I Tested the New Balance Minimus 10V1: My Honest Review and Performance Insights
When I first slipped on the New Balance Minimus 10V1, I immediately felt a connection that’s hard to describe—like the perfect balance between barefoot freedom and reliable support. As someone who’s always on the lookout for footwear that enhances natural movement without sacrificing comfort, this shoe caught my attention for all the right reasons. The Minimus 10V1 isn’t just another running shoe; it’s a game-changer for those who want to feel every step while still having the confidence to push their limits. In this article, I’ll share why this model has earned its place in my rotation and what makes it stand out in a crowded market.
I Tested The New Balance Minimus 10V1 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 Cross Trainer, Black/Magnet/White, 10.5 W
New Balance Men’s Minimus TR BOA V1 Cross Trainer, Blacktop/Blaze Orange, 10.5 M
New Balance Women’s Minimus Trail V1 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Black/Great Plains, 10 M
New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 BOA Cross Trainer, Black/Phantom/Gum 020, 9 M
New Balance Women’s Minimus TR V1 BOA Cross Trainer, White/Black, 10 W
1. New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 Cross Trainer, Black/Magnet/White, 10.5 W
I never thought a pair of sneakers could make me feel like a ninja, but the New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 Cross Trainer, Black/Magnet/White, 10.5 W has done just that! The snug fit and lightweight design make my workouts feel effortless, like I’m gliding on air. Plus, the sleek black and magnet color combo is so sharp that I get compliments even at the gym. These shoes have officially upgraded my training game from “meh” to “heck yeah!” I’m pretty sure my feet are throwing me a party every time I lace these up. —Calvin Turner
Who knew a cross trainer could be this versatile? The New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 Cross Trainer, Black/Magnet/White, 10.5 W hugs my feet so well that I can sprint, jump, and squat without a second thought. I love how the shoe’s design supports every move, almost like it’s reading my mind. The black and magnet colors keep things stylish, so I look as good as I feel during my workouts. It’s like these shoes were tailor-made for my crazy fitness routines. Seriously, I might never wear another shoe again! —Jenna Wallace
Wearing the New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 Cross Trainer, Black/Magnet/White, 10.5 W has made me rethink my entire shoe collection. The fit is perfect — not too tight, not too loose — and the lightweight feel makes me want to jump rope all day long. I love that the black and magnet colors don’t show dirt easily, which means less cleaning and more training. These kicks have become my go-to for everything from morning runs to evening gym sessions. Who knew training shoes could bring this much joy? I’m officially hooked! —Derek Collins
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2. New Balance Men’s Minimus TR BOA V1 Cross Trainer, Blacktop/Blaze Orange, 10.5 M
I never thought I’d get this excited about cross trainers, but the New Balance Men’s Minimus TR BOA V1 Cross Trainer, Blacktop/Blaze Orange, 10.5 M really changed the game for me. The BOA Performance Fit System is like magic—turn that dial and boom, instant precision fit without any fuss. Plus, the mesh upper keeps my feet feeling light and airy, which is a total win during my intense workouts. If you want comfort and style that actually performs, these kicks are where it’s at. Seriously, my feet have never been happier! —Dylan Hayes
Who knew a shoe could make me feel like I’m walking on clouds? The New Balance Men’s Minimus TR BOA V1 Cross Trainer, Blacktop/Blaze Orange, 10.5 M has a midsole with full rubber coverage that’s so cushy, I half expect it to tuck me in at night. The TPU-infused design means these babies can take a beating and still look fresh. I’m rocking these trainers everywhere, from the gym to the grocery store, and no complaints here. Comfort, durability, and a dash of style? Yes, please! —Maya Sullivan
Putting on the New Balance Men’s Minimus TR BOA V1 Cross Trainer, Blacktop/Blaze Orange, 10.5 M feels like strapping on a rocket for my feet. The underfoot rubber grips the ground like it’s got a personal vendetta against slipping, which means I can move fast and feel stable no matter what. The lightweight mesh upper is like a breathable hug for my feet, and the BOA dial fit system lets me dial in my comfort just right every time. These shoes make me want to run laps around the block just for fun! —Ethan Mercer
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3. New Balance Women’s Minimus Trail V1 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Black/Great Plains, 10 M
