Men's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe - Lightweight Cushioned Ride

In this review the New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe is assessed as a practical, everyday road running option for runners who want plush cushioning without excess weight. The bottom line: it is best for runners seeking a comfortable, supportive shoe with a soft Fresh Foam midsole that handles daily miles and longer training runs while remaining breathable and light. This review focuses on fit, ride quality, materials and real customer impressions to help decide if these shoes match your expectations.

Key Features

• Fresh Foam midsole: Delivers an ultra-cushioned yet lightweight ride that smooths out road impact for longer comfort.
• Engineered mesh upper: Provides breathability and a more adaptable fit that keeps feet cooler during runs.
• Synthetic overlays: Add structure and durability to areas that need support without adding much weight.
• Lace closure: Lets you dial in secure fit and adjust tension for different activities and foot shapes.
• Approximate 52 mm drop: Offers a noticeably elevated heel-to-toe difference that can suit runners who prefer a higher offset for heel striking or extra cushioning.

Who It's For

These shoes are well suited to recreational and training road runners who prioritize comfort and a plush underfoot feel. Runners with wider feet or those needing more arch support will appreciate the roomy fit and reported support for high arches, as well as the soft but responsive Fresh Foam cushioning for everyday miles.

Less suitable are runners seeking a minimalist or low-drop race shoe or those who need extreme longevity from heavy daily use; some customers reported mixed durability and noted the shoes may not hold up for very high-mileage runners seeking maximal lifespan.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable and supportive cushioning that makes longer runs easier on the feet.
• Lightweight construction that reduces fatigue during extended wear.
• Breathable mesh upper and a secure lace closure for an adaptable fit.
• Good value given the combination of comfort, style and support.

Cons

• Durability received mixed feedback, with some customers reporting the shoes did not last beyond a few months under heavy use.
• The higher 52 mm drop may not suit runners who prefer low-drop or barefoot-style shoes.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 520 V9 is a comfortable, lightweight road runner that offers plush cushioning and good support for everyday training and longer runs. It represents solid value for runners who prioritize comfort and breathability, though high-mileage runners should weigh the mixed durability feedback when deciding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do these shoes run true to size?
Customers report they fit well for most and are suitable for wider feet, so ordering your usual size is generally recommended.

Are these shoes good for long runs?
Yes; the Fresh Foam midsole provides cushioned comfort for longer sessions, though durability may vary with heavy weekly mileage.

Is the shoe suitable for high arches?
Many users found the support and cushioning comfortable for high arches, offering adequate arch support for training runs.