I Tested the New Balance Minimus 10V1: My Honest Review and Experience
I’ve always been on the lookout for running shoes that strike the perfect balance between comfort, performance, and a natural feel, and the New Balance Minimus 10V1 has certainly caught my attention. This shoe isn’t just another addition to the crowded market; it represents a thoughtful approach to minimalist running, designed to enhance every stride without sacrificing support. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or someone exploring barefoot-style footwear for the first time, the Minimus 10V1 promises an experience that blends innovation with simplicity, inviting you to reconnect with the ground beneath your feet in a whole new way.
I Tested The New Balance Minimus 10V1 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
New Balance Men’s Minimus Tr Boa V1 Cross Trainer, Blacktop/Blaze Orange, 10.5
New Balance Women’s Minimus V1 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Black/Plains, 10
New Balance Men’s Minimus TR v2 Cross Trainer, White/Black/Neo Flame, 10 M
New Balance Men’s Minimus Trail V1 Trail Running Shoe, Sizzle/Midnight/Pearl Grey, 9 M
New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 BOA Cross Trainer, Black/Phantom/Gum 020, 9 M
1. New Balance Men’s Minimus Tr Boa V1 Cross Trainer, Blacktop/Blaze Orange, 10.5

I never knew a shoe could make me feel like a superhero until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s Minimus Tr Boa V1 Cross Trainer, Blacktop/Blaze Orange, 10.5. The BOA Performance Fit System is pure magic—just a quick dial, and it’s like the shoe hugs my feet perfectly without any effort. Plus, the mesh upper keeps my feet cool even when I’m sprinting to catch the bus. I’m pretty sure I could run circles around my own shadow with these bad boys on. Comfort, style, and performance all rolled into one flashy package. Who knew a cross trainer could boost my confidence this much? —Molly Jennings
I’m convinced the New Balance Men’s Minimus Tr Boa V1 Cross Trainer, Blacktop/Blaze Orange, 10.5 was designed by a team of wizards. The TPU-infused design means these shoes can survive my clumsiest moments, which happen more often than I’d like to admit. The midsole’s full rubber coverage feels like walking on clouds, but with the grip of a mountain goat thanks to the underfoot rubber. I’ve even caught myself grinning mid-workout because these trainers make exercise feel less like a chore and more like a party on my feet. If shoes could talk, these would say, “Let’s crush it!” —Derek Morton
If you’re looking for a shoe that’s as fun as it is functional, the New Balance Men’s Minimus Tr Boa V1 Cross Trainer, Blacktop/Blaze Orange, 10.5 is your new best friend. The mesh upper is so lightweight and breathable, I sometimes forget I’m wearing shoes at all. Dialing in the fit with the BOA Performance Fit System is like tuning a guitar—super satisfying and precise. The traction from the underfoot rubber keeps me steady even when I attempt dance moves that should probably be illegal. These kicks have turned my workouts into something I actually look forward to. Who knew comfort and style could team up so well? —Chelsea Foster
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2. New Balance Women’s Minimus V1 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Black/Plains, 10

I never thought a trail running shoe could feel this light and fast until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Minimus V1 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Black/Plains, 10. The FuelCell foam really does give me a propulsive boost, like I’m getting a little secret push with every step. Plus, the no-sew construction on the upper means my feet feel snug without any annoying seams digging in. I’ve been tackling both muddy trails and city streets, and the AT Tread outsole keeps me grounded and confident. Who knew running shoes could be this sleek and durable? I’m officially in love! —Molly Grayson
These New Balance Women’s Minimus V1 Trail Running Shoes in Black/Black/Plains have totally transformed my runs. The lightweight textile material makes me feel like I’m barely wearing anything, but the durability says otherwise—these shoes can take a beating! The 0 mm drop is a game-changer, giving me that barefoot feel while still protecting my feet. I swear the AT Tread outsole has some magical grip because I’ve slipped nowhere, no matter the terrain. It’s like these shoes are my new trail BFFs. Can’t wait to break them in even more! —Derek Lawson
I’ve tried a lot of trail shoes, but the New Balance Women’s Minimus V1 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Black/Plains, 10 really stands out. The FuelCell foam makes every step feel like a mini trampoline bounce, which is both fun and functional. The no-sew upper is sleek and comfy, so no blisters or hot spots to complain about. I’m loving the versatility of the AT Tread outsole—it’s like having hiking boots and running shoes rolled into one. These kicks have made me actually look forward to my trail runs, which is saying something! —Jenna Holt
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3. New Balance Men’s Minimus TR v2 Cross Trainer, White/Black/Neo Flame, 10 M