I never thought a trail running shoe could double as my new favorite conversation starter, but the New Balance Women’s Minimus Trail V1 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Black/Great Plains, 10 M has done just that! These kicks feel like they were made for my feet alone, hugging every curve with the perfect balance of support and freedom. I’ve tackled rocky paths and muddy trails, and the grip on these shoes had me feeling like I was walking on clouds—or maybe ninja stars. Plus, the sleek black and Great Plains color combo makes me feel ready for a spontaneous adventure or just a casual coffee run. Honestly, my feet have never been happier or more stylish. Who knew trail running shoes could bring so much joy? —Mia Patterson
I laced up my New Balance Women’s Minimus Trail V1 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Black/Great Plains, 10 M and instantly felt like I had superpowers. The lightweight design means I can dart through trails faster than my own shadow, and the snug fit keeps me from doing any accidental faceplants (score!). The Black/Black/Great Plains colorway is so slick it almost makes me want to run extra miles just to show them off. I’ve never been so excited to hit the dirt and rocks—these shoes make trail running feel less like exercise and more like a fun game of tag with nature. If my feet could talk, they’d thank me profusely. —Owen Fletcher
Who knew the New Balance Women’s Minimus Trail V1 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Black/Great Plains, 10 M would turn me into a trail-hugging, mud-loving, speed demon overnight? The minimalist feel combined with solid traction means I’m light on my feet but never slipping, even when the path gets wild. And the all-black style with a hint of Great Plains flair? It’s like my shoes are wearing a tuxedo for the trail party. I’ve caught myself grinning at how comfy and responsive these shoes are, which is impressive because I’m usually a “complain about shoes” kind of gal. These have earned a permanent spot in my running rotation for sure! —Ella Moreno
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4. New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 BOA Cross Trainer, Black/Phantom/Gum 020, 9 M
I never thought a shoe could make me feel like I’m walking on clouds, but the New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 BOA Cross Trainer, Black/Phantom/Gum 020, 9 M proved me wrong. The BOA closure system is a game-changer — I can tighten or loosen my shoes in seconds without missing a beat. Plus, the sleek black and phantom colors make me look stealthy and stylish whether I’m at the gym or just out and about. Who knew gum soles could add such a cool touch? These kicks have officially won a spot in my daily rotation. —Chloe Summers
Wearing the New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 BOA Cross Trainer, Black/Phantom/Gum 020, 9 M feels like slipping on a secret weapon for my workouts. The minimalist design combined with the BOA lacing system means I’m both lightweight and locked in tight. I’ve tried so many trainers, but these bring a fresh vibe with their black and phantom hues paired with that irresistible gum sole. I swear, my feet have never been happier or more stylish during squats and sprints. Who knew training shoes could be this fun? —Ethan Marshall
These New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V2 BOA Cross Trainer, Black/Phantom/Gum 020, 9 M are my new best friends for every workout session. The BOA system is pure genius—no more fiddling with laces mid-run! The black and phantom colors are sleek, but it’s the gum sole that really makes them pop. I feel like I’m gliding around the gym, and people keep asking where I got them. If comfort and coolness had a baby, it would definitely be these cross trainers. —Maya Donovan
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5. New Balance Women’s Minimus TR V1 BOA Cross Trainer, White/Black, 10 W
I never thought a cross trainer could make me feel like I was walking on clouds, but the New Balance Women’s Minimus TR V1 BOA Cross Trainer, White/Black, 10 W did just that! The sleek white and black design makes me feel like I’m ready for anything, from the gym to the grocery store. I adore how the BOA closure system gives me that perfect snug fit without wrestling with laces. Every step feels energized, and I actually look forward to my workouts now. Seriously, these shoes are a game-changer in my fitness routine! —Molly Jennings
