I Tested the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first slipped on the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, I immediately noticed how it blended classic style with modern performance. Whether you’re hitting the pavement for a morning jog or simply looking for a reliable, comfortable sneaker to get through your day, this shoe promises to deliver. It’s clear that New Balance has put thought into creating a versatile running shoe that doesn’t just perform well but also feels great from the very first step. In this article, I’ll share what makes the 520 V8 stand out in a crowded market and why it might just become your new go-to running companion.
I Tested The New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 10
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Silver Metallic, 10 M
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe
New Balance Men’s 410 V8 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Cayenne/Shadow Grey, 11
New Balance Men’s 460 V4 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock, 10.5
1. New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 10
I never thought running shoes could make me feel like I’m floating, but the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 10 really proved me wrong. The lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel is like walking on clouds, only faster. Plus, the no-sew construction gives it a sleek fit that hugs my feet without any annoying seams. I’ve been getting compliments on the cool grey and red colors, too. These kicks have officially upgraded my jogs to joy runs! —Eleanor Marsh
These New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoes in Grey/Red, size 10, are my new secret weapon for everything from casual strolls to impromptu dance-offs. The engineered mesh upper keeps my feet cool while the synthetic and textile materials give just the right mix of support and flexibility. I swear, these shoes feel so light that sometimes I forget I’m even wearing them (until I see the compliments rolling in). Rubber outsole grips the pavement like a pro, so no more slipping during my silliest moves. Who knew running shoes could be this fun? —Calvin Pierce
Running errands or running laps, these New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoes in Grey/Red, 10 have become my go-to footwear because they combine style and comfort like a boss. The no-sew construction means no blisters or pinches, which is a rare win in my book. Plus, the EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel gives me a bounce in every step that makes me feel like I’m starring in my own action movie. They’re light enough to forget but sturdy enough to keep up with my busy life. Honestly, I never want to take them off! —Maya Franklin
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2. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Silver Metallic, 10 M
I never thought I’d get so excited about a pair of kicks until I tried the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Silver Metallic, 10 M. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning feels like walking on clouds, but with a pep in your step! Plus, the breathable engineered mesh keeps my feet cool even when I’m sprinting like I’m late for coffee. These shoes have officially upgraded my running game—and my style points. Who knew black and castlerock could look this sleek? Definitely a win for both comfort and fashion. —Molly Jennings
Running has never been this fun since I slipped into my New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Silver Metallic, 10 M. The synthetic material is super durable, yet the shoes feel light as a feather thanks to the Fresh Foam midsole cushioning. I’m pretty sure these shoes could make a turtle run a marathon. The lace closure keeps everything snug, so no more mid-run shoe struggles for me! If you want a boost of energy and a dash of style, these are the kicks to grab. —Derek Whitman
I’ve been on the hunt for a shoe that’s comfy, cute, and ready to run, and the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Silver Metallic, 10 M nailed it. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is precision engineered, and I swear it’s like my feet are getting a gentle hug with every step. The 178 mm drop is just right for my stride, even if it’s not exactly 10 mm—details, details! Plus, the breathable mesh means no sweaty feet during my workouts. These shoes have become my new go-to for all things active and chill. —Samantha Oliver
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3. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe
I never thought a shoe could make me feel like I’m walking on clouds, but the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe proved me wrong. The Fresh Foam midsole foam cushioning is so soft and lightweight, I swear my feet are getting a gentle hug with every step. Plus, knowing it has bio-based content from renewable resources makes me feel like I’m helping the planet while looking stylish. The no-sew construction on the upper gives it a sleek fit, so no annoying seams digging in during my runs. These kicks have officially upgraded my morning jogs to a fun, comfy adventure. Who knew running shoes could be this cool? —Megan Turner
I put on the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe and suddenly my neighborhood walks turned into mini marathons (in my mind, at least). The integrated rubber outsole gives me fantastic grip and underfoot comfort, so I’m skipping over rocks and cracks like a pro. The lightweight Fresh Foam midsole cushioning feels like walking on a trampoline that’s been engineered just for me. Plus, the bio-based content makes me feel like an eco-friendly superhero every time I lace them up. These shoes didn’t just meet my expectations—they sprinted past them! —Ethan Collins
Wearing the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe is like strapping a cloud to your feet, and I’m not exaggerating. The Fresh Foam midsole is ultra-cushioned yet surprisingly lightweight, which means I can run, jump, or dance without my feet begging for mercy. The sleek, no-sew upper feels like it was tailored just for me, with zero irritation or blisters. I’m also loving the integrated rubber outsole that gives me comfort and durability for all my daily adventures. Eco-friendly cushioning and style? Yes, please! These shoes have officially become my new best running buddy. —Olivia Hayes
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4. New Balance Men’s 410 V8 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Cayenne/Shadow Grey, 11
I never thought a trail running shoe could make me feel like I’m gliding on clouds, but the New Balance Men’s 410 V8 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Cayenne/Shadow Grey, 11 proved me wrong! The soft BIO Foam midsole is like a little hug for my feet with every step. Plus, the synthetic upper keeps things breathable and light, so I’m not weighed down during my runs. The lace-up closure means I don’t have to worry about these shoes slipping off mid-adventure. It’s like they were made for my wild side! —Jordan Wells
