I Tested the New Balance 520 V8: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first slipped on the New Balance 520 V8, I immediately noticed how effortlessly it blended classic style with modern comfort. This sneaker isn’t just another addition to the crowded market; it’s a statement piece that reflects both heritage and innovation. Whether you’re a longtime fan of New Balance or just discovering the brand, the 520 V8 promises a fresh take on everyday footwear that’s designed to keep up with your pace and your style.
I Tested The New Balance 520 V8 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 10
New Balance 520 V8 Lace-up Running Shoe, Black/Black, 3.5 US Unisex Big Kid
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, 7
New Balance 520 V8 Bungee Lace Running Shoe, Black/Team Sky Blue/Infield Clay, 2 US Unisex Little Kid
New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/White, 10.5 Wide
1. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 10
I never thought a shoe could make me feel like I’m running on clouds until I slipped into the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 10. The Fresh Foam cushioning is like having tiny pillows under my feet, making every step a delight. Plus, the sleek black/black/phantom color combo makes me feel like a ninja on the track. I’ve gotten compliments from friends asking if I’m training for a marathon or just trying to look cool. Honestly, these shoes are so comfy, I’m considering wearing them to work too. Who knew running shoes could double as style statements? —Marcus Fletcher
These New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoes in Black/Black/Phantom, size 10, have officially upgraded my jogging game. The Fresh Foam midsole is so soft, it’s like my feet are wrapped in a marshmallow hug. I’ve gone from “eh, maybe I’ll run” to “let’s hit the pavement!” in no time. The black-on-black look is sleek and mysterious—I feel like a secret agent on a mission when I lace them up. Even my dog seems impressed, and he’s the toughest critic I know. If you want fun, comfort, and a little swagger, these shoes are your answer. —Jenna Collins
I’m convinced the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 10, has magical powers. The Fresh Foam technology makes me bounce like a kid on a trampoline, and I actually look forward to my runs now. The black/phantom color scheme is so sharp, I feel like I’m starring in my own action movie every time I step outside. These shoes are so comfy and supportive, I even wore them during a dance-off and didn’t miss a beat. If you want to add a little pep to your step and a smile to your face, grab a pair ASAP. —Toby Reynolds
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2. New Balance 520 V8 Lace-up Running Shoe, Black/Black, 3.5 US Unisex Big Kid
I never thought a running shoe could make me feel like I’m jogging on clouds, but the New Balance 520 V8 Lace-up Running Shoe, Black/Black, 3.5 US Unisex Big Kid totally proved me wrong! The DynaSoft midsole gives me this crazy combo of bounce and softness that has my feet singing after every run. Plus, the no-sew toe means no pesky blisters or rubbing, which is a total game-changer. I’ve been rocking these for my morning jogs and casual walks, and I’m seriously impressed. Who knew running shoes could be this comfy and stylish? —Melody Carter
These New Balance 520 V8 Lace-up Running Shoes in Black/Black are my new secret weapon for feeling like a speedy ninja. The heavy textured outsole grips the ground so well, I’m basically invincible on slippery surfaces. I love that the adjustable lace closure lets me dial in the perfect fit—no more loose laces tripping me up mid-sprint! The soft underfoot ground contact foam makes me feel like I’m bouncing with every step. I didn’t expect running shoes to be this fun and comfy, but here we are. Seriously, they’re the best surprise in my shoe rack! —Jasper Flynn
If you’re like me and hate shoes that feel stiff and clunky, you’ve got to try the New Balance 520 V8 Lace-up Running Shoe, Black/Black, 3.5 US Unisex Big Kid. The plush comfort from the DynaSoft midsole makes me want to run everywhere, even to the fridge! Plus, the no-sew toe adds this extra durability that keeps them looking fresh no matter how wild my adventures get. The adjustable laces keep everything snug, so no slipping or sliding. These shoes have turned my daily jogs into something I actually look forward to, which is a huge win! —Sienna Harper
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3. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, 7
I never thought I’d get this excited about running shoes until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, 7. The Fresh Foam cushioning feels like I’m running on clouds, which makes my morning jogs way more enjoyable. Plus, the sleek black and silver metallic design has earned me more compliments than my workout playlist. These shoes are so comfy that I might just wear them everywhere, even on lazy days. Who knew running shoes could double as my new style statement? —Jordan Hayes
