The New Balance 510 V6 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The New Balance 510 v6 is a versatile running shoe designed for both road and trail use. This model is ideal for offroading novices, featuring subtle yet grippy lugs that provide immediate traction underfoot.

Lab tests indicate a well-cushioned ride that strikes a balance between softness and firmness, making it suitable for traversing uneven surfaces. The generous padding coupled with adequate arch support ensures prolonged comfort during extended wear.

Though it may not perform optimally on rocky or technical trails, the New Balance 510 v6 offers substantial value at its sub-$100 price point.


Pros

  • Works well as a road-to-trail shoe
  • Easy on the wallet
  • Great for trail novices
  • Good impact protection
  • Well-padded and cushy upper
  • Solid traction on and off-road
  • Breathable and protective toebox
  • Strong arch-support

Cons

  • Not for technical trails
  • No rock plate
  • Midsole feels rather dull

Key Features

  • Fresh Foam midsole cushioning: This precision-engineered cushioning provides an ultra-cushioned and lightweight ride, making each step feel effortless.
  • AT Tread outsole: Designed for versatile traction, this outsole performs well in both on-road and off-road conditions.
  • Toe Protect technology: This feature helps safeguard your feet from rocks, roots, and other debris, ensuring that you can focus on your performance rather than discomfort.
  • 3D molded midsole: Offering a soft and supportive blend of comfort and stability, this design enhances overall foot support.
  • No-sew upper construction: The sleek fit and feel provided by this construction enhances comfort while reducing the risk of irritation.

Specifications

  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole material: Rubber
  • Outer material: Mesh
  • Inner material: Cotton

New Balance 510 V6 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

New Balance 510 v6 On Cloudvista 2 Salomon Pulsar Trail New Balance Tektrel
Price $90 $150 $130 $90
Trail terrain Light Light Light Light
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 11 oz / 312g 10.3 oz / 292g 9.9 oz / 281g 10.7 oz / 302g
Drop lab Drop brand 8.2 mm 6.0 mm 7.2 mm 8.0 mm
Strike pattern Heel Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot Heel
Size True to size True to size True to size Slightly small
Midsole softness Balanced Balanced Soft Balanced
Difference in midsole softness in cold Small Small Small Normal
Plate Rock plate
Toebox durability Decent Decent Decent Good
Heel padding durability Bad Bad Good Decent
Outsole durability Good Good Good Decent
Breathability Moderate Warm Moderate Breathable
Width / fit Narrow Narrow Medium Medium
Toebox width Medium Medium Medium Wide
Stiffness Stiff Moderate Stiff Stiff
Torsional rigidity Moderate Stiff Stiff Moderate
Heel counter stiffness Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate
Lug depth 2.9 mm 3.1 mm 2.5 mm 2.4 mm
Heel stack lab Heel stack brand 33.8 mm 31.7 mm 31.0 mm 32.2 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 25.6 mm 25.7 mm 23.8 mm 24.2 mm
Widths available Normal Narrow Normal Normal
Season All seasons All seasons All seasons Summer
Removable insole
Orthotic friendly
Ranking Bottom 3% Top 35% Top 42% Bottom 6%
Popularity Bottom 13% Bottom 41% Bottom 22% Top 49%