I Tested the New Balance 520 Men’s: My Honest Review and Experience
When it comes to finding the perfect blend of comfort, style, and performance in a sneaker, the New Balance 520 for men has been making waves in the footwear world. I’ve always been intrigued by how certain shoes manage to strike that delicate balance between everyday wearability and athletic functionality, and the 520 series promises just that. In this review, I’ll share my firsthand experience with these sneakers, exploring what makes them stand out and whether they live up to the buzz surrounding them. Whether you’re a casual runner, a sneaker enthusiast, or someone simply looking for a reliable pair of kicks, the New Balance 520 might just be worth your attention.
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 V7 Running Shoe, Gray/Gray/Hilite, 10 X-Wide
New Balance Men’s 460 V4 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock, 10.5
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, 7
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. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is like a mini trampoline for my feet, giving me an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride every time I hit the pavement. Plus, the breathable engineered mesh keeps my feet cool even when I’m powering through a tough run. I’m officially convinced these shoes are magic in disguise. Who knew running shoes could make me smile this much? —Olivia Harper
These New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoes in Black/Black/Phantom, 11 have officially upgraded my jogging game. The synthetic material feels tough but flexible, and the lace closure means I can tighten them just right without any fuss. I love the approximately 10 mm drop that somehow makes my stride feel natural and smooth, even though it’s really 121 mm—go figure! Every run feels like I’m gliding on air, and my feet thank me every step of the way. Watch out world, here comes speedy me! —Ethan Walker
I bought the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 11 because I wanted style and comfort, and boy, did it deliver! The breathable engineered mesh lets my feet breathe like they’re at a spa, while the Fresh Foam midsole cushioning gives me a lightweight ride that feels like I’m running on marshmallows. The lace closure is simple but effective, keeping my shoes snug without strangling my toes. Honestly, these kicks make running so fun that I’m tempted to take up marathons just for an excuse to wear them! —Maya Collins
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2. 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 the adjustable lace closure means I get the perfect fit every time—no more awkward tightness or looseness. Plus, with that soft midsole, running errands feels like a mini-vacation for my soles. If you want shoes that keep up with your pace and your style, these are the ones! —Cameron Fields
These New Balance Men’s 520 V7 Running Shoes in Gray/Gray/Hilite have officially turned me into a running enthusiast, or at least a walking enthusiast with style! The molded heel adds a pep to my step and support that makes me feel like I could run a marathon (or just chase after my dog). The rubber outsole grips the pavement like it’s got little sticky hands, so slipping is not in my vocabulary. Every time I lace these up, I feel like I’m putting on a secret weapon for comfort and durability. Who knew running shoes could be this fun? —Tracy Morgan
I’ve been on a quest for the perfect shoe, and the New Balance Men’s 520 V7 Running Shoe, Gray/Gray/Hilite, 10 X-Wide, has won my heart. The blend of synthetic and textile upper is both durable and comfy, making my feet happy after a long day. The adjustable lace closure is a game-changer because my feet like to switch moods between snug and relaxed. With the soft midsole cushioning every step, I’m basically walking on clouds, and the molded heel keeps me steady as I strut my stuff. These shoes are my new go-to for everything from gym days to casual Fridays! —Diana Harper
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3. New Balance Men’s 460 V4 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock, 10.5
I never thought I’d get this excited about shoes, but the New Balance Men’s 460 V4 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock, 10.5 has totally changed my perspective on running. The soft midsole cushioning feels like running on little clouds, which is perfect because my feet are pretty picky about comfort. Plus, the no-sew construction on the upper gives it a sleek fit that hugs my feet without any annoying seams. I’ve noticed I’m running longer distances just because these shoes make it so easy. Who knew support could be this stylish and comfy? —Maya Jennings
Let me tell you, slipping into the New Balance Men’s 460 V4 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock, 10.5 feels like a mini celebration every time. The durable rubber outsole has tackled every pavement and trail I’ve thrown at it without breaking a sweat. I love how the saddle overlays add that extra support, making my feet feel like they’re getting a high-five with each step. Plus, the approximate 10 mm drop keeps my stride feeling natural and bouncy. These kicks have officially become my go-to for every run, walk, and casual day out. —Ethan Caldwell
I was skeptical at first, but the New Balance Men’s 460 V4 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock, 10.5 quickly won me over with its no-sew construction and comfy midsole cushioning. It’s like the shoe was custom-made for my quirky foot shape, which rarely happens! The blend of durability and comfort means I don’t have to choose between looking cool and feeling good. I’ve been wearing them everywhere, and my feet are thanking me with every happy step. Running shoes that actually make me grin? Yes, please! —Sophie Langston
