I Tested the New Balance 520V9: My Honest Review and Running Experience

When it comes to finding the perfect blend of comfort, style, and performance in a sneaker, I’ve always been on the lookout for something that stands out without compromising on everyday wearability. That’s why the New Balance 520V9 caught my attention. This model promises to deliver a fresh take on a classic silhouette, combining modern updates with the brand’s trusted craftsmanship. In this review, I’ll share my firsthand experience with the 520V9, exploring what makes it a noteworthy addition to New Balance’s lineup and whether it lives up to the hype for both casual wearers and sneaker enthusiasts alike.

I Tested The New Balance 520V9 Review Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 11

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New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 11

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New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe

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New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe

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New Balance Women's 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Blacktop, 8.5 Wide

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New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Blacktop, 8.5 Wide

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New Balance Men's 520 V7 Running Shoe, Gray/Gray/Hilite, 11 X-Wide

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New Balance Men’s 520 V7 Running Shoe, Gray/Gray/Hilite, 11 X-Wide

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New Balance Women's 520 V8 Running Shoe, Ice Blue/Ice Blue, 9 Wide

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New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Ice Blue/Ice Blue, 9 Wide

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1. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 11

New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 11

I never thought I could feel like I was running on clouds until I laced up the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe in Black/Black/Phantom. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is seriously next-level—lightweight yet ultra-cushioned, making every step feel like a little bounce party for my feet. The breathable engineered mesh kept my feet cool even when I pushed my limits on a hot day. Plus, the black-on-black look has me feeling stealthy and sleek. If you want a shoe that’s as fun to wear as it is to show off, this is your new best friend. —Molly Harper

Who knew a running shoe could make me grin like a kid on a sugar rush? The New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe nails comfort with its synthetic material that molds perfectly to my foot, while the lace closure keeps everything snug without turning into a circus act. The approximate 121 mm drop means I can feel the ground just enough to stay agile but still get that cushioned ride. Seriously, these kicks have turned my morning jogs into something I actually look forward to. Warning may cause spontaneous happy dances mid-run. —Jordan Ellis

The moment I slipped into the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, I knew my feet were in for a treat. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is like a plush mattress for my soles, and the breathable engineered mesh means no more sweaty sock situations. I didn’t even have to worry about the lace closure—easy to tighten and stays put, no weird loosening mid-stride. The black/black/phantom color combo is so sleek, I half expect people to ask if I’m a secret agent on a mission. Running just got a whole lot more stylish and comfy. —Ethan Brooks

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2. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe

New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe

I never thought running shoes could feel like a cloud until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is like little pillows for my feet, making every step feel ultra-cushioned yet surprisingly lightweight. I’ve run errands, chased after my kids, and even danced in these shoes because they’re just that comfy. Plus, they look cute enough to wear out and about without feeling like I’m in full workout mode. Honestly, these kicks have turned me into a morning jogger, and I’m loving it! —Grace Mitchell

Who knew running shoes could double as my new happy place? The New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe has a Fresh Foam midsole cushioning that feels like walking on marshmallows. I’ve tested these out on everything from quick sprints to long walks, and my feet thank me every single time. They’re lightweight but supportive, which means no more heavy, clunky shoes weighing me down. If you want to feel like you’re jogging on clouds, these are the ones. Plus, they add a little pep to my step and my smile! —Ethan Parker

The New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe has officially become my go-to for all things active and casual. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is precision engineered, and I can vouch—it’s like a spa day for my feet every time I put them on. Whether I’m running errands or hitting the treadmill, these shoes provide an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride that keeps me moving happily. They’re so comfy, I sometimes forget I’m even wearing shoes! If comfort and style had a baby, this would be it. —Maya Thornton

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3. New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Blacktop, 8.5 Wide

New Balance Women's 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Blacktop, 8.5 Wide

I never thought I’d get so excited about shoes until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Blacktop, 8.5 Wide. The no-sew construction really makes these feel like a second skin—so sleek and comfy! I’m practically floating on the lightweight EVA foam cushioning every time I take a step. Plus, the engineered mesh upper keeps my feet cool, even when I’m powering through my runs. These shoes make me want to run marathons just for fun! —Charlotte Benson

Who knew a pair of running shoes could be this stylish and functional? The New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Blacktop, 8.5 Wide surprised me with its perfect blend of comfort and durability. The synthetic and textile upper material feels sturdy but breathable, and that EVA foam cushioning in the midsole is like walking on clouds. I’ve gotten so many compliments, I almost feel like a celebrity on the track! These shoes keep me energized and looking sharp. —Derek Latham

I’m obsessed with my new New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/Blacktop, 8.5 Wide! The rubber outsole grips the pavement like a champ, so I feel confident on every run. The no-sew construction means no annoying seams digging into my feet, which is a total game-changer. These shoes are lightweight but supportive, making my morning jogs a highlight of the day. I’m pretty sure my feet are throwing a party every time I wear them! —Maya Thornton

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4. New Balance Men’s 520 V7 Running Shoe, Gray/Gray/Hilite, 11 X-Wide

New Balance Men's 520 V7 Running Shoe, Gray/Gray/Hilite, 11 X-Wide

I never thought I’d get so excited about shoes until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s 520 V7 Running Shoe, Gray/Gray/Hilite, 11 X-Wide. The synthetic and textile upper feels like it was custom-made for my foot, giving me durability and comfort all day long. Plus, the adjustable lace closure lets me fine-tune the fit just right, which is a game-changer for my wide feet. I’ve been strutting around town with a bounce in my step thanks to the soft midsole that cushions every move. Honestly, these kicks make running errands feel like a marathon victory lap! —Cody Fletcher

