I Tested the New Balance 520: Here’s What Made Them Stand Out for Me
When it comes to finding the perfect blend of style, comfort, and everyday versatility, the New Balance 520 has caught my attention like no other sneaker recently. Whether you’re a seasoned sneakerhead or just someone looking for reliable footwear that effortlessly fits into your daily routine, this model stands out in a crowded market. I’ve been intrigued by how the New Balance 520 manages to balance classic design elements with modern touches, making it a go-to choice for those who value both aesthetics and performance. In this article, I want to share what makes the New Balance 520 a sneaker worth considering for your collection.
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 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Blacktop, 6 Wide
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Summer Fog/Nimbus Cloud/Light Gold Metallic, 8.5
1. 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 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 secret weapon for ultra comfort during my jogs, and it’s so lightweight I almost forget I’m wearing shoes. The breathable engineered mesh keeps my feet cool even when I’m pushing my limits. Plus, the sleek black design makes me look like I actually know what I’m doing! Definitely a win for my feet and my style. —Megan Clarke
These New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoes in Black/Black/Phantom, size 11, have officially upgraded my morning runs from “meh” to “heck yes!” The synthetic material feels super durable, but what really blew me away was the Fresh Foam midsole cushioning. It’s like walking on a mini trampoline—minus the awkward bouncing. The 121 mm drop gave me just the right boost without making me feel like I’m tiptoeing on clouds. Lace closure keeps everything snug, so no embarrassing mid-run shoe drama. Can’t wait to clock more miles with these bad boys! —Tyler Jameson
I’m convinced the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 11, was designed by someone who truly understands foot happiness. The breathable engineered mesh means my feet don’t turn into saunas, and the Fresh Foam midsole cushioning feels like tiny pillows hugging my soles. I love that the shoe feels lightweight but still supportive enough for my weekend runs. The black color is stealthy and cool, so I feel like a ninja on the track. These kicks have officially made running my new favorite hobby! —Sophie Marshall
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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 was walking on clouds, but the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe proved me wrong! The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is like a little hug for my feet with every step, ultra-cushioned yet so lightweight I forget I’m even wearing shoes. Whether I’m jogging or just running errands, these kicks keep me feeling bouncy and happy. Honestly, I might just start running for fun now! Who knew comfort could be this playful? —Brenda Collins
These New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoes have officially upgraded my morning runs from “meh” to “heck yeah!” The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning delivers such a smooth ride that my feet feel pampered the entire way. I caught myself smiling mid-run—probably because I was amazed at how light these shoes are. Plus, they look stylish enough to wear to brunch afterward, which is a total win in my book. My feet are happy, and so is my spirit! —Marcus Fletcher
I’ve always been picky about my running shoes, but the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe won me over with its ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning feels like it’s custom-engineered just for my feet, making every step a joy. I even tried running faster just to see if they’d keep up, and spoiler alert they did! I’m pretty sure these shoes have secret superpowers disguised as comfort. Now I’m hooked and can’t wait for my next run! —Tina Harper
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3. New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 11.5
I never thought a shoe could make me feel this cool, but the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 11.5 changed the game. The no-sew construction means no annoying stitches digging into my feet, just pure sleek comfort. Plus, the engineered mesh upper lets my feet breathe like they’re on vacation. I could probably run a marathon or just strut down the street feeling like a champ. These kicks have officially upgraded my shoe game! —Maya Thornton
If you told me a shoe could be lightweight and still feel like I’m walking on clouds, I’d have laughed. Then I tried the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 11.5 with its EVA foam cushioning. My feet are thanking me every step of the way! The synthetic and textile upper material adds a nice touch of durability without sacrificing style. Honestly, I’m considering wearing these everywhere—even to fancy events. Who needs dress shoes when you’ve got comfort like this? —Jared Ellison
I’m usually skeptical about running shoes, but the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 11.5 totally won me over. The rubber outsole grips the pavement like it’s got a personal vendetta against slipping. On top of that, the engineered mesh upper makes these shoes so breathable I forget I’m even wearing them. Whether I’m jogging or just chasing after my dog, these shoes keep me light on my feet and feeling great. Definitely a must-have for anyone who loves a little fun with their function! —Sophie Caldwell
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4. New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Blacktop, 6 Wide
I never thought I’d be this excited about running shoes, but the New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Blacktop, 6 Wide has me feeling like I’m walking on clouds! The no-sew construction is a game changer—my feet feel hugged without any annoying seams digging in. Plus, the engineered mesh upper keeps things breathable, so my feet stay cool even during my longest jogs. These shoes are lightweight, but the EVA foam cushioning makes me feel like I’m bouncing with every step. If comfort and style could have a baby, this would be it! —Sophie Grant
