New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe - Cushioned Road

In this review of the New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe the bottom line is simple: this is a cushioned, comfortable road trainer aimed at runners who prioritize a soft ride and breathable fit over race-day speed. The shoe's defining trait is the Fresh Foam midsole cushioning, which delivers an ultra-cushioned yet lightweight feel that suits daily miles, recovery runs, and long walks. Built from breathable engineered mesh and a synthetic upper with a traditional lace closure, it performs as a versatile everyday running shoe for many foot shapes, including wider feet.

Key Features

• Fresh Foam midsole cushioning: Provides a plush, responsive ride that reduces impact on long runs and makes short runs feel effortless.
• Breathable engineered mesh: Keeps the foot cool during runs and training sessions while maintaining a secure, comfortable fit.
• Synthetic upper: Offers a durable, low-maintenance shell that holds shape and support over repeated wear.
• 28 mm drop: Delivers a slightly elevated heel-to-toe relationship that works well for runners who prefer moderate heel cushioning.
• Lace closure: Allows a customizable fit so the shoe can accommodate narrow to wide feet with simple adjustments.

Who It's For

The Fresh Foam 520 V9 is best for recreational runners and walkers who want a comfortable, supportive shoe for daily training, recovery runs, or long-distance walking. Customers report it suits wide feet and high arches, making it a solid choice for people needing extra room or arch support without heavy structure.

Serious racers or runners who want minimal weight and a highly responsive, race-focused plate should look elsewhere, as this model emphasizes cushioning and comfort over maximal speed. If extreme durability for very high-mileage training is a top priority, consider rotating with a trainer known for tougher outsoles, since durability feedback is mixed.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable, plush Fresh Foam midsole that makes daily runs feel easier.
• Lightweight and breathable engineered mesh keeps feet cool and reduces shoe weight.
• Supportive fit that accommodates wider feet and provides good support for high arches.
• Good value for the cushioning and build quality reported by many customers.

Cons

• Durability is mixed in customer reports, with some users noting they did not last multiple months under heavy use.
• The focus on cushioning means it is less ideal for runners seeking a fast, race-oriented shoe.

Specifications

Brand	New Balance
Model	Fresh Foam 520 V9
Midsole	Fresh Foam cushioning
Upper	Breathable engineered mesh with synthetic material
Heel-to-toe drop	28 mm (approximate)
Closure	Lace closure

Our Verdict

The Fresh Foam 520 V9 is a dependable, comfortable everyday running shoe that offers excellent cushioning and a breathable fit at a reasonable price. Runners who value comfort, support for wider feet, and a plush ride will find it good value; those focused on longevity under very high mileage or on race pace performance may prefer a different model.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for wide feet?
Yes, multiple customers report the fit accommodates wider feet comfortably, and the engineered mesh allows some stretch.

How does the cushioning feel?
The Fresh Foam midsole provides a plush, lightweight cushioning that feels supportive for daily runs and long walks.

Is the drop low or high?
The shoe has a 28 mm heel-to-toe drop, which is a moderate elevation and suited for runners who prefer some heel cushioning.