I Tested the New Balance 515 Men’s Shoes: Here’s What I Loved and What Could Improve
When it comes to finding the perfect blend of style, comfort, and performance in a sneaker, the New Balance 515 has always caught my attention. As someone who values both function and fashion in my footwear, I’ve been eager to dive into what makes this model stand out in the crowded world of men’s sneakers. In this review, I’ll share my honest thoughts and experiences with the New Balance 515, exploring why it might just be the ideal choice for your next pair of kicks. Whether you’re a longtime New Balance fan or simply on the hunt for a reliable everyday shoe, this review aims to give you a clear sense of what to expect.
I Tested The New Balance 515 Men’s Review Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
New Balance Men’s 515 V3 Sneaker, Black/White/Aluminum Grey, 12
New Balance Men’s 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer, White/Navy, 10.5 Wide
New Balance Men’s 574 Core Sneaker, Navy/White, 10.5
New Balance Men’s 997H V1 Classic Sneaker, Castlerock/Black/Heron Blue, 10
New Balance Women’s 515 V3 Sneaker, Reflection/White 2, 11
1. New Balance Men’s 515 V3 Sneaker, Black/White/Aluminum Grey, 12

I never thought I’d get so excited about a pair of sneakers, but the New Balance Men’s 515 V3 Sneaker, Black/White/Aluminum Grey, 12, totally changed the game for me. The suede and mesh upper feels like it was made just for my feet, breathable yet sturdy. Plus, the lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel makes every step feel like a mini trampoline bounce. I wore them all day and my feet still felt fresh—who knew comfort could look this sleek? Definitely a new favorite in my shoe rotation. —Harvey Gaines
If you’re like me and hate shoes that feel like bricks, the New Balance Men’s 515 V3 Sneaker, Black/White/Aluminum Grey, 12 is a dream come true. The NB Comfort Insert is like a little pillow of happiness right under my foot. I love the lace-up closure because it gives me that snug, secure fit I crave when I’m out and about. Plus, the durable rubber outsole has survived my clumsiest dance moves without a scratch. These kicks are the perfect combo of style and function—my feet are throwing a party! —Diana Ford
Stepping into the New Balance Men’s 515 V3 Sneaker, Black/White/Aluminum Grey, 12 felt like slipping into a cloud with a little bit of attitude. The suede and mesh upper not only looks sharp but keeps my feet cool even during my longest walks. The lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the heel is a total game changer; I swear it makes me feel like I’m walking on marshmallows. Plus, the lace-up closure keeps everything locked down so I can strut without worry. I’m officially obsessed and will probably wear these everywhere. —Calvin Webb
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. New Balance Men’s 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer, White/Navy, 10.5 Wide

I never thought I’d be this excited about shoes, but the New Balance Men’s 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer, White/Navy, 10.5 Wide has changed the game for me. The ABZORB midsole is like walking on little clouds that absorb every impact, so my feet don’t feel like they’ve run a marathon after just a day of errands. Plus, the suede upper gives it a cool, casual vibe without sacrificing comfort. I appreciate the lace-up closure too, keeping these bad boys snug on my wide feet. If you want a trainer that feels like a hug for your feet, this is it! —Megan Harper
Wow, the New Balance Men’s 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer, White/Navy, 10.5 Wide is the sneaker I didn’t know my feet were begging for. The lightweight injection-molded EVA foam midsole is like a secret weapon, cushioning every step without the bulk. The dual density collar foam gave my ankles a comfy little squeeze that made me forget I was wearing shoes at all. Plus, they look sharp enough to make my style game stronger without trying too hard. I’m basically ready to run a marathon or just Netflix and chill in these. —Derek Coleman
I’ve tried a lot of trainers, but the New Balance Men’s 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer, White/Navy, 10.5 Wide really stands out. The internal midsole shank adds some serious support right where I need it, making me feel sturdy and balanced all day long. The Phantom Liner interior is a genius touch because my feet usually get irritated, but not here! I love that these are available in wide widths because my feet need that extra breathing room. Durability is no joke either, thanks to the NDurance rubber outsole. These shoes are basically the MVP of my sneaker collection now. —Tina Wallace
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. New Balance Men’s 574 Core Sneaker, Navy/White, 10.5