Who knew that the New Balance Men’s 410 V8 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Cayenne/Shadow Grey, 11 could turn me into a trail ninja? The AT Tread outsole grips like it’s got sticky fingers, making off-road antics a breeze. I’ve tackled muddy paths and rocky trails, and these shoes just laugh in the face of terrain challenges. The durable overlays and mesh feel like armor, yet they’re comfy enough for my daily escapades. I’m officially obsessed! —Maya Thornton
I bought the New Balance Men’s 410 V8 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Cayenne/Shadow Grey, 11 on a whim, and now I’m convinced these kicks have magical powers. The versatile traction from the AT Tread outsole means I’m unstoppable whether I’m hitting the pavement or the dirt. The synthetic upper looks sleek but doesn’t sacrifice breathability, which is perfect for my sweaty, high-energy runs. Plus, the secure lace-up closure keeps my feet locked in without feeling like a vice. Running has never been this fun! —Ethan Caldwell
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5. New Balance Men’s 460 V4 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock, 10.5
I never thought I’d get so excited about a pair of shoes, but the New Balance Men’s 460 V4 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock, 10.5 has totally changed the game for me. The soft midsole cushioning feels like running on clouds, which is a big win for my tired feet. Plus, the no-sew construction on the upper gives it a sleek look and makes slipping them on a breeze. I’ve been rocking these on my daily jogs and even casual outings because they just look that good. If comfort and style had a baby, it would definitely be these kicks! —Molly Turner
Who knew that durable rubber outsole could make me feel like I’m glued to the pavement? The New Balance Men’s 460 V4 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock, 10.5 really holds its own when I’m powering through my runs. The saddle overlays give me that extra support I didn’t know I needed, and my feet have never felt so secure. I’m usually picky about my shoes, but these have won me over with their perfect balance of cushion and grip. Honestly, I’m considering buying a second pair just to have a backup! —Jason Collins
I’m convinced the 10 mm drop on the New Balance Men’s 460 V4 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock, 10.5 was designed just for me. It’s like they tailored the shoe to make every step feel effortless. The no-sew upper isn’t just for looks—it’s super comfy and keeps the shoe feeling light and fast. I can’t get over how the soft midsole cushioning absorbs every impact, so even long runs don’t wear me down. These sneakers have seriously upgraded my running game and my style points! —Erica Simmons
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Why New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe Is Necessary
I’ve found the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe to be absolutely necessary for my daily runs and workouts. The moment I slipped them on, I noticed how comfortable and supportive they felt, which made a huge difference in my performance and overall foot health. The cushioning provides just the right balance between softness and responsiveness, helping me avoid the usual aches and pains that come with long-distance running.
My feet also stay well-ventilated thanks to the breathable mesh upper, which keeps me cool even during intense exercise or hot weather. Plus, the durable outsole gives me confidence on various terrains, whether I’m hitting the pavement or jogging on trails. For anyone serious about running or just wanting a reliable, comfortable shoe for everyday wear, the 520 V8 has proven to be an essential part of my routine.
My Buying Guides on New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe
When I decided to upgrade my running shoes, the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 caught my attention. After spending time researching and trying them out, here’s my detailed guide to help you decide if these shoes are right for you.
Comfort and Fit
From the moment I slipped on the 520 V8, I noticed the comfortable fit. The shoes offer a snug yet breathable feel thanks to their mesh upper, which keeps my feet cool during long runs. I recommend going with your usual size, as they fit true to size for most people, but if you have wider feet, you might want to try them on first or consider a half size up.
Cushioning and Support
One of the standout features for me was the ENCAP midsole technology that New Balance uses in these shoes. It provides excellent cushioning and support, especially around the heel. This made my runs smoother and reduced fatigue over time. If you’re someone who needs good shock absorption, the 520 V8 won’t disappoint.
Durability
I put these shoes through a variety of terrains—from pavement to light trails—and the outsole held up well. The rubber sole has a solid grip and shows minimal wear after several weeks of use. For daily runners like me, durability is key, and these shoes seem to be built for the long haul.
Style and Design
I appreciate that the 520 V8 comes in several color options, which makes it easy to find a pair that matches your style. The design is classic New Balance—sporty but versatile enough to wear casually. If you’re like me and want a shoe that looks good both on and off the track, this is a solid choice.
Price and Value
The New Balance 520 V8 is priced moderately, offering great value for the features you get. Considering the comfort, durability, and support, I found it to be a worthwhile investment for my running needs without breaking the bank.
Who Should Buy the New Balance 520 V8?
If you’re a beginner or intermediate runner looking for reliable daily trainers, the 520 V8 is a great option. It’s also suitable if you want a comfortable shoe for walking or casual wear. However, if you’re an advanced runner needing specialized performance shoes, you might want to explore other models.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe impressed me with its balance of comfort, support, and durability. It’s a dependable shoe that fits well and looks good, making it my go-to for both running and everyday activities. If you’re considering new running shoes, I highly recommend giving these a try.
Author Profile
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Monica Stephens is a former data analyst turned product reviewer who believes that good decisions start with clear information. After earning her degree in Applied Statistics and spending years interpreting numbers for a software firm, she realized her real passion lay in testing how products perform in everyday life. That blend of analytical thinking and curiosity became the foundation of Lucy Talks Data.
Today, Monica lives near Boulder, Colorado, where she reviews tech gadgets, kitchen tools, and lifestyle gear with the same precision she once applied to data. Her approach is simple test thoroughly, share honestly, and help readers make confident choices without the marketing noise.
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