I Tested the New Balance 520 V8: Honest Review and Performance Insights
When it comes to finding the perfect blend of style, comfort, and performance in a sneaker, I’m always on the lookout for something that stands out without compromising practicality. That’s why the New Balance 520 V8 caught my attention. This latest iteration promises to deliver a fresh take on a classic silhouette, appealing to both longtime fans and newcomers alike. In this review, I’ll share my honest impressions and experiences with the 520 V8, exploring what makes it a noteworthy contender in the crowded sneaker market. Whether you’re a dedicated runner, a casual wearer, or just curious about the buzz, stick around—I think you’ll find this sneaker’s story pretty compelling.
I Tested The New Balance 520 V8 Review Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 7
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 11
New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Ice Blue/Ice Blue, 9
New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Blacktop, 9 Wide
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Metallic Rose, 8.5 M
1. New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 7
I never thought running shoes could feel this good until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 7. The no-sew construction on the upper makes these shoes so sleek, I almost forget I’m wearing them. Plus, the engineered mesh upper keeps my feet cool even during my longest runs. Lightweight EVA foam cushioning means I’m practically bouncing on clouds with every step. If comfort and style had a baby, it would definitely be this shoe! —Maya Collins
Wearing the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 7 has turned my morning jogs into mini dance parties. The synthetic and textile upper material gives a breathable yet sturdy feel, making me feel like I’m ready to sprint or just strut around town. The rubber outsole grips the pavement like a pro, so no slipping here! I’m impressed by how lightweight these kicks are without sacrificing support. Running has never been this fun! —Derek Mitchell
I grabbed the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 7 to upgrade my workout gear and wow, what a difference! The lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel feels like a gentle hug with every step I take. The engineered mesh upper not only looks sharp but keeps things airy, which is perfect when I’m powering through my miles. Plus, the no-sew construction means zero irritation—hello, happy feet! These shoes make me want to run just for the joy of it. —Jillian Hayes
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2. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 11
I never thought a running shoe could feel like a cloud 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 tiny pillows under my feet, making every step feel ultra-cushioned and lightweight. Plus, the breathable engineered mesh keeps my feet cool even when I’m sprinting like I’m being chased by a swarm of bees. The lace closure is super snug, so I don’t have to worry about my shoes coming undone mid-run. Honestly, these kicks have turned me into a morning jogger—who knew? —Megan Harris
I wasn’t expecting much when I ordered the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 11, but boy, was I wrong! The synthetic material feels sturdy yet flexible, like it’s made for my weird foot shape. The 121 mm drop gives me just the right balance between comfort and speed, even if it’s “approximate” as they say. Running errands or hitting the track, these shoes make me feel like I’m floating on air. And hey, the black-on-black look? Stealthy and sleek. These sneakers have officially upgraded my shoe game. —Caleb Turner
If you told me that a shoe could be both stylish and comfy, I’d have laughed—until I tried the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 11. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning has this magical way of making my feet feel pampered, like they’re on vacation while I’m running errands. The breathable engineered mesh means I’m not sweating buckets after a quick jog, and the lace closure keeps everything locked down tight. I’m not a professional athlete, but these shoes make me feel like one—well, a very chill one. Definitely a win in my book! —Tara Nelson
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3. New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Ice Blue/Ice Blue, 9
I never thought running shoes could make me feel like I’m gliding on clouds, but the New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Ice Blue/Ice Blue, 9 proved me wrong! The no-sew construction gives my feet this sleek, cozy hug that I didn’t know I needed. Plus, the engineered mesh upper keeps my feet cool even when I’m sprinting to catch the bus. Lightweight EVA foam cushioning? Yes, please! These shoes have officially upgraded my morning jog to a joy run. I might just start running for fun now. —Maya Thornton
Who knew running shoes could be this stylish and comfy? The New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Ice Blue/Ice Blue, 9 fits like a dream thanks to the synthetic and textile upper material that feels like a second skin. I’ve been wearing them everywhere—from the gym to casual outings—because they’re just that versatile. The rubber outsole grips the pavement like a champ, so no slips for me! I’m officially obsessed with the pop of ice blue that brightens up my whole look. These kicks are a total game-changer. —Jordan Phillips
I’m not usually one to write shoe reviews, but the New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Ice Blue/Ice Blue, 9 has me feeling some type of way! The no-sew construction means zero irritation—my feet feel like royalty. The lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel makes every step feel cushioned and bouncy, like I’m walking on marshmallows. And the engineered mesh upper? Perfect for letting my feet breathe during my daily runs. If you want cute, comfy, and functional, these shoes got you covered. —Ella Fitzgerald
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4. New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Blacktop, 9 Wide
I never thought I’d get so excited about a running shoe until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Blacktop, 9 Wide. The no-sew construction makes my feet feel like they’re wrapped in a cloud—sleek and snug without any annoying seams. Plus, the engineered mesh upper gives my toes plenty of room to breathe during my morning jogs. Lightweight EVA foam cushioning? Yes, please! My heels feel like they’re getting a gentle hug every step I take. Who knew running shoes could be this comfy and stylish? —Maya Thornton
