great fit I wear them all day most every day, and there very well made and so durable and they carry my size 15 and they were on sale. I’m kinda old school I like leather uppers and the cushioned insole is so comfortable you have all day comfort. New Balance 608 V5 a great shoe at a bargain price!!
Mike –
The shoes are comfortable, attractive and of good quality. I bought the same color and model five years ago, size 11 1/2, they seemed a bit small, my toes were very close to the end of the shoe.
A different colored pair of NB’s purchased at the same time had more room at the toes.
This time I got size 12, and have a lot more toe room. The previous pair are still in excellent condition. They don’t seem to wear out!
I have worned New Balance shoes exclusively for over 20 years. I am a retired nurse. They always held up well, and were comfortable during my 8 and 12 hour shifts. I liked the “N” on the side. I liked to think it stood for “Nurse!”.
The older pair of brown 608 V5 shoes were the only pair that were a bit short of toe room that I have owned in 20 + years of NB purchases.
Cloudy –
10/10! The all-white ones look great. I got them for my 20-year-old boyfriend, and he looks amazing in them. They’re perfectly comfy yet still stylish. I was worried they might look “old man–ish,” but they absolutely do not. If you’re a young person considering these, they are totally worth it! High quality, great fit, super comfortable, and they look fantastic.
bob adams –
But to be honest the price is what prompted me to purchase these. Workmanship was great, Pretty comfortable as long as you’re wearing thin socks and supports the ankle pretty well
Andre –
Shoes looks as advertised and fits well for a 4E width
Was excited for them to come in but noticed multiple splotches/stains on the white sole and slight discolouration on the suede.
STEVE –
love the shoes, my 3rd pair.
Very comfortable, wear well, i don’t slip.
Good product– good price
Andre –
good fit and comfortable look and feel well made as expected from New Balance
A great brand
The BMWs (Family Account) –
These were bought mainly for everyday wear, and they’ve been extremely comfortable from the start. There was no break-in period for me, which made a big difference. They feel supportive underfoot and easy to stay in for long stretches without my feet getting sore.
They’ve held up well with regular use and still feel stable and cushioned. The fit is solid and true to what I expected, and they don’t feel stiff or awkward when walking around. They strike a good balance between support and flexibility.
Overall, they’ve been reliable, comfortable, and easy to live in day to day. If you want a casual shoe that focuses on comfort and holds up to regular wear, these have been a great choice for me.
Precious:) –
I told my husband I was buying him a pair of shoes he was excited until I told him they were New Balance. He is 37 and im 30 years old. He immediately thought those are old men shoes and kinda was a little upset I bought them. I told him not to worry because New Balances were back in and to just thank me later. The shoes came in the mail and he put them on he was like ” These are not your dads shoes” and I was like yeah I told you. They look good and give off a vibe of chill but not over doing it. He wears a size 14 shoe so sometimes shoes are a bit wonky but these had great support and cushioning. They fit really well. He has back problems and said he feels they are great quality for the price and took tension off his back.