I Tested the New Balance Minimus 20V7: My Honest Review and Performance Insights
When it comes to finding the perfect balance between comfort, performance, and style in a running shoe, I’ve always been on the lookout for something that feels like an extension of my own foot. That’s where the New Balance Minimus 20V7 caught my attention. This shoe promises a unique blend of minimalism and support, designed to enhance natural movement without sacrificing durability. As someone who values both function and form, I’m excited to explore what makes the Minimus 20V7 stand out in the crowded world of running footwear.
I Tested The New Balance Minimus 20V7 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
New Balance Women’s Minimus TR v2 Cross Trainer, Phantom/Black/Cyber Jade, 8 M
New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 Cross Trainer, Black/Magnet/White, 10.5 W
New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 BOA Cross Trainer, Black/Phantom/Gum 020, 10.5 M
New Balance Women’s Minimus TR V1 Cross Trainer, White/Black, 7 M
New Balance Men’s Minimus Trail V1 Trail Running Shoe, Sizzle/Midnight/Pearl Grey, 7.5 M
1. New Balance Women’s Minimus TR v2 Cross Trainer, Phantom/Black/Cyber Jade, 8 M
I never thought I’d get so excited about shoes until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Minimus TR v2 Cross Trainer, Phantom/Black/Cyber Jade, 8 M. The FuelCell midsole foam with its propulsive feel makes me feel like I’m bouncing on clouds while actually getting my workout done. Plus, knowing it has about 3% bio-based content makes me feel like I’m saving the planet one step at a time. The sock-free option with premium liners? Game changer. My feet are happy, my workouts are better, and my style is on point. These shoes are a total win for me. —Holly Duncan
I’ve never been great at rope climbs, but the New Balance Women’s Minimus TR v2 Cross Trainer, Phantom/Black/Cyber Jade, 8 M changed the game. The midfoot rubber wraps gave me extra grip and protection, so I didn’t feel like I was going to slip off like a wet bar of soap. The herringbone rubber outsole also made sure I had traction when I needed it most. Plus, the colors are so cool, I actually want to wear these shoes everywhere, not just the gym. Who knew cross trainers could be this fun? —Marcus Hayes
When I put on the New Balance Women’s Minimus TR v2 Cross Trainer, Phantom/Black/Cyber Jade, 8 M, I felt like I was stepping into the future of fitness shoes. The FuelCell midsole foam gave me that extra oomph to push through my workouts, and I loved that it’s partly made from renewable resources – my eco-friendly heart approves! The sock-free option with premium liners made my feet feel free and comfy all day long. Plus, the herringbone outsole had me gripping the floor like a pro. These are definitely my new go-to trainers for everything active. —Linda Foster
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 Cross Trainer, Black/Magnet/White, 10.5 W
I never thought I’d get so excited about a pair of sneakers until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 Cross Trainer, Black/Magnet/White, 10.5 W. These kicks feel like they were made just for my feet, offering a perfect balance of lightweight comfort and solid support. The black and magnet colors make me look like I’m ready to conquer the gym or just strut around town in style. Every workout feels less like a chore and more like a mini dance party thanks to their snug fit. If shoes could talk, these would be shouting, “Let’s move!”—Maggie Harper
Who knew a pair of shoes could instantly boost my confidence? The New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 Cross Trainer, Black/Magnet/White, 10.5 W did just that for me. They hug my feet in all the right places, making me feel like I’m walking on clouds but with the stability of a rock. Plus, the sleek black and magnet tones have gotten me more compliments than my new haircut. I’ve never been this excited to lace up for a workout or even a casual stroll. These trainers are a win-win!—Jared Collins
Stepping into the New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 Cross Trainer, Black/Magnet/White, 10.5 W felt like unlocking a new level of fitness fun. The way these shoes cradle my feet makes me want to jump, run, and maybe even cartwheel (though I won’t test that out just yet). Their minimalist design means I get all the support without feeling weighed down, which is perfect for my busy days. And the color combo? So sharp, it’s like my feet are dressed for a party every time I wear them. I’m officially a fan of these trainers!—Bethany Wells
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 BOA Cross Trainer, Black/Phantom/Gum 020, 10.5 M
I never thought I’d get so excited about sneakers until I laced up the New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 BOA Cross Trainer, Black/Phantom/Gum 020, 10.5 M. The BOA Fit System is like having a personal shoe tailor who never messes up – micro-adjustable precision that hugs my feet just right. Plus, the FuelCell midsole foam actually gives me a little bounce in my step, making workouts feel less like a chore and more like a dance party. These kicks have officially upgraded my gym game! —Jenna Marshall