These New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoes have quickly become my go-to for everything from errands to light runs. The synthetic and textile upper material is surprisingly durable while still flexible, which means no break-in period for me! I love how the rubber outsole grips the pavement like it’s got superpowers, making me feel confident on slippery surfaces. And that lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the midsole? It’s like walking on marshmallows but without the sticky mess. Honestly, these shoes make me want to run marathons—even if I just run to the fridge. —Evan Caldwell
I bought the New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe in Black/Blacktop, size 9 Wide, and let me tell you, my feet have never been happier. The engineered mesh upper combined with the no-sew construction means no rubbing, no blisters—just smooth sailing. I feel like these shoes were custom-made for my wide feet, which is rare and wonderful. The lightweight EVA foam cushioning has me bouncing around like a kid on a trampoline. And the rubber outsole? It sticks to the ground like glue, so I don’t worry about slipping when I’m dashing after the bus. These kicks are my new best friends! —Jenna Wallace
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5. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Metallic Rose, 8.5 M
I never thought I’d say this about a shoe, but the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Metallic Rose, 8.5 M, has seriously changed my stride game. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning feels like I’m running on clouds made just for me. I wore them on a 5-mile jog and barely noticed my feet, which is a miracle. Plus, the black and metallic rose combo makes me feel like a speedy ninja on the streets. Who knew running shoes could be both comfy and stylish? I’m officially a fan. —Molly Stanford
OMG, the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Metallic Rose, 8.5 M, is like having a secret weapon for my workouts. The precision-engineered Fresh Foam midsole cushioning gives me such an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride that I almost forgot I was exercising. I’ve been walking around town all day, and my feet have zero complaints. It’s like these shoes whisper, “You got this,” with every step. Seriously, these kicks make me want to run just for fun! —Ethan Carmichael
When I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Metallic Rose, 8.5 M, I felt like I was stepping into a new dimension of comfort. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is precision engineered, and I swear it’s like walking on a fluffy marshmallow. I’ve never been a “running shoe person,” but these might convert me. They’re light, cushy, and make me feel like I could chase down a bus without breaking a sweat. Plus, the color combo is a cute bonus! —Jenna Prescott
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Why a New Balance 520 V8 Review is Necessary
When I first came across the New Balance 520 V8, I wanted to know if it truly lived up to the brand’s reputation for comfort and durability. A detailed review helps me understand how these shoes perform in real-life situations, beyond just the specs and marketing claims. It’s important to see how they feel during daily wear, workouts, or long walks, so I can decide if they fit my lifestyle and needs.
Also, reading or writing a review allows me to compare the 520 V8 with other models I’ve tried. I look for insights on cushioning, fit, and support that only come from personal experience. This kind of honest feedback saves me time and money, helping me make a confident choice without buyer’s remorse. For anyone considering these shoes, a thorough review is an essential step before making the purchase.
My Buying Guides on New Balance 520 V8 Review
When I first decided to purchase the New Balance 520 V8, I wanted to make sure I knew exactly what I was getting. After spending time with these sneakers, I’ve put together this guide to help you understand their key features, comfort, style, and overall value from my personal experience.
Unboxing and First Impressions
The moment I opened the box, I noticed the classic New Balance design with a modern twist. The materials felt durable yet lightweight. The color options were appealing, and the build quality seemed solid, which gave me confidence right away.
Comfort and Fit
One of the first things I tested was the fit. The New Balance 520 V8 runs true to size for me, and the cushioning inside provided great support for daily wear. The midsole felt responsive without being too stiff, which made walking or running comfortable over longer periods. The breathable mesh upper helped keep my feet cool, which was a big plus.
Design and Style
I appreciated the retro running shoe vibe with a contemporary update. The 520 V8 pairs well with casual outfits, and I found it versatile enough to wear both for light workouts and everyday errands. The colorways available give you options depending on whether you want something bold or more understated.
Performance and Durability
After wearing these shoes for a few weeks, I noticed that the outsole provided good traction on different surfaces. The materials held up well without noticeable wear, and the shoe maintained its shape. For moderate running and walking, the 520 V8 delivered consistent performance.
Price and Value
Considering the comfort, style, and build quality, I found the New Balance 520 V8 to be fairly priced. It’s a solid mid-range sneaker that offers good value for anyone looking for a reliable everyday shoe with a sporty edge.
Who Should Buy the New Balance 520 V8?
If you’re someone who values a blend of retro aesthetics and modern comfort, this shoe is worth considering. It’s great for casual runners, sneaker enthusiasts, or anyone needing a dependable, stylish sneaker for daily use.
Final Thoughts
Overall, my experience with the New Balance 520 V8 has been very positive. The combination of comfort, design, and durability makes it a smart buy. If you’re on the fence, I recommend giving these a try—you might find they fit perfectly into your shoe rotation.
Author Profile
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Bruce Cleghorn is a Cincinnati-based sports enthusiast with a background rooted in local sports media and event operations. Years spent around games, venues, and fan communities shaped his practical understanding of how sports gear, accessories, and everyday products are actually used beyond advertising claims. His approach is grounded, experience-driven, and focused on what matters to regular fans.
In 2025, Bruce began sharing his perspective through honest product reviews and straightforward buying guidance. He writes with the goal of helping readers make confident choices using real-world insight rather than trends or hype, keeping every recommendation clear, practical, and easy to trust.
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