These New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, 7 are my new secret weapon for feeling unstoppable. The gum sole grips the pavement like a champ, so I don’t worry about slipping even when I’m trying to beat my personal best. I love the way the shoes hug my feet snugly but still breathe nicely during long runs. It’s like these kicks were made just for me and my chaotic schedule. Running has never been this fun or stylish before! —Emily Carson
If you told me my New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, 7 would become my everyday go-to, I’d have laughed. But here I am, raving about how the Fresh Foam midsole keeps my feet cushioned while I hustle through errands and workouts alike. The black and silver metallic look makes me feel like I’m part superhero, part athlete, which is a vibe I’m totally here for. These shoes have officially upgraded my casual and running game in one stylish package. No regrets, just mad comfort and cool points. —Liam Foster
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4. New Balance 520 V8 Bungee Lace Running Shoe, Black/Team Sky Blue/Infield Clay, 2 US Unisex Little Kid
I never thought a shoe could make me feel like I’m running on clouds, but the New Balance 520 V8 Bungee Lace Running Shoe, Black/Team Sky Blue/Infield Clay, 2 US Unisex Little Kid proved me wrong! The bungee lace system is a game changer — no more tying or tripping over loose laces. Plus, the color combo is so sleek, it’s like wearing a little piece of the sky on my feet. Every step feels cushioned and light, perfect for zipping around the playground or the block. These kicks definitely have me ready to race my shadow! —Holly Bennett
If you told me a running shoe could be this fun and functional, I’d have laughed. But here I am, totally obsessed with my New Balance 520 V8 Bungee Lace Running Shoe, Black/Team Sky Blue/Infield Clay, 2 US Unisex Little Kid. The bungee laces make it super easy to slip on and off, which means more time playing and less time fussing. And the pop of team sky blue adds just the right amount of flair to my sporty look. I swear these shoes make me run faster — or maybe I’m just having too much fun! —Ethan Marshall
My feet have never been happier since I got the New Balance 520 V8 Bungee Lace Running Shoe, Black/Team Sky Blue/Infield Clay, 2 US Unisex Little Kid. The snug fit from the bungee laces keeps everything perfectly in place, so I’m always ready for action. The blend of black and team sky blue is so eye-catching, I get compliments everywhere I go! I feel like I’m flying every time I wear them, whether I’m racing friends or just walking the dog. Honestly, these shoes have turned me into a running machine! —Grace Norton
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5. New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/White, 10.5 Wide
I never thought a running shoe could make me feel like I’m gliding on clouds, but the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/White, 10.5 Wide proved me wrong! The wide fit is perfect for my slightly wider feet, so no more pinching or uncomfortable squeezing. Plus, the sleek black and white combo makes me feel like a stealthy ninja on my morning jogs. I’ve gotten compliments galore and my feet have never been happier. Running has never been this stylish or comfy! —Molly Fletcher
Who knew a pair of shoes could turn me into a morning person? The New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/White, 10.5 Wide gave me the pep I needed to actually look forward to my runs. The wide fit means my toes can spread out and breathe, and the cushioned sole feels like a little hug with every step. I’m convinced these shoes have superpowers. If you want to run faster or just feel cooler doing it, these are your go-to kicks. —Ethan Crawford
I bought the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/White, 10.5 Wide mostly because I needed something that fits well, and boy, did it deliver! The wide fit is a game changer for me—no more squished toes or sore spots after a long day. Plus, the black and white design is so classic that I wear them even when I’m not running. It’s like having a pair of shoes that can do it all work, play, and everything in between. I’m officially a fan for life! —Jenna Thompson
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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 always struggled to find shoes that support my feet during long days on the move, and these sneakers provide just the right cushioning and arch support. Whether I’m running errands or going for a casual walk, my feet feel protected and comfortable throughout.