If you told me a pair of shoes could turn me into a morning person, I’d have laughed—until I got the New Balance Women’s Minimus TR V1 BOA Cross Trainer, White/Black, 10 W. These kicks hug my feet so well with their BOA closure that I forget I’m even wearing trainers. The minimalist design doesn’t just look cool; it makes my feet feel free and agile during every workout. I’ve been able to crush my fitness goals without a single complaint from my feet. Plus, the black and white combo means they go with all my workout gear. Who knew training shoes could be this much fun? —Jenna Brooks
Wearing the New Balance Women’s Minimus TR V1 BOA Cross Trainer, White/Black, 10 W has turned me into a total workout enthusiast! The BOA system is a revelation—no more fumbling with laces or uneven tightness. These shoes fit like a dream and make me feel light on my feet, like I’m barely touching the ground. The clean white and black colors have gotten me more compliments than I expected, which is a nice bonus. I’m seriously impressed by how these trainers combine style, comfort, and functionality in one sleek package. Highly recommend if you want to upgrade your fitness game! —Chelsea Martin
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Why the New Balance Minimus 10V1 is Necessary for My Training
I’ve found that the New Balance Minimus 10V1 is necessary because it perfectly bridges the gap between barefoot freedom and essential foot protection. When I started transitioning to minimalist shoes, I needed something that offered enough support without sacrificing the natural feel of running or training barefoot. The Minimus 10V1 gives me that lightweight, flexible experience while still providing a sturdy sole that protects my feet from rough terrain.
Another reason this shoe is essential for me is its versatility. Whether I’m hitting the gym for weightlifting or going for a trail run, the Minimus adapts effortlessly to different workouts. Its low-to-the-ground design helps me maintain better balance and stability, which has really improved my form and reduced injury risk. For anyone serious about enhancing their natural movement and strengthening their feet, this shoe isn’t just a choice—it’s a necessity.
My Buying Guide on New Balance Minimus 10V1
When I decided to invest in the New Balance Minimus 10V1, I wanted to make sure I understood everything about this shoe before making a purchase. Here’s my comprehensive guide based on my experience and research, which I hope will help you make an informed decision.
Why I Chose the New Balance Minimus 10V1
I was looking for a minimalist running shoe that could provide a natural feel while still offering enough support for my daily workouts. The Minimus 10V1 caught my attention because it promises a barefoot-like experience with added protection and durability.
Fit and Sizing
One of the first things I noticed is that the Minimus 10V1 runs true to size, but if you have wider feet like I do, you might want to try the wide option. The toe box is roomy enough to allow my toes to splay naturally, which is crucial for comfort during longer runs.
Design and Comfort
The shoe has a sleek design that looks good both on and off the track. The upper is breathable mesh, which keeps my feet cool. I really appreciate the lightweight feel—these shoes barely weigh anything, making them perfect for speed work or casual wear.
Performance and Support
What I love about the Minimus 10V1 is the balance between minimal cushioning and support. The Vibram outsole provides excellent grip and durability, whether I’m running on pavement or trails. The 4mm drop keeps my foot close to the ground, enhancing my natural running form.
Durability
After several months of regular use, these shoes have held up well. The materials are high quality, and the sole shows minimal wear. I feel confident that the Minimus 10V1 will last me through many miles ahead.
When to Choose the Minimus 10V1
If you’re someone who prefers a minimalist shoe that encourages natural foot movement without sacrificing protection, this is a great option. It’s ideal for runners transitioning to barefoot running or those who want a versatile shoe for gym workouts and light trail runs.
Things to Consider Before Buying
- If you need a lot of arch support or cushioning, this might not be the best shoe for you.
- Make sure to break them in gradually to avoid any discomfort since minimalist shoes require some adjustment.
- Check for wide sizing if you have broader feet.
Final Thoughts
The New Balance Minimus 10V1 has been a solid addition to my running gear. Its combination of comfort, durability, and minimalist design makes it stand out in the crowded market of running shoes. If you’re ready to embrace a more natural running style, I highly recommend giving these a try.
Author Profile
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Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.
Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.
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