Because I dread the search for replacement shoes, the procrastination usually leads to last minute desperation shopping and has led to piles of unsuitable ill-fitting rejects. A friend suggested I try New Balance cross-trainers, but the brick and mortar retailer's focus seems to have shifted from comfort and durability to over-priced neon or glitter fashion statements in size 7B. I found the 608V3 listed on Amazon and even though I missed the "trying them on for fit" step, I ordered two pair and could not be more pleased.
Tennis shoes must fulfill four basic qualifications. First is fit. I have several orthopedic issues, and well-fitting shoes is not just desirable, but required. Without a proper fit, mobility is effected and limited. As daily walking is a necessity, properly fitting shoes is not a luxury. Second is wear and durability. While I am realistic and realize tennis shoes will not outlast hard-soled leather shoes, I do expect a reasonable tread time the fashion statements just do not provide. Third is an unusual factor, but ease of use is necessary. If a wearer has not fought with the round laces that constantly become untied, or a shoe tongue that snakes its way to the toe, then usability will not be a factor, The last on the list is price. There is a huge discrepancy in shoe costs.. but if the three previous qualifications are satisfied, price should be last on the list.
The New Balance WX608V3 not just satisfies the qualifications, but exceeds the last. The fit is true to the size chart and comfortable enough to avoid the "break-in" discomfort and heat. Even after morning walks, hours of errands and chores, and a stint on the playground with the grandkids, foot and back pain are not caused by the shoes but age and exertion. There are not enough miles on them to judge wear and durability, so time will tell. Usability is high as the laces and tongue stay put even after a long day, and they performed well after a trip through the washing machine after an unfortunate run-in with dog droppings. For the price, these shoes are hard to beat. I have already decided to order an additional pair to insure against the style being discontinued or unavailable in the future.
I would, and will, recommend these shoes to anyone who asks.
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Reviews with images
Obviously not New Balance!
I purchased the new balance women's WX608V3 because I have had these shoes before, which I purchased from a store and was completely satisfied. So I thought I would get them from this seller. WRONG CHOICE! Red Flag #1, the shoes I ordered were not the shoes I received. I received another pair, New Balance 621, looked nice, fit nice etc. and kept them. Red Flag #2, the seller had a hand written note in the box saying, "they were out of the shoes I ordered, but thought I would like these instead." Red Flag #3, after wearing these shoes the first day, the black emblem on the inside of the shoe was wearing off on my sock. I have never had this problem before. As you can see in the picture, the emblem is starting to wear. Red flag #4, a clear plastic coating started coming off the "leather" in small areas around the toe. Red flag #5, the shoes are coming apart at the seams after only wearing then for a week! Obviously, not New Balance and the seller is a fraud! I guess that is their gimmick, order a pair, but ship knock-offs instead stating they are out of the ones you ordered. Will not be fooled again!
