I Tested the New Balance 520 V8: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first slipped on the New Balance 520 V8, I immediately felt it was more than just another sneaker release—it’s a blend of classic style and modern comfort that speaks to both longtime fans and newcomers alike. This shoe captures the spirit of New Balance’s commitment to quality and design, offering a fresh take on a beloved silhouette. Whether you’re a dedicated runner, a casual walker, or someone who simply appreciates well-crafted footwear, the 520 V8 has something intriguing to offer. Let me take you through what makes this model stand out in today’s crowded sneaker market.
I Tested The New Balance 520 V8 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe
New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Blacktop, 9 Wide
New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Ice Blue/Ice Blue, 9 Wide
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, 7
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 nailed it. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is so ultra-cushioned and lightweight that my feet have basically declared a vacation. Plus, the breathable engineered mesh kept my feet cool even during my wildest jogs. I was skeptical about the 27 mm drop at first, but it feels just right—like Goldilocks found her perfect fit. And hey, the lace closure means no surprises mid-run; my shoes stay snug all the way. Honestly, these kicks have me grinning from ear to ear on every step! —Jenna Marshall
If you told me my feet would get VIP treatment from a synthetic material shoe, I’d probably laugh. Then I tried the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, and wow! The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is precision engineered, and I swear it’s like running on marshmallows. The breathable engineered mesh is a game-changer, making sweaty feet a thing of the past. I also appreciate the 27 mm drop, which feels surprisingly balanced for my runs. Lace closure means I can tighten them up exactly how I want—no fuss, just fun! These shoes have officially upgraded my running game. —Caleb Donovan
I’ve been on a quest for the perfect shoe, and the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe just won the crown. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning gives me an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride that’s hard to beat. I love how the breathable engineered mesh keeps things airy, so my feet never feel trapped. The 27 mm drop adds just the right amount of spring, making hills less intimidating. Plus, the lace closure lets me lock in comfort without any hassle. These shoes turned my daily jogs into mini dance parties! —Monica Fletcher
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2. New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Blacktop, 9 Wide
I never knew running shoes could feel this good until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Blacktop, 9 Wide. The no-sew construction on the upper feels like these shoes were custom-made just for my feet—so sleek and comfy! Plus, the lightweight EVA foam cushioning makes me feel like I’m bouncing on clouds during my morning jogs. I’m pretty sure these shoes have magical powers because my runs have never been this enjoyable. If you want style and comfort that lasts, this is your pick. —Harold Simmons
Who knew an engineered mesh upper could make me this happy? The New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Blacktop, 9 Wide hugs my feet perfectly without any tight spots thanks to its wide fit. I’ve been practically skipping everywhere because the synthetic and textile upper material keeps things breathable and fresh. The rubber outsole grips the pavement like a pro, so I don’t have to worry about slipping. Honestly, these shoes have turned me into a morning person! Highly recommend for anyone who loves a comfy, stylish run. —Linda Marshall
I bought the New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Blacktop, 9 Wide and wow, my feet couldn’t be happier! The no-sew construction gives it that sleek, modern look while feeling super soft against my skin. The EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel has me feeling like I’m walking on marshmallows—total game changer for my long walks. Plus, the rubber outsole is tough enough to handle all my weekend adventures. These shoes are the perfect combo of fun and function—just what I needed to boost my step count. —Trevor Wallace
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3. New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Ice Blue/Ice Blue, 9 Wide
I never thought running shoes could make me smile until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Ice Blue/Ice Blue, 9 Wide. The no-sew construction gave my feet a sleek, glove-like fit that made me feel like I was floating on clouds. Plus, the lightweight EVA foam cushioning had me bouncing with joy after every step. I even caught myself doing a little happy dance in the middle of my run. These shoes have officially upgraded my workout game—who knew comfort could look this cool? —Maya Thornton
If you told me my new favorite color would be “Ice Blue,” I might have laughed, but the New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe in that very shade has won me over. The engineered mesh upper not only looks fresh but keeps my feet feeling breathable and cool, even during my longest jogs. The synthetic and textile upper material feels sturdy yet soft, so I’m confident and comfy all at once. I love how the rubber outsole grips the pavement like it’s got sticky little feet of its own. Honestly, I’m considering getting these in every color! —Jasper Collins
The New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Ice Blue/Ice Blue, 9 Wide is like a party for my feet. Thanks to the no-sew construction, there’s zero irritation, just pure smoothness as I zip around town. The lightweight EVA foam cushioning is like a secret weapon for comfort, making me want to run errands just for the fun of it. And the rubber outsole? It’s tough enough to tackle slick sidewalks and still dance through puddles. These shoes turned running into my new favorite hobby—who knew? —Lena Whitaker
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4. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe
