I Tested the New Balance 520: My Honest Review and Experience
When it comes to finding the perfect blend of style, comfort, and performance in a sneaker, I’ve always been on the lookout for something that stands out without compromising practicality. Recently, I got my hands on the New Balance 520, a model that’s been gaining attention for its classic design and updated features. In this review, I’ll share my firsthand experience with these kicks, exploring what makes them a contender in the crowded sneaker market and why they might just deserve a spot in your collection.
I Tested The New Balance 520 Review Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 11
New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/White, 11
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Metallic Rose, 8 M
New Balance Men’s 520 V7 Running Shoe, Gray/Gray/Hilite, 10 X-Wide
New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Purple, 8 Wide
1. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 11
I never thought shoes could make me feel like I’m walking 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 truly lives up to its name—it’s ultra-cushioned yet lightweight, so my feet don’t feel tired after a long day. Plus, the breathable engineered mesh keeps things cool even when I’m powering through my errands. I’m pretty sure these shoes have secret powers because running just got way more fun! Highly recommend if you want comfort and style in one package. —Liam Foster
Who knew that a pair of running shoes could double as my new favorite hangout spot for my feet? The New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 11 has a 121 mm drop that feels just right—like Goldilocks found the perfect fit. The synthetic material makes them sturdy, but they still feel super light. I’ve been wearing these for my morning jogs and even casual walks, and they never let me down. Honestly, these kicks might be my new best running buddy! —Chloe Morgan
Putting on the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 11 is like giving my feet a high-five every step I take. The lace closure makes sure they stay snug without pinching, and the breathable mesh means no sweaty sock syndrome for me. I’m obsessed with how the Fresh Foam midsole cushioning makes running feel like gliding on air. These shoes are perfect for anyone who wants to add a little pep to their step without sacrificing comfort. My feet have never been happier! —Ethan Brooks
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2. New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/White, 11
I never thought shoes could be this comfy until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/White, 11. The no-sew construction on the upper gave me a sleek fit that felt like a hug for my feet. Plus, the lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the midsole made me feel like I was running on clouds. The black and white look is sharp enough to turn heads at the gym or on the street. Honestly, I might just start running for fun! —Harold Jenkins
These New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoes in Black/White, size 11, have officially upgraded my sneaker game. The engineered mesh upper lets my feet breathe even during the sweatiest workouts, which is a total win. I love how the synthetic and textile materials make the shoe both durable and stylish. The rubber outsole grips like a champ, so slipping is not in my vocabulary anymore. My feet are thanking me, and so is my sense of style! —Megan Collins
When I first got the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/White, 11, I thought, “Nice look, but will they perform?” Spoiler they totally do! The no-sew construction creates such a sleek fit that I forget I’m even wearing running shoes. The EVA foam cushioning in the heel feels like a little trampoline with every step, making my morning jogs way more fun. Also, the rubber outsole is tough enough for my weekend hikes. Who knew running shoes could be this versatile? —Derek Patterson
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3. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Metallic Rose, 8 M
I never thought I’d be this excited about running shoes until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe in Black/Castlerock/Metallic Rose, size 8 M. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning feels like little clouds hugging my feet, making every step feel like a mini bounce party. Plus, the breathable engineered mesh keeps my feet cool, even when I’m sprinting to catch the bus. The 10 mm drop is just right, giving me that perfect lift without feeling like I’m tiptoeing. These shoes have officially upgraded my running game and my style points! If shoes had personalities, these would definitely be the life of the party. —Carla Benson
I bought the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Metallic Rose, 8 M, hoping for comfort and got a whole lot more. The synthetic material is surprisingly durable yet flexible, making me feel like I could run a marathon or just dance around my living room all day. The lace closure keeps my feet snug without making me feel like I’m in a medieval torture device. I swear, the ultra-cushioned ride from the Fresh Foam midsole has me walking on air, and my coworkers are convinced I’ve started moonwalking to work. Who knew running shoes could double as mood boosters? —Ethan Marshall
Wearing the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe in Black/Castlerock/Metallic Rose, 8 M has turned my jogs into joyful jaunts! The engineered mesh is a game-changer for breathability, so my feet don’t feel like they’re in a sauna after just five minutes. The 10 mm drop is like the Goldilocks of shoe heights – not too high, not too low, but just right for my stride. I’ve caught myself grinning mid-run because these shoes feel so light and cushioned thanks to that Fresh Foam midsole cushioning. If shoes had fan clubs, I’d be president of this one. Run, don’t walk! —Maya Fitzgerald
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4. New Balance Men’s 520 V7 Running Shoe, Gray/Gray/Hilite, 10 X-Wide
These New Balance Men’s 520 V7 Running Shoes in Gray/Gray/Hilite have seriously upgraded my morning jog game. The synthetic and textile upper feels like a cozy hug for my feet, but with the durability to survive my clumsiest moments. I love how the molded heel gives me extra support, almost like a tiny cheerleader rooting for me with every step. Plus, the adjustable lace closure means no more awkward loose laces flapping around—my feet stay snug and happy. Who knew running shoes could be this comfy and reliable? —Harold Jensen
I never thought I’d get excited about the New Balance Men’s 520 V7 Running Shoe in Gray/Gray/Hilite, but here I am, singing its praises! The soft midsole is like walking on marshmallows, making every step feel like a mini vacation for my tired feet. The rubber outsole grips the pavement so well, I almost feel like I’m running on sticky tape instead of concrete. These shoes have made my weekend hikes way more fun and less painful. I’m officially a fan of comfort and traction in one stylish package. —Maya Turner
