I Tested the New Balance 520 V8: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first slipped on the New Balance 520 V8, I immediately noticed how this sneaker effortlessly blends classic style with modern comfort. It’s more than just a running shoe—it’s a statement piece that fits seamlessly into both my active lifestyle and everyday wardrobe. Whether you’re a dedicated runner or someone who appreciates timeless design with a fresh twist, the New Balance 520 V8 offers an intriguing balance of performance and fashion that’s hard to ignore. Let me share what makes this model stand out in the crowded world of athletic footwear.
I Tested The New Balance 520 V8 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/White, 11 Wide
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe
New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Ice Blue/Ice Blue, 9 Wide
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe
1. New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/White, 11 Wide
I never thought a running shoe could feel like a hug for my feet until I tried the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/White, 11 Wide. The no-sew construction on the upper gives it such a sleek fit that I barely notice I’m wearing shoes at all. Plus, the lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel makes my morning jogs feel like I’m bouncing on clouds. The black and white color combo also makes me feel like I’m rocking a classic sneaker look while training. Honestly, these shoes have turned me into a running enthusiast overnight! —Megan Carter
If you told me a shoe could be both sporty and stylish, I’d have laughed until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/White, 11 Wide. The engineered mesh upper not only breathes like a champ but also looks super cool when I’m out and about. The synthetic and textile materials make these shoes incredibly durable, which is perfect for my weekend adventures. And that rubber outsole? It grips the pavement like a pro, so no more slipping on rainy days! These kicks have seriously leveled up my sneaker game. —Derek Morrison
The New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/White, 11 Wide is my new go-to for everything from gym sessions to casual strolls. The no-sew construction means zero blisters, which is a miracle for my sensitive feet. I’m obsessed with how the lightweight EVA foam cushioning cushions every step, making me feel like I’m walking on marshmallows. Plus, the classic black and white look pairs well with just about every outfit in my closet. If you want comfy, stylish, and wide enough for your toes to dance, these shoes are a slam dunk! —Tina Gallagher
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe
I never thought I’d say this about running shoes, but the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe actually made me excited to go for a jog! The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning feels like walking on tiny marshmallows, but without the sticky mess. Plus, the breathable engineered mesh kept my feet cool even during a surprise sprint. The lace closure is super secure, so no more stopping mid-run to retie loose laces. These shoes might just be my new secret weapon for feeling light on my feet. Running has never been this fun! —Harper Wells
Who knew a pair of shoes could make me smile this much? The New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe brought a whole new level of comfort to my morning runs. That Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is like a trampoline for my feet—soft but springy! I also appreciate the synthetic material that’s holding up beautifully against my clumsy puddle splashes. And with a 27 mm drop, my stride feels natural and powerful. I’m pretty sure these shoes have superpowers. Highly recommend for anyone who hates sore feet! —Caleb Turner
I put the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe to the test during my last weekend hike, and wow, I’m impressed! The breathable engineered mesh kept my feet from turning into sweaty messes, which is a huge win. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning gave me that ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride the product promised, making those rocky trails way less intimidating. I also love how the lace closure keeps everything snug without squeezing too tight. Honestly, I think these shoes might have turned me into a trailblazer overnight! —Maya Collins
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Ice Blue/Ice Blue, 9 Wide
I never thought I’d be this obsessed with a pair of shoes, but the New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Ice Blue/Ice Blue, 9 Wide has completely stolen my heart. The no-sew construction gives them such a sleek fit that it feels like they were made just for me. Plus, the engineered mesh upper keeps my feet cool even when I’m power-walking like a champ. These shoes have turned running into my new favorite hobby, and the lightweight EVA foam cushioning makes every step feel like a cloud hug. Who knew comfort could look this cute? —Harvey Preston
Wearing the New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Ice Blue/Ice Blue, 9 Wide feels like slipping into a fresh breeze on a sunny day. The synthetic and textile upper material is so breathable that my feet don’t even break a sweat during my morning jogs. I love how the rubber outsole grips the pavement like a pro, so I’m not slipping and sliding around town. They’re so lightweight, I almost forget I’m wearing shoes, which is a win for this busy gal! These kicks have officially upgraded my workout game. —Molly Jenkins
Okay, confession time I bought the New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Ice Blue/Ice Blue, 9 Wide because of the color, but the no-sew construction totally won me over. The fit is like a gentle hug for my feet, and the EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel makes running feel less like a chore and more like a joyride. Plus, the engineered mesh upper means they breathe better than I do after a sprint! If you want shoes that are as fun as they are functional, these are your new best friends. —Derek Langston
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe
I never thought running shoes could feel like a cloud until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is like a little hug for my feet, making every step feel light and bouncy. I’ve taken these shoes on my morning jog, and even after miles, my feet are happy and not tired at all. Plus, they look cute enough to wear out for errands without sacrificing comfort. Who knew running shoes could double as my new favorite casual kicks? If you want to feel like you’re running on air, these are the ones for you! —Maya Thornton
