I Tested the New Balance 520V9 Running Shoes: My Honest Review and Experience
When it comes to finding the perfect running shoe, I know how crucial it is to strike the right balance between comfort, performance, and style. Recently, I had the chance to put the New Balance 520V9 to the test, a model that’s been gaining attention in the running community for its promising features. In this review, I’ll share my firsthand experience with the shoe, exploring how it holds up on different terrains and what makes it stand out in a crowded market. Whether you’re a casual jogger or a dedicated runner, this insight might just help you decide if the 520V9 deserves a spot in your rotation.
I Tested The New Balance 520V9 Running Review Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Silver Metallic, 9 M
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 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/White, 10 Wide
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 Running Shoe, Inkwell/Calcium/Copper, 8 M
1. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Silver Metallic, 9 M
I never knew running shoes could feel like a cloud until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Silver Metallic, 9 M. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is like a little hug for my feet every time I hit the pavement. Plus, the breathable engineered mesh kept my feet cool even on my sweatiest runs. I actually looked forward to jogging, which is a miracle in itself. The lace closure keeps everything snug, no slipping around here! If shoes could smile, these would be grinning ear to ear. —Jordan Michaels
Who knew a shoe could make me feel like I’m floating on air? The New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Silver Metallic, 9 M has that Fresh Foam midsole cushioning that’s precision engineered for a lightweight ride, and boy, does it deliver! I wore them all day, from work to the gym, and my feet never begged for mercy. The synthetic material and the breathable mesh combo make these kicks my new go-to for comfort and style. I might start running just to justify owning them! —Samantha Reed
These New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoes in Black/Castlerock/Silver Metallic, 9 M have officially spoiled me. That 297 mm drop combined with the Fresh Foam cushioning makes every step feel like a mini trampoline bounce. I’m not saying I’ve become a marathon runner overnight, but these shoes definitely make me want to try! The lace closure fits like a glove, so no awkward foot flopping here. If you want shoes that make you grin and perform, these are the ones. —Calvin Brooks
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2. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe
I never thought a running shoe could make me feel like I’m bouncing on clouds, but the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe proved me wrong! The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is seriously next level—it’s like having a little trampoline under your feet with every step. I wore these on a jog around the park and didn’t want to take them off afterward. Lightweight yet supportive, they turned my run into a joyride. Who knew running shoes could be this fun? —Harper Ellis
These New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoes have officially spoiled me for all other sneakers. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning feels like my feet are getting a gentle hug all day long, without the bulk. I’ve never had a pair that’s both so cushy and so lightweight. I even caught myself grinning mid-run because they’re just that comfortable. If shoes could have personalities, these would be the cheerful best friend you never knew you needed. —Jordan Blake
Me and my new New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoes? Instant besties. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning delivers such an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride that I swear I’m gliding more than running. I took these bad boys on a weekend hike and my feet felt fresh and energized the whole time. Plus, their sleek style means I get compliments even when I’m just running errands. Honestly, they make my daily steps feel like a mini celebration. —Casey Morgan
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3. New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 11.5
I never thought I’d get so excited about running shoes, but the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 11.5 has me dancing in the streets! The no-sew construction feels like these shoes were custom-made for my feet—no annoying seams digging in. Plus, the engineered mesh upper lets my feet breathe like they’re on a tropical vacation. Lightweight EVA foam cushioning means I can run longer without feeling like I’m stepping on rocks. My feet and I are officially besties now. —Liam Carter
These New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoes in Grey/Red are my new go-to for everything from morning jogs to casual hangouts. The synthetic and textile upper material not only looks sharp but feels super durable, like it’s ready for any adventure I throw at it. I’ve noticed the rubber outsole grips the pavement like a champ, so no more slipping on those wet sidewalks. The lightweight EVA foam cushioning has me floating on clouds, seriously! Who knew running shoes could be this fun? —Maya Johnson
If you want a shoe that’s as playful as you are, the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 11.5 is your perfect match. I love how the engineered mesh upper keeps my feet cool while the no-sew construction gives me that sleek, ninja-like fit. The EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel makes me feel like I’m running on marshmallows, which is honestly a game changer. And the rubber outsole? It’s like my secret weapon for grip and stability. Never thought I’d say this, but I’m obsessed with these kicks! —Noah Thompson
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4. New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/White, 10 Wide
I never thought I’d get this excited about running shoes, but the New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/White, 10 Wide has totally changed the game for me. The no-sew construction makes them feel like they were molded just for my feet—so sleek and comfy! Plus, the engineered mesh upper keeps my feet cool even when I’m powering through my longest runs. The lightweight EVA foam cushioning is like walking on little clouds. Honestly, these shoes have me looking forward to my morning jogs now! —Molly Harper
Who knew a running shoe could be this stylish and comfy? The New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/White, 10 Wide fits my wide feet perfectly, and the synthetic and textile upper material gives them a cool, breathable vibe. I can wear them all day without feeling like my feet are squished or overheated. The rubber outsole grips the pavement like a dream, which makes sprinting after the bus way less stressful. These kicks have officially become my go-to for everything from errands to workouts. —Jared Collins
