I Tested the Top New Balance 520 Running Shoes: My Honest Review and Collecting Tips

This model earned its ranking primarily through its dependable neutral cushioning that handles daily pavement pounding without a fuss. I think the classic black and castlerock colorway is a smart choice for runners who prefer a subtle, unassuming athletic aesthetic.

The main limitation here is a lack of specialized stability features, meaning severe overpronators might need to look elsewhere. In my judgment, this shoe remains a solid daily workhorse for standard training routines.

This shoe is best suited for everyday women runners who want straightforward comfort without paying for over-engineered marathon technology. I consider this a sensible entry point for anyone starting a consistent running routine.

You will not find aggressive carbon plates or high-end race-day tech inside this frame. What you do get is a reliable daily trainer that keeps things simple and comfortable.

The most interesting feature here is the surprisingly adaptable fit across various foot shapes, which then widens out into a truly impressive overall daily runner. I would rank this as my top pick for general versatility in the entire lineup.

The aesthetic design stays fairly plain, which might bore runners who prefer bold, neon statements on the track. Still, I believe the balanced midsole foam provides the best overall ride of the group.

The most common buyer complaint about this version involves the vibrant color scheme showing scuffs and dirt much faster than darker monochrome models. Once you move past the maintenance of the shipyard and vintage indigo palette, the core performance remains entirely dependable.

I find this vibrant edition appealing if you want your running gear to double as stylish streetwear, provided you keep a cleaning brush handy. It delivers the same comfortable ride as its siblings while making a louder visual statement.

Unlike the vibrant indigo model directly above it, this grey iteration focuses heavily on accommodating wider feet without sacrificing modern styling. I appreciate how New Balance caters to runners who usually struggle to find comfortable width options in standard lineups.

The muted grey color scheme might feel a bit ordinary if you prefer energetic footwear. Even so, I consider this version an essential comfort solution for anyone needing extra room in the toe box.

This older V8 edition became popular largely through its proven budget-friendly reputation, but I had to assess whether that heritage still holds up against newer V9 designs. The previous generation lacks the refined foam compounds of the latest models, yet it remains a functional choice for frugal shoppers.

I would suggest this version only if you want to maximize financial savings over cutting-edge comfort. It still delivers basic mileage support, but the technological gap is noticeable.