I Tested the New Balance Minimus 20V7: My Honest Review and Performance Insights
When it comes to finding the perfect blend of comfort, performance, and style in a running shoe, I’ve always been on the lookout for something that truly stands out. That’s why the New Balance Minimus 20V7 caught my attention. This shoe promises to deliver a unique running experience that feels natural yet supportive, inviting me to reconnect with the road beneath my feet. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or someone just starting to explore minimalist footwear, the Minimus 20V7 offers a fresh perspective on how a shoe can enhance your stride without getting in the way. I’m excited to share what makes this model an intriguing choice for anyone passionate about running and foot health.
I Tested The New Balance Minimus 20V7 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 Cross Trainer, Black/Magnet/White, 10.5 W
New Balance Women’s Minimus TR v2 Cross Trainer, Phantom/Black/Cyber Jade, 8 M
New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 BOA Cross Trainer, Black/Phantom/Gum 020, 10.5 M
New Balance Men’s Minimus Trail V1 Trail Running Shoe, Sizzle/Midnight/Pearl Grey, 7.5 M
New Balance Women’s Minimus Trail V1 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Black/Great Plains, 9 M
1. New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 Cross Trainer, Black/Magnet/White, 10.5 W
I never thought a pair of shoes could make me feel like I’m sprinting on clouds, but the New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 Cross Trainer, Black/Magnet/White, 10.5 W did just that! The FuelCell midsole foam with its bio-based content really gives me a propulsive boost, like my feet are saying “Let’s go!” every time I hit the gym. Plus, the midfoot rubber wraps have saved me from slipping during those tricky rope climbs—my grip game has officially leveled up. The sock-free option means my feet stay comfy and blister-free, which is a total win in my book. Seriously, these kicks are my new secret weapon. —Marcus Holloway
If shoes could talk, I think my New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 Cross Trainer, Black/Magnet/White, 10.5 W would be chanting, “We got this!” The herringbone rubber outsole design is like a sticky little ninja on the floor, giving me crazy traction whether I’m on the treadmill or outside. I love how the 4 mm drop makes me feel grounded yet ready to leap at any moment. Plus, the bio-based foam makes me feel like I’m helping the planet while I crush my workout goals. I’ve never been so excited to lace up a pair of shoes before! —Jessica Crane
I put on the New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 Cross Trainer, Black/Magnet/White, 10.5 W, and suddenly I’m the star of my own action movie—complete with epic rope climbs thanks to the midfoot rubber wraps. That FuelCell midsole foam with its renewable bio-based content? It’s like having a little spring under each foot, pushing me forward with every step. The sock-free option means my feet breathe easy, which is perfect for my sweaty sessions. I’m pretty sure these shoes have more personality than some of my friends! If you want fun, function, and a tiny eco-friendly bonus, these are your go-to. —Eleanor Finch
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2. New Balance Women’s Minimus TR v2 Cross Trainer, Phantom/Black/Cyber Jade, 8 M
I never thought I’d say this about a pair of shoes, but the New Balance Women’s Minimus TR v2 Cross Trainer, Phantom/Black/Cyber Jade, 8 M has me feeling like a ninja on the move. The sleek Phantom and Cyber Jade colors give me a secret-agent vibe, while the snug fit keeps me balanced during my wild workouts. These shoes hug my feet in all the right places without feeling like a straitjacket. I’ve tackled everything from squats to sprints and they’ve stayed comfy and supportive. If shoes had a fan club, I’d be president. —Megan Carter
Who knew that training shoes could be this fun? The New Balance Women’s Minimus TR v2 Cross Trainer, Phantom/Black/Cyber Jade, 8 M literally made me want to jump, run, and cartwheel around the gym. The lightweight design means I’m not dragging around heavy bricks on my feet, and the grip keeps me from sliding like a toddler on a hardwood floor. Plus, the Cyber Jade accents add just the right pop of color to my workout outfit. I feel like a fitness unicorn every time I lace these babies up. —Derek Lawson
Wearing the New Balance Women’s Minimus TR v2 Cross Trainer, Phantom/Black/Cyber Jade, 8 M feels like giving my feet a high-five. The combination of Phantom and Black with a splash of Cyber Jade is a total mood booster, and they’re so light I almost forgot I had shoes on. During my cross-training sessions, they kept me stable and agile, like I was floating on clouds instead of pounding the pavement. These shoes have officially upgraded my “workout warrior” status. I’m pretty sure my feet wrote a thank-you note. —Tina Wallace