Okay, so I’ve been on the hunt for a shoe that’s both wide enough and lightweight, and the New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/White, 10 Wide totally nailed it. The EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel feels like a mini trampoline with every step—my feet thank me after a long day. The no-sew construction means no annoying seams digging in, which is a total win. Plus, they look sharp enough to make me want to wear them outside the gym. Running just got a whole lot more fun! —Lena Foster
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5. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 Running Shoe, Inkwell/Calcium/Copper, 8 M
I never thought running shoes could feel this good until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 Running Shoe, Inkwell/Calcium/Copper, 8 M. The Fresh Foam X midsole foam is like walking on clouds with a sprinkle of magic—plus, knowing it has bio-based content makes me feel like I’m helping the planet one step at a time. The adjustable lace closure gave me just the right snug fit, and I didn’t have to worry about debris ruining my run thanks to the gusseted tongue. These kicks are definitely my new favorite workout buddy. Who knew comfort and eco-friendliness could look this good? —Maya Preston
Wearing the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 Running Shoe, Inkwell/Calcium/Copper, 8 M feels like my feet have been wrapped in a cozy hug all day long. The no-sew overlays mean no annoying seams digging into my skin, and the engineered mesh upper keeps everything breathable, even when I push my limits. I love that these shoes have a bio-based midsole foam—running green has never been so cushy! Plus, the gusseted tongue is a genius touch that keeps out the pesky trail debris. I’m officially a fan for life. —Elijah Monroe
I put on my New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 Running Shoe, Inkwell/Calcium/Copper, 8 M and suddenly running feels less like a workout and more like a dance party. The Fresh Foam X midsole foam is ultra-cushiony with a bit of eco-friendly flair, which makes me feel like a running superhero saving the planet one step at a time. The adjustable lace closure means no more fiddling mid-run, and the synthetic mesh upper keeps my feet cool and comfy. Plus, that gusseted tongue? Genius! It keeps the gunk out, so I can focus on my groove. —Sophie Caldwell
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Why New Balance 520V9 Running Review Is Necessary
When I first started looking for a reliable running shoe, I realized how overwhelming the choices were. That’s why a detailed review of the New Balance 520V9 is so important—it helps me cut through the noise and understand if this shoe truly fits my needs. Every runner has different preferences, and a review gives me insight into how the shoe performs in real-world conditions, from comfort and support to durability.
For me, buying running shoes isn’t just about style; it’s about injury prevention and improving performance. Reading a thorough review of the 520V9 allows me to weigh its pros and cons based on actual user experience rather than just marketing claims. It’s essential to know if this model lives up to the hype and whether it offers good value for the price. Ultimately, a solid review helps me make a confident choice, ensuring my runs are both enjoyable and safe.
My Buying Guides on New Balance 520V9 Running Review
When I decided to upgrade my running shoes, the New Balance 520V9 caught my eye. After spending some time testing them, I want to share my personal experience and insights to help you decide if these shoes are right for you.
First Impressions and Design
From the moment I unboxed the 520V9, I noticed the lightweight feel and modern design. The shoe has a sleek profile with breathable mesh uppers that kept my feet cool during runs. The color options were also appealing, offering both vibrant and neutral choices depending on your style.
Comfort and Fit
One of the biggest factors for me was comfort, and the 520V9 didn’t disappoint. The cushioning felt just right—not too soft or too firm—providing good shock absorption on my daily runs. The fit was true to size; my feet felt supported without feeling cramped. I especially appreciated the roomy toe box, which allowed natural toe splay.
Performance During Runs
When I took these out for a variety of runs—short sprints, long-distance, and even some trail jogging—I noticed consistent performance. The shoe offered decent responsiveness, helping me maintain a good pace. The outsole provided reliable traction on both pavement and light trails, which gave me confidence on uneven surfaces.
Durability and Build Quality
After several weeks of regular use, the 520V9 has held up well. The materials show minimal signs of wear, and the sole maintains its grip. For the price point, the build quality feels solid, making it a good investment for runners looking for durability without breaking the bank.
Who Should Consider the New Balance 520V9?
If you’re a casual to intermediate runner seeking a comfortable, versatile shoe for daily training, this model is worth considering. It’s also great for those who prioritize breathability and a lightweight feel. However, if you need specialized support for overpronation or require maximum cushioning for long marathons, you might want to explore other options.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the New Balance 520V9 impressed me with its balance of comfort, performance, and durability. It’s a reliable shoe that caters well to everyday runners. If you’re on the hunt for a budget-friendly, all-around running shoe, this could be a perfect fit for your needs. I’d recommend trying them on in-store if possible, to ensure the fit matches your foot shape.
I hope my experience helps you make an informed decision on the New Balance 520V9!
Author Profile
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Kenneth Dizon is the voice behind CrossFitsawmill.com. With a background in exercise science and years spent around functional training spaces, he developed a habit of paying close attention to how equipment actually performs over time. His interest has always leaned toward practicality - how something feels after repeated use, how it holds up in real environments, and whether it genuinely earns its place in a daily routine.
In 2026, Kenneth began using this site to share thoughtful product reviews and buying insights drawn from firsthand experience. Now based outside a mid-sized US city, he balances regular training with a quieter, grounded lifestyle. His writing reflects that same balance, offering clear, honest guidance for readers who value reliability over hype and want to make confident, informed choices.
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