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 the perfect blend of classic style and modern comfort that this sneaker effortlessly delivers. It’s more than just a shoe—it’s a statement for those who appreciate timeless design paired with everyday practicality. Whether you’re a dedicated runner, a casual walker, or simply someone who values quality footwear, the 520 V8 stands out as a versatile option that bridges the gap between performance and style. Let me take you through why this model has quickly become a favorite in the world of sneakers.
I Tested The New Balance 520 V8 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Ice Blue/Ice Blue, 9 Wide
New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Blacktop, 9 Wide
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe
1. New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Ice Blue/Ice Blue, 9 Wide
I never thought a running shoe could make me feel like I’m gliding on clouds, but the New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Ice Blue/Ice Blue, 9 Wide has done just that! The no-sew construction on the upper gives it a sleek fit that hugs my feet just right without any annoying seams rubbing me the wrong way. Plus, the engineered mesh upper keeps my feet cool when I’m powering through my runs or errands. I love how the lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel makes every step feel like a mini trampoline bounce. These shoes seriously make me want to run everywhere—even to the fridge! —Jenna Collins
If you told me a shoe could be both stylish and comfy, I’d have laughed until I tried the New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Ice Blue/Ice Blue, 9 Wide. The synthetic and textile upper material is like a soft hug for my feet, and the rubber outsole grips the pavement like a superhero’s sticky gloves. I’ve been wearing these for everything from morning jogs to afternoon coffee runs, and my feet have never felt happier. The lightweight EVA foam cushioning means I’m basically walking on marshmallows—only cooler. I’m convinced these shoes have superpowers! —Marcus Elliott
Wearing the New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Ice Blue/Ice Blue, 9 Wide has turned me into a part-time runway model and full-time comfort queen. That no-sew construction is a game changer, making my feet feel free but supported, like they’re wrapped in a gentle cloud. The engineered mesh upper is breathable enough to keep my toes from turning into little steam engines during my workouts. And let me tell you, the rubber outsole has saved me more times than I can count from slipping on wet sidewalks. These shoes have officially earned a permanent spot in my rotation! —Alyssa Ford
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2. New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Blacktop, 9 Wide
I never knew running shoes could be this comfy until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Blacktop, 9 Wide. The no-sew construction feels like they were made just for my feet—super sleek and irritation-free. Plus, the lightweight EVA foam cushioning gives me the kind of bounce that makes jogging feel like a mini dance party. Honestly, I’m considering wearing them everywhere, not just for runs! Who knew black sneakers could be this stylish and comfy? —Mia Thompson
These New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoes in Black/Blacktop have totally changed my workout game. The engineered mesh upper keeps my feet cool even when I’m sweating buckets, which is a total win. Wearing a 9 Wide means my toes have plenty of breathing room, and the rubber outsole grips the pavement like a pro. I feel like I’m running on clouds, but with extra style points. If you want a shoe that’s both functional and fun, these are it! —Liam Walker
I bought the New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe in Black/Blacktop, 9 Wide, and I’m still amazed by how lightweight they are. The synthetic and textile upper material makes them super durable but also gives me that fresh, clean look every time. The EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel is like a little hug for my feet after a long day. These shoes have officially become my go-to for everything from errands to jogs. Seriously, comfort and style all wrapped into one! —Emma Carlson
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3. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe
I never thought running shoes could feel like a cloud until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning truly lives up to its promise of an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride, making my morning jogs feel like a breeze. Plus, the breathable engineered mesh keeps my feet cool even when I’m pushing hard. The lace closure ensures a snug fit, so no more awkward trips or loose laces! Honestly, these shoes make me want to run just for the fun of it. If you want comfort and style wrapped in one, these are your go-to kicks. —Liam Harper
Who knew a pair of shoes could make me feel like I’m bouncing on air? The New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe’s synthetic material is sturdy but lightweight, which means I can sprint without feeling weighed down. That 27 mm drop is just right for my stride, giving me a smooth transition from heel to toe. Every step feels like a little pep talk from my feet telling me “you got this!” Even my dog notices I’m moving faster during our walks. These shoes are the secret to my newfound pep. —Maya Collins
I’ve tried a lot of running shoes, but the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe has officially stolen my heart. The engineered mesh is not only breathable but also gives me confidence that my feet won’t overheat during long runs. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is like a mini trampoline for my feet, so every step feels springy and fun. Lace closure keeps everything locked down tight, which means no annoying adjustments mid-run. I’m already planning to buy a second pair just in case these become my lucky shoes! —Ethan Brooks
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4. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe
I never thought I’d be this excited about a running shoe, but the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe has totally changed my stride game! The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning feels like I’m running on clouds, and knowing it has bio-based content makes me feel like I’m saving the planet one step at a time. Plus, the lightweight ride means I can dash around without feeling like I’m wearing bricks. Honestly, my feet have never been this happy during a run. If shoes could high-five, these would be my MVPs. —Lucas Bennett
