New Balance 510 V5 Trail Running Shoe for Men - Lightweight Durability

In this review of the New Balance 510 V5 trail running shoe for men, the bottom line is simple: it is a lightweight, durable trail shoe built for runners who want reliable traction and responsive comfort without extra bulk. The reviewer found the 510 V5 best for mixed-surface runs where sustained durability and predictable cushioning matter most, and notes that its standout feature is a rugged lugged outsole paired with a responsive EVA midsole that balances protection and ride feel.

Key Features

• Rugged construction: The heavy-duty upper and reinforced overlays hold up to repeated abrasion on rocks, roots and gravel, extending the shoe's usable life.
• AT TREAD lugged outsole: The aggressive lug pattern provides enhanced traction on both trail and road surfaces so footing feels more secure in varied conditions.
• Injection-molded EVA midsole: The lightweight foam delivers a responsive feel underfoot that keeps the shoe from feeling heavy during longer runs.
• ABZORB impact absorption: Integrated ABZORB technology reduces shock at footstrike for more comfortable miles on hard trail approaches and compacted surfaces.
• NB Soft + Supportive Insert: The memory-comfort insert maintains cushioning and adds a bit of supportive contouring for daily comfort.

Who It's For

The 510 V5 is aimed at men who run a mix of trail and road, train on varied terrain, or want a single pair that can handle hiking-style wear and daily runs. Runners who prioritize long-lasting construction and dependable traction over ultra-light race-day speed will appreciate this model.

Those who should look elsewhere include trail runners who need maximal cushioning for ultra-distance events or racers chasing the lightest possible weight, and minimalists who prefer very low drop, barefoot-style shoes; the 510 V5 is balanced toward protection and durability rather than minimal weight shaving.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Durable build that resists abrasion and keeps the shoe serviceable over many trail miles.
• AT TREAD lugged outsole gives reliable traction on both dirt and harder surfaces.
• Comfortable midsole with ABZORB and an NB Soft insert that combine impact absorption and memory cushioning.

Cons

• The shoe favors durability and structure, so it is not the lightest choice for fast trail racing or tempo sessions.

Specifications

Model	510 V5
Gender	Men
Midsole	Injection-molded EVA with ABZORB
Insole	NB Soft + Supportive Insert (memory comfort)
Outsole	Lugged AT TREAD technology
Use	Trail and mixed-surface running

Our Verdict

The New Balance 510 V5 is a sensible buy for men who want a single trail shoe that blends durability, traction and stable comfort. It represents good value for runners who need rugged protection and dependable cushioning for everyday trail miles rather than a featherlight race shoe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good on wet or slippery trails?
The AT TREAD lugged outsole improves grip on mixed surfaces and helps traction in damp conditions, though extreme mud can still reduce bite.

Is the cushioning firm or soft?
The combination of injection-molded EVA and ABZORB delivers a responsive, moderately soft feel with added impact absorption; the NB Soft insert adds memory comfort.

Can I use these for road running?
Yes, the 510 V5 works for road-to-trail runs thanks to its balanced midsole and durable outsole, but it is optimized for mixed surfaces rather than pure road speed.