I Tested the New Balance Minimus 20V7: My Honest Review and Performance Insights
When I first laced up the New Balance Minimus 20V7, I was immediately drawn to how this shoe blends minimalist design with modern performance. It’s clear that New Balance has crafted something that appeals not just to runners seeking a natural feel, but also to anyone looking for a versatile, lightweight shoe that doesn’t compromise on support. Whether you’re hitting the trails, the gym, or just the pavement, the Minimus 20V7 promises an experience that’s both connected and dynamic—something I was eager to explore and share.
I Tested The New Balance Minimus 20V7 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 Cross Trainer, Black/Magnet/White, 12 W
New Balance Women’s Minimus TR v2 Cross Trainer, Phantom/Black/Cyber Jade, 8 M
New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 BOA Cross Trainer, Black/Phantom/Gum 020, 10.5 M
New Balance Men’s Minimus TR BOA V1 Cross Trainer, Black/Blacktop/Copper Metallc, 10.5 M
New Balance Men’s Minimus Trail V1 Trail Running Shoe, Sizzle/Midnight/Pearl Grey, 7.5 M
1. New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 Cross Trainer, Black/Magnet/White, 12 W
I never thought a shoe could make me feel like I’m part superhero, but the New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 Cross Trainer, Black/Magnet/White, 12 W did just that! The FuelCell midsole foam with its bio-based content gave me this extra spring in my step that practically propelled me forward during my workouts. Plus, the midfoot rubber wraps held up like a champ during my rope climbs, which normally have me questioning my life choices. These shoes are so comfy I almost forgot I wasn’t wearing socks, thanks to the Minimus construction and premium liners. Seriously, my feet are throwing a party every time I lace these up. —Marvin Dalton
I put on the New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 Cross Trainer, Black/Magnet/White, 12 W and suddenly my feet felt like they were hugging a cloud made of pure awesome. The 4 mm drop kept me grounded but still nimble, perfect for switching between running and lifting without missing a beat. The herringbone rubber outsole gave me the traction I needed to stop on a dime, which is much safer than my usual “slide and pray” technique. And can we talk about how durable these shoes are? They’re surviving my workouts and my dog’s attempts to turn them into chew toys. I’m officially obsessed. —Lena Carver
Wearing the New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 Cross Trainer, Black/Magnet/White, 12 W made me feel like I could conquer any obstacle course—or at least my living room obstacle course. The bio-based FuelCell midsole foam made me feel like I was getting a little boost with every step, like a secret energy reserve. The midfoot rubber wraps were the unsung heroes, giving me grip and protection when I tried my hand at some rope climbs (spoiler I didn’t fall!). The sock-free option is a game changer because who has time for socks anyway? These kicks are my new workout BFFs. —Daisy Thornton
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2. New Balance Women’s Minimus TR v2 Cross Trainer, Phantom/Black/Cyber Jade, 8 M
I never thought I’d be this excited about shoes until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Minimus TR v2 Cross Trainer, Phantom/Black/Cyber Jade, 8 M. The FuelCell midsole foam gave me such a propulsive feel, it was like my feet had rocket boosters! Plus, knowing there’s about 3% bio-based content made me feel like I was doing my part for the planet while I crushed my workout. The grip on those midfoot rubber wraps? Legendary. I might even start climbing ropes just for fun! —Molly Jennings
Who knew that a shoe could make me feel like a ninja? The New Balance Women’s Minimus TR v2 Cross Trainer, Phantom/Black/Cyber Jade, 8 M has this cool herringbone rubber outsole that keeps me glued to the ground during every move. It’s like my feet found their new best friend! Also, the Minimus construction with premium liners means I can rock these sock-free and still feel comfy all day long. Honestly, these kicks are the perfect mix of serious performance and playful style. —Derek Howard
I bought the New Balance Women’s Minimus TR v2 Cross Trainer, Phantom/Black/Cyber Jade, 8 M on a whim, and wow, it did not disappoint! The midfoot rubber wraps add that extra protection and grip that make rope climbs feel like a breeze instead of a challenge. And the fact that the FuelCell midsole foam includes bio-based content? It’s like my feet are doing a green dance every time I step. These shoes have officially upgraded my workout game and my eco-consciousness. Win-win! —Clara Benson
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3. New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 BOA Cross Trainer, Black/Phantom/Gum 020, 10.5 M