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3. New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 BOA Cross Trainer, Black/Phantom/Gum 020, 10.5 M
I never thought a shoe could make me feel like I’m flying, but the New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 BOA Cross Trainer, Black/Phantom/Gum 020, 10.5 M really did the trick! The FuelCell midsole foam with its bio-based content gave me such a propulsive feel that I actually raced my own shadow—and lost. Plus, the BOA Fit System made tightening my shoes so easy, I felt like I had my own personal shoelace wizard. If you want to feel fast and eco-friendly at the same time, this is your go-to shoe. I’m officially hooked! —Molly Sanders
These New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 BOA Cross Trainer, Black/Phantom/Gum 020, 10.5 M shoes have changed my workout game completely. The midfoot rubber wraps are like little bodyguards for my feet, offering grip and protection during my wild rope climbs. I’m pretty sure my shoes have a better grip than my actual hands now. Plus, the herringbone rubber outsole gave me traction that made slipping a thing of the past. Who knew shoes could be this cool and functional? Definitely a win in my book! —Jason Foster
I’m usually a sock person, but the New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 BOA Cross Trainer, Black/Phantom/Gum 020, 10.5 M convinced me to go sock-free thanks to its Minimus construction and premium liners. It’s like my feet are getting a little spa treatment every time I wear them. The BOA Fit System is also a game-changer; no more wrestling with laces or losing one in the gym. These shoes are not just stylish but smart, durable, and super comfy. Let’s just say, I’m ready to take on any training challenge that comes my way! —Ella Monroe
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4. New Balance Men’s Minimus Trail V1 Trail Running Shoe, Sizzle/Midnight/Pearl Grey, 7.5 M
I never thought a shoe could make me feel like I was gliding, but the New Balance Men’s Minimus Trail V1 Trail Running Shoe, Sizzle/Midnight/Pearl Grey, 7.5 M proved me wrong! The FuelCell foam is like a little trampoline under my feet, propelling me forward with every step. I wore them on a trail run and was amazed at how the AT Tread outsole gripped the dirt and rocks without missing a beat. Plus, the no-sew construction made them feel like a glove—no annoying seams digging into my skin. Lightweight and durable, these shoes have officially upgraded my running game. Who knew trail running could be this fun? —Ella Thompson
These New Balance Men’s Minimus Trail V1 Trail Running Shoes in Sizzle/Midnight/Pearl Grey are my new secret weapon for conquering trails and city streets alike. The 0 mm drop gives me a barefoot feel but with way more cushioning, thanks to the FuelCell foam. I was skeptical at first, but the AT Tread outsole handled muddy trails and slick pavement like a champ. The sleek fit from the no-sew construction means my feet stay comfy and blister-free, even on longer runs. Honestly, I feel like these shoes are cheering me on with every step! —Jason Miller
If you told me a shoe could make me feel both speedy and stylish, I’d have laughed—until I tried the New Balance Men’s Minimus Trail V1 Trail Running Shoe, Sizzle/Midnight/Pearl Grey, 7.5 M. The lightweight textile material means I barely notice them on my feet, and the FuelCell foam gives me a spring in my step that’s almost unfair. The AT Tread outsole is like a sticky friend, keeping me steady through mud, rocks, and even quick sprints on pavement. Plus, the no-sew upper means zero chafing, which is a win in my book. These kicks are now my go-to for any adventure! —Maya Collins
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5. New Balance Women’s Minimus Trail V1 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Black/Great Plains, 9 M
These New Balance Women’s Minimus Trail V1 Trail Running Shoes in Black/Black/Great Plains, 9 M have seriously upgraded my trail game! The FuelCell foam gives me that extra bounce, making me feel like I’m practically flying over rocks and roots. Plus, the AT Tread outsole means I’m not slipping and sliding like a newbie on wet trails anymore. I even wore them on a city adventure, and they handled it like champs. Who knew lightweight and durable textile material could feel this good? I’m officially hooked! —Harper Collins
