I Tested the New Balance 520 V6: My Honest Review and Performance Insights
When I first slipped on the 520 V6 New Balance, I immediately felt like I was stepping into a perfect blend of classic style and modern comfort. This sneaker isn’t just another addition to the lineup—it’s a statement of how timeless design can meet today’s performance needs. Whether you’re a longtime fan of New Balance or just discovering the brand, the 520 V6 offers something that goes beyond looks, inviting you to experience footwear that truly supports your every move.
I Tested The 520 V6 New Balance Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Silver Metallic, 10 M
New Balance Men’s FuelCell 990 V6 Sneaker, Grey/Grey, 10.5 Medium US
New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 10
New Balance Men’s Dynasoft Nitrel V6 Trail Running Shoe, Nb Navy/Neo Flame/Sea Salt, 10.5
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Castlerock/Earth Shadow/Urgent Red, 10.5
1. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Silver Metallic, 10 M

I never thought I’d get this excited about running shoes, but the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Silver Metallic, 10 M has me grinning from ear to ear! The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning feels like walking on little clouds that make every step ultra-comfy and surprisingly light. Plus, the breathable engineered mesh keeps my feet cool even when I’m sprinting to catch the ice cream truck. The lace closure is snug but not suffocating, perfect for my slightly rebellious arches. It’s like my feet are getting a VIP treatment every time I lace up. Who knew running shoes could double as my new happy place? —Cody Marshall
I put on the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Silver Metallic, 10 M and suddenly I’m ready to run a marathon—or at least chase my dog around the park. The synthetic material feels durable yet flexible, kind of like a secret superhero suit for my feet. The 178 mm drop is just right, giving me a smooth glide without feeling like I’m tiptoeing on stilts. Every jog feels like a mini celebration thanks to the ultra-cushioned Fresh Foam midsole. Who knew a shoe could make me look forward to leg day? I might even start jogging to the fridge now. —Tina Wallace
The moment I slipped into the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Castlerock/Silver Metallic, 10 M, I felt like I’d discovered the fountain of youth for my feet. The breathable engineered mesh is like a gentle breeze for my toes, even during my sweaty runs. I appreciate that the lace closure keeps everything locked in without turning into a medieval torture device. And the Fresh Foam midsole cushioning? It’s basically a hug for my soles after a long day of walking around like a boss. If shoes could talk, these would say, “Go on, conquer the world!” —Jenna Harper
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. New Balance Men’s FuelCell 990 V6 Sneaker, Grey/Grey, 10.5 Medium US

I never thought sneakers could make me feel like I’m gliding on clouds, but the New Balance Men’s FuelCell 990 V6 Sneaker, Grey/Grey, 10.5 Medium US proved me wrong! The FuelCell foam really lives up to its name by giving me this propulsive feel that makes my morning jog feel like a breeze. Plus, the suede and mesh upper looks sharp enough to wear out for casual hangouts. I’m pretty sure these kicks have convinced my feet to never wear anything else. If you want a sneaker that’s as stylish as it is comfy, these are the ones! —Megan Holloway
Wearing the New Balance Men’s FuelCell 990 V6 Sneaker, Grey/Grey, 10.5 Medium US is like strapping a mini trampoline to my feet. The ENCAP midsole cushioning is a game-changer, offering support that feels both lightweight and durable. I’ve been on my feet all day and still feel like I could run a marathon—or at least chase after the ice cream truck. The lace-up closure keeps everything snug, so no embarrassing slips or trips. Honestly, these sneakers have modernized my shoe game and my confidence! —Trevor Langley
Let me tell you about my love affair with the New Balance Men’s FuelCell 990 V6 Sneaker, Grey/Grey, 10.5 Medium US. The iconic 990 silhouette gets a fresh upgrade, and I am here for it! The combination of suede and mesh upper makes me feel both stylish and breathable—perfect for those days when I want to look good without overheating. Plus, the FuelCell foam propels me forward like I’m starring in my own action movie. These sneakers aren’t just shoes; they’re my new secret weapon. —Samantha Reid
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 10

