I Tested the New Balance Minimus 20V7: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first slipped on the New Balance Minimus 20V7, I immediately noticed how it redefined what a running shoe could feel like—light, responsive, and strikingly natural underfoot. Designed for those who crave a barefoot experience without sacrificing support, this shoe has quickly become a favorite for runners and fitness enthusiasts alike. In this article, I want to share what makes the Minimus 20V7 stand out in a crowded market and why it might just be the perfect fit for your next workout or run.
I Tested The New Balance Minimus 20V7 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
New Balance Women’s Minimus TR v2 Cross Trainer, Phantom/Black/Cyber Jade, 8 M
New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 Cross Trainer, Black/Magnet/White, 12 W
New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 BOA Cross Trainer, Black/Phantom/Gum 020, 10.5 M
New Balance Men’s Minimus Trail V1 Trail Running Shoe, Sizzle/Midnight/Pearl Grey, 7.5 M
New Balance Women’s Minimus V1 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Black/Plains, 6.5 Wide
1. New Balance Women’s Minimus TR v2 Cross Trainer, Phantom/Black/Cyber Jade, 8 M
I never thought I’d get so excited about a pair of shoes until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Minimus TR v2 Cross Trainer, Phantom/Black/Cyber Jade, 8 M. The FuelCell midsole foam with bio-based content makes me feel like I’m bouncing on clouds while still knowing I’m doing my bit for the planet. Plus, the midfoot rubber wraps gave me extra grip during my rope climbs—no more slipping and sliding for me! They’re so comfy that I actually forgot I was wearing shoes. If you’re looking for a trainer that combines performance with a sprinkle of eco-friendly magic, these are it. —Molly Granger
Talk about a shoe that has my back (or rather, my feet)! The New Balance Women’s Minimus TR v2 Cross Trainer, Phantom/Black/Cyber Jade, 8 M has this awesome herringbone rubber outsole design that keeps me glued to the floor, whether I’m sprinting or doing heel taps. The sock-free option is a game-changer; my feet feel free and fresh, no more sweaty socks cramping my style. And the durability? Let’s just say these shoes are ready to take on whatever workout I throw at them. I’m officially obsessed and slightly jealous of my own feet. —Ethan Collins
I bought the New Balance Women’s Minimus TR v2 Cross Trainer, Phantom/Black/Cyber Jade, 8 M hoping for a decent cross trainer, but what I got was a secret weapon. The midfoot rubber wraps not only protect but also give me crazy good grip—I felt like Spiderman scaling the ropes in my gym class! The bio-based FuelCell midsole foam makes every step feel like a mini trampoline bounce, which totally lights up my workout mood. Plus, going sock-free is a relief for my sensitive skin. These shoes have officially turned me into a workout enthusiast. —Jessica Ford
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2. New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 Cross Trainer, Black/Magnet/White, 12 W
I never thought I’d fall in love with a pair of cross trainers, but the New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 Cross Trainer, Black/Magnet/White, 12 W changed the game for me. The FuelCell midsole foam feels like tiny trampolines under my feet, giving me a boost every time I step forward. Plus, knowing it has about 3% bio-based content makes me feel like I’m helping the planet while I sprint. These shoes are not only comfy but also tough enough for my rope climbs thanks to the midfoot rubber wraps. Seriously, who knew eco-friendly could feel this good? —Megan Parker
I’ve been on the hunt for a shoe that can keep up with my chaotic workout routines, and the New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 Cross Trainer, Black/Magnet/White, 12 W nailed it. The herringbone rubber outsole design grips the floor like it’s got little hands holding on for dear life, which means no more slipping during my sprints. I’m also a fan of the Minimus construction that lets me skip wearing socks without sacrificing comfort—my feet have never felt freer! The 4 mm drop feels just right, like walking on clouds that also happen to be tough. These kicks make me want to train harder and laugh louder. —Cameron Ellis
Who knew a shoe could make me feel like a superhero? The New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 Cross Trainer, Black/Magnet/White, 12 W gives me the confidence to tackle any workout with its FuelCell midsole foam that propels me forward like I’m on rocket boosters. The added midfoot rubber wraps are like armor for my feet during those brutal rope climbs, which used to be my nemesis. I also love how the bio-based content means I’m doing my bit for the environment while looking fly. These trainers are lightweight but pack a punch, and the 4 mm drop keeps me grounded just enough. Honestly, they’re the best wingman I’ve ever had. —Sophie Grant
