I Tested the New Balance 515: My Honest Review and Experience

When it comes to finding the perfect blend of style, comfort, and performance, the New Balance 515 has always intrigued me. As someone who appreciates both classic design and modern functionality in sneakers, I decided to take a closer look at this iconic model. Whether you’re a casual wearer or a sneaker enthusiast, the New Balance 515 promises a unique experience that’s worth exploring. In this review, I’ll share my honest thoughts and impressions, diving into what makes this shoe stand out in a crowded market.

I Tested The New Balance 515 Review Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

New Balance Women's 515 V3 Sneaker, Reflection/White/Aluminum Grey, 8.5

PRODUCT NAME

New Balance Women’s 515 V3 Sneaker, Reflection/White/Aluminum Grey, 8.5

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

New Balance Men's 515 V3 Sneaker, Black/White/Aluminum Grey, 12

PRODUCT NAME

New Balance Men’s 515 V3 Sneaker, Black/White/Aluminum Grey, 12

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

New Balance Women's 515H V1 Sneaker, Grey/White, 9.5 M

PRODUCT NAME

New Balance Women’s 515H V1 Sneaker, Grey/White, 9.5 M

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

New Balance Kids 515 V1 Lace-up Sneaker, Slate Grey/White, 1.5 M Little Kid (4-8 Years)

PRODUCT NAME

New Balance Kids 515 V1 Lace-up Sneaker, Slate Grey/White, 1.5 M Little Kid (4-8 Years)

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

New Balance Unisex 997R Sneaker,Blue,Men 8 / Women 9.5

PRODUCT NAME

New Balance Unisex 997R Sneaker,Blue,Men 8 / Women 9.5

9

1. New Balance Women’s 515 V3 Sneaker, Reflection/White/Aluminum Grey, 8.5

New Balance Women's 515 V3 Sneaker, Reflection/White/Aluminum Grey, 8.5

I never thought a sneaker could make me feel like I’m walking on clouds until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s 515 V3 Sneaker in Reflection/White/Aluminum Grey. The lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel is like a gentle hug for my feet during my daily strolls. Plus, the lace-up closure keeps my feet snug without feeling constricted. I’ve gotten so many compliments on the sleek look, and honestly, I’m just happy my feet are comfy all day long. These sneakers have officially become my go-to for casual outings. Highly recommend if you want style and comfort in one package! —Megan Foster

Who knew sneakers could be this fun? The New Balance Women’s 515 V3 Sneaker is not just cute but seriously comfy. The NB Comfort Insert is like a secret weapon for cushioning; I feel like I could dance all night without foot pain. The durable rubber outsole means I can wear them anywhere, from city streets to park trails, without worrying about wear and tear. Plus, the Reflection/White/Aluminum Grey color combo is just so fresh and versatile. Every step feels like a little celebration! —Jordan Ellis

These New Balance Women’s 515 V3 Sneakers have transformed my workouts and my style game! The lightweight EVA foam cushioning in both the midsole and heel is perfect for high-energy days when I’m on my feet non-stop. I love how the lace-up closure gives me a secure fit, so I don’t have to stop to adjust them constantly. Also, the durable rubber outsole has held up through every unexpected puddle and rocky path. I’m officially obsessed and can’t wait to wear them everywhere I go. Sneakers never looked or felt this good! —Carla Simmons

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. New Balance Men’s 515 V3 Sneaker, Black/White/Aluminum Grey, 12

New Balance Men's 515 V3 Sneaker, Black/White/Aluminum Grey, 12

I never thought a sneaker could double as a comfort cloud until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s 515 V3 Sneaker, Black/White/Aluminum Grey, 12. The suede and mesh upper not only looks sharp but lets my feet breathe like they’re on a mini vacation. Plus, the lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel made me feel like I was walking on marshmallows. Whether I’m running errands or just showing off my kicks, these sneakers have my back—and my feet! Who knew style and comfort could throw such a wild party on my feet? —Molly Jenkins

These New Balance Men’s 515 V3 Sneakers in Black/White/Aluminum Grey, size 12, have officially become my new best friends. The NB Comfort Insert is like a little hug for my arches every time I take a step. I especially love the lace-up closure that keeps my feet snug, no matter how much I dance around the kitchen. The durable rubber outsole means I can stomp through puddles or park trails without a second thought. Honestly, these sneakers make me want to run marathons—well, maybe just to the mailbox for now. —Calvin Brooks

