New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 680 v9 Running Shoe vs Nike Women's Run Swift 3 Road Running Shoes,
Updated August 2026 — New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 680 v9 Running Shoe wins on breathability, Nike Women's Run Swift 3 Road Running Shoes, wins on cushioning and support.
The New Balance Fresh Foam 680 v9 offers a lightweight and affordable option, while the Nike Run Swift 3 provides plush cushioning and modern design. Choose based on your comfort and style preferences.
Why New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 680 v9 Running Shoe is better
Price
New Balance is cheaper by $12.76
Weight
New Balance offers a lighter feel
Breathability
New Balance has a breathable upper
Why Nike Women's Run Swift 3 Road Running Shoes, is better
Cushioning
Nike provides plush foam cushioning
Support
Nike features Flywire cables for stability
Popularity
Nike has a higher sales rank
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 680 v9 Running Shoe | Nike Women's Run Swift 3 Road Running Shoes, |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | New Balance | Nike |
| Model | Fresh Foam 680 v9 | Run Swift 3 |
| Sales Rank | 13435 | 1650 |
| Upper Material | Mesh | Flywire |
| Outsole | Rubber | Rubber |
Dimension comparison
Overview of the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 680 v9 Running Shoe
The New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 680 v9 Running Shoe is priced at $72.24, making it a competitive option in the running shoe market. This model features a Fresh Foam midsole cushioning that is precision engineered to provide a lightweight and ultra-cushioned ride, which is ideal for both long runs and casual jogs. The integrated rubber outsole further enhances underfoot comfort, ensuring a stable experience with every step. With a sales rank of 13,435, it indicates a solid presence in the market, appealing to those looking for comfort and performance.
Overview of the Nike Women's Run Swift 3 Road Running Shoes
The Nike Women's Run Swift 3 Road Running Shoes are offered at a higher price point of $85.00. This model incorporates foam cushioning designed to deliver a soft underfoot feel, with a higher foam height that enhances comfort with each step. Additionally, the Flywire cables provide support and stability, allowing for a secure fit when the laces are tightened. With a best seller rank of 1,650, the Nike Run Swift 3 demonstrates a strong popularity, suggesting it is a trusted choice among runners.
Comfort and Cushioning Comparison
In terms of comfort and cushioning, the New Balance Fresh Foam 680 v9 emphasizes a lightweight ride with its Fresh Foam midsole. This design aims to provide an ultra-cushioned experience, suitable for runners who prioritize a soft feel during their workouts. On the other hand, the Nike Run Swift 3 focuses on plush cushioning, boasting a higher foam height for enhanced comfort. While both models aim to deliver a comfortable experience, the New Balance shoe is designed for a lighter feel, whereas the Nike shoe offers a more cushioned underfoot experience.
Fit and Support
When it comes to fit and support, the New Balance shoe features a breathable premium molded engineered mesh upper that contributes to a snug yet comfortable fit. This design helps keep the feet cool, which is beneficial during long runs. In contrast, the Nike Run Swift 3 includes Flywire cables that are integrated into the lacing system, providing additional support and stability. While both shoes aim to deliver a secure fit, the Nike model offers a more adjustable fit due to its unique lacing technology.
Durability and Outsole Performance
Regarding durability, the New Balance Fresh Foam 680 v9 is equipped with an integrated rubber outsole designed to enhance comfort and longevity. This feature is essential for runners who seek shoes that can withstand regular use. Conversely, the Nike Run Swift 3 also emphasizes durability with its heel overlay designed to provide additional security during runs. Both models demonstrate a commitment to durability, but the emphasis on different features may appeal to various preferences among runners.
Style and Aesthetics
Stylistically, the New Balance model presents a classic look with a focus on functionality, while the Nike Run Swift 3 features a more modern aesthetic, particularly with its colorway of White/Black-Pearl Pink-Peony. This variation in design may attract different types of consumers; those who prefer a more traditional running shoe may lean towards New Balance, while those who enjoy contemporary designs may find the Nike shoe more appealing.
Price Comparison
The New Balance Fresh Foam 680 v9 is priced at $72.24, making it about 15% cheaper than the Nike Run Swift 3, which is priced at $85.00. This price difference might influence buyers who are budget-conscious but still looking for quality running shoes. While both models offer unique features, the cost-effectiveness of the New Balance shoe may appeal to runners seeking value without sacrificing comfort.
Which should you buy?
When deciding between the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 680 v9 Running Shoe and the Nike Women's Run Swift 3 Road Running Shoes, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific needs. The New Balance model shines in its lightweight cushioning and affordability, making it suitable for casual runners or those new to running. On the other hand, the Nike model excels in providing plush cushioning and adjustable support, ideal for runners who prioritize a secure fit and modern styling. Assessing your requirements for comfort, fit, and budget will guide you to the right choice for your running journey.

