If you’ve been on the lookout for a sneaker that somehow nails both style and comfort without breaking the bank, the New Balance MX608ODB might just be your new best friend. Honestly, it’s one of those shoes that quietly gets the job done, whether you’re out running errands, hitting the gym lightly, or just chilling with friends. It’s got this cool retro vibe going on that’s been pretty popular lately, but don’t let that fool you—it’s also packed with features that make your feet feel pretty darn good.
Let’s start with the look. The MX608ODB rocks that classic “chunky sneaker” style that’s been everywhere these days, but it’s not just about looking cool. The upper is made from genuine leather, which gives it a nice, sturdy feel and a bit of breathability too. I mean, leather can sometimes feel stiff, but New Balance did a good job here making sure it’s comfy right out of the box—though, fair warning, a little break-in time might be needed if you’re super picky. The colorway on the ODB version is pretty neutral, so it goes with pretty much anything, which is a huge plus if you’re like me and hate having to think too hard about what shoes to wear.
Now, comfort is where this shoe really shines. I’ve worn these for hours, and honestly, my feet didn’t scream at me once. That’s thanks to the ABZORB midsole cushioning, which is a fancy way of saying it soaks up the impact when you walk, making each step feel softer. Plus, there’s this NB Comfort insert inside that molds to your foot, so it’s like the shoe is getting to know you the more you wear it. The inside lining, called the Phantom Liner, is smooth and doesn’t rub or cause blisters, which is a lifesaver if you’re on your feet all day. And around the ankle, there’s extra foam padding that makes the fit snug but not tight, so no weird pinching or slipping.
If you’re worried about how long these will last, the outsole is made with NDurance rubber, which is built tough to handle wear and tear. I’ve walked on all sorts of surfaces—wet sidewalks, rough pavement, you name it—and the grip held up well. It’s not some super high-tech running sole, but for everyday use, it’s solid. The outsole also has these flex grooves that let your foot move naturally, which helps avoid that stiff, clunky feeling some sneakers have. And even though the shoe looks a bit chunky, it’s surprisingly light thanks to a clever cutout in the heel.
Fit-wise, these shoes are pretty true to size, and they come in different widths, which is great if you have wider feet like I do. The midfoot has some extra support, so your foot feels stable but not locked in place. It’s kind of that perfect balance between supportive and comfortable, which is hard to find sometimes.
Performance-wise, I wouldn’t say this is the shoe to pick if you’re training for a marathon or doing high-intensity workouts. But for walking, light gym sessions, or just casual wear, it’s more than enough. The midsole foam is firm enough to give you a little bounce but soft enough to keep things comfy. The heel-to-toe drop is about 10mm, which helps your foot land naturally and reduces the stress on your knees and ankles.
Here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons I noticed after putting these shoes through their paces:
Pros:
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Durable leather upper with a cool retro look
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Cushy ABZORB midsole for all-day comfort
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Tough NDurance outsole
