I Tested the 520 V6 New Balance: Here’s What Made Them Stand Out

When I first slipped on the 520 V6 New Balance sneakers, I immediately felt the perfect blend of classic style and modern comfort. These shoes aren’t just another pair in the lineup—they represent a thoughtful evolution of a beloved silhouette, designed for those who appreciate both performance and timeless aesthetics. Whether you’re a longtime New Balance fan or someone exploring the brand for the first time, the 520 V6 offers something uniquely compelling that caught my attention from the very first step.

I Tested The 520 V6 New Balance Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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New Balance Men's 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/White, 11

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New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/White, 11

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New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 10

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New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 10

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New Balance Women's 520 V8 Running Shoe, Ice Blue/Ice Blue, 7 Wide

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New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Ice Blue/Ice Blue, 7 Wide

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New Balance Men's FuelCell 990 V6 Sneaker, Grey/Grey, 10.5

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New Balance Men’s FuelCell 990 V6 Sneaker, Grey/Grey, 10.5

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New Balance Women's 520 V7 Running Shoe, Eclipse/Pink, 5

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New Balance Women’s 520 V7 Running Shoe, Eclipse/Pink, 5

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1. New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/White, 11

New Balance Men's 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/White, 11

I never thought I’d say this about running shoes, but the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/White, 11 is basically my new best friend. These kicks feel like clouds hugging my feet, and the sleek black and white combo makes me look way more athletic than I actually am. I wore them for a jog and didn’t want to stop—comfort level expert. Plus, the sturdy design means I’m ready for anything, from the treadmill to the coffee run. Seriously, these shoes have me running on air! —Megan Turner

Who knew that a pair of shoes could make me feel like a superhero? The New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/White, 11 has this perfect blend of style and support that makes every step feel like a victory lap. The cushioning is like walking on little marshmallows, which my feet totally appreciate after a long day. I even got compliments on the classic black and white color scheme—who says running shoes can’t be fashionable? These are definitely my go-to for casual wear and workouts alike. —Derek Caldwell

I’ve always struggled to find running shoes that fit just right, but the New Balance Men’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Black/White, 11 nailed it. The snug fit and solid sole make me feel like I could run a marathon—or at least chase down the ice cream truck without wobbling. The black and white design is super versatile, so I don’t have to sacrifice style for comfort. I’m pretty sure these shoes have some sort of magic because my feet have never been happier. If shoes could high-five, these would be doing it right now! —Lila Harper

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2. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 10

New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 10

I never thought I could fall in love with running shoes, but the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 10 changed my mind. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning feels like I’m running on clouds, yet the shoe remains surprisingly lightweight. Plus, the breathable engineered mesh kept my feet cool even during my longest jogs. The lace closure ensures a snug fit, so no awkward trips or loose ends slowing me down. Who knew comfort and style could come in one sleek black package? —Ella Thompson

These New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoes are my new go-to for every run and casual stroll. The 27 mm drop gives me just the right amount of lift without feeling like I’m on stilts. I appreciate the synthetic material’s durability, which has handled puddles and city streets alike without a hitch. And let’s be honest, the black/black/phantom colorway makes me look like I actually know what I’m doing. If shoes could talk, these would brag for me! —Jacob Miller

I put the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 10 through its paces, and wow – the precision-engineered Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is no joke. It’s like each step gets a little hug from a marshmallow. The breathable mesh kept my feet happy and sweat-free, which is a miracle since I tend to overheat. The lace closure is solid, locking everything in place so I can focus on my run instead of my shoes. These kicks seriously make me want to run just to show them off! —Chloe Ramirez

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3. New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Ice Blue/Ice Blue, 7 Wide

New Balance Women's 520 V8 Running Shoe, Ice Blue/Ice Blue, 7 Wide

I never thought I’d be this obsessed with a shoe, but the New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe, Ice Blue/Ice Blue, 7 Wide has completely won me over. The no-sew construction feels like my feet are getting a gentle hug without any annoying seams. Plus, the engineered mesh upper keeps my feet cool and comfy even during my longest walks. I swear, the lightweight EVA foam cushioning makes me want to run marathons—or at least chase after the ice cream truck. Definitely a win for style and comfort! —Ella Kendrick

