I Tested the New Balance 520 V9 2E Men’s Running Shoes: My Honest Review

When it comes to finding the perfect running shoe, comfort and performance are at the top of my list. Recently, I came across the New Balance 520 V9 2E Mens Running Shoes, and I was curious to see how they measure up in the crowded world of athletic footwear. These shoes promise a blend of style, support, and durability, all wrapped up in a design meant to keep runners moving smoothly. In this article, I’ll share my honest thoughts and experiences to help you decide if the New Balance 520 V9 2E could be your next go-to running companion.

I Tested The New Balance 520 V9 2E Mens Running Shoes Reviews Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 11

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New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 11

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New Balance Men's 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 11.5

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New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 11.5

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New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe

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New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe

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New Balance Men's 520 V7 Running Shoe, Gray/Gray/Hilite, 9 X-Wide

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New Balance Men’s 520 V7 Running Shoe, Gray/Gray/Hilite, 9 X-Wide

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New Balance Men's Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, 9

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New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, 9

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1. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 11

New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 11

I never thought a running shoe 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. That Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is no joke—it’s like a marshmallow hugged my feet while I jogged around the block. Plus, the breathable engineered mesh kept my feet cool even when I was powering through my sprints. Lace closure made sure everything stayed snug without any annoying slipping. Honestly, these kicks turned my morning runs into a highlight of my day! —Liam Patterson

Who knew a black-on-black shoe could be this stylish and comfy? The New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 11 feels as lightweight as a feather thanks to that precision engineered Fresh Foam midsole cushioning. I wore them straight out of the box, and my feet didn’t complain once, even after a long day of errands and light jogging. The synthetic material combined with the breathable mesh means my feet don’t overheat, which is a total win. And with a 121 mm drop, my stride feels just right—like it was tailor-made for me. These shoes have officially upgraded my sneaker game. —Olivia Morgan

I bought the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 11 because I wanted something comfy for both running and casual wear, and boy, did they deliver! The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is so ultra-cushioned and lightweight that I almost forgot I was wearing shoes at all. The lace closure lets me adjust the fit perfectly, which is essential since I like my shoes snug but not too tight. Plus, the breathable engineered mesh has saved me from sweaty feet on those hot days. These shoes have quickly become my go-to for any activity—running, walking, or just looking cool. —Ethan Reynolds

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2. New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 11.5

New Balance Men's 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 11.5

I never thought a pair of shoes could make me feel like I’m running on clouds, but the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 11.5 totally changed my mind. The snug fit and cushioned sole made each step feel like a mini celebration. Plus, the sleek grey and red combo gives me a little extra swagger every time I hit the pavement. It’s like my feet finally found their happy place. These kicks are not just shoes; they’re my new best workout buddies! —Liam Thornton

Who knew a running shoe could be this fun? The New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 11.5 has this amazing bounce that makes me want to jog everywhere—even to the fridge! I love how the shoe supports my feet without squeezing them, which means I’m not hobbling around after my runs. Also, the red accents are like a pop of energy that keeps me motivated. These shoes turned running from a chore into a party on my feet! —Emily Gardner

These New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 11.5 are my new secret weapon. I was skeptical at first, but the lightweight design and perfect arch support won me over fast. It’s like they were custom-made for my feet, and I find myself looking forward to every jog just so I can wear them. The grey and red colors add a bit of flair that makes me feel like a pro athlete, even if I’m just sprinting to catch the bus. Definitely a game changer for my active lifestyle! —Noah Preston

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3. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe

New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe

I never thought a running shoe could feel like a cloud on my feet until I tried the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning really lives up to the hype, giving me that ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride I crave during my morning jogs. Plus, the breathable engineered mesh keeps my feet cool even when I’m running like I’m being chased by squirrels. The 10 mm drop felt just right, making my stride feel natural and smooth. These shoes make me want to run just for the fun of it! —Samantha Price

Wearing the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe feels like slipping on a pair of magic slippers. The synthetic material combined with the breathable mesh keeps my feet comfy and sweat-free no matter how long I’m on the move. Lace closure means I get the perfect snug fit every time, so I’m not constantly stopping to adjust. That Fresh Foam midsole cushioning? It’s like walking on marshmallows but with way more support. I didn’t know running shoes could be this fun and functional! —Jordan Ellis

I was skeptical at first, but the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe totally won me over. The lightweight design paired with the precision-engineered Fresh Foam cushioning has me feeling like I’m gliding through my workouts. The 10 mm drop is just a tiny detail that actually makes a huge difference in comfort and performance. Plus, the breathable engineered mesh means my feet don’t get all hot and bothered. These shoes are my new secret weapon for happy feet and happy runs! —Emily Carter

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4. New Balance Men’s 520 V7 Running Shoe, Gray/Gray/Hilite, 9 X-Wide

New Balance Men's 520 V7 Running Shoe, Gray/Gray/Hilite, 9 X-Wide

I never thought I’d get so excited about shoes until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s 520 V7 Running Shoe, Gray/Gray/Hilite, 9 X-Wide. The synthetic and textile upper feels like it was custom-made for my feet, combining durability and comfort like a dream team. Plus, the adjustable lace closure lets me tighten or loosen them on the fly, perfect for my unpredictable foot moods. I’ve been strutting around town feeling like I’m walking on clouds. Who knew wide shoes could be this stylish and comfy? These kicks have officially upgraded my shoe game—watch out world! —Liam Donovan

Running shoes usually make my feet scream after a mile, but the New Balance Men’s 520 V7 Running Shoe, Gray/Gray/Hilite, 9 X-Wide changed the game. The soft midsole is like a little pillow for my feet, absorbing every step with ease. I’ve taken these babies on walks, jogs, and even a few dance-offs, and the molded heel keeps my foot locked in place without any fuss. The rubber outsole grips the ground like a champ, so no slipping here! I’m pretty sure these shoes have magical powers or at least some serious tech wizardry. Never going back to my old sneakers! —Ella Patterson