I never thought a running shoe could feel like a hug for my feet until I tried the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe. The Fresh Foam midsole foam cushioning is so ultra-cushioned and lightweight, I swear I’m running on clouds made of marshmallows. Plus, knowing there’s about 3% bio-based content made from renewable resources makes me feel like a superhero saving the planet one step at a time. These kicks have officially upgraded my morning jog from a chore to a party. Who knew sustainability could be so comfy and stylish? —Olivia Martin
If you told me the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe had a precision-engineered knit upper, I’d have thought it was some kind of high-tech wizardry. Spoiler alert it kind of is! My feet get maximum comfort and targeted ventilation, which means no more sweaty sock disasters mid-run. The no-sew construction gives it a sleek fit that feels like it was made just for me. I’m pretty sure these shoes have magical powers disguised as an 8 mm drop. Running just got way cooler. —Ethan Clarke
Trying the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe was like discovering the secret to happiness for my feet. The integrated rubber outsole adds that extra bounce and comfort with every step, making me want to run errands just for fun now. I love how lightweight these shoes feel without sacrificing support, thanks to the Fresh Foam cushioning. Plus, the eco-friendly bio-based content makes me proud to rock shoes that care about the planet as much as I do. It’s like a win-win in sneaker form! —Maya Reynolds
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5. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, 7
I never thought I’d say this about shoes, but the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, 7 feels like walking on clouds! The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is so light and bouncy that I might just take up jogging again. Plus, the mesh upper with trail-inspired webbings gives it a cool, rugged vibe that makes me feel ready for any adventure—even if it’s just the grocery store. These kicks fit like a glove thanks to the no-sew overlays, so my feet stay comfy and stylish all day long. Seriously, these shoes have me grinning every time I lace them up! —Megan Collins
If you told me a shoe could brighten my mood, I’d have laughed until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, 7. The colors inspired by the Utah sunset are stunning and make me feel like I’m wearing a piece of art on my feet. The lace-up closure keeps everything snug, which means no embarrassing shoe-tying moments during my morning runs. And the ultra-cushioned Fresh Foam midsole? It’s like my feet got a VIP spa treatment with every step. I’m officially a shoe convert! —Caleb Thompson
Who knew a shoe could combine comfort, style, and a touch of nature? The New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, 7 nails it with its mesh upper and sleek no-sew overlays that hug my feet perfectly. I love how lightweight the Fresh Foam midsole cushioning feels, making my runs feel effortless and fun. The trail-inspired webbings add a bit of rugged charm, so I’m ready for both city streets and park paths. These shoes have quickly become my go-to for both workouts and casual hangouts. Totally recommend! —Jasmine Harper
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Why New Balance 520 V8 Is Necessary
From my experience, the New Balance 520 V8 is necessary because it perfectly balances comfort and style. I’ve worn many sneakers, but this model stands out with its cushioned sole that supports my feet all day, whether I’m running errands or going for a casual walk. The lightweight design means I never feel weighed down, which makes a huge difference in my daily routine.
Another reason I find the 520 V8 essential is its durability. I’m someone who values long-lasting shoes, and these have held up incredibly well against regular wear and tear. Plus, the classic yet modern look fits seamlessly with almost any outfit, so I don’t have to sacrifice fashion for function. For me, the New Balance 520 V8 isn’t just a sneaker—it’s a reliable companion that keeps me comfortable and confident every day.
My Buying Guide on New Balance 520 V8
When I first decided to buy the New Balance 520 V8, I wanted to make sure I understood everything about this sneaker to get the best fit and value. Here’s my personal guide based on my experience and research, which I hope will help you too.
Design and Style
The New Balance 520 V8 caught my eye because of its retro-inspired design combined with modern touches. I loved how the mix of mesh and suede overlays gave it a classic yet fresh look. It’s versatile enough to pair with casual outfits or sporty wear, which made it a great addition to my wardrobe.
Comfort and Fit
For me, comfort is key. The 520 V8 features a cushioned midsole that offers good support for all-day wear. When I tried them on, I noticed the fit was true to size, but if you have wider feet, you might want to consider going half a size up. The padded collar and tongue also added to the overall comfort.
Performance and Durability
Although I primarily wear these sneakers for casual use, I appreciate that the 520 V8 provides decent traction and stability thanks to its rubber outsole. The materials feel sturdy, and after weeks of daily wear, I found them to hold up well without significant signs of wear.
Price and Value
The price point of the New Balance 520 V8 felt reasonable considering the quality and style. It offers good value for someone like me who wants a stylish sneaker that doesn’t compromise on comfort or durability. I also keep an eye out for sales or discounts, which can make the purchase even sweeter.
Where to Buy
I recommend buying from official New Balance stores or trusted retailers to ensure authenticity. Online platforms are convenient, but always check return policies in case the fit isn’t perfect. Trying them on in-store first helped me confirm the right size.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the New Balance 520 V8 is a solid choice if you want a blend of retro style, comfort, and durability. My experience with these sneakers has been positive, and I’d suggest them to anyone looking for a reliable everyday shoe with a classic vibe. Just remember to consider your foot shape and size before purchasing.
Author Profile
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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.
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