New Balance 520 v7
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Buy New Balance 520 v7 at today's best price (men's/women's)
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Overview
The New Balance 520 v7 is a running shoe designed to offer comfort and versatility for new runners. This shoe is known for its affordability and supportive structure.
Key Features:
- Synthetic Upper: Provides comfort and elasticity, enhancing the overall fit.
- Durable Outsole: Offers improved grip and longevity, suitable for road surfaces.
- EVA Foam Midsole: Delivers medium cushioning for short-distance runs.
The New Balance 520 v7 is an ideal choice for beginner runners who prioritize comfort and affordability for daily running. Its durable outsole offers reliable grip, making it suitable for road running.
According to our analysis of prices across the internet, at current rates it's in the cheapest 10% of running shoes.
Verdict
The consensus on the New Balance 520 v7
The New Balance 520 v7 is praised for its comfort and affordability, making it a popular choice among beginner runners. The shoe's synthetic upper provides a snug fit, while the EVA foam midsole offers adequate cushioning for short-distance runs. The outsole has been redesigned to enhance grip and durability, making it suitable for road surfaces. However, some users note that the shoe requires a break-in period before achieving optimal comfort. The wide toe box is appreciated by those with broader feet, allowing for a relaxed fit. While not designed for high-performance running, the 520 v7 excels in providing all-day comfort for casual wear. Overall, the New Balance 520 v7 is a solid choice for those seeking a budget-friendly, comfortable shoe for everyday activities. Its value for money and versatility make it a worthwhile addition to any runner's collection.
Comparable Shoes
The New Balance Fresh Foam 880 v11 is a good alternative for runners seeking immediate comfort without a break-in period. It offers more advanced cushioning and is suitable for longer distances, making it a better choice for those who prioritize plush comfort and responsiveness.
The New Balance Fresh Foam More v3 is ideal for runners who need a shoe for colder weather. Its design provides additional warmth and cushioning, making it a suitable option for those who run in cooler climates or require extra support.
The New Balance FuelCell Propel v4 is a performance running shoe designed for speed. While the FuelCell offers more reactivity and is better suited for fast runs, the 520 v7 offers better value for money and is a more versatile option.
8 New Balance 520 v7 Pros & Cons
5 Pros
3 Cons
In Depth
Upper
The upper of the New Balance 520 v7 is crafted from a synthetic material that enhances comfort and elasticity. This design choice contributes to the shoe's overall breathability, making it suitable for daily running. The updated heel design offers improved support compared to previous versions, providing a secure fit for road running.
Midsole
The midsole of the New Balance 520 v7 features EVA foam, which is known for providing medium cushioning. This material is effective for short-distance runs and neutral pronation. While it lacks the advanced foams found in higher-end models, it offers a responsive ride that many runners find satisfactory for everyday training.
Outsole
The outsole of the New Balance 520 v7 has been redesigned to improve grip and durability. It features reinforcements in high-contact areas, such as the heel and forefoot, making it suitable for road surfaces. This design ensures that the shoe can withstand regular use, providing reliable traction on various terrains.
Comfort
Comfort is a standout feature of the New Balance 520 v7, with many users praising its all-day wearability. The combination of a breathable upper and cushioned midsole ensures that the shoe remains comfortable during extended use. This makes it an excellent choice for those who spend long hours on their feet, whether running or walking.
Breathability
Breathability is a key feature of the New Balance 520 v7, thanks to its mesh upper. This design allows for excellent airflow, keeping the foot cool and dry during runs. The breathable nature of the shoe also helps to prevent odors, making it a practical choice for well-ventilated running shoes.
Durability
Durability is a strong point for the New Balance 520 v7, with its robust outsole and reinforced high-contact areas. These features ensure that the shoe can withstand regular use on road surfaces, providing long-lasting performance. The durable construction makes it a cost-effective choice for runners seeking a reliable shoe for everyday training.
Grip
The grip of the New Balance 520 v7 is enhanced by its redesigned outsole, which features a pattern that improves traction on road surfaces. This design ensures that the shoe provides a secure footing, even on wet or uneven terrain. The reliable grip makes it suitable for a variety of running conditions, adding to its versatility.