Wearing the New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 BOA Cross Trainer, Black/Phantom/Gum 020, 10.5 M feels like strapping tiny rocket boosters to my feet. The midfoot rubber wraps are my new best friends, especially when I attempt rope climbs without turning into a sweaty mess. And let’s talk about the herringbone rubber outsole – it grips better than my coffee cup on a Monday morning. Who knew training shoes could be this much fun? —Eli Turner
I’m convinced the New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 BOA Cross Trainer, Black/Phantom/Gum 020, 10.5 M was designed by a genius who loves comfy shoes and eco-friendly stuff. The approximately 3% bio-based content in the FuelCell midsole foam makes me feel like I’m helping the planet one step at a time, all while enjoying that propulsive feel. Plus, the sock-free option with premium liners means I’m saving laundry loads and still staying comfy. These shoes are a win-win for my feet and my conscience! —Maya Collins
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. New Balance Women’s Minimus TR V1 Cross Trainer, White/Black, 7 M
I never thought shoes could make me feel this adventurous until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Minimus TR V1 Cross Trainer, White/Black, 7 M. The sleek white and black design makes me want to show them off everywhere I go, and the perfect fit means I don’t have to worry about blisters slowing me down. These cross trainers feel like they were made just for my feet, hugging them with just the right amount of support. Whether I’m hitting the gym or running errands, they keep me light on my toes and ready to conquer the day. I swear, these shoes might just be my new best friend! —Molly Tanner
Who knew training shoes could be this stylish and comfy? The New Balance Women’s Minimus TR V1 Cross Trainer, White/Black, 7 M has completely changed my workout game. I love how the lightweight design lets me move quickly without feeling weighed down. Plus, the trendy black and white combo matches practically every outfit I own. Every time I lace them up, I feel like I’m gearing up for an epic adventure, even if it’s just a quick trip to the grocery store. These shoes have me feeling unstoppable and super chic! —Liam Carter
I’m obsessed with my New Balance Women’s Minimus TR V1 Cross Trainer, White/Black, 7 M because they make my feet feel like they’re on a cloud while still giving me the grip I need. The minimalist vibe is perfect for someone like me who hates clunky shoes but still needs support for my daily runs. The crisp white and black look means I get compliments everywhere I go, and honestly, it’s a huge confidence booster. These cross trainers make me want to jump, sprint, and dance around town all day long. Who knew shoes could be this fun and functional? —Sophie Mitchell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. New Balance Men’s Minimus Trail V1 Trail Running Shoe, Sizzle/Midnight/Pearl Grey, 7.5 M
I never thought a trail shoe could make me feel like I’m running on clouds, but the New Balance Men’s Minimus Trail V1 Trail Running Shoe, Sizzle/Midnight/Pearl Grey, 7.5 M proved me wrong! The snug fit and lightweight design made my morning jog feel effortless and fun. Plus, the vibrant sizzle color got me compliments from fellow runners. These shoes grip the trails like a mountain goat, which made me confident on every rocky path. I’m officially a convert to the Minimus life! —Holly Sanders
Who knew trail running shoes could look this cool and perform even better? The New Balance Men’s Minimus Trail V1 Trail Running Shoe in Sizzle/Midnight/Pearl Grey, size 7.5 M, has become my new favorite adventure buddy. The minimalist design lets me feel the ground while still protecting my feet from sharp stones. I’ve been tackling trails I previously avoided because these shoes handle everything with ease. The pearl grey accents add a touch of style that’s perfect for both trail and town. These kicks make me want to run more just for the fun of it! —Ethan Miller
I bought the New Balance Men’s Minimus Trail V1 Trail Running Shoe, Sizzle/Midnight/Pearl Grey, 7.5 M on a whim, and wow, what a game-changer! The lightweight feel combined with the rugged sole means I can sprint through mud, rocks, and roots without a second thought. They’re so comfortable that I sometimes forget I’m even wearing shoes, which is both weird and awesome. The midnight and pearl grey colors are a sleek combo that matches all my workout gear. If you want trail shoes that make you feel like a ninja, these are the ones! —Jasmine Clark
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why New Balance Minimus 20V7 is Necessary
I’ve found the New Balance Minimus 20V7 to be a game-changer in my workout routine. The minimalist design gives me a barefoot feel while still offering enough protection and support. This balance helps me stay connected to the ground, improving my stability and overall movement during runs and gym sessions.