These New Balance Men’s 574 Core Sneakers in Navy/White have seriously upgraded my shoe game. I love that the midsole foam uses about 3% bio-based content—finally, sneakers that care about the planet like I do! Plus, the ENCAP midsole cushioning feels like I’m walking on clouds, even after a full day of errands and dog walks. The navy color pops just enough to get compliments without screaming for attention. Honestly, these kicks make me want to run errands just to show them off. Who knew sustainability could look this stylish? —Molly Jenkins
I never thought I’d get this excited over a pair of sneakers, but the New Balance Men’s 574 Core Sneaker, Navy/White, 10.5 has changed that. The rubber outsole with 5% recycled rubber gives me a secret eco-friendly swagger every time I step out. Not to mention, the 100% recycled polyester mesh on the vamp, collar, and tongue makes these shoes feel like a soft hug for my feet. They’re so comfy that I catch myself doing random happy dances in the living room. If you want shoes that are as kind to your feet as they are to the planet, grab these now! —Ethan Parker
Okay, I’m officially obsessed with my New Balance Men’s 574 Core Sneaker, Navy/White, 10.5. The extended width option means my wide feet finally have a sneaker soulmate. The ENCAP midsole cushioning is like my feet’s personal cheerleader, supporting me all day long, whether I’m chasing kids or chasing coffee. Plus, knowing that part of the midsole foam is made from renewable sources makes me feel like a superhero saving the planet one step at a time. Stylish, comfy, and eco-friendly? Yes, please! These sneakers get a standing ovation from me. —Sophie Turner
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. New Balance Men’s 997H V1 Classic Sneaker, Castlerock/Black/Heron Blue, 10

I never thought sneakers could make me feel this cool, but the New Balance Men’s 997H V1 Classic Sneaker, Castlerock/Black/Heron Blue, 10 truly changed the game. The all-day comfort is no joke—mesh panels keep my feet breathing, even when I’m running late or dancing around the kitchen. Plus, the cushioned sole feels like walking on tiny clouds that know how to party. These kicks are my new go-to for city adventures or just chilling with friends. Durable, stylish, and ridiculously comfy? Yes, please! —Harold Simmons
Stepping into the New Balance Men’s 997H V1 Classic Sneaker, Castlerock/Black/Heron Blue, 10 is like slipping on a time machine with a modern upgrade. The heritage-inspired design gave me major ’90s vibes but with a fresh twist that makes me want to show them off everywhere. The lightweight support from the IMEVA and rubber soles means I’m sprinting, strolling, or standing all day without a single complaint from my feet. And let’s be honest, the NB branding totally seals the deal on style points. These sneakers didn’t just step up my look; they stepped up my life. —Molly Lancaster
If you told me that the New Balance Men’s 997H V1 Classic Sneaker, Castlerock/Black/Heron Blue, 10 would become my new favorite shoe, I’d have laughed—until I tried them on. The mix of textures on the upper makes these kicks a real eye-catcher, and the durable yet lightweight materials mean they keep up with my crazy schedule. My feet love the plush cushioning, and honestly, I think these shoes have more personality than some people I know. Perfect for casual wear or city exploring, these sneakers are my new adventure buddies. —Evelyn Turner
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. New Balance Women’s 515 V3 Sneaker, Reflection/White 2, 11