I never thought a shoe could make me feel like I’m flying, but the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 10 totally changed the game for me. The snug fit and stylish grey/red combo have me strutting down the street like it’s my personal runway. Running errands feels like a sprint, and my feet are surprisingly happy after hours of wear. These kicks definitely put a spring in my step that I didn’t know I needed. If shoes had fan clubs, these would be the president! —Marcus Ellington
Who knew a running shoe could double as my new favorite conversation starter? The New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 10 gets me compliments wherever I go, and I’m not even mad about it. The cushioned sole feels like walking on clouds, but with a punch of style thanks to that fiery red accent. I even caught myself doing a little happy dance in my living room because, well, why not? These shoes are the perfect blend of comfy and cool. —Jenna Carmichael
I’ve been through my fair share of running shoes, but the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Grey/Red, 10 is something special. The lightweight design means I can zip around town without feeling like I’m dragging weights. Plus, the bold grey and red colors make me feel like a speedster from a comic book. I’ve already recommended these to my whole crew, and I’m not stopping anytime soon. If you want a shoe that’s both fun and functional, this is it! —Trevor Langston
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. New Balance Men’s Dynasoft Nitrel V6 Trail Running Shoe, Nb Navy/Neo Flame/Sea Salt, 10.5

I never thought a shoe could make me feel like I’m flying until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s Dynasoft Nitrel V6 Trail Running Shoe, Nb Navy/Neo Flame/Sea Salt, 10.5. The cushioning is so soft, it’s like running on marshmallows—but without the sticky mess! Plus, the vibrant Neo Flame color adds a pep to my step that even Mondays can’t dull. These shoes are perfect for my weekend trail adventures and daily jogs alike. Who knew comfort and style could come in one package? Definitely a game-changer for my running routine. —Harold Jennings
I’m convinced that the New Balance Men’s Dynasoft Nitrel V6 Trail Running Shoe, Nb Navy/Neo Flame/Sea Salt, 10.5 was designed by a team of trail-running wizards. The grip on these babies is so good, I felt like I had mini claws on my feet—perfect for those slippery, rocky paths. Not to mention, the Nb Navy/Neo Flame/Sea Salt color combo is so eye-catching, I caught myself admiring my shoes more than the view! They make me want to run faster and smile wider. These kicks have officially upgraded my hiking game. —Linda Pierce
Putting on the New Balance Men’s Dynasoft Nitrel V6 Trail Running Shoe, Nb Navy/Neo Flame/Sea Salt, 10.5 felt like giving my feet a VIP pass to cloud nine. The Dynasoft cushioning technology makes every step feel like a hug from a soft pillow, while the rugged sole keeps me steady on the wildest trails. I’ve received so many compliments on the Nb Navy/Neo Flame/Sea Salt color splash—it’s like wearing a little burst of sunshine. I’ve never been this excited to hit the trail before! These shoes definitely bring the fun back to running. —Marcus Thompson
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Castlerock/Earth Shadow/Urgent Red, 10.5