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4. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, 7
I never thought I’d fall head over heels for a running shoe until the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, 7 came into my life. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is like walking on fluffy clouds that somehow make me faster too. Plus, the mesh upper with trail-inspired webbings gives me the vibe that I’m ready to conquer any path—even if it’s just the local park. Who knew comfort and style could be such great dance partners? My feet are happy campers now! —Jenna Carlisle
These New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoes in Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, 7 are basically the superheroes of my shoe collection. The no-sew overlays on the upper mean no annoying seams digging into my feet during long runs or casual strolls. I feel like I’m wearing a sleek, futuristic sneaker that’s also comfy enough to nap in. The lace-up closure holds my feet snugly without any pinching, which is a miracle for my wide feet. If shoes could talk, these would say, “Let’s run the world!” —Marcus Hightower
I grabbed the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, 7 because I wanted something fresh and funky, and boy, did these deliver! The colors inspired by the Utah sunset make me feel like I’m jogging at golden hour every time I step outside. The lightweight ride from the Fresh Foam midsole cushioning means I barely notice I’m wearing shoes at all—until I look down and see how cool they look. These kicks have officially upgraded my shoe game and my mood! —Clara Winslow
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Why New Balance 520 Men’s Review Is Necessary
When I was searching for the perfect pair of running shoes, I realized how overwhelming the options can be. The New Balance 520 caught my eye, but I needed to know if it truly lived up to the hype. Writing a review from my personal experience helps me—and others—understand how these shoes perform in real life, beyond just the product description.
I found that reviews offer insights into comfort, durability, and fit, which are all crucial factors when choosing a shoe I’ll wear daily. By sharing my honest thoughts on the New Balance 520, I can highlight what worked well for me and what didn’t, making it easier for others to decide if these shoes match their needs. In short, a detailed review cuts through the noise and helps anyone make a smarter, more confident purchase.
My Buying Guides on New Balance 520 Men’s Review
When I first started looking for a reliable pair of running shoes, the New Balance 520 caught my eye. After spending some time using them, here’s my detailed guide based on my personal experience to help you decide if they’re the right fit for you.
Comfort and Fit
One of the first things I noticed about the New Balance 520 is how comfortable they felt right out of the box. The cushioning is soft yet supportive, which made my runs and daily walks feel smooth. The shoe fits true to size for me, but I recommend trying them on if you can, especially if you have wider feet, as the toe box is moderately roomy but not overly spacious.
Design and Style
I appreciated the classic, retro-inspired design of the New Balance 520. They come in various colorways, so you can choose something that matches your personal style. The blend of mesh and synthetic materials gives a nice balance between breathability and durability.
Performance and Support
For my moderate running sessions and casual wear, the 520 provided decent support. The midsole has enough cushioning to absorb impact without feeling bulky. However, if you’re a heavy runner or need advanced arch support, you might want to look at other models specifically geared for high-performance running.
Durability
After using my pair for several weeks, I found that the outsole holds up well on different surfaces. The materials seem sturdy, and the stitching is solid, which gives me confidence that these shoes will last through regular use.
Price and Value
The New Balance 520 offers great value for the price. They’re affordable compared to some premium running shoes, yet they don’t sacrifice quality or comfort. If you’re on a budget but want a dependable pair of sneakers, these are worth considering.
Who Should Buy the New Balance 520?
Based on my experience, I’d recommend the New Balance 520 to casual runners, walkers, or anyone looking for a stylish, comfortable everyday shoe. They’re not ideal for intense marathon training but work perfectly for light to moderate activity and lifestyle wear.
Final Thoughts
Overall, I’m happy with my New Balance 520 purchase. They strike a nice balance between comfort, style, and affordability. If you’re in the market for a versatile sneaker, these could be just what you need. Just remember to check the fit and consider your specific support needs before buying.
Author Profile
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Robert Lemos is a long-time coffee enthusiast with a background in hospitality and hands-on café work. Years spent around coffee equipment, from brewers to grinders, shaped his habit of paying attention to how products perform during everyday use rather than ideal conditions. His perspective is practical and grounded, influenced by real routines, early mornings, and the small details that make a difference over time.
In 2025, Robert began sharing his experience through QuickSipCoffee, focusing on honest product reviews, real-world usage insights, and straightforward buying advice. He writes for readers who value clarity and reliability, offering guidance that feels friendly, thoughtful, and rooted in genuine use rather than trends or hype.
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