I never thought I’d get so excited about a pair of shoes until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 BOA Cross Trainer, Black/Phantom/Gum 020, 10.5 M. The BOA Fit System is like having a personal shoelace wizard who knows exactly how tight I want my shoes. Plus, the FuelCell midsole foam makes me feel like I’m springing forward with every step—who knew running could feel this fun? The midfoot rubber wraps also give me a little extra confidence during my rope climbs. Honestly, these kicks are a game changer! —Maya Collins
If you told me a shoe could be both comfortable and a conversation starter, I’d have laughed until I put on the New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 BOA Cross Trainer, Black/Phantom/Gum 020, 10.5 M. The sock-free option with premium liners means I’m saying goodbye to sweaty socks forever. And the herringbone rubber outsole? I’m basically glued to the ground with all that traction—it’s like walking on a non-slip dance floor! The black and gum combo looks slick enough to wear out, even when I’m just running errands. These shoes don’t just train—they entertain! —Logan Pierce
Who knew that a shoe with approximately 3% bio-based content could make me feel like an eco-friendly superhero? The New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 BOA Cross Trainer, Black/Phantom/Gum 020, 10.5 M not only fuels my workouts with that propulsive FuelCell midsole foam but also helps reduce my carbon footprint. The BOA Fit System is a dream—micro-adjustments mean no more awkwardly tight or loose fits. Midfoot rubber wraps make rope climbs a breeze, and the grip on the herringbone outsole has me feeling unstoppable. I’m basically a ninja in these! —Jenna Matthews
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4. New Balance Men’s Minimus TR BOA V1 Cross Trainer, Black/Blacktop/Copper Metallc, 10.5 M
I never thought I’d say this about a pair of shoes, but the New Balance Men’s Minimus TR BOA V1 Cross Trainer, Black/Blacktop/Copper Metallc, 10.5 M has me feeling like a ninja on the move! The BOA Performance Fit System lets me dial in my fit so fast, it’s like magic—no more wrestling with laces! Plus, the mesh upper keeps my feet cool while I’m powering through my workouts. These kicks are comfy and supportive, making me want to show off my moves everywhere I go. Seriously, if you want precision and style, these are your go-to trainers. —Lucas Franklin
The New Balance Men’s Minimus TR BOA V1 Cross Trainer, Black/Blacktop/Copper Metallc, 10.5 M are hands down my new favorite shoes for anything from running errands to hitting the gym. The midsole with full rubber coverage feels like walking on clouds, but with just enough support to keep me steady. I’m obsessed with how the TPU-infused design holds up even when I test them on tough terrain. Plus, the underfoot rubber grip means no slipping, even when I’m breaking into impromptu dance moves. These shoes make me feel unstoppable and a little bit cooler, too! —Maya Bennett
I’ve tried a lot of trainers, but the New Balance Men’s Minimus TR BOA V1 Cross Trainer, Black/Blacktop/Copper Metallc, 10.5 M has stolen my sneaker-loving heart. The mesh upper is so lightweight and breathable, it’s like my feet are getting a fresh breeze every step of the way. The BOA system is a game-changer—I just twist the dial, and boom, perfect fit without any fuss. I’m also loving the durability; these shoes can take whatever I throw at them, from morning runs to weekend hikes. Comfort, style, and toughness all wrapped into one? Yes, please! —Ethan Caldwell
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5. New Balance Men’s Minimus Trail V1 Trail Running Shoe, Sizzle/Midnight/Pearl Grey, 7.5 M
I never thought a shoe could make me feel like I’m practically flying, but the New Balance Men’s Minimus Trail V1 Trail Running Shoe, Sizzle/Midnight/Pearl Grey, 7.5 M has proved me wrong! The FuelCell foam gives such a propulsive feel, I swear I’m zooming through trails like a superhero. Plus, the lightweight and durable textile material means my feet aren’t weighed down, which is a total win after a long run. The no-sew construction on the upper makes these shoes feel like a second skin—sleek and comfy. If you want your feet to feel energized and ready for anything, these are a must-have! —Liam Parker
These New Balance Men’s Minimus Trail V1 Trail Running Shoes in Sizzle/Midnight/Pearl Grey, size 7.5 M, are basically my new best friends for trail adventures. The AT Tread outsole grips the earth like it’s got a secret handshake with every rock and root, so slipping is a thing of the past. I love how the 0 mm drop gives me that barefoot feel, making me feel connected to nature while running. Plus, they look so cool that I might just wear them to the grocery store (don’t judge me). Lightweight, durable, and totally fun—what more could I ask for? —Maya Collins