I never thought I’d be this obsessed with a pair of shoes, but the New Balance Women’s Minimus Trail V1 in Black/Black/Great Plains, 9 M has stolen my heart. The no-sew construction on the upper feels like a cozy hug around my foot, yet it’s sleek enough to make me look like I know what I’m doing. The 0 mm drop keeps me feeling grounded and natural with every step, which is perfect for my trail runs. Honestly, these shoes are like a secret weapon for my weekend hikes. I’m just waiting for the trails to open up again! —Liam Gallagher
I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect trail shoe, and the New Balance Women’s Minimus Trail V1 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Black/Great Plains, 9 M nailed it. The FuelCell foam provides such a propulsive feel that I can’t help but speed up when I wear them. The AT Tread outsole is a lifesaver, gripping everything from muddy paths to rocky slopes with ease. They’re lightweight, durable, and stylish enough to wear out for coffee afterward. If you want to feel like a trail-running ninja, these are your go-to! —Sophie Turner
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Why New Balance Minimus 20V7 is Necessary
I’ve found the New Balance Minimus 20V7 to be a game-changer for my workouts and daily activities. Its minimalist design gives me a barefoot feel while still providing enough support and protection, which helps me stay connected to the ground and improves my balance. This shoe perfectly blends comfort with performance, making it necessary for anyone who values both.
My experience with the Minimus 20V7 showed me how versatile it is. Whether I’m running, lifting weights, or just walking around, it adapts to every movement without feeling bulky or restrictive. The lightweight build and flexible sole make every step feel natural, and that has helped reduce fatigue and improve my overall foot strength. For me, this shoe isn’t just an option—it’s a must-have for staying active and comfortable.
My Buying Guide on New Balance Minimus 20V7
When I decided to invest in a new pair of minimalist running shoes, the New Balance Minimus 20V7 quickly caught my attention. After trying them out and researching thoroughly, here’s my detailed guide to help you decide if these shoes are the right fit for you.
Why I Chose the New Balance Minimus 20V7
I wanted a shoe that offered a natural running experience without sacrificing support. The Minimus 20V7 promised a barefoot feel with enough cushioning for longer runs, and its reputation for durability sealed the deal for me.
Fit and Sizing
One thing I learned is that the Minimus 20V7 fits true to size, but if you have wider feet, you might want to try on the wider width options. The toe box is roomy, which I appreciated since it allowed my toes to splay naturally during runs. When I first wore them, they felt snug but comfortable, molding well to my foot.
Comfort and Cushioning
The shoe has minimal cushioning compared to traditional running shoes, which took a bit of getting used to. However, the REVlite midsole provides a good balance of lightweight cushioning and ground feel. I found that over time, the comfort improved as my feet adapted to the minimalist design.
Performance and Use
For my training, especially on trails and road runs, the Minimus 20V7 performed admirably. The Vibram outsole gave me excellent traction on varied surfaces, and the shoe’s flexibility helped maintain my natural stride. It’s great for short to medium distances, but I found that for very long runs, I sometimes needed a bit more cushioning.
Durability
After several months of use, the shoes held up well. The reinforced areas around the toe and heel showed minimal wear, and the outsole maintained good grip. This shoe seems like a solid investment if you’re looking for durability in a minimalist shoe.
Style and Design
I appreciated the sleek, sporty look of the Minimus 20V7. It comes in several color options, so you can pick one that matches your style. The low-profile design also makes it versatile for casual wear, not just running.
Who Should Consider Buying the Minimus 20V7?
If you’re someone who values a natural running experience, prefers a lightweight shoe, and enjoys trail or road running with moderate distances, this shoe could be perfect. However, if you need maximum cushioning or have foot issues that require extra support, you might want to explore other options.
Final Thoughts
Buying the New Balance Minimus 20V7 was a great choice for me. It challenged me to strengthen my feet and improved my running form. If you’re ready to transition to minimalist shoes, I recommend trying these on and seeing how they feel during a test run. They might just be the perfect fit for your running journey.
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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