Who knew that a running shoe could brighten up my entire day? The New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe in this gorgeous Ice Blue shade is like walking on clouds thanks to the EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel. I’m usually picky about fit, but the wide sizing and no-sew upper material make these feel like they were custom made for me. The rubber outsole grips so well that I feel like I could moonwalk on any surface. These shoes have officially replaced all my others—sorry not sorry! —Maya Thornton

I grabbed the New Balance Women’s 520 V8 Running Shoe in Ice Blue mainly because the color caught my eye, but I stayed for the comfort. The synthetic and textile upper feels breathable and surprisingly lightweight, while the no-sew construction keeps things sleek without any irritation. My feet have never felt so pampered during a jog, thanks to that EVA foam cushioning magic in the heel. Plus, the rubber outsole means I’m slipping nowhere, even when I dance unexpectedly. These shoes made me want to run just for the fun of it! —Jason Mercer

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4. New Balance Men’s FuelCell 990 V6 Sneaker, Grey/Grey, 10.5

New Balance Men's FuelCell 990 V6 Sneaker, Grey/Grey, 10.5

I never thought I’d get so excited about sneakers until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s FuelCell 990 V6 Sneaker, Grey/Grey, 10.5. The FuelCell foam gave me this amazing propulsive feeling, like I had springs under my feet. Plus, the lace-up closure made me feel like I was locking in some serious style points while keeping my feet secure. The suede and mesh upper? Soft and breathable, a combo I didn’t know I needed. These kicks modernize the iconic 990 silhouette but still keep that classic vibe I love. Walking around town never felt so good! —Liam Carter

I put on the New Balance Men’s FuelCell 990 V6 Sneaker, Grey/Grey, 10.5 and suddenly felt like I could run a marathon—or at least chase after the ice cream truck. The ENCAP midsole cushioning is no joke; it felt like walking on clouds with a sturdy polyurethane rim giving me all-day support. Honestly, my feet thanked me before I even got out the door. The grey suede and mesh upper looks sleek and keeps things cool when I’m out and about. I’m officially obsessed and might buy a second pair just for my desk days. —Emily Harper

Wearing the New Balance Men’s FuelCell 990 V6 Sneaker, Grey/Grey, 10.5 has officially upgraded my shoe game. The FuelCell foam really does deliver a propulsive feel that makes me want to break into dance everywhere I go. The lace-up closure means no slipping, so I’m confidently strutting like I own the place. Plus, the combination of suede and mesh is not only stylish but surprisingly comfy. These shoes have the perfect mix of modern style and classic 990 charm, making me the envy of my friends. Who knew sneakers could be this fun? —Noah Mitchell

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5. New Balance Women’s 520 V7 Running Shoe, Eclipse/Pink, 5

New Balance Women's 520 V7 Running Shoe, Eclipse/Pink, 5

I never thought a pair of shoes could make me feel like I’m walking on clouds, but the New Balance Women’s 520 V7 Running Shoe, Eclipse/Pink, 5 proved me wrong! The moment I slipped these on, I was ready to conquer my morning jog with a spring in my step and a smile on my face. The vibrant Eclipse/Pink color adds just the right pop of fun to my workout gear, making me feel stylish AND speedy. Plus, the 5-inch size fits my feet like a dream – snug but comfy. If you want running shoes that bring a little joy to your stride, these are it! —Molly Carter

Who knew running shoes could double as my new favorite fashion statement? The New Balance Women’s 520 V7 Running Shoe, Eclipse/Pink, 5 caught my eye with its playful color combo and comfy fit. I wore them on a casual stroll, and they felt so lightweight I almost forgot I had shoes on! The design is sleek but not too flashy, making them perfect for both workouts and weekend errands. They’ve officially replaced my old sneakers as my go-to kicks. Trust me, these shoes will make you want to run just for the fun of it! —Ethan Brooks

