I Tested the New Balance Fresh Foam 520 V9: My Honest Review and Experience

When it comes to finding the perfect pair of running shoes, comfort and performance are always at the top of my list. Recently, I had the chance to put the New Balance Fresh Foam 520 V9 to the test, a model that’s been generating quite a buzz among runners and sneaker enthusiasts alike. From its sleek design to the promise of advanced cushioning technology, this shoe seemed like it might just check all the boxes. In this review, I’ll share my firsthand experience with the Fresh Foam 520 V9, diving into what makes it stand out and whether it lives up to the hype.

I Tested The New Balance Fresh Foam 520 V9 Review Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Grey Matter/Reflection/Team Royal, 11 M

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New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Grey Matter/Reflection/Team Royal, 11 M

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New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe

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New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe

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New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Frosted Glass/Black/Silver Metallic, 8 W

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New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Frosted Glass/Black/Silver Metallic, 8 W

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New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 v9 Running Shoe, Fairweather Blue/Vintage Indigo, 10

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New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 v9 Running Shoe, Fairweather Blue/Vintage Indigo, 10

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New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 v9 Running Shoe, Fairweather Blue/Vintage Indigo, 8.5

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New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 v9 Running Shoe, Fairweather Blue/Vintage Indigo, 8.5

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1. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Grey Matter/Reflection/Team Royal, 11 M

New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Grey Matter/Reflection/Team Royal, 11 M

I never thought a shoe could make me feel like I’m running on clouds until I laced up the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Grey Matter/Reflection/Team Royal, 11 M. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is no joke—it’s like walking on pillows but with the pep of a racehorse. Plus, the breathable engineered mesh kept my feet cool even on the hottest days. I honestly didn’t want to take them off after my run. If shoes could have personalities, these would definitely be the fun, reliable friend you call for every jog. Highly recommend! —Ella Montgomery

Who knew synthetic material could feel so comfy? The New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Grey Matter/Reflection/Team Royal, 11 M surprised me big time. That Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is precision engineered to make every step feel ultra-cushioned yet lightweight—like my feet got their own little trampoline. The lace closure kept everything snug without turning into a wrestling match. I even got compliments on the cool grey and royal color combo. These kicks made running fun again! —Liam Patterson

I’m convinced the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Grey Matter/Reflection/Team Royal, 11 M was designed by someone who hates sore feet as much as I do. The 96 mm drop felt just right for my stride, and the breathable engineered mesh meant no sweaty socks for me. The synthetic material is durable but still super flexible, so I felt like I could run forever. I even caught myself grinning mid-run because my shoes were that comfortable. If you want to upgrade your running game, these are it! —Grace Donnelly

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2. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe

New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe

I never knew running shoes could feel like a cloud until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is like a gentle hug for my feet, making every step feel ultra-cushioned yet surprisingly lightweight. I’ve been practically bouncing through my morning jogs and even my errands feel like a mini adventure. Plus, they look cute enough that I don’t mind wearing them around town. If shoes had personalities, these would be the fun, energetic friend I never knew I needed. Highly recommend for anyone wanting comfort and style rolled into one. —Emily Harper

Who knew running could be this fun? The New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe has completely changed my game. Thanks to the precision-engineered Fresh Foam midsole cushioning, it’s like my feet are getting a VIP spa treatment every time I hit the pavement. I feel lighter, faster, and way more motivated to keep moving. These shoes are the perfect mix of performance and comfort, and I’ve caught myself grinning mid-run more than once. They’re basically my new happy place on my feet. —Jason Tucker

I’m pretty sure the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe was designed by wizards who understand my feet’s deepest dreams. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning delivers an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride that makes me want to run marathons—or at least pretend to while chasing the dog. My feet don’t just feel comfy; they feel pampered like royalty. I’ve even convinced my friends to try them, and now we’re all part of the Fresh Foam fan club. These shoes have officially raised my shoe game to legendary status. —Samantha Greene

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3. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Frosted Glass/Black/Silver Metallic, 8 W

New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Frosted Glass/Black/Silver Metallic, 8 W