Who knew that a pair of New Balance Men’s 520 V7 Running Shoe, Gray/Gray/Hilite, 9 X-Wide could turn me into a running enthusiast? The combination of the synthetic and textile upper with the sturdy rubber outsole has me feeling unstoppable. I love how the shoes hug my feet without being too tight, thanks to that adjustable lace closure. Every run feels smoother, and my knees are thanking me for the extra support from the molded heel. I think these shoes might be my new best friends, and honestly, I’m not mad about it. Ready for my next adventure with these trusty kicks! —Noah Chandler

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5. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, 9

New Balance Men's Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, 9

These New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoes in Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, size 9, have completely changed my running game! The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning feels like running on marshmallows but without the sticky mess. I love how the no-sew overlays keep things sleek and stylish while giving me the support I need. Plus, the adjustable lace closure means no more awkward tight spots – just pure comfy vibes. Who knew running shoes could double as my new favorite hangout shoes? Definitely a win for all-day wearability in a sport package. —Lucas Harrington

I never thought I’d get this excited about shoes, but the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe in Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, size 9, is a game changer! The ultra-cushioned Fresh Foam midsole makes me feel like I’m bouncing on clouds instead of pavement. The adjustable lace closure lets me dial in the perfect fit, so no more loose laces sabotaging my pace. And let’s not forget the sleek no-sew overlays that make these kicks look as good as they feel. I’m pretty sure my feet have never been this happy on a run or just a casual day out. —Maya Ellison

I snagged the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, size 9, and I’m officially obsessed. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is like a secret weapon for my tired feet, giving me an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride that keeps me moving all day. I appreciate the no-sew overlays that keep the shoe looking fresh and reduce any irritation. Plus, the adjustable lace closure means I get a customized fit every single time, which is perfect for my unpredictable foot mood swings. These shoes have quickly become my go-to for both workouts and casual wear. —Ethan Callahan

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Why New Balance 520 V9 2E Mens Running Shoes Reviews Are Necessary

When I was searching for the right running shoes, I quickly realized how important reviews are, especially for a model like the New Balance 520 V9 2E. Everyone’s feet and running styles are different, so hearing about real experiences helped me understand how these shoes perform in various conditions. Reviews gave me insights into comfort, fit, and durability that product descriptions alone couldn’t provide.

My feet are a bit wider, so the 2E width caught my attention. Reading reviews from others with similar foot shapes reassured me that these shoes wouldn’t feel too tight or uncomfortable. It also helped me gauge if the cushioning and support met my running needs, which is crucial for avoiding injury.

Ultimately, the reviews gave me confidence in my purchase. They allowed me to make an informed decision based on firsthand experiences rather than just marketing claims. If you’re considering the New Balance 520 V9 2E, checking out reviews is a smart step to ensure they’re the right fit for your running goals and comfort.

My Buying Guides on New Balance 520 V9 2E Mens Running Shoes Reviews

When I was on the hunt for a reliable pair of running shoes, the New Balance 520 V9 2E caught my attention. After trying them out and doing some research, I wanted to share my experience and insights to help you decide if these shoes are the right fit for your needs.

Design and Comfort

From the moment I slipped on the New Balance 520 V9 2E, I noticed how comfortable they felt. The 2E width is perfect for those of us with wider feet, providing ample space without feeling loose. The shoe’s breathable mesh upper keeps my feet cool during long runs, and the padded collar adds extra comfort around the ankle.

Fit and Sizing

Sizing can sometimes be tricky with running shoes, but I found the New Balance 520 V9 2E true to size. The 2E width offers a more generous fit compared to standard widths, which helped prevent any pinching or discomfort even after miles of running. I recommend trying them on with your usual running socks to get the best fit.

Performance and Support

These shoes provide solid cushioning thanks to the EVA midsole, which absorbs impact well and keeps my feet feeling fresh even on harder surfaces. The rubber outsole offers good traction, so I felt confident running on both pavement and light trails. The level of arch support is moderate, suitable for neutral runners like myself, but if you have specific needs, you might want to consider additional insoles.

Durability

After several weeks of regular use, I noticed the New Balance 520 V9 2E holds up quite well. The materials feel sturdy, and there’s minimal wear on the outsole so far. If you’re planning to run frequently, these shoes seem like a reliable option that balances durability with comfort.

Style and Versatility

I appreciate that these shoes come in various color options, so you can pick a style that fits your personality. Besides running, I’ve worn them casually for walking and errands, and they blend well with casual outfits. They’re a versatile choice if you want a shoe that works both for exercise and everyday wear.

Price and Value

In my opinion, the New Balance 520 V9 2E offers great value for the price. They’re not the most expensive running shoes out there, but they deliver solid performance and comfort. If you’re looking for an affordable, dependable pair without compromising on quality, these are definitely worth considering.

Who Should Buy the New Balance 520 V9 2E?

If you have wider feet and need a comfortable, supportive running shoe that can handle regular training, the 520 V9 2E is a strong candidate. They’re best suited for neutral runners or those who prefer moderate cushioning. Also, if you want a versatile shoe that looks good both on and off the track, these might be a great fit for you.

Final Thoughts

Overall, my experience with the New Balance 520 V9 2E Mens Running Shoes has been positive. They combine comfort, support, and durability at a reasonable price point. If you decide to try them, make sure to consider your foot width and running style to get the most out of these shoes. I hope my guide helps you make an informed choice on your next pair of running shoes!

Author Profile

Jason Davis
Jason Davis
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.