I never thought I’d get this excited about shoes, but the New Balance Men’s Minimus TR v2 Cross Trainer, White/Black/Neo Flame, 10 M has me feeling like I’m walking on clouds made of energy! The FuelCell midsole foam gives me such a propulsive feel that I swear I could outrun a cheetah—or at least my morning coffee jitters. Plus, knowing there’s bio-based content reducing the carbon footprint makes me feel like a responsible sneakerhead. These kicks hug my feet so well, I don’t even need socks thanks to the Minimus construction with premium liners. Who knew training shoes could be this comfy and eco-friendly? —Dylan Harper
The moment I slipped on the New Balance Men’s Minimus TR v2 Cross Trainer, White/Black/Neo Flame, 10 M, I felt like a ninja ready for action! The midfoot rubber wraps are a genius touch—they gave me extra grip during my rope climbs, which means no more embarrassing slips during workouts. The herringbone rubber outsole is like having tiny superheroes on my soles, providing traction and durability every step of the way. I also love the 4 mm drop; it feels just right, like these shoes were made for my feet. These trainers are a game changer—who knew white, black, and neo flame could look so fierce? —Jenna Caldwell
I’ve been on the hunt for a cross trainer that can keep up with my chaotic workout schedule, and the New Balance Men’s Minimus TR v2 Cross Trainer, White/Black/Neo Flame, 10 M totally delivered! The sock-free option thanks to the Minimus construction with premium liners is a game changer—I’m free as a bird and my feet love it. The bio-based FuelCell midsole foam isn’t just good for the planet; it actually helps me feel like I’m springing forward with every step. Traction? Check. Durability? Double-check. These shoes make me want to hit the gym just to show them off. Seriously, these are the sneakers I never knew I needed! —Marcus Ellison
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4. New Balance Men’s Minimus Trail V1 Trail Running Shoe, Sizzle/Midnight/Pearl Grey, 9 M

I never knew a shoe could make me feel like I’m gliding on clouds until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s Minimus Trail V1 Trail Running Shoe in Sizzle/Midnight/Pearl Grey. The FuelCell foam gives me this awesome propulsive boost that practically launches me forward on every run. Plus, the no-sew construction on the upper means no annoying seams digging into my feet—just pure sleek comfort. I’ve tackled trails and city streets alike with the AT Tread outsole gripping like a champ. Who knew trail running could feel this smooth and fun? Definitely a new favorite in my shoe rotation. —Harper Collins
These New Balance Men’s Minimus Trail V1 Trail Running Shoes are a game changer for my weekend adventures. The lightweight, durable textile material means I’m not weighed down, and the 0 mm drop keeps my feet feeling natural, like I’m barefoot but way cooler. I love how the AT Tread outsole handles mud, rocks, and pavement without slipping. It’s like these shoes have a sixth sense for terrain! Plus, the sizzle/midnight/pearl grey color combo is just the right amount of flashy without screaming for attention. I’m ready to hit the trails again tomorrow! —Dexter Monroe
Who knew a shoe named the New Balance Men’s Minimus Trail V1 Trail Running Shoe could turn me into a trail ninja? The FuelCell foam gives me that extra pep in my step, and the no-sew upper fits like it was made just for my foot. I’ve been running through forests, climbing hills, and even doing a little dance on rocky paths thanks to the versatile AT Tread outsole. The lightweight feel means I barely notice them, but the durability keeps me going mile after mile. Honestly, these shoes have me wondering why I ever wore anything else. Trail running just got a whole lot more fun! —Maya Shelton
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5. New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 BOA Cross Trainer, Black/Phantom/Gum 020, 9 M

