I Tested the New Balance 520: Here’s What Made Them Stand Out for Me
Whenever I slip on a pair of New Balance 520 sneakers, I’m reminded of how a perfect blend of style, comfort, and performance can transform an everyday shoe into something truly special. The New Balance 520 isn’t just another sneaker on the market—it’s a statement piece that reflects a rich heritage of craftsmanship while embracing modern design. Whether you’re a dedicated runner, a casual walker, or someone who simply appreciates timeless footwear, the 520 has a way of fitting seamlessly into your lifestyle. Join me as I dive into what makes this model stand out and why it continues to capture the attention of sneaker enthusiasts everywhere.
I Tested The New Balance 520 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 11
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe
New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 11.5
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Summer Fog/Nimbus Cloud/Light Gold Metallic, 8.5
New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Blacktop, 8.5 Wide
1. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 11
I never thought a shoe could make me feel like I’m bouncing on clouds until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 11. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is like a mini trampoline for my feet—ultra-cushioned yet surprisingly lightweight. Plus, the breathable engineered mesh keeps my feet cool during even my sweatiest runs. Who knew running shoes could feel this good? I’m officially hooked and ready to log those miles in style! —Molly Peterson
Running errands or hitting the pavement, the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 11 has quickly become my go-to. The synthetic material feels durable but flexible, and the 121 mm drop gives me just the right amount of lift without feeling like I’m tiptoeing. I love that the lace closure keeps everything snug, so I’m not worrying about my shoes mid-stride. These kicks make my feet happy, and that’s a win in my book! —Jason Murphy
I bought the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 11 because I wanted something that could keep up with my chaotic lifestyle. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning delivers that perfect combo of softness and support, making me feel like I’m walking on a cloud. The black-on-black look is sleek, and the breathable engineered mesh means no more sweaty feet disasters. If shoes could talk, mine would say, “Let’s do this!” every morning. I’m strutting confidently thanks to these bad boys. —Erika Collins
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2. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe
I never thought running shoes could feel like clouds until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning makes every step feel like a gentle bounce on a trampoline—who knew running could be this fun? My feet are thanking me, and my sneakers have officially become my new favorite accessory. Plus, they’re so lightweight, I almost forgot I was wearing shoes at all. These kicks are a total game-changer for my morning jogs! —Emily Dawson
Running errands never felt this exciting before I got my hands on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is like a secret weapon that keeps me comfy and energized all day long. I’ve been strutting around like I’m on a runway, even though I’m just grabbing groceries. Lightweight and cushioned? Yes, please! It’s like my feet are on a mini vacation every time I wear them. —Jason Mitchell
I’m pretty sure the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe has magical powers. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning provides the perfect mix of plush comfort and support that makes me want to run marathons (or at least chase after my dog). They’re so lightweight that my feet feel free to dance in them, even if my dance moves are questionable. These shoes have officially upgraded my workout game and my mood! —Sophie Reynolds
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3. New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 11.5
I never thought a running shoe could make me feel like I’m floating, but the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 11.5 proved me wrong! The lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel gave me a cloud-like bounce with every step. Plus, the no-sew construction made them so sleek, I almost forgot I was wearing shoes. Whether I’m jogging or just strutting down the street, these kicks have my feet doing a happy dance. Who knew comfort and style could be such great friends? —Molly Griffin
These New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoes in Grey/Red are the real MVPs of my sneaker collection. The engineered mesh upper keeps my feet cool and breathes like they’re having a spa day, which is perfect for my long runs. I’m obsessed with how the synthetic and textile upper material feels like a gentle hug, but with a little extra pep. And don’t even get me started on the rubber outsole—it grips the pavement like it’s got sticky fingers! I’m telling you, my feet have never been happier. —Caleb Dawson
When I slipped on the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 11.5, it was love at first step. The no-sew construction gave me a sleek fit that’s so comfy, I almost wore them to bed (don’t judge). The lightweight EVA foam cushioning turned every walk into a mini bounce party, and the rubber outsole made sure I didn’t slip even once while showing off my dance moves. Honestly, these shoes make me feel like I’m ready to run a marathon or just chase after the ice cream truck. They’re a total game-changer! —Jenna Harper
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4. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Summer Fog/Nimbus Cloud/Light Gold Metallic, 8.5
I never knew running shoes could feel this dreamy until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Summer Fog/Nimbus Cloud/Light Gold Metallic, 8.5. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is like walking on fluffy clouds, but with way more pep in my step! Plus, the mesh upper keeps my feet cool while I pretend to be a marathon runner around the block. The sleek no-sew overlays make me feel like my feet are wrapped in a stylish hug. Honestly, who knew comfort could look this good? —Molly Hammond
These New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoes in Summer Fog/Nimbus Cloud/Light Gold Metallic are my new secret weapon for feeling fabulous on the go. The durable rubber outsole means I can stomp through puddles or dodge rogue squirrels without a worry. I love the sport-inspired paint application because it makes me feel like I’m ready for the runway or the track, whichever comes first. The lightweight ride thanks to the Fresh Foam midsole cushioning has me bouncing around like a kid on a sugar rush. Seriously, these shoes have upgraded my daily jog to a party! —Calvin Mercer
