New Balance Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe - Cushioned Lightweight 142

Our review of the New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 520 V9 finds a dependable road-running shoe aimed at runners who prioritize plush, lightweight cushioning and breathable fit. The biggest reason to buy is the Fresh Foam midsole, which delivers an ultra-cushioned feel without a lot of weight, making it a solid daily trainer for easy miles, gym runs, or long walks. Construction leans toward comfort and support rather than racer stiffness, so it suits people who want a forgiving, well-cushioned ride.

Key Features

• Fresh Foam midsole: Engineered to provide an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride that reduces fatigue over longer easy runs and daily wear.
• Breathable engineered mesh: The upper lets air circulate to keep feet cooler during warm-weather runs or extended wear.
• Synthetic overlays: Add structure and hold the foot in place while keeping the shoe light and low-profile.
• Lace closure: Allows for a secure, adjustable fit and helps accommodate wider feet comfortably.
• Approximate 10 mm drop: A moderate heel-to-toe drop that supports a natural running stride while offering extra cushioning under the heel.

Who It's For

The Fresh Foam 520 V9 is best for recreational runners, walkers, and gym-goers who want a comfortable, cushioned shoe for everyday use. It is particularly well suited to those with high arches or anyone needing extra midsole support for easy miles rather than race pace efforts.

Runners who need a highly responsive race shoe, minimal barefoot-style trainers, or maximalist long-distance cushioning might want to look elsewhere. Also, if extreme tread durability for high-mileage training is your primary concern, consider heavier-duty road trainers as some users reported mixed durability.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Very comfortable Fresh Foam midsole offers plush cushioning for daily runs and long walks.
• Lightweight, breathable mesh upper keeps the shoe feeling airy and reduces overall weight.
• Good support for higher arches and a roomy fit that accommodates wider feet.
• Stylish, clean design that works for both running and casual wear.

Cons

• Durability received mixed feedback from users, with some reporting they wore out sooner than expected.
• The cushioning favors comfort over responsiveness, so it is not ideal for fast tempo runs.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The New Balance Fresh Foam 520 V9 is a solid value for runners and walkers who want a plush, lightweight trainer with reliable support and a breathable fit. It is recommended for everyday training, gym sessions, and casual wear where comfort and a soft ride matter more than race-day responsiveness or extreme outsole longevity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes true to size?
Customers report they fit true to size and accommodate wider feet well; many found their usual size suitable.

How is the cushioning?
The Fresh Foam midsole is ultra-cushioned and lightweight, offering a comfortable, forgiving ride suited to easy runs and long periods on your feet.

Do they offer good arch support?
Yes, reviewers note the shoe provides good support for higher arches and helps maintain comfort during longer wear.