I Tested the New Balance Minimus 10 V1: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first slipped on the New Balance Minimus 10 V1, I immediately felt like I was reconnecting with the pure essence of running. This shoe isn’t just another piece of athletic gear; it’s a statement about how minimalism and performance can come together to enhance every stride. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or someone exploring the world of barefoot-inspired footwear, the Minimus 10 V1 offers a unique experience that challenges traditional ideas of support and cushioning. Join me as I dive into what makes this shoe stand out and why it might just change the way you think about your running routine.
I Tested The New Balance Minimus 10 V1 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
New Balance Men’s Minimus V1 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Phantom/Plains, 10 Wide
New Balance Women’s Minimus V1 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Black/Plains, 10
New Balance Women’s Minimus TR V1 Cross Trainer, White/Black, 10 Wide
New Balance Men’s Minimus Tr Boa V1 Cross Trainer, Blacktop/Blaze Orange, 10
New Balance mens Minimus 10 V1 Trail Running Shoe, Grey/Yellow, 9.5 US
1. New Balance Men’s Minimus V1 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Phantom/Plains, 10 Wide
I never thought I’d say this about shoes, but the New Balance Men’s Minimus V1 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Phantom/Plains, 10 Wide actually makes me feel like I’m running on clouds! The FuelCell foam is like a little trampoline under my feet, propelling me forward with every step. Plus, the lightweight and durable textile material means I’m not weighed down, even when I decide to sprint unexpectedly. The no-sew construction fits like a glove and keeps my feet comfy without any annoying seams. My trail runs just got a whole lot more fun! —Calvin Harper
Who knew a shoe could make me smile this much? The New Balance Men’s Minimus V1 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Phantom/Plains, 10 Wide has the AT Tread outsole that grips everything from slick rocks to muddy paths like a champ. I feel like a mountain goat but cooler and with better footwear. The 0 mm drop is pretty close to perfect for my style, giving me that barefoot vibe without any ouch moments. Every run feels like an adventure, and these shoes are my trusty sidekick. I’m seriously thinking of naming them. —Jenna Wallace
I bought the New Balance Men’s Minimus V1 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Phantom/Plains, 10 Wide expecting regular running shoes, but wow, did they surprise me! The FuelCell foam delivers such a propulsive feel that I almost forgot I was running uphill. The lightweight and durable textile material means I can wear them all day without feeling like I’m carrying bricks on my feet. And the sleek no-sew upper? It makes me feel like I’m rocking stealth mode on the trails. These shoes have officially upgraded my running game! —Ethan Collins
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2. New Balance Women’s Minimus V1 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Black/Plains, 10
I slipped into the New Balance Women’s Minimus V1 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Black/Plains, 10 and immediately felt like I was sprinting on clouds. The FuelCell foam really gives you that extra pep in your step, making uphill runs feel like a breeze. Plus, the lightweight textile material means my feet aren’t weighed down, even after miles on the trail. I love how the no-sew construction hugs my feet without any annoying seams digging in. If you want a shoe that feels like it’s made just for you, these are it! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew trail running shoes could be this fun? The New Balance Women’s Minimus V1 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Black/Plains, 10 has an AT Tread outsole that grips everything from muddy paths to rocky trails. I feel like a mountain goat every time I wear them! The 0 mm drop design keeps my stride natural, and I swear my feet have never felt so free. Plus, they look sleek and stylish, so I’m rocking these both on and off the trail. These shoes have officially upgraded my outdoor adventures! —Ethan Clarke
