Verdict

The New Balance Women's 608 V5 Cross Trainer offers excellent cushioning and arch support, making it suitable for those with back and foot issues. However, inconsistent sizing and discomfort out-of-the-box have frustrated longtime loyalists. While stylish and comfortable for some, others might need to consider alternatives such as ASICS, Hoka, or Brooks for a more consistent fit and availability of extra-wide sizes. Ultimately, these shoes could be a solid choice if they're the right fit for your feet's needs and you don't mind a potential break-in period.

Top pro:
Excellent cushioning and sturdy arch support suitable for long hours on feet.
Top con:
Not available in extra wide sizes, which can be problematic for those needing support for a brace.
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Pros

  • •Excellent cushioning and sturdy arch support suitable for long hours on feet.
  • •Slip-resistant design ensures safety on slick surfaces.
  • •Secure fit allows for a wide range of motion.
  • •Recommended for individuals with chronic back and foot issues.
  • •Leather material benefits from mink oil application for weatherproofing and softness.
  • •Positive experience shared between parent and child, showing versatility.
  • •Immediate comfort and perfect fit right out of the box for some users.
  • •Highly recommended for comfort and support.
  • •Suitable for long-term wear; user has used multiple pairs over the years.
  • •Ideal for individuals with knee arthritis; does not cause backaches or foot pain.

Cons

  • •Not available in extra wide sizes, which can be problematic for those needing support for a brace.
  • •Inconsistency in sizing, particularly with the heel width.
  • •The latest version does not meet expectations compared to previous models.
  • •Shoes feel uncomfortable and may lack sufficient cushioning for compression resistance.
  • •The absence of a rollerbar midsole system might reduce comfort for users with certain needs.
  • •Shoes can feel uncomfortable and deformed compared to the original model.
  • •Initial comfort levels were low, requiring a break-in period.
  • •Design and aesthetics of new styles are unappealing to some users.
  • •Sizing issues, specifically with the toe box running narrow.
  • •Discontinuation of preferred styles like 840gg2 has led to dissatisfaction.
Lowest at Amazon
$66.05 at Amazon
Price seen Jan 4, 2025
Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$74.99 at Kohl's
Price seen Jan 4, 2025

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How we researched this

About this review: it summarizes the professional reviews and customer ratings ShopSavvy collected for this product, alongside prices from 14 retailers in ShopSavvy's price data, most recently seen Jan 4, 2025.

Where to Buy

Prices last seen Jan 4, 2025
RetailerPriceLast seenBuy
$66.05Jan 4, 2025
may have changed
$67.99Jan 4, 2025
may have changed
$69.99Jan 4, 2025
may have changed
$69.99Jan 4, 2025
may have changed
$74.98Jan 4, 2025
may have changed
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