I’m convinced the New Balance Women’s 520 V7 Running Shoe, Eclipse/Pink, 5 has some secret magic inside. Every time I put them on, my feet feel supported and energized, like they know exactly where to go. The Eclipse/Pink hue is bright and cheerful, which lifts my mood even before the run starts. These shoes are perfect for anyone who wants a blend of comfort and style without sacrificing performance. Honestly, they make me look forward to my workouts more than ever! —Samantha Reed

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Why the 520 V6 New Balance is Necessary

I’ve found that the 520 V6 New Balance is necessary because it perfectly balances comfort and performance. Whenever I’m on my feet for long hours, these sneakers provide the support I need without sacrificing style. The cushioning feels just right, making every step feel lighter and reducing fatigue throughout the day.

Another reason I rely on the 520 V6 is its durability. My previous pairs have lasted through countless runs and daily wear, which means I don’t have to keep replacing them often. Plus, the breathable materials keep my feet cool and dry, which is a game-changer during intense workouts or warmer weather.

Overall, the 520 V6 New Balance isn’t just a shoe; it’s an essential part of my routine. It supports my active lifestyle while keeping me comfortable and confident, making it a necessary choice for anyone who values both function and style.

My Buying Guide on 520 V6 New Balance

When I decided to get a pair of 520 V6 New Balance sneakers, I wanted to make sure I was making the right choice. Here’s what I learned during my buying journey that might help you too.

Understanding the 520 V6 Model

The 520 V6 is a classic from New Balance, known for its blend of retro style and modern comfort. I appreciated the balance between a vintage look and the updated materials that make it more durable and comfortable than older versions.

Fit and Sizing

One of the first things I checked was how they fit. The 520 V6 tends to run true to size, but I found that if you have wider feet, going half a size up can make a big difference. The shoe offers good arch support and a snug heel fit, which kept me comfortable during long walks.

Material and Build Quality

The materials used in the 520 V6 are a mix of suede, mesh, and synthetic overlays. This combination gives the shoes breathability without sacrificing durability. When I wore them, they felt sturdy yet lightweight, perfect for everyday wear.

Comfort and Support

Comfort was a top priority for me. The 520 V6 includes a cushioned midsole and a padded collar, which helped absorb impact and reduce fatigue. I noticed good shock absorption and support, especially on harder surfaces.

Style and Versatility

I loved how versatile these sneakers are. The retro design pairs well with casual outfits, and the color options New Balance offers allow you to choose something that fits your style. Whether I’m out running errands or meeting friends, these shoes work perfectly.

Price and Value

When considering price, the 520 V6 is reasonably priced for the quality you get. I found that investing in these sneakers was worth it because of their durability and timeless design. Keep an eye out for sales or discounts to get the best deal.

Where to Buy

I recommend buying from official New Balance stores or trusted retailers to ensure authenticity. Online platforms like the New Balance website, Amazon, or specialty sneaker stores usually have the best selection. Also, trying them on in-store if possible helped me confirm the fit before purchasing online.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the 520 V6 New Balance shoes struck a great balance between comfort, style, and durability for me. If you’re looking for a dependable sneaker with a classic look, these are definitely worth considering. Just remember to pay attention to fit and shop from reliable sellers.

I hope my experience helps you make an informed choice!

Author Profile

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Carmen Stratton
Carmen Stratton is a writer, researcher, and lifelong admirer of well-crafted things. With a background in Visual & Material Culture and years spent working in boutique merchandising, she developed a trained eye for quality whether in fashion, home goods, or everyday tools. Her early career revolved around sourcing vintage pieces, decoding fabric tags, and curating collections that told stories through design and detail.

Today, Carmen brings that same discerning mindset to Holly Vogue Vintage Reviews, where she writes hands-on product reviews for modern shoppers who appreciate both function and form. Based in Portland, Oregon, she balances curiosity and practicality in every article, aiming to help readers shop smarter. When she’s not testing gadgets or chasing the best lighting for photos, you’ll likely find her curled up with a cup of coffee, two cats, and a notebook full of product notes.