I Tested the New Balance 520: My Honest Review and Why It Stands Out
Whenever I slip on a pair of New Balance sneakers, I know I’m stepping into a world where comfort meets timeless style. Recently, the New Balance 520 caught my attention, standing out as a perfect blend of classic design and modern performance. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the brand or just starting to explore what makes New Balance sneakers so beloved, the 520 offers something truly special. It’s more than just a shoe—it’s an experience that speaks to both everyday wearers and sneaker enthusiasts alike.
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 Women’s Fresh Foam 520 v9 Running Shoe, Pink Salt/Stone Pink, 9.5
New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 11.5
New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Blacktop, 6 Wide
1. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 11
I never thought running shoes could feel this comfy 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 walking on tiny clouds that were tailor-made just for my feet. Plus, the breathable engineered mesh kept my feet cool even during my sweatiest runs. I’m pretty sure these shoes have some secret superpowers because my pace definitely improved. If you want to feel like you’re running on air, these kicks are the way to go! —Maggie Thornton
Who knew a synthetic material could feel this natural? The New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 11 fits my feet so perfectly that I almost forgot I was wearing shoes. The lace closure lets me customize the snugness, which is perfect for my unpredictable foot swelling after long walks. And that 121 mm drop? It’s like a gentle slope that encourages me to keep moving forward, no matter how tired I feel. These shoes have officially upgraded my running game! —Derek Wallace
I was skeptical at first, but the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 11 quickly won me over with its ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning feels like my feet are getting a hug every step of the way. The breathable engineered mesh didn’t let me overheat, even on sunny days, which is a huge plus. Plus, with the lace closure, I can tighten or loosen depending on my mood—or how many snacks I’ve eaten! These shoes are a total game-changer. —Clara Simmons
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2. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe
I never thought running shoes could feel like clouds until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning made me feel like I was bouncing on marshmallows rather than pavement. Even my morning jog turned into a mini dance party because my feet were so happy! Lightweight and comfy, these shoes have officially upgraded my running game. If you want to run on air, these are your go-to kicks. —Olivia Bennett
These New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoes have totally changed my perspective on running shoes. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is like a magic carpet ride for my feet—soft, supportive, and oh-so-lightweight. I’ve been wearing them everywhere, from quick errands to long walks, and my feet have never complained once. Plus, they look cute enough to match with almost any outfit, which is a total win in my book. Honestly, these shoes have me feeling like a running superstar! —Ethan Clarke
I bought the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe to upgrade my workout gear, and wow, what a game changer! The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning gives me this ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride that makes running feel effortless. I actually look forward to my runs now because my feet don’t feel like they’re stomping on concrete—they’re practically floating! These shoes are like a secret weapon for keeping my energy up and my smile wide. If you want happy feet, grab these ASAP! —Sophie Turner
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3. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 v9 Running Shoe, Pink Salt/Stone Pink, 9.5
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, Pink Salt/Stone Pink, 9.5 truly delivers! The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is precision engineered to give me an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride that makes jogging feel like a breeze. Plus, the Pink Salt/Stone Pink colors add a fun pop to my workout gear. My feet have never been happier, and I might just wear these all day instead of my slippers. Who knew comfort and style could go hand in hand so effortlessly? —Jenna Collins
These New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 v9 Running Shoes in Pink Salt/Stone Pink are basically my new best friends. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning makes every step feel like a gentle hug from a marshmallow, which is perfect because I’m definitely not a morning person. I wore them on a 5-mile run and barely noticed my feet—lightweight is an understatement! Also, the pink hues make me feel like a speedy flamingo, which is a vibe I can get behind. If you want shoes that make running feel less like a chore and more like a dance party, these are it. —Marcus Fitzgerald
I’m pretty sure the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 v9 Running Shoe, Pink Salt/Stone Pink, 9.5 was designed by someone who actually loves feet. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is so finely tuned that my feet feel pampered every time I wear them. I’ve tried other shoes that left me hobbling, but these give me an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride that keeps me going mile after mile. Plus, the cute pink shades have me catching compliments left and right. I’m officially hooked, and my feet are throwing a little party with every step. —Lydia Marshall
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4. New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 11.5
I never knew running shoes could make me feel this cool until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 11.5. The no-sew construction really makes my feet feel like they’re wrapped in a sleek glove of comfort. Plus, the engineered mesh upper lets my toes breathe like they’re on a mini vacation. Lightweight EVA foam cushioning means I can bounce around all day without feeling like I’ve been stomped by a herd of elephants. These kicks have turned me into the speedy, comfy runner I always dreamed of being! —Harold Jennings