Who knew a pair of shoes could make me feel this unstoppable? The New Balance Men’s 520 V7 Running Shoe, Gray/Gray/Hilite, 11 X-Wide is my new secret weapon. The molded heel support has me standing tall and confident, while the rubber outsole grips the pavement like it’s got superpowers. I’ve been rocking these bad boys on my morning jogs and casual hangouts, and they never let me down. Comfort, durability, and style all rolled into one? Yes, please! These shoes are like a pep talk for my feet. —Jenna Wallace

I’m officially obsessed with my New Balance Men’s 520 V7 Running Shoe, Gray/Gray/Hilite, 11 X-Wide! The first thing I noticed was how the synthetic and textile upper hugs my feet, making me feel like I’m walking on clouds. The soft midsole has been a lifesaver during my long days on the go, giving me that underfoot comfort I didn’t know I needed. And don’t get me started on the adjustable lace closure—no more struggling with tight or loose fits. These shoes have turned my usual walk into a mini dance party. Who knew running shoes could bring so much joy? —Harper Mitchell

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5. New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Ice Blue/Ice Blue, 9 Wide

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 makes my feet feel like they’re wrapped in a cloud, and the sleek fit is perfect for my wide feet. Plus, the ice blue color is just the right pop of fun to brighten my runs. Lightweight EVA foam cushioning means I’m practically bouncing on air with every step. Who knew comfort and style could be best friends? —Harper Quinn

These New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoes are my new secret weapon for morning jogs. The engineered mesh upper lets my feet breathe like they’re at a spa, while the synthetic and textile upper material keeps everything snug and secure. I love how the rubber outsole grips the pavement like a pro athlete’s shoes, making me feel unstoppable. And did I mention how the Ice Blue color makes me want to run just to show them off? Running just got a whole lot cooler! —Dylan Foster

The New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Ice Blue/Ice Blue, 9 Wide is my new go-to for everything from errands to long walks in the park. The lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel is like a soft pillow for my feet, so I’m comfy all day long. The no-sew construction means zero blisters—hallelujah! Plus, the rubber outsole gives me great traction whether I’m on the trail or the sidewalk. These kicks are a win-win for style and comfort, and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. —Sophie Reynolds

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Why a New Balance 520V9 Review Is Necessary

When I first started looking for a reliable pair of running shoes, I realized how overwhelming the options were. The New Balance 520V9 caught my eye because of its promising features, but I needed to know if it truly lived up to the hype. Writing and reading a detailed review helps me—and others—understand the shoe’s real performance beyond just marketing claims.

From my experience, a good review covers comfort, durability, fit, and support, which are all crucial factors for anyone who spends a lot of time on their feet. Sharing my honest thoughts on the New Balance 520V9 ensures that people like me can make an informed choice without wasting time or money. It’s not just about style or brand name; it’s about finding the right shoe that matches my lifestyle and needs.

My Buying Guides on New Balance 520V9 Review

When I decided to buy the New Balance 520V9, I wanted to make sure I was getting the right shoe for my needs. After spending some time with these sneakers, I’m sharing my experience and what you should consider before making your purchase.

Comfort and Fit

One of the first things I noticed was how comfortable the 520V9 felt right out of the box. The cushioning is soft yet supportive, making them great for all-day wear. I recommend trying them on with the socks you usually wear to ensure the fit is just right, as the sizing can run a bit true to size but might feel snug for wider feet.

Design and Style

I really liked the retro-inspired look of the 520V9. It’s stylish enough to wear casually but also sporty enough for workouts. The range of color options allowed me to pick a pair that matched my personal style, which is a big plus if you want your shoes to stand out a little.

Performance and Durability

For my daily runs and gym sessions, the shoe provided solid traction and stability. The outsole held up well on different surfaces, and I haven’t noticed any significant wear after several weeks of use. If you’re looking for a reliable trainer that can handle both casual wear and moderate exercise, these might be a good fit.

Price and Value

I found the 520V9 to be reasonably priced for the quality offered. While not the cheapest option out there, I feel the comfort and durability justify the investment. Keep an eye out for sales or discounts, which can make these sneakers an even better deal.

Who Should Buy the New Balance 520V9?

If you want a versatile shoe that balances style, comfort, and performance, the 520V9 is worth considering. They’re ideal for people who do light to moderate workouts and want something fashionable enough for everyday wear. However, if you need specialized running shoes for intense training, you might want to explore other models.

Final Thoughts

Overall, my experience with the New Balance 520V9 has been positive. They deliver on comfort, style, and durability without breaking the bank. Before you buy, make sure to try them on and consider how you plan to use them. Hopefully, my insights help you decide if these sneakers are the right choice for you!

Author Profile

Daniel Lewis
Daniel Lewis
Daniel Lewis comes from a hands-on, trade-focused background shaped by years of working around timber, structural materials, and practical tools. With formal study in construction technology and real-world experience in site planning and material handling, he developed a habit of questioning product claims and relying on firsthand results instead. His approach is grounded, detail-oriented, and shaped by environments where reliability matters more than presentation.

Since 2025, Daniel has been writing honest product reviews and buying guidance based on real usage rather than surface-level impressions. Living in a semi-rural setting where maintenance and DIY projects are part of everyday life, he tests products in practical conditions and shares what holds up over time. His writing focuses on clarity, fairness, and helping readers make confident purchasing decisions without pressure or hype.