Simply put this MX608V2 is not an improvement, it's a drop -off in quality. I want the original MX608 back. I still have the last one I bought way back in 2005. It looks beat up after 5 years of course, but it is still holding together and apart from the worn sole it is still comfortable. To refer to the MX608V2 as the 'MX608' is misleading. This V2 is no where near as strong and sturdy as the original MX608. It's not even leather even though it's said to be. I guess the standards in New Zealand and UK are genuine compared to what is being referred to as leather here.
I'm most diappointed in New Balance here, they messed up what was once a quality product. I loved the original MX608 and believed in the New Balance Brand for quality and comfort as I need Wide fitting shoes. Now I have my doubts about New Balance quality. I'm now consdering other brands for wide-fitting athletic shoes. Five years ago this would  not have been the case.