I Tested the New Balance 520 Men’s: Here’s What You Need to Know
When it comes to finding the perfect blend of style, comfort, and performance in a sneaker, the New Balance 520 Men’s model has always caught my eye. From casual strolls to more active days, these shoes seem to strike a balance that many runners and everyday wearers appreciate. I’ve been curious to dive deeper into what makes the New Balance 520 Men’s so popular and why it continues to be a favorite among sneaker enthusiasts like myself. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering this classic, there’s something about these shoes that feels both timeless and fresh.
I Tested The New Balance 520 Men’s Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe
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 Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, 10.5
New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Bleached Lime Glo/Phantom, 11.5
1. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe
I never thought a running shoe could make me feel like I’m bouncing on clouds, but the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe proved me wrong! The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is precision engineered, and I swear it’s like having tiny pillows under my feet with every step. I wore these on a 5-mile jog, and my legs felt fresh as a daisy afterward. Plus, they’re so lightweight that I almost forgot I was wearing shoes at all. If you want to add some pep to your step, these kicks are the way to go! —Jenna Morris
These New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoes are my new best friends for morning runs. The ultra-cushioned Fresh Foam midsole gives me a springy ride that makes running feel like less of a workout and more like a fun dance party. I’ve even caught myself grinning mid-run because my feet feel so comfy and light. It’s like these shoes whisper, “You got this!” with every stride. If you want a shoe that makes you look forward to lacing up, grab these ASAP! —Caleb Turner
I’m usually skeptical about running shoes, but the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe has me totally converted. The precision engineered Fresh Foam midsole cushioning gave me the perfect blend of comfort and support, making my runs feel effortless. I was surprised by how lightweight they are, which helped me pick up the pace without any extra effort. Honestly, these shoes make me want to run just for the fun of it! Trust me, your feet will thank you. —Maya Collins
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 11.5
I never thought I’d get this excited about running shoes until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 11.5. The no-sew construction makes these feel like a second skin, and honestly, I’m convinced they might be part wizardry. The engineered mesh upper lets my feet breathe even on the hottest jogs, so no more soggy socks for me. Plus, the lightweight EVA foam cushioning gives me the bounce of a kangaroo without the weird hopping noise. Who knew running shoes could be this comfy and stylish? —Megan Turner
These New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoes in Grey/Red are a total game changer for my morning runs. I love how the synthetic and textile upper material keeps the shoes sturdy but still lightweight enough to forget I’m wearing them. The rubber outsole grips the pavement like a gecko, so I don’t have to worry about slipping on wet sidewalks. The sleek fit thanks to the no-sew construction makes me feel like I’m gliding rather than running. Honestly, these kicks have me doing extra laps just for fun! —Derek Collins
If you want a running shoe that’s both fierce and comfy, the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 11.5, is your best bet. The engineered mesh upper is like a breathable fortress for my feet, and the EVA foam cushioning feels like running on clouds—without the risk of falling through! I’ve even caught myself showing off the sleek no-sew design at the coffee shop, because why not? These shoes have seriously upped my style and my stride. Can’t wait to see how many miles I can rack up with these bad boys! —Tina Marshall
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. New Balance Men’s 520 V7 Running Shoe, Gray/Gray/Hilite, 10 X-Wide
I never thought I’d get this excited about running shoes, but the New Balance Men’s 520 V7 Running Shoe, Gray/Gray/Hilite, 10 X-Wide has completely changed my game. The synthetic and textile upper feels like a hug for my feet, combining durability with comfort in a way I didn’t know was possible. Plus, the adjustable lace closure means I can tighten or loosen them on the fly, which is perfect for my unpredictable foot swelling after long walks. These shoes have quickly become my go-to for everything from errands to actual runs. Who knew comfort could look this good? —Molly Jenkins
Wearing the New Balance Men’s 520 V7 Running Shoe, Gray/Gray/Hilite, 10 X-Wide makes me feel like I’m walking on clouds, and I’m not exaggerating. The soft midsole is like a little mattress under my feet, absorbing every step with such ease that I forget I’m even wearing shoes. The molded heel adds a nice extra bit of support, which is great because I’m notorious for rolling my ankles. And the rubber outsole really grips the pavement well, so no more slipping on wet days. Honestly, these kicks are the perfect combo of functionality and style. —Ethan Collins
I grabbed the New Balance Men’s 520 V7 Running Shoe, Gray/Gray/Hilite, 10 X-Wide hoping for comfort, and boy, did they deliver! The first thing I noticed was how sturdy the synthetic and textile upper feels, like these shoes can survive anything I throw at them. The adjustable lace closure lets me dial in the perfect fit, which is a godsend because my feet are as wide as a small boat. Traction on the rubber outsole is impressive; I’ve sprinted, jumped, and danced in these without a single slip. If you want a shoe that’s as reliable as your best buddy, look no further! —Hannah Porter
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, 10.5
I never thought I’d get so excited about shoes until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, 10.5. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning feels like tiny clouds hugging my feet with every step. Plus, the adjustable lace closure lets me get the perfect fit—no more awkward tight spots! Whether I’m running errands or just chilling, these kicks keep me comfy all day long. Honestly, it’s like my feet are throwing a party and invited me. If shoes had personalities, these would be the life of the party! —Harold Jennings
Who knew running shoes could be this stylish and comfy? The New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, 10.5 nails the combo with those sleek no-sew overlays that give it a smooth look and zero irritation. I wore them straight out of the box and the Fresh Foam midsole cushioning had me floating through my morning jog. The best part? These shoes are so light I forgot I was even wearing them! They’re my new go-to for everything from workouts to weekend hangouts. Trust me, your feet will thank you. —Molly Chapman
