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

In this review of the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoes the bottom line is clear: these are a dependable, well-cushioned option for everyday road runners and walkers who prioritize comfort and low weight. The most compelling reason to consider them is the Fresh Foam midsole cushioning, which delivers an ultra-cushioned but responsive ride that suits easy miles, gym runs and long walks without feeling heavy underfoot.

Key Features

• Fresh Foam midsole: Provides precision engineered, ultra-cushioned support that keeps long runs comfortable while staying lightweight.
• Breathable engineered mesh: The upper promotes airflow to help feet stay cool during workouts or all-day wear.
• Synthetic material overlays: Add durability and structure to the mesh without adding bulk.
• 10 mm drop: Offers a balanced heel-to-toe transition suitable for road running and everyday use, noting the drop is approximate.
• Lace closure: Delivers a secure, adjustable fit for a range of foot shapes when tightened properly.

Who It's For

The Fresh Foam 520 V9 is best for women looking for a comfortable, cushioned running shoe for road training, gym sessions, or regular walking. Runners who value lightweight cushioning and a breathable upper will appreciate how the shoe performs on easy to moderate-paced runs and in daily wear.

Those with very wide feet or who need pronounced arch or motion control support should look elsewhere; customer feedback is mixed on fit and support, with some users finding the shoe too narrow or not supportive enough for aggressive pronation or heavy training loads.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable and well-cushioned ride thanks to the Fresh Foam midsole.
• Lightweight construction makes the shoe easy to wear for longer periods.
• Breathable mesh upper keeps feet cooler during activity.

Cons

• Fit can be inconsistent for wider feet, with some users finding the shoe narrow.
• Support is adequate for many, but may be lacking for runners needing strong arch or stability features.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 V9 is a strong value pick for runners and walkers who want a comfortable, lightweight shoe with generous cushioning for daily miles. It delivers reliable comfort and breathable fit for most users, though those with wide feet or needing extra stability should try before buying or consider models with a wider last or added support.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for long runs?
Yes, the Fresh Foam midsole offers cushioning suited to longer easy-distance runs, though very long or high-mileage runners may prefer a shoe with added durability or support.

Do they run true to size?
Fit is mixed: many wearers report true-to-size or slightly wide fit, but some with wide feet find them narrow, so try on if wide feet are a concern.

Are they suitable for gym and everyday wear?
Yes, the lightweight construction and breathable mesh make them versatile for gym sessions, walks and casual daily use.