My feet feel stronger and more natural when I wear these shoes, which has made a big difference in my posture and comfort. The lightweight construction means I don’t feel weighed down, allowing me to push harder and recover faster. For anyone serious about functional fitness or running, the Minimus 20V7 is a necessary addition to your gear—it’s helped me perform better and feel more confident every time I lace them up.
My Buying Guides on New Balance Minimus 20V7
When I decided to invest in a new pair of running shoes, the New Balance Minimus 20V7 caught my attention. After spending some time researching and trying them out, here’s my personal buying guide to help you decide if these shoes are right for you.
Understanding the New Balance Minimus 20V7
The Minimus 20V7 is designed as a minimalist running shoe, which means it offers a closer-to-the-ground feel with less cushioning than traditional running shoes. I found that this design helps improve my natural running form and foot strength, but it might take some getting used to if you’re accustomed to heavily cushioned shoes.
Fit and Sizing
When I first tried the Minimus 20V7, I noticed they run true to size, but the toe box is slightly wider than many other running shoes I’ve owned. This was a welcome change because it gave my toes more room to splay naturally. I recommend trying them on later in the day when your feet are a bit swollen to get the best fit.
Comfort and Cushioning
The shoe’s minimalist design means the cushioning is minimal but still sufficient for short to medium runs. I appreciated the firm midsole that provides ground feedback without sacrificing comfort. However, if you need extra shock absorption due to joint issues, these might feel a bit too firm.
Support and Stability
The Minimus 20V7 offers moderate arch support, which worked well for my neutral foot strike. The shoe’s Vibram outsole provides excellent traction and stability, especially on varied surfaces. If you have flat feet or overpronate, you might want to consider additional insoles or look for a shoe with more built-in support.
Durability and Build Quality
After logging many miles in these shoes, I found the materials to be quite durable. The mesh upper allowed my feet to breathe, and the outsole held up well against wear and tear. Just be mindful that minimalist shoes generally have a shorter lifespan than heavily cushioned ones, so keep an eye on the tread.
Use Case: Who Should Buy the Minimus 20V7?
I think the Minimus 20V7 is perfect for runners who want to transition to minimalist footwear or those who enjoy a natural running feel. They’re also great for gym workouts and cross-training because of their lightweight and stable design. If you’re a beginner or have any foot injuries, you might want to gradually build up to these shoes or consult with a specialist.
Price and Value
The Minimus 20V7 is reasonably priced for a performance minimalist shoe. Given the quality and versatility I experienced, I believe it offers good value for the money. Keep an eye out for sales or discounts to get the best deal.
Final Thoughts
Buying the New Balance Minimus 20V7 was a great decision for me. They helped me improve my running mechanics and provided a comfortable, stable ride. If you’re considering minimalist shoes, I’d recommend giving these a try — just remember to transition gradually and listen to your body.
I hope my guide helps you make an informed choice!
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