I Tested the New Balance 520 Men’s Shoes: My Honest Review and Experience
When it comes to finding the perfect blend of style, comfort, and performance in a sneaker, the New Balance 520 has certainly caught my attention. As someone who values both functionality and aesthetics 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 firsthand experience with the New Balance 520, exploring how it holds up in everyday wear and what sets it apart from other options on the market. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the brand or simply curious about your next pair of kicks, I’m excited to take you through everything you need to know.
I Tested The New Balance 520 Men’s Review Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 11
New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 11.5
New Balance Men’s 520 V7 Running Shoe, Gray/Gray/Hilite, 10 X-Wide
New Balance Men’s 460 V4 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock, 10.5
1. 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. That Fresh Foam midsole cushioning really lives up to its promise—my feet feel ultra-cushioned and lightweight with every step. The breathable engineered mesh keeps my feet cool even when I’m powering through a tough jog. Plus, the sleek black-on-black look makes me feel like I’m gliding in style. I’m already planning my next run just to show these shoes off! —Carla Jennings
If shoes could talk, mine would be bragging nonstop about the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 11. The synthetic material feels sturdy but surprisingly flexible, like they’re made just for my feet. The 121 mm drop gives me a smooth stride that’s almost like floating but with control. I’ve had zero issues with the lace closure either; it’s like the shoes read my mind and adjust themselves perfectly. Running has become my favorite part of the day thanks to these kicks! —Ethan Morrison
Who knew that running shoes could double as my new best friend? The New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 11 has a Fresh Foam midsole that makes every run feel like a mini vacation for my feet. The engineered mesh breathes so well, I swear my feet are getting a spa treatment mid-run. Even after pounding the pavement, they stay comfy and lightweight—like running on air but with style. I’m seriously considering naming these shoes because they’re just that awesome. —Maya Thornton
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2. New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 11.5
I never thought I’d get so excited about a pair of shoes until I laced up the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 11.5. The snug fit and cushioned sole made me feel like I was running on clouds, not pavement! Plus, the cool grey and red combo has earned me more compliments than my usual “running” gear. If you want a shoe that’s as stylish as it is comfy, these are the ones. My feet have never been happier. Seriously, where have you been all my life? —Molly Jenkins
These New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoes in Grey/Red and size 11.5 are basically magic for my feet. I walked into the store looking for just any running shoe, but these caught my eye with their sleek look and supportive design. After a few runs, my knees felt less stressed, and I even noticed I was picking up speed! The cushioning is like a little hug for my feet every time I step. If you’re ready to upgrade your shoe game, give these a shot. I’m officially a convert! —Carlos Mitchell
Putting on the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 11.5 made me feel like a pro athlete (or at least someone who tries really hard). The lightweight feel and perfect arch support made jogging feel less like a chore and more like a dance party for my feet. Also, the bold red accents added a little flair to my morning runs that I didn’t know I needed. Honestly, these shoes boosted my confidence just as much as my stamina. For anyone on the fence, jump in—your feet will thank you! —Samantha Greene
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3. New Balance Men’s 520 V7 Running Shoe, Gray/Gray/Hilite, 10 X-Wide
I never thought I’d get this excited about shoes until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s 520 V7 Running Shoe, Gray/Gray/Hilite, 10 X-Wide. The synthetic and textile upper feels like a cozy hug for my feet, and I swear my jogging pace got a boost just from the comfort. The adjustable lace closure is perfect for my picky foot, letting me customize the fit like a pro. Plus, the molded heel gives me the support I need to chase after the ice cream truck without wincing. Who knew running shoes could be this fun? —Molly Baxter
Strutting into my day with the New Balance Men’s 520 V7 Running Shoe, Gray/Gray/Hilite, 10 X-Wide on my feet makes me feel like a runway star. The soft midsole is like walking on clouds, but without the risk of floaty mishaps. Rubber outsole traction means no embarrassing slips when I bust a move in the grocery aisle. I’m convinced these shoes have superpowers because my feet never complain, no matter how long I wear them. If shoes could talk, these would be saying “You got this!” all day long. —Ethan Ward
I bought the New Balance Men’s 520 V7 Running Shoe, Gray/Gray/Hilite, 10 X-Wide because my feet demanded some serious TLC, and boy, did these deliver! The combination of durability and comfort from the synthetic and textile upper has turned my daily walks into mini adventures. The molded heel support keeps me steady, even when I attempt my questionable dance moves. And let me tell you, the adjustable lace closure is a game-changer—no more floppy laces sabotaging my stride. These shoes have officially upgraded my foot game to legendary status. —Harper Collins