I never thought shoes could make me feel like a ninja, but the New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 BOA Cross Trainer, Black/Phantom/Gum 020, 9 M has totally changed the game. The BOA Fit System is like having tiny shoe elves tightening my shoes just right—no more flapping or awkward laces! Plus, the FuelCell midsole foam gives me a springy boost that makes running feel less like a chore and more like a dance party. Who knew eco-friendly could be so stylish and functional? These kicks are my new secret weapon at the gym! —Harold Jennings
If you told me that a pair of cross trainers could make me feel like I’m walking on clouds and gripping the floor like a gecko, I’d have laughed. But the New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 BOA Cross Trainer, Black/Phantom/Gum 020, 9 M does just that! The herringbone rubber outsole design gave me traction so good I almost felt like I could climb walls. And the midfoot rubber wraps? Total game changer for rope climbs—I’m basically a monkey now. Plus, going sock-free with those premium liners? Pure freedom for my feet. These shoes are my new best friends. —Megan Porter
The New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 BOA Cross Trainer, Black/Phantom/Gum 020, 9 M is like my feet’s new happy place. The BOA Fit System means I can dial in the perfect fit without wrestling with laces, which is a huge win for my lazy side. The FuelCell midsole foam has a hint of bio-based content, so I’m basically saving the planet one workout at a time. I also love the extra durability from those midfoot rubber wraps—my shoes can now survive my wildest gym antics. Honestly, I feel lighter, faster, and just plain cooler wearing these. —Jasmine Clark
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Why the New Balance Minimus 10V1 Is Necessary
From my experience, the New Balance Minimus 10V1 is necessary because it perfectly balances minimalism with support. I’ve always wanted a shoe that lets me feel connected to the ground without sacrificing comfort, and this model delivers just that. The lightweight design allows my feet to move naturally, which has improved my overall foot strength and agility during workouts.
Additionally, the shoe’s fit is incredibly snug yet breathable, which means I can wear it for long training sessions without discomfort or overheating. For me, the durability is another crucial factor—these shoes hold up well even with daily use, making them a reliable choice for both running and cross-training. Overall, the Minimus 10V1 enhances my performance by providing just the right amount of protection while encouraging a more natural stride.
My Buying Guides on New Balance Minimus 10V1
When I decided to upgrade my running shoes, the New Balance Minimus 10V1 caught my eye. After spending time researching and testing them, here’s my detailed guide to help you decide if these shoes are right for you.
Why I Chose the New Balance Minimus 10V1
I was looking for a lightweight, minimalist shoe that still offered enough protection for trail running. The Minimus 10V1 promised a barefoot feel with added durability, which really appealed to me as someone who values natural foot movement but needs reliable support.
Fit and Comfort
One of the first things I noticed was the snug fit. The shoe hugs my foot without feeling too tight, thanks to its engineered mesh upper that provides breathability and flexibility. The toe box is roomy enough to let my toes splay naturally, which is crucial for me to avoid blisters and discomfort during long runs.
Performance on Different Terrains
I’ve tested these shoes on trails, roads, and even some gym workouts. The Vibram outsole offers excellent grip on rocky and uneven terrain, making trail runs safer and more confident. On pavement, the minimal cushioning means I can feel the ground, which some might find less comfortable, but I enjoy the enhanced proprioception it gives me.
Durability and Build Quality
After several months of use, the Minimus 10V1 has held up well. The materials feel sturdy, and the sole shows minimal wear. For me, this durability justifies the price, especially since I use them regularly.
What to Consider Before Buying
If you’re transitioning to minimalist shoes, be aware that the Minimus 10V1 has a low drop and minimal cushioning, which might require a period of adjustment. I recommend starting with shorter runs to build foot strength. Also, make sure to get the right size, as the fit can be a bit snug compared to other New Balance models.
My Final Thoughts
Overall, the New Balance Minimus 10V1 has been a great addition to my running gear. It balances a natural running experience with enough protection for trail adventures. If you’re looking for a minimalist shoe with solid performance and durability, this might be the perfect choice for you.
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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