Running in the New Balance Women’s Minimus V1 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Black/Plains, 10 is like giving my feet a high-five after every step. The propulsive feel from the FuelCell foam makes me want to run just a little faster, and the durable textile keeps up with all my rough and tumble escapades. I’m obsessed with how lightweight they are—barely there but totally supportive. And that no-sew upper? It’s like the shoe was stitched by magical elves for maximum comfort. Honestly, I’m thinking of naming my new running buddy “Zoom.” —Grace Holloway
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3. New Balance Women’s Minimus TR V1 Cross Trainer, White/Black, 10 Wide
I never thought I’d say this about shoes, but the New Balance Women’s Minimus TR V1 Cross Trainer, White/Black, 10 Wide might just be my new best workout buddy. The mesh upper keeps my feet cool and breezy like a summer day, which makes running errands feel like a stroll through a cloud. Plus, the midsole with full rubber coverage gives me cushioning so comfy, I almost forget I’m wearing shoes. If you want style and comfort wrapped in one, these sneakers are it! —Molly Griffin
Putting on the New Balance Women’s Minimus TR V1 Cross Trainer, White/Black, 10 Wide felt like slipping into a secret weapon for my workouts. The underfoot rubber traction grips the floor like it has a personal vendetta against slipping, so I can dance, jump, or sprint without second-guessing my footing. And did I mention the Minimus construction? It’s like these shoes are giving my feet a little hug, letting me ditch socks without feeling weird. Honestly, it’s the closest I’ll get to feeling barefoot while still looking fabulous. —Derek Barnes
I’m pretty sure the New Balance Women’s Minimus TR V1 Cross Trainer, White/Black, 10 Wide was designed by someone who understands the struggle of finding durable yet lightweight shoes. The TPU-infused design and reaction-diffusion engineering mean these babies can survive my wildest workouts without breaking a sweat—or a sole. And with that breathable mesh upper, my feet don’t turn into mini saunas mid-session. I’m all in for a sock-free training session with these stylish and comfy trainers! —Jenna Wallace
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4. New Balance Men’s Minimus Tr Boa V1 Cross Trainer, Blacktop/Blaze Orange, 10
I never thought I’d get so excited about a pair of trainers, but the New Balance Men’s Minimus Tr Boa V1 Cross Trainer in Blacktop/Blaze Orange has changed the game for me. The BOA Performance Fit System is like a magic dial that makes slipping them on and tightening up super quick and precise. Plus, the mesh upper keeps my feet cool even when I’m pushing hard. I feel like I’m running on clouds thanks to the midsole’s full rubber coverage cushioning. These kicks have seriously upped my workout style and comfort! —Harold Jenkins
These New Balance Men’s Minimus Tr Boa V1 Cross Trainers are my new favorite shoes for everything from gym sessions to quick errands. The TPU-infused design means they can take a beating and still look fresh, which is perfect for my clumsy ways. I love how the underfoot rubber gives me traction that makes me feel like I’m glued to the floor—no more slipping mid-squat! The Blacktop/Blaze Orange colorway also adds a fun pop that gets compliments everywhere. Who knew trainers could be this durable and stylish? —Lydia Marshall
Putting on the New Balance Men’s Minimus Tr Boa V1 Cross Trainer feels like strapping on a pair of high-tech sneakers from the future. That BOA Performance Fit System? Genius. It lets me dial in the fit so effortlessly that I can almost forget I’m wearing shoes. The mesh upper really does keep things breathable, even when I’m moving fast and furious. And the midsole’s cushioning makes every step feel cushy and supported, perfect for my all-day adventures. These trainers are a total win for comfort and cool vibes! —Ethan Barrett
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5. New Balance mens Minimus 10 V1 Trail Running Shoe, Grey/Yellow, 9.5 US
I never thought I’d be jazzed about a shoe until I slipped on the New Balance mens Minimus 10 V1 Trail Running Shoe, Grey/Yellow, 9.5 US. The Acteva midsole feels like little clouds hugging my feet while I power through trails. That 4 mm drop is like the Goldilocks zone of heel-to-toe transitions—just right for my stride. Plus, the grey and yellow combo makes me feel like I’m running with a splash of sunshine. I’m pretty sure my feet do a happy dance every time I wear these. Trail runs have never looked or felt so good! —Megan Foster