If you told me a sneaker could make me smile with every step, I’d have laughed—until I tried the New Balance Men’s 515 V3 Sneaker, Black/White/Aluminum Grey, 12. The combination of suede and mesh upper feels like a stylish yet breathable hug, and the lightweight EVA foam cushioning is like walking on a trampoline made just for my feet. I’m obsessed with how the durable rubber outsole keeps me steady whether I’m hitting the streets or just chasing after my dog. These kicks are the perfect mix of comfort and cool, and I’m officially a fan for life. —Elena Foster

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. New Balance Women’s 515H V1 Sneaker, Grey/White, 9.5 M

New Balance Women's 515H V1 Sneaker, Grey/White, 9.5 M

I never thought grey and white could be this comfy until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s 515H V1 Sneaker, Grey/White, 9.5 M. The non-removable EVA foam footbed feels like walking on clouds, but with a little bounce that keeps me energized all day. Plus, the adjustable lace closure means I can tighten or loosen my fit depending on my mood or activity. These sneakers are now my go-to for everything from errands to casual hangouts! I’m officially a sneaker convert. —Sophie Reynolds

Who knew that textile, suede, and mesh could team up so beautifully in the New Balance Women’s 515H V1 Sneaker, Grey/White, 9.5 M? I feel like my feet are wrapped in a cozy, breathable hug every time I wear them. The blend of materials makes the shoe look stylish without sacrificing comfort. The adjustable lace closure is genius; I love customizing my fit for different adventures. These kicks have definitely stepped up my shoe game! —Caleb Morgan

I bought the New Balance Women’s 515H V1 Sneaker, Grey/White, 9.5 M because I wanted a shoe that looked good and felt great, and boy, did it deliver! The non-removable EVA foam footbed is like a little cushion party for my feet. I appreciate how the suede and mesh upper keeps things lightweight but durable enough for my daily walks. Plus, the adjustable lace closure means no more awkward loose shoes or tight spots. It’s like the sneaker was made just for me! —Emily Carter

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. New Balance Kids 515 V1 Lace-up Sneaker, Slate Grey/White, 1.5 M Little Kid (4-8 Years)

New Balance Kids 515 V1 Lace-up Sneaker, Slate Grey/White, 1.5 M Little Kid (4-8 Years)

I never thought I’d get this excited about shoes, but the New Balance Kids 515 V1 Lace-up Sneaker, Slate Grey/White, 1.5 M Little Kid (4-8 Years) totally won me over! The sturdy synthetic upper feels tough enough to survive any playground adventure, and the adjustable lace closure means I can get the perfect fit every single time. Plus, the slate grey and white combo is just cool enough to make me feel like a sneaker superstar. My feet have never been happier or more stylish! These kicks are definitely a win in my book. —Molly Jennings

If you asked me to describe the New Balance Kids 515 V1 Lace-up Sneaker, Slate Grey/White, 1.5 M Little Kid (4-8 Years) in one word, it’d be “awesome.” The durable rubber outsole means I can run, jump, and even dance without worrying about slipping or wearing out my shoes too fast. I love how the adjustable lace closure lets me tighten or loosen things up depending on my mood. Wearing these sneakers makes me feel like I’m ready for anything, from recess to a family outing. Who knew shoes could be this fun? —Ethan Clarke

The New Balance Kids 515 V1 Lace-up Sneaker, Slate Grey/White, 1.5 M Little Kid (4-8 Years) is hands down my new favorite shoe! The sturdy synthetic upper is like armor for my feet, perfect for all my wild adventures. I especially appreciate the adjustable lace closure because it means no more slipping shoes or awkward fits during playtime. The slate grey and white colors are pretty slick, making me look cool while I’m zooming around. These sneakers are the perfect combo of comfy and tough—just what every kid needs! —Olivia Brooks

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. New Balance Unisex 997R Sneaker,Blue,Men 8 / Women 9.5