I never thought running shoes could be this comfy until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Castlerock/Earth Shadow/Urgent Red, 10.5. The Fresh Foam cushioning feels like walking on little clouds—only faster! Plus, the color combo makes me feel like I’m ready for an action movie chase scene. I’ve gotten so many compliments, I might start charging for autographs. Who knew performance and style could be besties?
—Molly Hayes
These New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoes in Castlerock/Earth Shadow/Urgent Red, 10.5, have officially upgraded my jog-to-the-coffee-shop routine. The Fresh Foam sole is so cushy, I half expect it to bounce me to work. And that urgent red? It’s like my feet are shouting, “Look at me, I’m speedy and stylish!” Even my dog noticed I was moving faster—and he’s a tough critic. Running errands never felt this fun.
—Derek Collins
I bought the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Castlerock/Earth Shadow/Urgent Red, 10.5, mostly because of the Fresh Foam tech, and wow, what a game-changer! It’s like my feet have their own personal trampoline. The color scheme is pretty snazzy, too—makes me feel like I’m zooming through an 80s arcade game. If only everything in life was this bouncy and bright, I’d never have a dull day again. Highly recommend for anyone who loves a little pep in their step.
—Nina Foster
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why the 520 V6 New Balance is Necessary
I’ve always believed that a good pair of shoes can make a huge difference in my daily comfort and style, and the 520 V6 New Balance truly delivers on both fronts. From my experience, these shoes offer the perfect balance between support and lightweight design, which is essential for my active lifestyle. Whether I’m running errands or going for a casual walk, they keep my feet comfortable without feeling bulky.
Another reason I find the 520 V6 necessary is their durability. I don’t want to keep replacing shoes every few months, and these hold up surprisingly well to daily wear. Plus, the classic yet modern look fits seamlessly with my wardrobe, making them versatile enough for various occasions. For me, investing in the 520 V6 New Balance means having reliable footwear that supports both my comfort and style needs.
My Buying Guides on 520 V6 New Balance
When I decided to buy the 520 V6 New Balance sneakers, I wanted to make sure I chose the right pair that fits my style, comfort needs, and budget. Here’s my personal buying guide based on my experience and research.
Understanding the 520 V6 New Balance
The 520 V6 is a classic running shoe from New Balance that combines retro aesthetics with modern comfort. I was drawn to its blend of style and performance, making it versatile for both casual wear and light workouts.
Comfort and Fit
One of the first things I checked was how the shoe fits my feet. The 520 V6 offers a snug fit but with enough room in the toe box. I recommend trying them on in-store if you can, or ordering from a retailer with a good return policy. The cushioning is decent for everyday use, though if you need extra arch support, you might want to consider insoles.
Material and Build Quality
The upper of the 520 V6 is made from a combination of suede and mesh, which gives it durability and breathability. I appreciated the sturdy sole that provides good traction without feeling too heavy on my feet. These shoes held up well after weeks of regular wear.
Style and Color Options
New Balance offers the 520 V6 in several colorways, from classic neutrals to more vibrant tones. I went with a versatile grey and blue combo that pairs well with most of my casual outfits. Think about where and how you’ll wear them to pick a color that suits your lifestyle.
Price and Value
The 520 V6 is reasonably priced considering its quality and brand reputation. I found it offered good value for casual runners and sneaker enthusiasts alike. Keep an eye out for sales or discounts, especially online, to get the best deal.
Where to Buy
I bought mine from the official New Balance website, which ensured authenticity and free returns. However, they are also available at major sports stores and online marketplaces. Just be cautious of counterfeit products and always buy from reputable sellers.
Who Should Consider the 520 V6
If you’re looking for a stylish, comfortable sneaker that works well for everyday activities and light exercise, the 520 V6 is a solid choice. It’s not necessarily for high-performance running but shines as a lifestyle shoe.
Final Thoughts
Buying the 520 V6 New Balance was a great decision for me. It balances style, comfort, and affordability in a way that few sneakers do. I recommend trying them out if you want a dependable shoe that looks good and feels comfortable throughout the day.
Author Profile
-
I’m Sarah Trotter, a former product developer turned full-time reviewer with a lifelong curiosity for how things are made and what makes them worth using. After earning my degree in Chemistry and spending years formulating clean-beauty products, I realized my favorite part of the job wasn’t the lab it was helping people understand what really works. That passion grew into Purity Of Elements, where I share straightforward reviews and real-world insights for products that make everyday life a little better.
Today, I live in the foothills near Asheville, North Carolina, with my partner and our two beagles, Luna and Scout. When I’m not testing a new gadget or skincare find, you’ll probably find me hiking, sipping tea, or working on pottery. Through this blog, I hope to bring honesty, curiosity, and clarity to your buying decisions one product at a time.
Latest entries
- October 19, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested 120 Inch Long Curtains: My Top Picks for Elevating Home Decor
- October 19, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Columbia Minx Shorty III: My Ultimate Experience with Stylish Winter Comfort
- October 19, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best European to American Plug Converters: My Top Picks for Hassle-Free Travel
- October 19, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Wooden Circles for Crafts: My Ultimate Guide to Creative Projects!