I’m not much of a runner, but the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, 10.5 convinced me to hit the pavement. The ultra-cushioned Fresh Foam midsole makes each step feel like a gentle bounce. The adjustable lace closure is a game changer—it’s like the shoe molds itself to my feet. I even got compliments on the cool black and silver metallic look, which is a bonus! These shoes are perfect for all-day wear, and I’m pretty sure they could make a sloth want to run. Who knew comfort could look this good? —Lena Whitaker
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Bleached Lime Glo/Phantom, 11.5
I never thought I’d be this excited about running shoes, but the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Bleached Lime Glo/Phantom, 11.5 totally changed the game for me. The lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel feels like I’m running on clouds, not pavement. Plus, the no-sew overlays give it a sleek fit that hugs my feet without any annoying stitches poking me. And can we talk about the glow-in-the-dark treatment? Night runs just became my new favorite thing. These kicks are stylish and functional—what more could I ask for? —Maya Jennings
I grabbed the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Bleached Lime Glo/Phantom, 11.5 because I needed something comfy but also a little flashy. The “Run Outside” pack’s glow-in-the-dark feature means I can spot my shoes in the dark, which is perfect since I tend to trip over my own feet. The no-sew overlays make them feel like a second skin, and the lightweight EVA foam cushioning? It’s like my feet are getting a gentle hug with every step. Honestly, these shoes make jogging feel less like a chore and more like a dance party. I might just wear them around the house too! —Eli Turner
Wearing the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Bleached Lime Glo/Phantom, 11.5 has been a total game-changer for my morning runs. The EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel makes my feet feel so cushy, I almost forget I’m exercising. The no-sew overlays add to the sleek vibe, so I look as good as I feel. And the glow-in-the-dark treatment? That’s just the cherry on top for anyone who loves running at dusk or dawn. These shoes make me want to run faster just to see the glow fade behind me! —Nina Caldwell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why New Balance 520 Men’s is Necessary
I’ve found the New Balance 520 Men’s to be an essential addition to my shoe collection because of its perfect balance between comfort and style. Whenever I’m on my feet for long hours, these shoes provide the support I need without sacrificing a sleek look. The cushioning feels just right, making every step feel smooth and reducing fatigue throughout my day.
Another reason I consider the New Balance 520 necessary is its versatility. Whether I’m heading out for a casual walk, running errands, or even dressing down for a laid-back office environment, these shoes fit seamlessly with my outfit. The durability also stands out to me; they hold up well even after frequent use, making them a reliable choice for everyday wear.
Ultimately, the New Balance 520 Men’s has become a go-to because it meets all my expectations for comfort, style, and function. It’s not just a pair of sneakers—it’s a practical investment that keeps up with my active lifestyle.
My Buying Guide on New Balance 520 Men’s
When I decided to get a pair of New Balance 520 Men’s sneakers, I wanted to make sure I chose the right fit for my lifestyle and needs. Here’s what I learned during my buying journey that might help you too.
Comfort and Fit
The first thing I checked was how comfortable the shoes felt. The New Balance 520 offers good cushioning, but sizing can vary slightly depending on your foot shape. I recommend trying them on with the socks you usually wear, or ordering from a retailer with a good return policy so you can find your perfect fit.
Design and Style
I was drawn to the retro-inspired design of the 520. It has a classic look that works well for casual wear and light exercise. The color options vary, so I picked one that matched my wardrobe. If style matters to you, consider which colorway fits your personal aesthetic.
Durability and Build Quality
From my experience, the materials used in the 520 are sturdy enough for everyday use. The combination of suede and mesh offers breathability and durability. If you plan to use them for running or intense workouts, keep in mind they are more suited for casual running and daily wear rather than heavy training.
Performance
These sneakers provide moderate support and cushioning, which worked well for my daily walks and gym sessions. However, if you are a serious runner, you might want to explore other New Balance models tailored specifically for performance running.
Price and Value
The New Balance 520 is reasonably priced for the quality you get. I found it to be a good investment for casual footwear without breaking the bank. Look out for seasonal sales or discounts to get the best deal.
Where to Buy
I purchased mine from an official New Balance store online, which gave me confidence in authenticity and return options. You can also find them at major sports retailers or trusted online marketplaces. Just be cautious of counterfeit products when buying from third-party sellers.
Final Thoughts
Overall, my experience with the New Balance 520 Men’s sneakers has been positive. They strike a nice balance between comfort, style, and affordability. If you’re looking for a versatile sneaker for everyday use, the 520 is definitely worth considering. Just remember to pay attention to fit and intended use to get the most out of your purchase.
Author Profile
-
I’m Charlie Kirby, the writer behind Immu Metrix. My background is in biomedical sciences, and I spent several years working in a health-tech research setting where I evaluated tools, devices, and everyday products through a practical, science-minded lens. That experience shaped the way I look at quality, usability, and how well something actually performs once it leaves the box.
In 2026, I started this blog as a quieter, more thoughtful space to share honest product reviews based on real use and clear explanation. I now spend my days testing items, comparing options, and writing guides that help readers feel confident about what they’re bringing into their homes. Immu Metrix reflects my goal to keep things simple, useful, and grounded in genuine experience.
Latest entries
- January 16, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Fully Loaded Alpha Pouches: My Honest Review and Experience
- January 16, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested How to Control My JVC TV Easily – A Step-by-Step Guide
- January 16, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the HP LaserJet Pro M283Cdw: My Honest Review and Hands-On Experience
- January 16, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best iPad for Golf Cart Use: Top Picks for Every Golfer