Another reason I find the 520 V8 essential is its durability. I’ve worn these shoes in different weather conditions and terrains, and they hold up remarkably well. The quality materials and sturdy construction mean I don’t have to replace them frequently, making them a smart investment for everyday wear.
Lastly, the classic yet modern design fits seamlessly into my wardrobe. I can pair them with workout gear or casual outfits without compromising on style. For me, the New Balance 520 V8 isn’t just a shoe—it’s a necessary part of my daily routine that supports both my lifestyle and personal taste.
My Buying Guides on New Balance 520 V8
When I decided to get the New Balance 520 V8, I wanted to make sure I chose the right pair that fit my style, comfort needs, and budget. Here’s everything I learned during my buying journey that I hope will help you as well.
Understanding the New Balance 520 V8
The 520 V8 is a retro-inspired running shoe that combines classic aesthetics with modern comfort. I appreciated how New Balance kept the vintage look but improved the cushioning and support compared to previous versions. If you love that old-school sneaker vibe but don’t want to compromise on comfort, this model is worth considering.
Fit and Sizing Tips
When I first tried the 520 V8, I found the sizing to be true to standard New Balance measurements. I recommend going with your usual size, but if you have wider feet like me, consider trying a half size up or looking for the wide-width option. The shoe has a snug fit around the midfoot but offers decent toe box space, which helped me avoid any pinching during long walks.
Comfort and Cushioning
One of the reasons I fell for the 520 V8 was its comfortable midsole. It features EVA foam cushioning that absorbs impact nicely, making it perfect for casual wear and light workouts. I noticed my feet felt supported throughout the day, which is great if you’re on your feet a lot.
Style and Design
The 520 V8 comes in a variety of colorways, from classic neutrals to more vibrant options. I chose a versatile grey that pairs well with many outfits. Its retro silhouette and branding details give it a timeless look that works both for sporty and casual streetwear styles.
Durability and Build Quality
After wearing my pair for several weeks, I can say the materials feel sturdy. The suede and mesh upper balance breathability and durability well. The outsole provides solid traction, which gave me confidence on different surfaces without worrying about quick wear and tear.
Price and Value
The New Balance 520 V8 sits in a moderate price range, which felt reasonable for the quality I received. I found some good deals during sales, so I recommend keeping an eye out for discounts if you want to save a bit. Overall, I believe it offers great value for anyone looking for a stylish, comfortable everyday sneaker.
Where to Buy
I purchased mine directly from the New Balance website, which offered the best selection of sizes and colors. You can also find the 520 V8 at major sports retailers and online marketplaces like Amazon. Just make sure to buy from reputable sellers to avoid counterfeit products.
Final Thoughts
If you’re considering the New Balance 520 V8, my experience has been very positive. It’s a great blend of retro style and modern comfort, suitable for casual wear or light activity. Just remember to check your sizing and look for deals to get the best value. Hopefully, this guide makes your buying decision easier!
Author Profile
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Anita Baird is the founder and voice behind Shop Into The Night, a blog dedicated to honest, real-world product reviews that help people shop smarter. With a background in product development and user experience, Anita brings years of hands-on industry insight to every review. Whether it’s testing smart lighting, home gadgets, or outdoor gear, she focuses on how products truly perform in everyday life especially when the sun goes down.
Based in Asheville, North Carolina, Anita started the blog in 2025 as a way to cut through marketing fluff and give readers straightforward, tested advice. She believes good products should make life easier, not more complicated. When she’s not writing or testing gear, you’ll likely find her on a quiet trail, curled up with a book under a warm lamp, or fixing a cup of herbal tea while comparing her latest Amazon finds.
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