Nike Winflo 11 vs New Balance Fresh Foam 680v8:
Which to Choose

On paper these shoes are near-twins: both are neutral-leaning trainers with above-average stability from wide, planted platforms, moderate (not maximal) cushioning, no plate, and a shared sweet spot of 5:30–6:30 min/km easy-to-steady running, fading when you ask for true speed. The real separators are three. First, ride feel: the Winflo 11 carries a forefoot Zoom Air unit that adds a genuine hint of pop as you roll onto your toes, giving it a slightly livelier toe-off, while the 680v8's single-density Fresh Foam is flatter and more lifeless underfoot — more responsive on the Nike (3/6) versus a distinctly low 2/6 on the New Balance. Second, geometry: the Winflo runs a traditional 10mm drop that favors heel-strikers and developing form, whereas the 680v8's 8mm drop sits a touch lower and encourages a slightly more mid/forefoot roll. Third, weight: in men's sizing the Winflo 11 is around 297g while the 680v8 is lighter at about 268g, a roughly 30g gap you'll notice on longer efforts. Both can feel a bit flat late in long runs as the firm foams tire your legs, and both lean toward predictability over fun. The 680v8's stable-neutral tuning also leans marginally more toward mild-overpronation support than the Winflo's pure neutral platform.