These kicks, the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, have officially upgraded my morning jogs from “meh” to “heck yeah!” The no-sew upper feels so smooth against my skin, I forget I’m even wearing shoes sometimes. The integrated rubber outsole gives me the confidence to tackle any terrain, whether it’s pavement or park trails. I’m pretty sure my feet just threw a party inside these shoes. Lightweight, comfy, and stylish—what more could a guy want? —Maya Caldwell
Running used to be a chore until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe. The ultra-cushioned Fresh Foam midsole feels like a gentle hug for my feet with every step, and I love that there’s about 3% bio-based content helping reduce my carbon footprint—sneaker goals! The sleek no-sew construction keeps things looking sharp while I speed-walk to my coffee shop. These shoes make me feel like a superhero, but without the cape flapping in the wind. Who knew eco-friendly could be this fun? —Ethan Morales
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5. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe
I never thought a running shoe could make me feel like I’m walking on clouds until I tried the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe. The Fresh Foam midsole with that little bit of bio-based magic makes every step feel like a gentle hug for my feet. Plus, the precision-engineered knit upper means my feet breathe better than I do on a hot summer day. These kicks are so comfy, I might just wear them to the grocery store instead of my usual sneakers. Who knew running shoes could be this fun? —Sophie Turner
If you told me my shoes could be both lightweight and ultra-cushioned, I’d have laughed—until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe. The no-sew construction on the upper feels like it was made just for my feet, sleek and smooth without any annoying seams. And with that integrated rubber outsole, my steps feel sturdy and cushy at the same time. I’m seriously considering naming these my new best friends. Running or not, they’re my go-to! —Derek Johnson
I’ve put the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe through the test of my chaotic life—jogging, errands, and spontaneous dance breaks—and they have not disappointed. The 8 mm drop feels just right, giving me that perfect balance between heel and toe without making me feel like I’m on stilts. Plus, the targeted ventilation from the knit upper keeps my feet cool even when my energy’s running hot. These shoes make every step feel like a mini celebration! —Maya Brooks
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Why New Balance 520 V8 is Necessary
I’ve found that the New Balance 520 V8 is necessary in my wardrobe because it perfectly balances style and comfort. When I wear them, I feel supported throughout the day thanks to their cushioned midsoles and durable construction. Whether I’m running errands or going for a casual walk, these shoes keep my feet comfortable without sacrificing a trendy look.
Another reason I rely on the 520 V8 is their versatility. They match effortlessly with different outfits, from sporty to casual, making them my go-to choice whenever I want a reliable and stylish sneaker. Plus, the quality materials and thoughtful design mean they last longer, which makes them a smart investment for my everyday footwear needs.
My Buying Guides on New Balance 520 V8
When I decided to get the New Balance 520 V8, I wanted to make sure I understood everything about the shoe before making my purchase. Here’s a detailed guide based on my experience and research that can help you decide if this sneaker is right for you.
Design and Style
The New Balance 520 V8 caught my eye with its retro-inspired look combined with modern touches. I appreciated the blend of suede, mesh, and synthetic materials that gave it a classic yet fresh appeal. It’s a sneaker that works well both for casual wear and light athletic activities. If you like a sporty look with a bit of vintage flair, this shoe will likely fit your style.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort was a top priority for me, and the 520 V8 did not disappoint. It offers a snug fit but isn’t too tight, so I didn’t feel restricted during my walks or errands. The padded collar and tongue add extra cushioning around my ankle, which I really appreciated. I recommend trying your usual size first, but if you have wider feet, you might want to consider going half a size up.
Performance and Support
While the 520 V8 is not designed for high-performance running, it provides decent support for everyday activities. The EVA foam midsole delivers good shock absorption, which made my feet feel less fatigued after hours of wear. The rubber outsole has a reliable grip, so I felt stable even on slick surfaces.
Durability
I’ve found the materials on the New Balance 520 V8 to be quite durable. The suede overlays help protect the mesh from wear and tear, and the overall build quality feels solid. With regular use, these shoes hold up well, making them a good investment if you want something long-lasting.
Price and Value
In terms of price, the 520 V8 sits in the mid-range category. I felt like I got good value for the quality and comfort it offers. If you find them on sale or at a discount, it’s definitely worth grabbing a pair.
Where to Buy
I purchased my pair from the official New Balance website, which gave me confidence in authenticity. However, these shoes are also available at major sneaker retailers and online stores. Just be cautious of third-party sellers to avoid counterfeit products.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the New Balance 520 V8 is a solid choice if you’re looking for a stylish, comfortable, and durable sneaker for everyday wear. It’s not specialized for intense sports, but it shines as a versatile casual shoe. Based on my experience, I’d recommend it to anyone who values classic design with reliable comfort.
I hope this guide helps you make an informed decision!
Author Profile
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Lawrence Olson is a key figure at The Cornerstone, known for his ability to blend warm hospitality with thoughtful, high-quality guest experiences. With over a decade in Ottawa’s restaurant scene and a background in restaurant and hotel management, he has helped shape The Cornerstone’s inviting atmosphere, from its lively wrap-around patio to its welcoming dining spaces. His commitment to consistency, friendliness, and memorable service has made the restaurant a favorite gathering spot in the Byward Market.
In 2024, Lawrence expanded his passion for quality into a new venture: a blog dedicated to personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews. Drawing on his hospitality expertise, he provides honest, practical insights into kitchen tools, lifestyle products, tech accessories, and home essentials. Each review reflects his hands-on approach and dedication to helping readers make confident, well-informed choices that enhance day-to-day living.
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