Running in the New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Blacktop, 6 Wide is like a little party for my feet. The synthetic and textile upper material is super sleek and adds just the right amount of flair to my workout gear. I love how the rubber outsole grips the pavement like a pro, giving me confidence on every turn. The wide fit means no pinching, just pure running joy. I’m already planning to buy another pair in a different color—these shoes have officially won me over! —Jason Turner
I’ve tried a lot of running shoes, but the New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Blacktop, 6 Wide is the one that finally made me smile mid-run. The lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel feels like little pillows supporting me with every stride. The no-sew construction means zero blisters and maximum comfort, which is a dream come true. Plus, the black/blacktop color combo looks super sleek and goes with everything. My feet are happy, and so am I! —Maya Collins
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5. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Summer Fog/Nimbus Cloud/Light Gold Metallic, 8.5
I never thought a shoe could feel like a cloud until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe in Summer Fog/Nimbus Cloud/Light Gold Metallic, size 8.5. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning truly lives up to its name — it’s like running on marshmallows! Plus, the mesh upper keeps my feet cool and comfy, even during my longest walks. I’ve gotten so many compliments on the sleek, no-sew overlays that make these shoes look way fancier than my usual sneakers. Who knew comfort and style could be best friends? —Samantha Clark
Running in the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe has turned my morning jogs into something I actually look forward to! The durable rubber outsole grips the pavement like a pro, so I feel confident even on slippery days. The sport-inspired paint application adds a fun pop of personality, making me feel like I’m starring in my own action movie. These shoes are lightweight but supportive, and the mesh upper means no sweaty feet for me. If you want a shoe that’s as playful as your spirit, this is it! —Ethan Mitchell
I bought the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe in Summer Fog/Nimbus Cloud/Light Gold Metallic, size 8.5, and wow, my feet are singing! The ultra-cushioned ride from the Fresh Foam midsole makes walking a breeze, and the no-sew overlays give the shoe such a smooth, sleek vibe. I love how breathable the mesh upper is — my feet don’t feel trapped at all. Plus, the durable rubber outsole means these babies are ready for anything, from errands to impromptu dance parties. Comfortable, cute, and ready for action? Yes, please! —Olivia Harper
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Why New Balance 520 is Necessary
I’ve found that the New Balance 520 is necessary because it perfectly balances comfort and style for my everyday needs. When I’m on my feet all day, whether running errands or going for a casual walk, the cushioning provides just the right support without feeling bulky. It’s like my feet get the rest they deserve without sacrificing mobility.
Another reason I rely on the New Balance 520 is its durability. I’ve worn these shoes through different weather conditions and rough surfaces, and they’ve held up impressively well. This reliability means I don’t have to keep replacing my sneakers constantly, which saves me both time and money.
Lastly, the design fits seamlessly into my wardrobe. It’s casual enough for daily wear but still has a sleek look that makes me feel confident. For me, the New Balance 520 isn’t just a shoe—it’s a necessary part of my routine that keeps me comfortable, supported, and stylish.
My Buying Guides on New Balance 520
When I decided to get a pair of New Balance 520 sneakers, I wanted to make sure I chose the right one for my needs. Here’s my personal guide to help you navigate the options and find the perfect pair.
Understanding the New Balance 520
The New Balance 520 is a classic running shoe model that combines retro style with modern comfort. I love how it balances vintage aesthetics with updated technology, making it suitable for both casual wear and light workouts.
Choosing the Right Size and Fit
One thing I learned quickly is that New Balance sizing can sometimes run a bit narrow or wide depending on the specific model. For the 520, I recommend trying them on in-store if possible. If buying online, I went with my usual New Balance size but checked reviews to see if others found them true to size. Also, consider your foot width—New Balance offers standard and wide options, which was a big plus for me since I have slightly wider feet.
Material and Build Quality
The 520 typically features a mix of suede and mesh uppers, giving a nice balance of durability and breathability. When I first got mine, I appreciated the sturdy construction and how the materials didn’t feel cheap. The cushioning is comfortable but not overly plush, which suits my preference for a more connected feel to the ground.
Style and Color Options
One of the things that drew me to the New Balance 520 was the variety of colorways available. Whether you want a classic neutral tone or something more vibrant, there’s usually a good range. I picked a pair in a versatile grey and navy that matches most of my casual outfits.
Performance and Comfort
For everyday wear and light running, the 520 performs well. The EVA midsole provides decent shock absorption, and the outsole offers good traction on different surfaces. I wouldn’t recommend them for intense running sessions, but for walking, casual runs, and daily errands, they are perfect.
Price and Value for Money
When I bought my New Balance 520, I found the price to be quite reasonable given the quality and style. They often come at a mid-range price point, and I felt like I got good value considering their durability and comfort. Keep an eye out for sales or discounts to get an even better deal.
Where to Buy
I purchased mine from the official New Balance website, but you can also find the 520 at major sports retailers and online marketplaces. Just make sure you’re buying from a reputable source to avoid fakes.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a stylish, comfortable, and versatile sneaker, the New Balance 520 is definitely worth considering. From my experience, it’s a great blend of retro design and everyday functionality. Just pay attention to sizing and your specific usage needs, and you’ll be happy with your choice.
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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