New Balance Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe - Cushioned Lightweight 81

In this review of the New Balance Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe the bottom line is straightforward: these are a versatile, cushioned road runner best for everyday training and walkers who want a soft, lightweight ride. Customers repeatedly praise the Fresh Foam midsole for its comfortable, responsive cushioning and the breathable engineered mesh for airflow during longer runs. The shoe balances comfort and support well, making it a sensible choice for those with higher arches or wider feet, though durability reports are mixed so heavy mileage runners should monitor wear.

Key Features

• Fresh Foam midsole: Delivers an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride that reduces impact during daily runs and long walks.
• Breathable engineered mesh: Keeps feet cooler and more comfortable on warm runs while maintaining a secure fit.
• Synthetic overlays: Add structure and light support without significantly increasing weight, helping with stability on the road.
• Lace closure: Provides a customizable fit so the shoe can accommodate slightly wider feet or socks of varying thickness.
• Approximate 8.1 mm drop: Offers a moderate heel-to-toe slope that supports natural stride mechanics for many runners.

Who It's For

The 520 V9 is best for recreational runners, daily walkers, and gym-goers who prioritize comfort and a lightweight feel over race-day responsiveness. Reviewers found them particularly good for people with higher arches and those who need a bit more support without bulky cushioning.

Serious marathoners or runners who put very high weekly mileage on shoes should look elsewhere if durability under heavy use is the main concern; some customers reported that the uppers and sole showed wear earlier than they expected. If you need maximal stability or trail traction, a dedicated stability or trail model will be a better fit.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable Fresh Foam cushioning that feels plush on longer runs and daily wear.
• Lightweight construction and breathable mesh that reduce overheating and fatigue.
• Supportive fit that adapts well to wider feet and offers good arch support.
• Attractive, versatile style suitable for running and casual wear.

Cons

• Durability is mixed; several customers noted the shoes did not last three months under heavy use.
• The listed drop is approximate and may feel different from other models, which could affect runners sensitive to heel-to-toe changes.

Specifications

Brand	New Balance
Model	Fresh Foam 520 V9
Midsole	Fresh Foam cushioning
Upper	Breathable engineered mesh with synthetic material
Closure	Lace closure
Heel-to-toe drop	Approximate 8.1 mm

Our Verdict

The New Balance Fresh Foam 520 V9 is a solid choice for everyday runners and walkers who want comfortable cushioning and a lightweight, breathable shoe at a reasonable value. It is particularly well suited to those with higher arches or slightly wider feet, but runners who log very high mileage or require exceptional long-term durability should consider a more heavy-duty trainer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for wide feet?
Yes, many customers report they accommodate wider feet comfortably and the lace closure helps fine-tune the fit.

How durable are they for daily running?
Durability is mixed: some users find them long-lasting for regular runs while others report earlier wear under heavy use.

Do they provide good arch support?
Customers commonly note that the cushioning and structure provide decent support for higher arches during road running and walking.