New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoes (Style 66MN)

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 for runners who prioritize cushioned comfort and a lightweight feel. The reviewer found the Fresh Foam midsole provides a noticeably soft ride underfoot without adding unnecessary weight, and the breathable engineered mesh keeps feet comfortable on longer runs or urban workouts. Fit and support are mixed among wearers, so those with notably wide feet or high support needs should try before they buy.

Key Features

• Fresh Foam midsole: Delivers an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride that softens impact over road miles for more comfortable daily training.
• Engineered mesh upper: Offers breathability and flexible containment to keep feet cool while maintaining a secure feel during movement.
• Lace closure: Simple, reliable closure that allows for a customizable fit across the midfoot for varied foot shapes.
• Durable construction: Built to handle regular running and everyday wear, extending the shoe's usable life without a heavy weight penalty.
• 10 mm drop (approximate): Provides a moderate heel-to-toe offset that supports a natural running posture and transitions well on road surfaces.

Who It's For

These shoes suit recreational road runners, walkers, and fitness-minded users who want a plush, lightweight trainer for daily miles and cross-training. The cushioned Fresh Foam midsole and breathable mesh make them especially good for longer treadmill sessions, recovery runs, and commuters who spend time on their feet.

People who should look elsewhere include runners who need very wide lasts or custom orthotic accommodations, and athletes seeking aggressive stability or motion-control features; customer feedback indicates some wearers find the fit narrower than expected and arch support varies by foot type. Try them on if you have wide feet or high arches.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable midsole cushioning that many customers praise for long-wear comfort and value.
• Lightweight construction that keeps the shoe feeling agile during runs and everyday use.
• Breathable engineered mesh that reduces heat build-up and improves comfort in warm conditions.
• Good perceived quality and durability relative to price for routine running use.

Cons

• Fit and support are mixed; some users report the shoe runs narrow and may not suit wider feet or those needing extra arch support.
• The 10 mm drop is approximate due to manufacturing variances, so heel-to-toe feel can differ slightly between pairs.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 V9 is a solid choice for runners seeking a cushioned, lightweight daily trainer that balances comfort and durability at a reasonable price. Buyers with average-width feet who want soft underfoot cushioning will find good value here; those needing extra room or targeted support should evaluate fit carefully before committing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for long runs?
Yes; the Fresh Foam midsole delivers cushioning suited to longer road runs and recovery miles, while the lightweight build helps reduce fatigue.

Do they run true to size?
Fit varies: many find true to size, but some customers report a narrower fit; try on if you have wide feet.

Can I use these for daily walking and gym workouts?
Absolutely; the combination of cushioning and breathable mesh makes them versatile for walking, gym sessions, and cross-training.