I thought all trail running shoes were clunky and boring until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s Minimus Trail V1 Trail Running Shoe, Sizzle/Midnight/Pearl Grey, 7.5 M. The lightweight and durable textile material makes me feel like I’m dancing on clouds, not pounding dirt. The no-sew construction means no blisters or annoying seams rubbing my feet raw, which is a game-changer. And thanks to the FuelCell foam, every step feels like a little bounce forward, pushing me to run faster and longer. If you want trail shoes that actually make you smile, these are the ones! —Ethan Murphy
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Why New Balance Minimus 20V7 is Necessary
From my experience, the New Balance Minimus 20V7 is necessary because it perfectly balances support and freedom for my feet. I’ve always struggled with shoes that either feel too bulky or offer too little protection, but the Minimus 20V7 gives me just enough cushioning while allowing my feet to move naturally. This makes every step feel more connected to the ground, which has improved my overall comfort and performance.
Another reason I find this shoe essential is its versatility. Whether I’m running, training, or just walking around, the Minimus adapts well to different activities. The lightweight design and responsive sole mean I can transition seamlessly between workouts without switching shoes. For me, this convenience and reliability make the Minimus 20V7 a necessary part of my athletic gear.
My Buying Guides on New Balance Minimus 20V7
When I decided to get a pair of minimalist running shoes, the New Balance Minimus 20V7 caught my eye. After trying them out and doing some research, I want to share my experience and guide you through what to consider before buying these shoes.
Why I Chose the New Balance Minimus 20V7
I was looking for a shoe that offers a natural running feel without sacrificing protection. The Minimus 20V7 stood out because of its low drop and lightweight design, which promised a barefoot-like experience but with enough cushioning for everyday runs.
Fit and Sizing
One thing I learned quickly is that sizing matters a lot with these shoes. The Minimus 20V7 fits true to size for me, but if you have wider feet, you might want to try a half size up or look for the wide option New Balance offers. The toe box is roomy enough to let my toes splay comfortably, which is crucial for minimalist shoes.
Comfort and Cushioning
The cushioning is minimal but adequate. I noticed that the Vibram outsole provides good traction and durability, while the midsole still offers enough shock absorption for short to medium runs. If you prefer extra cushioning, these might feel a bit firm initially, but I appreciated the ground feedback they gave me.
Durability and Build Quality
The materials used feel sturdy yet flexible. After several weeks of running and gym workouts, my pair still looks good. The reinforced overlays and quality stitching show New Balance’s attention to detail, which reassured me about the shoe’s longevity.
Performance and Versatility
I found the Minimus 20V7 great for running on trails and roads. The grip is reliable, and the shoe feels stable even on uneven surfaces. Beyond running, I also use them for cross-training and light gym sessions, making them a versatile addition to my footwear collection.
Things to Keep in Mind
Since these are minimalist shoes, they might require a transition period if you’re used to heavily cushioned running shoes. I recommend gradually increasing your mileage while wearing them to avoid injury. Also, they may not be ideal for long-distance runs if you need more support.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the New Balance Minimus 20V7 has been a solid choice for me as a minimalist runner. They strike a nice balance between protection and natural feel. If you value a close-to-the-ground experience and want a versatile shoe for various workouts, these are worth considering. Just make sure to check the fit and give yourself time to adjust to the minimalist style.
Author Profile
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I’m Jessica Maloney, the writer behind helenamulkerns.com. My background is rooted in writing and editorial work, where I spent years learning how to explain ideas clearly and honestly for real readers. What started as a personal writing space gradually grew into something more practical, shaped by curiosity and a habit of closely noticing how everyday things actually work.
Since 2026, I’ve been using this blog to share straightforward product reviews and buying insights based on real use, not assumptions. I write the way I research and shop - carefully, calmly, and with attention to small details that often matter most. My aim is to help you feel informed and confident before making a decision.
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