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

In this review of the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 V9 running shoes, the bottom line is simple: these are a durable, comfortable option for everyday road runners who value cushioning and low weight. The standout reason to buy is the Fresh Foam midsole, which delivers an ultra-cushioned yet lightweight ride that makes longer miles feel less punishing. The shoe combines breathable engineered mesh and a straightforward lace closure to keep things practical for training runs, daily wear, and anyone prioritizing comfort over race-day responsiveness.

Key Features

• Fresh Foam midsole: Precision engineered cushioning provides a soft, consistent ride that reduces fatigue on longer runs.
• Breathable engineered mesh: The upper promotes airflow to help keep feet cool during warm-weather training sessions.
• Synthetic material overlays: Lightweight structure and modest reinforcement improve durability without adding bulk.
• 10 mm drop (approx): A moderate heel-to-toe offset supports a natural running stance suitable for road running.
• Lace closure: Simple, adjustable fit that secures the foot for varied paces and daily use.

Who It's For

These shoes are best for women who run on pavement and want a dependable, cushioned trainer for daily miles, walks, or cross-training. Runners who appreciate a plush midsole and a lightweight feel will find the Fresh Foam 520 V9 especially appealing, as it balances softness with enough responsiveness for steady training.

Those with very wide feet or who need pronounced arch support may want to try them on first or consider a model that specifically lists a wider fit or enhanced support features. Serious racers seeking a highly responsive, race-day flat should look at models designed explicitly for speed rather than everyday cushioning.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable Fresh Foam cushioning that makes regular runs feel easier.
• Lightweight construction and breathable mesh that keep weight down and ventilation up.
• Good build quality and perceived value for the price relative to similar trainers.
• Simple lace closure and practical design work well for everyday wear.

Cons

• Fit and support are mixed for some customers; may feel narrow for wide feet.
• Not designed as a highly responsive racing shoe for competitive speedwork.

Specifications

Brand	New Balance
Model	Fresh Foam 520 V9
Upper material	Breathable engineered mesh with synthetic overlays
Midsole	Fresh Foam cushioning
Heel-to-toe drop	10 mm (approx)
Closure	Lace closure
Primary use	Road running / everyday training

Our Verdict

The New Balance Fresh Foam 520 V9 is a solid everyday running shoe that offers plush cushioning and lightweight comfort at a fair value. It is a good buy for recreational road runners and walkers who want reliable shock absorption and breathability; those needing extra width or targeted support should try them on before buying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for long runs?
Yes, the Fresh Foam midsole provides cushioning well suited to longer steady-pace runs and daily training.

Do they run true to size?
Fit is generally true to size but can feel narrow to some wearers, so try them on if you have wide feet.

Can I use them for speedwork?
They can handle tempo runs, but they are primarily designed for cushioned everyday training rather than race-focused speedwork.