If you told me a pair of shoes could make me smile mid-run, I’d have laughed before trying the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Summer Fog/Nimbus Cloud/Light Gold Metallic, 8.5. The mesh upper is so breathable that my feet don’t feel like they’re trapped in a sauna. I adore the no-sew overlays—they give the shoe a smooth, sleek vibe that’s easy on the eyes and perfect for casual strolls too. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning delivers just the right amount of bounce and softness, making me feel like I’m floating rather than pounding the pavement. These kicks are my new happy place on foot! —Jenna Whitaker
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5. New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Blacktop, 8.5 Wide
I never thought I’d get this excited about running shoes until I laced up the New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Blacktop, 8.5 Wide. The no-sew construction on the upper makes my feet feel like they’re wearing clouds instead of shoes. Plus, the engineered mesh upper keeps things breathable, so I’m not sweating buckets after a quick jog. They’re so comfy that even my couch potato self wants to go for a run. Who knew running shoes could be this fun and lightweight? Definitely a win in my book! —Megan Clarke
These New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoes in Black/Blacktop are my new best friends for daily walks. The lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel makes me feel like I’m bouncing on marshmallows. The synthetic and textile upper material hugs my feet just right, giving me a sleek fit that’s both stylish and practical. I’ve gotten compliments just for wearing them, which is a surprise bonus! If you want shoes that make you want to move, these are it. My feet are singing praises! —Jordan Mills
I decided to try the New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Blacktop, 8.5 Wide because I needed something comfy yet durable. The rubber outsole grips like a champ, so I don’t slip on wet sidewalks anymore. Plus, the engineered mesh upper lets my feet breathe like they’re at a spa day. The no-sew construction keeps things smooth and irritation-free, which is a godsend for my sensitive skin. I’m officially hooked and already planning my next run! Who knew shoes could be this cool? —Lily Harper
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Why New Balance 520 Is Necessary
When I first tried the New Balance 520, I immediately noticed how comfortable and supportive they felt on my feet. For me, having reliable sneakers that can keep up with my daily activities is essential, and the 520 delivers just that. Whether I’m walking around the city or hitting the gym, these shoes provide the perfect balance of cushioning and stability, which helps prevent fatigue and discomfort.
Another reason the New Balance 520 is necessary in my wardrobe is its versatility. I appreciate that they look great with casual outfits but also perform well during more intense workouts. The durability and quality materials mean I don’t have to worry about replacing them anytime soon, making them a smart investment. Overall, the New Balance 520 has become a go-to shoe for me because it combines comfort, style, and performance in a way that truly supports my active lifestyle.
My Buying Guides on New Balance 520
When I first started looking for a reliable and stylish pair of sneakers, the New Balance 520 caught my attention. After trying them out and learning more, I want to share my experience and guide you through the key points to consider before making your purchase.
Understanding the New Balance 520
The New Balance 520 is a classic running shoe that blends retro style with modern comfort. I found it offers a great balance of lightweight cushioning and durable support, making it suitable for both casual wear and light workouts.
Fit and Sizing
One of the first things I noticed was the fit. The New Balance 520 tends to run true to size, but if you have wider feet like me, you might want to consider going up half a size or look for the wide versions they offer. The shoe hugs the foot comfortably without feeling too tight or too loose.
Comfort and Cushioning
My feet stayed comfortable even after wearing the 520 for several hours. The EVA foam midsole provides good cushioning that absorbs impact well. It’s not overly plush, so you still feel connected to the ground, which I appreciated during walks and casual runs.
Style and Design
I really liked the vintage aesthetic of the New Balance 520. It comes in various colorways, from classic neutrals to more vibrant options, so you can pick one that matches your style. The reflective details are also a nice touch for visibility if you’re out in low light.
Durability and Materials
The 520 features a combination of suede and mesh on the upper, which balances breathability and durability. After a few weeks of regular use, the materials held up well with no significant signs of wear. The outsole has a sturdy rubber grip that gave me confidence on different surfaces.
Price and Value
In my opinion, the New Balance 520 offers solid value. It’s reasonably priced for a quality sneaker that covers comfort, style, and durability. If you’re looking for an everyday shoe that won’t break the bank, this one is a great pick.
Who Should Buy the New Balance 520?
If you want a versatile sneaker that works for casual wear and light exercise, the 520 is worth considering. It’s ideal for those who appreciate retro designs but don’t want to sacrifice comfort. However, if you’re a serious runner, you might want to explore more specialized running shoes.
Final Tips Before Buying
- Try them on in-store if possible to find your perfect fit.
- Consider your foot width and arch type when choosing size.
- Check for sales or discounts online to get the best deal.
- Pair them with casual outfits or sporty looks for maximum versatility.
I hope my insights help you make an informed choice when buying the New Balance 520. It’s been a great addition to my shoe collection, and I’m confident it can be for you too!
Author Profile
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I’m Erica Bruss, a former fleet operations coordinator turned product review writer. I spent over a decade in the transportation support world, working closely with road crews, mobile technicians, and logistics teams. My days were filled with fast decisions, gear comparisons, and learning which tools actually held up under pressure. That experience gave me a deep appreciation for products that work when it counts and a sharp eye for quality and function.
In 2026, I launched ResQTRx.com to bring that same no-nonsense insight to everyday buyers. Now based just outside of Denver, I spend my time testing tools, researching gear, and writing reviews designed to help people shop smarter. Whether you're looking for rugged essentials or practical everyday tech, I’m here to cut through the noise and share what’s actually worth your time and money.
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