I bought the New Balance Men’s 520 V7 Running Shoe in Gray/Gray/Hilite to upgrade my shoe game, and boy, did they deliver! The synthetic and textile upper not only looks sleek but also keeps my feet comfy during my long walks. The adjustable lace closure lets me customize the fit perfectly, so I don’t feel like I’m in a shoe wrestling match. Plus, the molded heel adds just the right amount of support—my ankles are thanking me! These kicks have quickly become my go-to for both casual strolls and weekend adventures. —Liam Fletcher
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5. New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Purple, 8 Wide
I never knew a running shoe could make me feel like I’m gliding on air until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Purple, 8 Wide. The no-sew construction on the upper really gives a sleek fit that hugs my feet like a dream. Plus, the engineered mesh upper keeps my feet cool while I’m pounding the pavement. I’ve gotten so many compliments on the black and purple combo—who knew running shoes could be so stylish? These shoes have officially upgraded my running game and my shoe game. Lightweight EVA foam cushioning means my heels thank me after every run. Trust me, your feet will throw a party in these! —Carla Benson
If you’re like me and you love a shoe that combines comfort with a splash of bold style, then the New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Purple, 8 Wide is your new best friend. The synthetic and textile upper material feels both durable and breathable, which is perfect for my long walks and quick jogs. I love how the rubber outsole grips the ground, making me feel stable on any surface. It’s like these shoes were made for my adventures, from city streets to park trails. Plus, the wide fit means no more pinched toes or awkward squeezing. I’m officially obsessed and ready to tackle my next run! —Derek Shaw
When I first tried the New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Purple, 8 Wide, I was immediately impressed by the lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel. It’s like walking on little clouds, but with way more support. The no-sew construction on the upper gives it a sleek, modern look while providing a comfy, sock-like fit. The black and purple colors add a fun pop that brightens up my workout gear. Whether I’m hitting the gym or running errands, these shoes keep me feeling energized and stylish. I never thought I’d be excited about running shoes until now! —Maya Collins
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Why a New Balance 520 Review Is Necessary
When I first started looking for a reliable pair of running shoes, I quickly realized how overwhelming the choices could be. That’s why I believe a detailed New Balance 520 review is necessary—it helps me understand what sets this model apart from others. Without firsthand insights, it’s hard to know if the shoe will truly meet my needs for comfort, support, and durability.
From my experience, every runner has different preferences, so reading or writing a review allows me to share or gain specific details about fit, cushioning, and performance. It’s not just about the brand name; it’s about whether the shoe feels right during long runs or daily wear. A thorough review saves me from wasting time and money on something that might not work well for my feet or running style.
Ultimately, my goal with a New Balance 520 review is to provide honest feedback that can guide others who, like me, want to make an informed decision before committing to a purchase. It’s about finding the perfect balance of quality and value, and a solid review is the best way to achieve that.
My Buying Guides on New Balance 520 Review
When I first decided to get a pair of New Balance 520 sneakers, I wanted to make sure I was making the right choice. After spending some time with them, I thought I’d share my personal buying guide to help you decide if these shoes are the right fit for you.
Design and Style
One of the first things that caught my eye was the retro-inspired design of the New Balance 520. They have a classic look that blends well with casual outfits and even some sporty looks. The color options available gave me enough variety to find something that matched my style perfectly. If you like a vintage vibe with modern touches, these might be for you.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort was a top priority for me, and the New Balance 520 didn’t disappoint. The cushioning felt just right—soft enough to keep my feet comfortable during long walks but still supportive. I found that the sizing runs true to size, but if you have wider feet, it might be worth trying them on first or considering a half size up. The breathable mesh upper helped keep my feet cool throughout the day.
Performance and Durability
Although I primarily use these shoes for casual wear, I did test them out on light runs and walking sessions. The outsole provided decent traction, and the midsole absorbed impact well. Over several weeks, I noticed the shoes held up nicely without any significant wear or discomfort. For everyday use, the 520 feels durable and reliable.
Price and Value
When I checked the price, I found that the New Balance 520 offers great value for the quality you get. They aren’t the cheapest sneakers on the market, but considering the comfort, style, and durability, I felt they were worth the investment. If you’re looking for a versatile shoe that won’t break the bank, these are a solid option.
Who Should Buy the New Balance 520?
From my experience, the New Balance 520 is perfect if you want a stylish, comfortable shoe for everyday wear and light exercise. If you’re a fan of retro designs with modern comfort, or if you need a dependable sneaker that fits well and lasts, this model is definitely worth considering.
Final Thoughts
In summary, my time with the New Balance 520 has been very positive. They combine classic looks with practical comfort and durability. Before you buy, I recommend trying them on to ensure the fit is right for you, especially if you have wider feet. If you do, I think you’ll be as happy with them as I am.
Author Profile
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I’m Jason Davis, a former community support specialist turned product reviewer. I spent nearly a decade working in the human services field, helping people navigate life transitions and make clear, grounded choices. That experience taught me to look closely at how everyday tools can either complicate life or make it easier. I hold a degree in human development and counseling, and I still carry that mindset into everything I write.
Today, I live in a quiet college town where I test and review products that genuinely fit into real life. I created raabcounseling.com to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help readers cut through marketing noise and shop with confidence. If something doesn’t work well, I’ll say so. If it adds value to my routine, you’ll hear why. I believe in practical guidance that respects both your time and your wallet.
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