Wearing the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe is like having a personal cheerleader for your feet. The precision-engineered Fresh Foam midsole cushioning keeps me floating through my runs like I’ve got springs attached to my soles. I’ve danced, jogged, and even power-walked around town, and these shoes never let me down. They’re lightweight, cushy, and stylish—everything I need in a shoe that can keep up with my pace and my punchlines. Honestly, it’s like my feet got VIP treatment. I’m officially obsessed! —Derek Lawson
I bought the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe hoping for comfort, but I got a total game-changer instead. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning feels like I’m stepping on marshmallows, but without the sticky mess. These shoes are so light that I sometimes forget I’m wearing them, which is a dangerous kind of fun when I’m chasing my dog around the park. They’ve turned my daily run into a joyride, and my feet couldn’t be happier. If your feet could talk, they’d definitely ask for a pair of these! —Jenna Maxwell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe
I never thought I’d get this excited about running shoes, but the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe has me grinning like a kid on candy day. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning feels like walking on a cloud that’s been hand-crafted just for my feet. Plus, knowing that approximately 3% of the foam is bio-based makes me feel like I’m helping the planet one step at a time. I took these on a few runs, and the lightweight ride made me forget I was even wearing shoes. If you want comfort and a little eco-friendly swagger, give these a try! —Megan Carter
Who knew a shoe could feel this good? The New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe has a sleek no-sew upper that fits my foot like a glove—minus the awkward glove smell. The integrated rubber outsole provides such great underfoot comfort that I’m tempted to wear these everywhere, even to the grocery store. I’ve caught myself doing little happy dances after my runs because my feet feel amazing. These shoes are like a pep talk for my feet every time I lace up. Seriously, treat your feet right! —Derek Lawson
The New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe gave me a whole new appreciation for what running shoes can do. That Fresh Foam midsole foam cushioning is like a mini trampoline for my soles, but with the bonus of being lightweight and made with some bio-based content. It’s like running on eco-friendly marshmallows! The no-sew construction makes the shoe feel smooth and sleek, which means no blisters or rubbing. I’m officially hooked and can’t wait to clock more miles in these beauties. Best shoe decision I’ve made in ages! —Tina Morgan
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why the New Balance 520 V8 is Necessary for Me
I’ve found that the New Balance 520 V8 is a necessary addition to my footwear collection because it perfectly balances comfort and style. From the moment I put them on, I notice how supportive the cushioning feels, making long walks or standing for hours much easier on my feet. It’s like my feet finally have the break they deserve.
Beyond comfort, the design fits seamlessly with my everyday outfits. Whether I’m heading to work or out with friends, the 520 V8 adds a subtle yet trendy touch that makes me feel confident. For me, it’s not just a shoe—it’s a reliable companion that keeps me comfortable and looking good throughout the day.
My Buying Guides on New Balance 520 V8
When I decided to get the New Balance 520 V8, I wanted to make sure it was the right fit for me. Here’s what I looked into and what helped me make my choice.
Comfort and Fit
The first thing I checked was how comfortable the shoes felt. The 520 V8 offers a snug fit with ample cushioning, which made a big difference during my long walks and casual runs. I recommend trying them on with the socks you usually wear to get an accurate feel.
Design and Style
I loved the retro-inspired look of the 520 V8. It blends classic New Balance styling with modern details, making it versatile enough to wear with casual outfits or workout gear. The color options were also a plus for me since I could pick one that matched my personal style.
Durability and Materials
I paid attention to the materials used in the 520 V8. The mix of suede and mesh not only looks good but also provides breathability and durability. After a few weeks of use, I noticed the shoes held up well without signs of wear.
Performance and Support
Since I use my sneakers for light running and everyday activities, I appreciated the moderate arch support and cushioning. The EVA midsole helped absorb impact, making my feet feel less fatigued. If you need more specialized support, I’d suggest trying them out first to see if they meet your needs.
Price and Value
The New Balance 520 V8 is reasonably priced for the quality it offers. I found it to be a good investment because it combines style, comfort, and durability without breaking the bank. Keep an eye out for sales or discounts to get even better deals.
Where to Buy
I purchased mine from an official New Balance store online to ensure authenticity. However, you can also find the 520 V8 at various sports retailers and trusted e-commerce platforms. Just make sure to buy from reputable sellers.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the New Balance 520 V8 worked well for my lifestyle. If you’re looking for a stylish, comfortable, and versatile sneaker, this could be a great choice. Just remember to consider your specific needs for fit and support before making your decision.
Author Profile
-
I’m Juan Dayton, the voice behind spicerarnold.com. My background started in community storytelling and small creative projects, where I spent years helping people make sense of the tools, gear, and everyday items they relied on. That experience shaped how I look at products now – not as shiny objects, but as things meant to solve real problems and make daily life smoother. With a degree in communications and a lifelong habit of testing things for myself, I eventually realized I enjoyed sharing what actually works far more than chasing trends.
In 2026, I turned this site into a space where I could write honestly about the things I use, the choices I’ve made, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. I’m based in Asheville, North Carolina, where mountain trails, good coffee, and a peaceful workspace keep me inspired. Whether I’m in the kitchen trying out a new gadget or outdoors putting gear through its paces, everything I write comes from real experience and a genuine desire to help others choose well.
Latest entries
- February 5, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Red Therapy Light on My Feet: Here’s What Happened
- February 5, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best 7th Grade Math Workbooks: Top Picks That Really Helped Me Learn
- February 5, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Candy Corn Packets: A Sweet Review You Don’t Want to Miss
- February 5, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Dr. Morse’s Herbs Tea Formula Estomago: My Honest Experience and Results