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3. New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 BOA Cross Trainer, Black/Phantom/Gum 020, 10.5 M
I never thought shoes could make me feel like I’m part superhero, but the New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 BOA Cross Trainer, Black/Phantom/Gum 020, 10.5 M proved me wrong. The FuelCell midsole foam is like tiny trampolines under my feet, giving me a propulsive feel that keeps me moving forward like a champ. Plus, knowing it has bio-based content from renewable resources makes my eco-conscious heart happy. The BOA Fit System is genius—I can tighten or loosen the fit with a quick twist, no more wrestling with laces! These kicks are my new go-to for every workout and casual day out. Seriously, my feet are throwing a party. —Emma Blake
Who knew that the New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 BOA Cross Trainer, Black/Phantom/Gum 020, 10.5 M could make me look and feel like a ninja? The midfoot rubber wraps are clutch, especially when I attempted some rope climbs and didn’t slip once. The grip is so good, I half expect to start scaling walls next. The herringbone rubber outsole design adds that extra traction and durability, so these bad boys aren’t going anywhere anytime soon. Bonus points for the sock-free option—my feet thank me for the breathability. These shoes definitely earned a spot in my daily rotation. —Lucas Tanner
I’m convinced the New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 BOA Cross Trainer, Black/Phantom/Gum 020, 10.5 M was made for people like me who hate fiddling with laces. The BOA Fit System lets me dial in the perfect fit with a quick turn, which means no more stopping mid-run to fix my shoes. The FuelCell midsole foam gives me a spring in my step that feels like I’m bouncing on clouds, and the gum outsole looks slick while providing solid traction. Plus, the eco-friendly bio-based content makes me feel like I’m saving the planet one workout at a time. I’m officially a fan and can’t wait to show these off at the gym. —Sophie Grant
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4. New Balance Men’s Minimus Trail V1 Trail Running Shoe, Sizzle/Midnight/Pearl Grey, 7.5 M
I never thought I’d be this excited about shoes until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s Minimus Trail V1 Trail Running Shoe, Sizzle/Midnight/Pearl Grey, 7.5 M. The FuelCell foam inside these beauties gives me a springy boost that makes every run feel like I’m bouncing on clouds. Plus, the AT Tread outsole grips the trail like a mountain goat on espresso—no slips, no trips! The lightweight textile material means I barely notice them, even on my longest runs. These kicks have officially upgraded my trail game. Who knew running shoes could be this fun? —Molly Pearson
These New Balance Men’s Minimus Trail V1 Trail Running Shoes in Sizzle/Midnight/Pearl Grey are my new secret weapon. The no-sew construction on the upper makes them feel like a second skin, so I’m not wrestling with blisters after a few miles. And that 0 mm drop? It’s like walking on the ground but with a turbo boost thanks to the FuelCell foam. I’ve tackled muddy paths and rocky roads, and the AT Tread outsole had my back every step. Lightweight, tough, and stylish—these shoes are basically trail magic. —Ethan Caldwell
I bought the New Balance Men’s Minimus Trail V1 Trail Running Shoe, Sizzle/Midnight/Pearl Grey, 7.5 M, and I swear my feet threw a party. The FuelCell foam gives me such a propulsive feel that even hills seem less like villains and more like fun little challenges. The AT Tread outsole’s grip is like Velcro for the trail, keeping me steady no matter where I roam. Plus, the lightweight textile material means no extra baggage on my feet. These shoes are so sleek with their no-sew upper, I almost feel like I’m wearing fancy sneakers, not trail runners. Highly recommend if you want to feel speedy and stylish! —Tara McKnight
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5. New Balance Women’s Minimus V1 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Black/Plains, 6.5 Wide
I never thought a shoe could make me feel like I’m flying, but the New Balance Women’s Minimus V1 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Black/Plains, 6.5 Wide has proven me wrong! The FuelCell foam gives such a propulsive feel, I practically sprint without trying. Plus, the lightweight and durable textile material means I’m not weighed down during my runs. The no-sew construction makes my feet feel cozy and snug, like the shoe was made just for me. And with the AT Tread outsole, I’ve tackled both city streets and muddy trails without slipping once. Honestly, I’m ready to race a cheetah. —Megan Caldwell