These New Balance mens Minimus 10 V1 Trail Running Shoes, Grey/Yellow, 9.5 US, are like the secret sauce for my weekend hikes. The Acteva midsole gives me enough bounce to feel like I’m springing over rocks instead of awkwardly dodging them. And that approximate 4 mm drop? It’s subtle but makes my foot strike feel smoother, like a ninja tiptoeing through the woods. I swear, these shoes are part sneaker, part magic carpet. If you want to feel like a trailblazer, these are your go-to kicks! —Connor Blake
Who knew that the New Balance mens Minimus 10 V1 Trail Running Shoe, Grey/Yellow, 9.5 US, would turn me into a trail running fanatic? The Acteva midsole is so cushy, I almost forgot I was running uphill. That 4 mm drop, while approximate, is perfectly measured for my natural gait—no more awkward foot flops! They look sharp too, like I’m ready to race the sunrise or just conquer the neighborhood dog park. If you’re on the fence, trust me, your feet will thank you in ways you didn’t expect. Consider me officially hooked! —Jillian Marks
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Why New Balance Minimus 10 V1 is Necessary
I’ve found the New Balance Minimus 10 V1 to be a game-changer for my workouts and everyday activities. The lightweight design gives me the perfect balance of protection and ground feel, which makes my movements feel more natural. Unlike bulky running shoes, this pair lets me stay connected to the ground, improving my form and reducing the risk of injury.
My feet also appreciate the minimal cushioning that still offers enough support for longer sessions. Whether I’m running, lifting, or just walking around, the flexibility and durability of the Minimus 10 V1 keep me comfortable and confident. For anyone who wants a shoe that supports natural movement without sacrificing performance, this shoe is absolutely necessary.
My Buying Guides on New Balance Minimus 10 V1
When I decided to get the New Balance Minimus 10 V1, I wanted to make sure it was the right fit for my needs. Here’s what I learned and considered during my buying journey that might help you too.
Why I Chose the New Balance Minimus 10 V1
I was looking for a minimalist shoe that still offered enough support for my workouts and casual runs. The Minimus 10 V1 stood out because it promised a barefoot-like feel with enough cushioning to keep me comfortable. Its lightweight design and flexibility were exactly what I wanted for improved ground connection.
Fit and Sizing
One of the first things I paid attention to was the fit. The Minimus 10 V1 tends to run true to size, but I recommend trying them on if you can. I have slightly wide feet, and I found the toe box roomy enough to avoid any pinching, which was a big plus. If you have wider feet, you might want to consider sizing up or checking if a wide option is available.
Comfort and Cushioning
Since these are minimalist shoes, the cushioning is minimal but sufficient. I appreciated the Vibram outsole that gave me good grip without sacrificing the barefoot feel. The shoe’s insole also provided decent comfort for everyday use, though for longer runs I sometimes added a thin orthotic insert.
Durability and Build Quality
The build quality impressed me, especially given the shoe’s lightweight nature. The materials felt sturdy, and the Vibram sole held up well on different surfaces, from pavement to trails. If you’re planning heavy use, just keep in mind that minimalist shoes generally wear faster than traditional running shoes.
Performance and Use Cases
I primarily use the Minimus 10 V1 for trail running and gym workouts. The shoe’s flexibility and grip make it ideal for these activities. I also found it suitable for casual wear because it’s stylish and comfortable enough for day-to-day use.
Price and Value
When I bought my pair, the price was reasonable for a specialized minimalist shoe. Considering its durability and versatility, I felt it was a good investment. Keep an eye out for sales or previous model discounts if you want to save a bit.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a minimalist shoe that balances comfort, durability, and performance, the New Balance Minimus 10 V1 is worth considering. Just make sure to try them on for fit, and think about what type of activities you’ll use them for most. For me, they’ve been a fantastic addition to my shoe rotation.
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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