New Balance Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe - Cushioned Road Trainer

In this review of the New Balance Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe the bottom line is simple: it is a comfortable, lightweight road runner best suited to daily training and runners who need responsive cushioning without extra weight. The shoe's standout feature is the Fresh Foam midsole cushioning, which delivers an ultra-cushioned yet light ride that most reviewers praised for comfort and support. Built with breathable mesh and a synthetic upper, it balances ventilation and structure for everyday miles rather than long ultramarathons.

Key Features

• Fresh Foam midsole: Provides precision-engineered, ultra-cushioned support that keeps short to medium runs feeling springy and comfortable.
• Breathable engineered mesh: The upper promotes airflow and keeps the foot cool during longer warm-weather runs.
• Synthetic overlays: Add structure and durability to the upper while keeping the overall weight down for faster-feeling strides.
• Lace closure: Delivers a secure, customizable fit that accommodates wider feet according to customer feedback.
• Approximate 9-10 mm drop: The cited 94 mm figure indicates a heel-to-toe offset in the typical running shoe range that supports a neutral gait.

Who It's For

The 520 V9 is aimed at recreational runners and daily trainers who value comfort and support for road miles, including those with higher arches or wider feet. It is a good choice for walkers and gym-goers who want a lightweight, cushioned shoe for varied activities.

Runners seeking maximal longevity under heavy mileage, racing spikes, or a minimalist zero-drop feel should look elsewhere; while many buyers praised the quality and value, a minority reported durability issues under intensive use, so this model is best for moderate weekly mileage and everyday wear.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable, cushioned ride thanks to Fresh Foam that suits medium-distance road runs.
• Lightweight construction and breathable mesh keep the shoe feeling airy and fast.
• Supportive fit that accommodates wider feet and provides good arch support for many users.
• Good value for the features delivered, combining quality materials and cushioning at a reasonable price point.

Cons

• Some customers reported mixed durability, with a few pairs wearing out sooner than expected under heavy use.
• The shoe is designed for neutral road running and may not suit trail conditions or runners seeking a very low drop.

Specifications

Brand	New Balance
Model	Fresh Foam 520 V9
Midsole	Fresh Foam cushioning
Upper	Breathable engineered mesh with synthetic material
Closure	Lace closure
Drop	Approximate 9-10 mm (94 mm reference)
Intended use	Road running, daily training

Our Verdict

The New Balance Fresh Foam 520 V9 is a sensible pick for runners who want a cushioned, lightweight daily trainer that balances comfort, breathability, and support. It is particularly good value for those who prioritize a soft ride and a roomy fit, though buyers logging very high mileage should monitor for premature wear.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for wide feet?
Yes, many customers report a comfortable fit for wider feet and that the engineered mesh accommodates a roomier toe box.

Is the cushioning suitable for high arches?
Customers noted good support for higher arches thanks to the Fresh Foam midsole, which provides responsive cushioning and structure.

How durable are these shoes?
Durability is mixed: most find them well made, but a few customers reported they did not last beyond a few months under heavy use.