New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoes - Cushioned is

In this review of the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoes the bottom line is simple: these are a durable, everyday road running shoe built for runners and walkers who prioritize plush cushioning and lightweight comfort. The Fresh Foam midsole is the single biggest reason to buy, providing an ultra-cushioned, responsive ride that stands out for daily miles and recovery runs. The shoe blends breathable engineered mesh and synthetic overlays for a balance of ventilation and structure, while a traditional lace closure keeps the fit secure.

Key Features

• Fresh Foam midsole: Delivers precision engineered plush cushioning for a comfortable, lightweight ride on pavement and hard-packed surfaces.
• Breathable engineered mesh: Keeps the upper well-ventilated to reduce heat build-up during longer runs or warm-weather training.
• Synthetic overlays: Add durable structure around the midfoot and heel to enhance stability without adding much weight.
• 10 mm drop (approx): Provides a moderate heel-to-toe offset that supports a natural stride while offering extra heel cushioning.
• Lace closure: Offers a secure, adjustable fit so the shoe can be tightened for faster efforts or loosened for relaxed runs.

Who It's For

The Fresh Foam 520 V9 suits recreational runners, daily walkers, and anyone seeking a cushioned, lightweight road shoe for easy runs, gym sessions, and errand-day wear. Its breathable mesh and soft midsole make it particularly appealing for runners who prioritize comfort and a plush underfoot feel over race-day speed.

Those with very wide feet or who need pronounced motion control should look elsewhere; customer feedback is mixed on fit and arch support, with some runners finding the last narrow and others noting less structural support than stability-specific models.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable Fresh Foam cushioning that feels plush yet remains lightweight for daily use.
• Breathable engineered mesh keeps the foot cool during runs and long walks.
• Good overall quality and perceived value compared with similar everyday trainers.

Cons

• Fit can be inconsistent for wide feet; some shoppers report a narrower feel than expected.
• Support is adequate for neutral runners but may be insufficient for those needing strong arch or motion control.

Specifications

Brand	New Balance
Model	Fresh Foam 520 V9
Upper	Breathable engineered mesh with synthetic material
Midsole	Fresh Foam precision engineered cushioning
Heel-to-toe drop	10 mm (approx)
Closure	Lace closure

Our Verdict

The New Balance Fresh Foam 520 V9 is a strong choice for neutral runners and everyday wearers who want a plush, lightweight shoe at a reasonable price. It delivers excellent cushioning, breathable comfort, and reliable construction, making it good value for recovery runs and daily mileage; however, those with wide feet or who need firm support should try them on or consider a stability option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for long runs?
Yes, the Fresh Foam midsole provides comfortable cushioning suitable for long, easy-paced runs and recovery miles.

Do they fit wide feet?
Fit is mixed; some find the width comfortable while others report a narrower feel, so try before you buy if you need extra room.

What type of runner should buy these?
Neutral runners and everyday users who want lightweight cushioning and breathable mesh are the best match.