New Balance Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe - Cushioned (Style 73JV)

Our review of the New Balance Fresh Foam 520 V9 finds it to be a dependable daily road running shoe for runners and walkers who prioritize a plush, lightweight ride. Built around a precision engineered Fresh Foam midsole, the 520 V9 delivers noticeable cushioning without feeling bulky, making it a sensible pick for middle distance runs and everyday training. The breathable mesh upper and lace closure provide a comfortable, secure fit, and many wearers with wider feet report a good fit that avoids pinching.

Key Features

• Fresh Foam midsole: Precision engineered cushioning provides an ultra-cushioned yet lightweight ride that smooths out road impact over middle distances.
• Breathable engineered mesh: The upper material promotes airflow to help keep feet cooler during runs and long walks.
• Synthetic overlays: Targeted reinforcement adds structure and helps the shoe hold its shape during regular use.
• Lace closure: Traditional lacing allows a secure, adjustable fit for varied foot shapes and sock thicknesses.
• Versatile runner: The overall build balances comfort and responsiveness so it works well for daily training and casual wear.

Who It's For

The 520 V9 is aimed at recreational runners and fitness walkers who want a comfortable, cushioned trainer for daily road runs and gym sessions. It suits runners looking for a neutral shoe with a plush midsole and a breathable upper, and those who appreciate footwear that doubles as an everyday sneaker.

Runners seeking a minimal, highly responsive racing flat or those who need aggressive stability features for severe overpronation should look elsewhere. Also, if long ultra-distance road racing is your priority, some athletes may prefer a shoe with more specialized responsiveness or higher durability claims.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable Fresh Foam cushioning provides a smooth, protective ride for middle distances.
• Lightweight construction keeps legs feeling less tired on daily runs and walks.
• Breathable mesh upper improves ventilation and general comfort in warm conditions.
• Generally good fit for wider feet, according to multiple customers.

Cons

• Durability is mixed; some users report the mesh separating from the sole after extended wear.
• The 299 mm drop note is approximate, so runners tracking precise geometry may find it ambiguous.

Specifications

Brand	New Balance
Model	Fresh Foam 520 V9
Midsole	Fresh Foam cushioning
Upper	Breathable engineered mesh with synthetic material
Closure	Lace closure
Drop	Approximately 10 mm (listed as 299 mm due to manufacturing variance)

Our Verdict

The New Balance Fresh Foam 520 V9 is a solid, value-minded daily trainer that blends comfort and lightweight performance for recreational runners and fitness walkers. It is a good buy for anyone seeking a plush midsole and breathable fit for regular road runs, though those needing top-tier durability or race-specific responsiveness may prefer other models.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for wide feet?
The 520 V9 fits a range of foot widths and many customers report it works well for wider feet, offering a comfortable toe box.

Is the cushioning suitable for long runs?
The Fresh Foam midsole provides plush support that is well suited to middle distance and daily training runs; very long ultra-distance runners might prefer more specialized cushioning.

How durable is the mesh upper?
Durability is mixed: several users find the upper holds up well, while a few have reported separation between the mesh and sole after extended use.