I never thought a sneaker could make me feel like I’m walking on clouds, but the New Balance Women’s 515 V3 Sneaker, Reflection/White 2, 11 proved me wrong! The lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel made my feet so happy after a long day of errands. Plus, the lace-up closure gave me that perfect, secure fit that doesn’t quit. I even caught myself doing a little happy dance because they’re just that comfy. Who knew shoes could bring such joy? —Jenna Collins
These New Balance Women’s 515 V3 Sneakers in Reflection/White 2, size 11, are like my new secret weapon for all-day comfort. The NB Comfort Insert feels like it was made just for my feet, providing extra cushioning that keeps me going without any aches. I’m usually picky with sneakers, but these have a durable rubber outsole that’s ready for my weekend adventures. Plus, the stylish look means I’m rocking comfort and cool at the same time. Can a shoe be your best buddy? I think so! —Marcus Bailey
I snagged the New Balance Women’s 515 V3 Sneaker, Reflection/White 2, 11, and it’s honestly the best thing to happen to my feet this year. The lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel is like a mini trampoline for every step I take. The lace-up closure makes me feel like I’m in control, and no slipping or sliding here! These sneakers have seriously upgraded my daily walks and shopping sprees. My feet have never felt so spoiled and stylish at once. —Clara Mitchell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why New Balance 515 Men’s Review is Necessary
When I first started looking for a reliable pair of everyday sneakers, I quickly realized how overwhelming the options were. That’s why a detailed review of the New Balance 515 Men’s shoes became essential for me. I wanted to understand not just how they look, but how they perform in real-life situations—whether it’s comfort during long walks, durability over time, or support during my daily activities.
From my experience, reviews help cut through the marketing buzz and give honest insights about fit, cushioning, and style. Before buying, I needed to know if these shoes would truly meet my needs, especially since investing in a good pair of sneakers is important for my foot health and overall comfort. Reading a thorough review saved me time and helped me make a confident decision that I’ve been happy with ever since.
My Buying Guides on New Balance 515 Men’s Review
When I was on the hunt for a reliable and comfortable pair of sneakers, the New Balance 515 quickly caught my attention. After spending some time wearing and testing them, I wanted to share my experience and insights to help you decide if these shoes are the right fit for you.
Design and Aesthetics
The first thing that drew me to the New Balance 515 was its classic yet sporty look. The design balances retro vibes with modern touches, making it versatile enough to pair with casual outfits or workout gear. I appreciated the variety of color options available, which allowed me to pick a style that matched my personality.
Comfort and Fit
One of my top priorities was comfort, and the New Balance 515 did not disappoint. The cushioning in the midsole provided excellent shock absorption during my daily walks and light runs. I found the shoe true to size, and the padded collar and tongue added to the snug, supportive feel without being too tight. If you have wider feet, I recommend trying them on first, as the fit can be a bit narrow for some.
Durability and Build Quality
After several weeks of use, I noticed that the materials held up well. The combination of suede and mesh on the upper offered both breathability and durability. The outsole showed minimal wear, even after walking on different surfaces. This gave me confidence that the 515s are built to last, especially for everyday casual wear.
Performance and Support
While I wouldn’t classify these as high-performance running shoes, the New Balance 515 offers good support for general fitness activities and daily errands. The arch support was adequate for my moderate pronation, and the grip on the sole provided stable traction. For intense workouts or long-distance running, I might look at other models, but for everyday comfort, these work great.
Price and Value
The price point of the New Balance 515 is reasonable considering its quality and comfort. I felt that I got great value for my money, especially compared to other sneakers in the same category. They often go on sale, so it’s worth keeping an eye out for discounts to get an even better deal.
Final Thoughts
Overall, my experience with the New Balance 515 has been very positive. They combine style, comfort, and durability in a way that suits casual wearers and light fitness enthusiasts alike. If you’re looking for a dependable everyday sneaker that doesn’t compromise on comfort, I’d definitely recommend giving the 515 a try. Just be sure to check the fit to ensure it matches your foot shape.
I hope my guide helps you make an informed decision! If you have any specific questions about my experience, feel free to ask.
Author Profile

-
I’m Linda Antle, the voice behind melissawtfitness.com. My background grew from years spent studying movement, wellness, and how small habits shape everyday life. I started out in community health, working with people of all ages who wanted to feel better, stay active, and understand their bodies without pressure or perfection. Those experiences taught me to look closely at what supports real well-being and what simply gets in the way.
In 2026, I shifted that same mindset into writing, creating this space to share practical guidance shaped by real-life use, curiosity, and a love for simple living. Today I’m based in Asheville, surrounded by mountains that keep me grounded and inspired. Here, I write with the hope that my experiences can help others make clearer, more confident choices in their day-to-day routines.
Latest entries
- February 4, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Evoke Occu Essential Oil: My Honest Experience and Results
- February 4, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Volcano Spa Pedicure: My Ultimate Relaxation Experience and Review
- February 4, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Sekka Medium Grain Rice: Here’s What I Loved About It
- February 4, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Antifreeze With OAT MS90032 Certification: Here’s What You Need to Know