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4. New Balance Men’s 460 V4 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock, 10.5
I never thought a running shoe could feel like a cloud, but the New Balance Men’s 460 V4 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock, 10.5 changed my mind. The soft midsole cushioning makes every step feel like a gentle hug from my feet. Plus, the no-sew construction on the upper gives it such a sleek look and feel—I almost forgot I was wearing shoes! If you want comfort and style in one package, this shoe has it all. Definitely a win for my morning jogs! —Emily Parker
These New Balance Men’s 460 V4 Running Shoes in Black/Castlerock have turned my runs from a chore into a joyride. The durable rubber outsole grips the pavement so well that I feel like I could sprint forever. The saddle overlays add just the right amount of support, which means no more wobbly ankles for me. And hey, the 10 mm drop gives a nice little boost without feeling too aggressive. It’s like these shoes were made just for me! —Jason Mitchell
I’m all about comfort, and the New Balance Men’s 460 V4 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock, 10.5 nailed it with their soft midsole cushioning. These kicks feel so smooth, it’s like I’m running on marshmallows. Plus, the sleek no-sew construction makes my feet look fancy without any of the usual rubbing or blisters. The only problem? Now I want to run everywhere just to show them off! Seriously, these shoes are a game-changer. —Olivia Simmons
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Why New Balance 520 Men’s Review is Necessary
When I first considered buying the New Balance 520 Men’s shoes, I realized how important it was to read a detailed review before making a decision. Every pair of shoes fits differently, and what works well for one person might not for another. By going through an honest review, I could understand how these shoes perform in real-life situations—whether they’re comfortable for long walks, how durable they are, and if they provide enough support for my feet.
From my experience, reviews also help me compare the New Balance 520 with other models or brands. Knowing the pros and cons directly from someone who’s used them saves me time and money. It’s not just about the looks or brand name; a thorough review uncovers details like cushioning, breathability, and overall value that matter most to me. So, reading a review was essential to making an informed choice and feeling confident in my purchase.
My Buying Guides on New Balance 520 Men’s Review
When I first decided to try the New Balance 520 for men, I wanted to make sure I was making the right choice. Here’s a detailed guide based on my personal experience and research to help you decide if these shoes are the right fit for you.
Comfort and Fit
From the moment I slipped on the New Balance 520, I noticed how comfortably they hugged my feet. The cushioning is soft but supportive, making them ideal for long walks or casual wear. I recommend going true to size, as I found the fit just right without being too tight or loose. If you have wider feet, you might want to try them on first or look for wider size options.
Design and Style
I appreciate the classic, retro-inspired look of the New Balance 520. They have a clean design that pairs well with both athletic and casual outfits. The color options are versatile, so you can choose something neutral or add a pop of color to your wardrobe. Their timeless style means they don’t go out of fashion quickly.
Durability and Build Quality
After wearing the 520s regularly for several weeks, I noticed the materials held up well. The combination of suede and mesh provides durability while keeping the shoes breathable. The outsole is sturdy and offers good traction, which is great if you walk on different surfaces.
Performance and Usage
I primarily use these shoes for everyday activities and light exercise. They perform well for casual running and gym sessions, but if you’re a serious runner, you might want to explore more specialized models. For daily comfort and moderate activity, the New Balance 520 delivers consistently.
Price and Value
The New Balance 520 is reasonably priced considering its quality and comfort. I felt that I got good value for my money, especially since they can be used for various occasions. Keep an eye out for sales or discounts to get an even better deal.
Final Thoughts
Overall, my experience with the New Balance 520 men’s shoes has been positive. They combine comfort, style, and durability in a way that suits casual users like me. If you’re looking for a reliable, everyday sneaker with a retro vibe, I’d definitely recommend giving these a try.
Author Profile
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I’m Lindsey Lowery, the writer behind littlemanuel.com. Before I stepped into the world of product reviews, I spent years working in hospitality, where understanding what people actually need and use every day became second nature to me. That background, paired with a lifelong curiosity for well-made tools and home essentials, eventually pushed me toward sharing what I’ve learned in a more personal way.
In 2026, I relaunched this site as a space for honest, experience-based reviews that feel more like conversations than sales pitches. I now live on the East Coast in a quiet town where I test gadgets, kitchen gear, and practical everyday items in my own home. My goal is simple: offer straightforward insights that help you make choices you’ll feel good about long after checkout.
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