Size/fit
The New Balance 520 v7 is known for its accommodating fit, particularly in the toe box area. This feature is beneficial for runners with wider feet, allowing for a more comfortable experience. However, some users have noted that the shoe may feel snug initially, requiring a brief break-in period to achieve the desired fit.
Cushioning
The cushioning in the New Balance 520 v7 is provided by an EVA foam midsole, which offers a balanced level of comfort and responsiveness. This cushioning is suitable for short-distance runs and everyday activities, providing a soft yet supportive feel underfoot. While not as plush as some high-end models, it is adequate for most casual runners.
Stability
The New Balance 520 v7 offers a stable ride, with a supportive structure that helps maintain balance during runs. The shoe's design includes a reinforced heel and a wide base, which contribute to its overall stability. This makes it a reliable option for runners who require a bit of extra support without sacrificing comfort.
Flex
Flexibility is a notable characteristic of the New Balance 520 v7, with its synthetic upper and EVA midsole allowing for natural foot movement. This flexibility contributes to the shoe's overall comfort, making it a suitable choice for runners who prefer a more adaptive fit. The shoe's design ensures that it can accommodate a range of foot shapes and running styles.
Who should buy the New Balance 520 v7?
The New Balance 520 v7 is ideal for beginner runners seeking a comfortable and affordable shoe for everyday training. Its lightweight design and breathable upper make it suitable for those who prioritize comfort during short-distance runs. Runners with wider feet will appreciate the spacious toe box, while the shoe's supportive structure offers stability for road running.
Who should not buy the New Balance 520 v7?
Runners looking for a high-performance shoe for long-distance or competitive running may find the New Balance 520 v7 lacking in advanced cushioning and responsiveness. Those who prefer a shoe that is ready to wear out of the box might be disappointed by the break-in period required. For colder weather runs, the shoe's breathable design may not provide sufficient warmth. Consider the New Balance Fresh Foam 880 v11 for immediate comfort or the New Balance FuelCell for faster runs.
New Balance 520 v7: What's it good for?
The New Balance 520 v7 is well-suited for daily running and short-distance training. Its lightweight and breathable design make it ideal for road surfaces, providing comfort and support for casual runners. The shoe's versatility extends to everyday wear, making it a practical choice for those who need a shoe that can transition from running to daily activities. Its durable construction ensures it can handle regular use, offering reliable performance for neutral pronation runners.
5 New Balance 520 v7 FAQs
What type of runner is the New Balance 520 v7 best suited for?
The New Balance 520 v7 is best suited for beginner runners who need a comfortable and affordable shoe for everyday running and short-distance training.
Does the New Balance 520 v7 require a break-in period?
Yes, some users have noted that the New Balance 520 v7 requires a brief break-in period to achieve optimal comfort, especially for those with higher arches.
Is the New Balance 520 v7 suitable for cold weather running?
The New Balance 520 v7 may not be ideal for cold weather running due to its breathable mesh upper, which is designed for ventilation rather than warmth.
How does the New Balance 520 v7 perform on road surfaces?
The New Balance 520 v7 performs well on road surfaces, thanks to its durable outsole that provides reliable grip and traction.
Is the New Balance 520 v7 a good option for runners with wide feet?
Yes, the New Balance 520 v7 features a wide toe box that accommodates runners with wider feet, allowing for a comfortable fit.
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| bestDeal | Show prices | |||||
| priceBand | Price band | |||||
| similarity | Similarity | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar |
| released | ReleasedFeb 2023 | May 2020 | Mar 2023 | Aug 2021 | ||
| expertReviewScore | Expert Review Score | |||||
| Weight | Weight249 g | M: 224 g W: 184 g | M: 283 g W: 213 g | 306 g | ||
| Heel to toe drop | Heel to toe drop | 11 mm | 6 mm | |||
| Brand | BrandNew Balance | Nike | ASICS | Reebok | On | On |
| Shoe Type | Shoe Type | Lightweight | Lightweight | |||
| Orthotic friendly | Orthotic friendly | |||||
| Removable insole | Removable insole | |||||
| Environmental Characteristics | Environmental Characteristics | Sustainable | ||||
Common characteristicsRoadDaily runningNeutralNeutral pronationHigh archBreathable |