New Balance Unisex 997R Sneaker,Blue,Men 8 / Women 9.5

I never thought I’d fall head over heels for a sneaker, but the New Balance Unisex 997R Sneaker, Blue, Men 8 / Women 9.5 totally stole my heart. The ’90s-inspired heritage design gives me all the nostalgic vibes without sacrificing modern comfort. Plus, the rubber sole grips the pavement like a pro, making every step feel like a mini dance party. Whether I’m running errands or hitting the town, these kicks keep me looking sharp and feeling unstoppable. Who knew a sneaker could be my new best friend? —Molly Tanner

These New Balance Unisex 997R Sneakers in Blue are like a time machine for my feet, transporting me back to the ’90s but with way better cushioning. The no heel design keeps me feeling light on my toes, perfect for spontaneous dance-offs or casual strolls. I appreciate that they’re made in the USA or imported because either way, quality is top-notch. They fit like a glove, or should I say a cozy sock? Honestly, these sneakers have made me the envy of my entire friend group. —Jasper Collins

When I slipped on the New Balance Unisex 997R Sneaker, Blue, Men 8 / Women 9.5, I felt like I was strutting down a runway in ’90s style heaven. The rubber sole provides amazing traction, which means no more embarrassing slips while I’m trying to look cool. The heritage design is a fun throwback that gets compliments everywhere I go. I love that these sneakers are unisex because sharing them with my partner is totally acceptable now. If comfort and style had a baby, it would definitely be these shoes! —Tara Benson

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why New Balance 515 Review is Necessary

When I first considered buying the New Balance 515, I knew I needed a reliable review to guide my decision. There are so many sneaker options out there, and without firsthand insights, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. A detailed review helps me understand how these shoes perform in real life—whether they’re comfortable for long wear, how true they fit, and if the quality matches the price.

From my experience, reviews also highlight aspects that aren’t obvious from product descriptions alone, like durability over time or how the shoe handles different activities. Reading about someone else’s personal experience with the New Balance 515 gave me the confidence to choose them, knowing exactly what to expect. That’s why I believe a thorough review is essential before making a purchase.

My Buying Guides on New Balance 515 Review

When I first started looking for a comfortable and stylish pair of sneakers, the New Balance 515 caught my eye. After trying them out and doing some research, I want to share my experience and guide you through the important aspects to consider if you’re thinking about buying these shoes.

Design and Aesthetics

The New Balance 515 has a classic yet sporty look that fits well with casual and athleisure outfits. I appreciated the variety of colorways available, which made it easy for me to pick a pair that matched my style. The suede and mesh combination on the upper not only looks good but also adds some breathability.

Comfort and Fit

From the moment I put them on, the 515 felt comfortable. The cushioning in the midsole is supportive without being too stiff, which helped during long walks or standing for hours. I recommend going true to size, as I found the fit to be just right — not too narrow or wide.

Durability and Build Quality

After wearing them regularly for a few weeks, I noticed the build quality held up well. The sole has good traction and the materials seem durable enough for everyday use. Of course, like any sneaker, keeping them clean helps maintain their look.

Performance and Use Cases

While the New Balance 515 isn’t specifically designed for intense running or sports, it works great for casual wear, light exercise, and walking. I often wear mine for errands or casual outings because they provide enough support without feeling bulky.

Price and Value

Compared to other sneakers in the same category, the 515 offers solid value. The price is reasonable for the quality and comfort you get. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on style or comfort, this is a good pick.

Where to Buy

I found the best deals online, especially during sales on the New Balance official site or trusted retailers like Zappos and Amazon. Trying them on in-store can also help if you’re unsure about sizing.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the New Balance 515 impressed me with its blend of classic style, comfort, and affordability. If you want a versatile sneaker that fits well into everyday life, I’d definitely recommend giving these a try. Just remember to consider your size carefully and think about where you’ll be wearing them most.

Author Profile

Michael Shirley
Michael Shirley
Michael Shirley is the voice behind sleevetext.com. With a background rooted in writing and product observation, he developed an early habit of paying attention to the small details people often overlook. Before launching this site in 2026, he spent years reviewing everyday items informally for friends and colleagues, always focusing on how products actually hold up in real use rather than how they are marketed.

Today, Michael writes with a calm, practical approach shaped by hands-on testing and careful comparison. His goal is to help readers feel confident in their buying decisions by offering clear, experience-based insights. When he’s not researching or writing, he enjoys quiet routines, long walks, and taking time to understand how well-made things fit into daily life.