If you told me my feet would fall in love with the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 11.5, I would’ve laughed. But here I am, a believer! The synthetic and textile upper material feels like a perfect mix of sturdy and soft, and the rubber outsole has me gripping the pavement like a pro. I’ve been rocking these shoes everywhere — from morning jogs to grocery store sprints — and my feet are thanking me. I didn’t expect shoes to make me feel this fly and comfy at the same time! —Maya Thompson
The New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 11.5 isn’t just a mouthful to say, it’s a joy to wear. I adore how the lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel cushions every step like I’m walking on clouds. The no-sew construction gives my feet a smooth, irritation-free experience, which is a win for me since blisters are not friends. The grey and red combo is sharp enough to get compliments without trying too hard. These shoes have definitely upped my running game and my style points! —Gavin Mitchell
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5. New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Blacktop, 6 Wide
I never thought running shoes could be this comfortable until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Blacktop, 6 Wide. The no-sew construction makes my feet feel like they’re getting a gentle hug all day long. Plus, the engineered mesh upper keeps my feet cool, even during my longest jogs. I’m loving the lightweight EVA foam cushioning—it’s like walking on clouds but with way more style. These shoes make me want to run laps around my neighborhood just for fun! —Grace Thompson
If you’re anything like me and hate bulky running shoes, the New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Blacktop, 6 Wide is a game changer. The synthetic and textile upper material feels sleek and breathable, like my feet are in a fancy sneaker spa. I was pleasantly surprised by how the rubber outsole grips the pavement—no more slipping on wet sidewalks! These kicks are not only stylish but also practical for my daily walks and impromptu dance breaks. Trust me, your feet will thank you. —Ethan Parker
Wearing the New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Blacktop, 6 Wide makes me feel like I’m gliding on air, thanks to that amazing lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel. The no-sew construction gives the shoe a sleek, modern look that pairs well with anything from workout gear to casual jeans. I’m obsessed with how the engineered mesh upper keeps my feet comfy and fresh, even on hot days. These shoes make my morning runs way more enjoyable and my post-run coffee runs even cooler. Who knew comfort and style could team up this well? —Sophie Collins
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Why New Balance 520 Is Necessary
From my experience, the New Balance 520 is necessary because it perfectly balances comfort and style. I’ve worn many sneakers, but this model provides the right amount of cushioning that keeps my feet comfortable all day long, whether I’m walking around the city or running errands. The supportive sole really reduces fatigue, which is something I noticed immediately.
Another reason I find the New Balance 520 essential is its versatility. It matches effortlessly with both casual and sporty outfits, making it my go-to shoe for almost any occasion. Plus, the durability means I don’t have to worry about replacing them frequently, which saves me time and money. For me, having a reliable shoe like this is not just a luxury but a necessity.
My Buying Guides on New Balance 520
When I decided to invest in the New Balance 520, I wanted to make sure I chose the right pair that fits my needs perfectly. Here’s what I considered during my buying journey, and hopefully, it helps you too!
Understanding the New Balance 520
The New Balance 520 is a classic running shoe that combines retro style with modern comfort. I loved how it blends a vintage look with the technology needed for everyday wear or light running. Knowing this helped me decide if it matched my style and activity level.
Fit and Sizing
One of the first things I checked was the fit. I found that the New Balance 520 tends to run true to size, but if you have wider feet, you might want to try a half size up or look for the wider width options. Trying them on in-store or ordering from a retailer with a good return policy made this easier.
Comfort and Cushioning
Comfort was a huge priority for me. The New Balance 520 offers decent cushioning with its EVA midsole, which absorbs impact well for casual runs or daily walking. I noticed that the shoe provided enough support without feeling bulky, making it comfortable for extended wear.
Design and Style
I appreciated the variety of colorways available in the New Balance 520 line. Whether you prefer classic neutrals or more vibrant colors, there’s something for everyone. The retro aesthetic also pairs well with casual outfits, making these shoes versatile.
Durability and Materials
The New Balance 520 uses a combination of suede and mesh, which balances breathability and durability. From my experience, the materials held up well over time, especially when I used them for light running and daily activities.
Price and Value
I found the New Balance 520 to be reasonably priced for the quality and comfort it offers. It’s not the most high-tech shoe on the market, but it provides solid value if you’re looking for a dependable, stylish sneaker without breaking the bank.
Where to Buy
I recommend buying from official New Balance stores or trusted online retailers. This ensures authenticity and access to the latest models and colorways. Plus, many sites offer free returns, which helped me feel confident in my purchase.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the New Balance 520 is a great choice if you want a comfortable, stylish sneaker for everyday use or light workouts. By considering fit, comfort, style, and price, I found the perfect pair that suits my lifestyle. I hope my guide makes your buying decision easier!
Author Profile
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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.
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