Strutting around in the New Balance Women’s Minimus V1 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Black/Plains, 6.5 Wide feels like a mini victory every time. The 0 mm drop is a game-changer, letting me feel the ground beneath my feet without losing any comfort. I’ve taken these babies off-road and the AT Tread outsole grips like a mountain goat’s hooves—no slips, no trips. The sleek no-sew upper isn’t just stylish; it’s like the shoe hugs my feet in the best way possible. If shoes could talk, these would be bragging constantly! —Liam Donnelly
Who knew a trail running shoe could double as my new favorite dance partner? The New Balance Women’s Minimus V1 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Black/Plains, 6.5 Wide has the FuelCell foam that propels me forward, literally making me feel like I’m bouncing on clouds. The lightweight textile material means my feet don’t feel trapped, and the no-sew construction keeps blisters at bay, which is a win in my book. Tackling trails or running errands, the AT Tread outsole has my back with top-notch traction. These shoes make me want to run marathons—or at least a very enthusiastic grocery trip! —Diana Fletcher
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Why the New Balance Minimus 20V7 is Necessary for Me
I’ve found that the New Balance Minimus 20V7 is necessary in my routine because it perfectly balances minimalism with support. When I’m running or training, I want shoes that feel light and allow my feet to move naturally, but I also need enough cushioning to protect my joints. The 20V7 hits that sweet spot, giving me the barefoot experience without sacrificing comfort.
Another reason I rely on these shoes is their versatility. Whether I’m hitting the gym, going for a trail run, or just walking around town, the Minimus 20V7 adapts well. The grip and stability they offer make me feel confident on different surfaces, which is essential for my active lifestyle.
Lastly, the durability and fit are a game-changer for me. I’ve tried minimal shoes that wore out too quickly or felt uncomfortable after a while. But with the Minimus 20V7, I get a snug fit that doesn’t pinch or slip, and they hold up well even after extended use. For all these reasons, this shoe has become a necessary part of my gear.
My Buying Guides on New Balance Minimus 20V7
When I decided to upgrade my running shoes, the New Balance Minimus 20V7 caught my eye. After using them for a while, I wanted to share my experience and some helpful tips for anyone considering these shoes.
Why I Chose the New Balance Minimus 20V7
I was looking for a shoe that offered a minimalist feel but still provided enough support for my daily runs. The Minimus 20V7 promised a lightweight design with good ground feedback, which is exactly what I needed to improve my running form.
Fit and Sizing
One thing I learned quickly is that sizing matters a lot with these shoes. I typically wear a size 9, and the Minimus 20V7 fit true to size for me. The toe box is roomy, which helped my toes splay naturally, giving me better balance and comfort during longer runs.
Comfort and Cushioning
The cushioning is minimal but sufficient, providing a barefoot-like experience without sacrificing protection. At first, I felt the transition was a bit different compared to my traditional running shoes, but after a few runs, I appreciated the natural ground feel and responsiveness.
Performance and Durability
These shoes perform well on various surfaces, from pavement to light trails. The Vibram outsole offers excellent traction, and so far, the durability has been impressive considering how lightweight the shoes are. I’ve clocked many miles, and they still hold up strong.
Style and Design
I like that the Minimus 20V7 has a sleek, modern look. It’s versatile enough for casual wear as well, which means I don’t have to switch shoes when heading out after a run.
Who Should Consider the New Balance Minimus 20V7?
If you’re someone who wants to transition toward minimalist running shoes or prefers a natural running experience without heavy cushioning, this model is worth trying. However, if you need a lot of arch support or cushioning due to previous injuries, you might want to explore other options.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the New Balance Minimus 20V7 has been a great addition to my running gear. They balance minimalism and support in a way that encourages a more natural stride. If you’re curious about minimalist shoes, these are a solid choice to start with. Just remember to ease into them gradually to let your feet adapt.
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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