New Balance once had a very good reputation for making quality athletic shoes that provided solid support and were well-constructed.  I have owned many pairs of their gym shoes through the years.  The old version of the 608 in particular was a very good shoe.  The shoe shape was well-proportioned (wider in the forefoot where most feet tend to widen), the materials were good, the support was almost unmatched in this price point, and the durability was exceptional.  Well, sadly this is no more.  I tried on a pair of these and was horribly disappointed.  The shoe is shaped like an oval now, not conforming at all to the shape of my feet.  The materials seem to be of poor quality, the uppers being stiff and not very breathable (the old 608s were made from soft, comfortable leather).  The sole is completely flat and seems thin, not very cushioned.  The toe box is short yet very high (how many feet are shaped like that??).  I couldn't even walk around the store comfortably when I tried them on!  What has happened, New Balance?  Is the focus now on the whole minimal footwear concept rather than on the old standby?  Whatever the case, NB has lost a customer here.  Disappointing.