New Balance Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe - Cushioned Road Runner is

In this review the New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 520 V9 comes across as a solid, everyday road running shoe for runners who want a plush, lightweight ride without a lot of fuss. The biggest reason to consider it is the Fresh Foam midsole, which delivers a noticeably cushioned yet responsive feel underfoot; combined with breathable engineered mesh and a lace closure, it suits those who prioritize comfort and support on regular training runs. Customers also praise the build quality and fit, especially for wider feet and high arches.

Key Features

• Fresh Foam midsole: Provides ultra-cushioned, lightweight shock absorption that smooths out longer runs and everyday miles.
• Breathable engineered mesh: Keeps the foot ventilated to reduce heat and moisture buildup during road sessions.
• Synthetic upper components: Add structure and durability to high-wear areas while keeping overall weight down.
• Lace closure: Enables a secure, customizable fit for different foot shapes and socks or no-sock use.
• Support for high arches: The midsole shape and cushioning offer visible support that many runners with higher arches find comfortable.

Who It's For

Runners looking for a comfortable daily trainer that feels light on the foot and offers a plush ride will appreciate the Fresh Foam 520 V9. It is a good match for road runners who want breathable mesh, solid support for high arches, and a roomy fit for wide feet. Recreational runners and those seeking a dependable shoe for walking workouts will also find value here.

Serious racers seeking maximal responsiveness and minimal weight should look elsewhere, as this model leans more toward cushioning and comfort than race-day speed. Trail runners or those requiring aggressive outsole protection and extreme longevity should consider shoes designed specifically for those demands.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable Fresh Foam midsole gives a plush, cushioned ride on pavement.
• Breathable engineered mesh keeps feet cool on longer outings.
• Roomy fit and decent support make it suitable for wide feet and high arches.
• Lightweight construction that does not feel bulky during daily runs.

Cons

• Durability is mixed in customer reports, with some users noting the shoes did not hold up beyond a few months under heavy use.
• The shoe prioritizes cushioning over racing responsiveness, so it may feel sluggish for tempo workouts.

Specifications

Brand	New Balance
Model	Fresh Foam 520 V9
Midsole	Fresh Foam cushioning
Upper	Breathable engineered mesh with synthetic overlays
Closure	Lace closure
Intended use	Road running / everyday training
Ride characteristics	Ultra-cushioned, lightweight

Our Verdict

The New Balance Fresh Foam 520 V9 is a dependable daily trainer for runners who value cushioning, comfort, and a roomy fit. It represents good value for recreational runners and those with wide or high-arched feet, though anyone focused on long-term durability or race-day speed may want a different model tailored to those needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for wide feet?
Yes, many customers report a comfortable, roomy fit that works well for wider feet without excessive tightness.

Is the midsole very heavy?
No, the Fresh Foam midsole is engineered to be lightweight while still providing substantial cushioning.

Do they support high arches?
Yes, the midsole geometry and cushioning offer noticeable support that users with high arches have found helpful.