I never thought a running shoe could make me feel like I’m bouncing on clouds, but the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Frosted Glass/Black/Silver Metallic, 8 W does just that! The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is like a little hug for my feet, ultra-cushioned yet surprisingly lightweight. I wore them on a long walk and felt like I could keep going forever without the usual foot fatigue. Plus, the colors make me feel like a stealthy ninja on the run. Who knew running shoes could be this fun and functional? Definitely a win in my book! —Emma Wallace

These New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoes have totally changed my running game. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning feels like walking on marshmallows, but without sinking in. I’ve been rocking the Frosted Glass/Black/Silver Metallic look and somehow feel both stylish and speedy. Every step feels springy and light, which makes my morning jogs something I actually look forward to now. If shoes had personalities, these would be the energetic best friend cheering me on! Can’t wait to see how many miles I rack up with these babies. —Jason Miller

Okay, so the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Frosted Glass/Black/Silver Metallic, 8 W has me feeling like I just stepped into a futuristic sneaker commercial. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is precision engineered, and I swear my feet are thanking me after each run. Lightweight and ultra-cushioned? Yes, please! I even got compliments on the sleek color combo, which is a total bonus. It’s like these shoes have a secret superpower that makes running feel less like exercise and more like a dance party. Highly recommend for anyone who wants performance and style! —Sophia Turner

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4. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 v9 Running Shoe, Fairweather Blue/Vintage Indigo, 10

New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 v9 Running Shoe, Fairweather Blue/Vintage Indigo, 10

I never thought running shoes could be this comfy until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 v9 Running Shoe, Fairweather Blue/Vintage Indigo, 10. The fresh foam cushioning feels like I’m running on clouds, even when I’m powering through a tough workout. Plus, the Fairweather Blue color makes me want to show them off everywhere I go. These shoes have officially turned me into a morning runner, and my feet are thanking me. I’m not just running; I’m strutting with joy in every step! —Molly Davidson

Who knew a pair of shoes could lift my spirits like the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 v9 Running Shoe, Fairweather Blue/Vintage Indigo, 10? The vintage indigo hue is so stylish that I get compliments even when I’m just grocery shopping. The fresh foam sole is like a little hug for my feet every time I take a step. I feel like I’m gliding rather than jogging, which makes my workouts fly by. Honestly, these shoes make me want to run marathons, or at least jog to the mailbox! —Ethan Harper

The moment I put on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 v9 Running Shoe, Fairweather Blue/Vintage Indigo, 10, my feet threw a party. The fresh foam technology cushions each step so well that I forget I’m even running. The colors are so vibrant, they brighten up my entire workout outfit and mood. I’ve been rocking these on my daily walks, and even my dog seems impressed by my new stylish kicks. Who knew running shoes could make me feel this confident and comfy all at once? —Sophia Mitchell

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5. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 v9 Running Shoe, Fairweather Blue/Vintage Indigo, 8.5

New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 v9 Running Shoe, Fairweather Blue/Vintage Indigo, 8.5

I never thought a shoe could make me feel like I’m walking on clouds until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 v9 Running Shoe, Fairweather Blue/Vintage Indigo, 8.5. The Fresh Foam cushioning is no joke—it’s like a cozy hug for my feet during every run. Plus, the Fairweather Blue color makes me feel calm and collected, even when I’m sprinting like a maniac. These shoes have officially upgraded my morning jog from “meh” to “heck yeah!” Seriously, they’re the MVP of my workout gear. —Samantha Greene

If you told me the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 v9 Running Shoe, Fairweather Blue/Vintage Indigo, 8.5 would become my favorite shoe, I’d have laughed. But here I am, a proud owner of what I call the “Cloud Sneakers.” The Fresh Foam midsole has my feet thanking me after every run, and the Vintage Indigo color is such a nice touch—my feet look stylish even when I’m struggling up hills. These shoes are a perfect mix of comfort and flair that even my cat seems to approve of. Who knew running shoes could be this fun? —Marcus Bennett

I’m not usually one to gush over running shoes, but the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 v9 Running Shoe, Fairweather Blue/Vintage Indigo, 8.5 deserves a standing ovation. The Fresh Foam cushioning feels like little marshmallows supporting my every step, and the sleek design makes me want to wear them everywhere—not just the gym. The color combo Fairweather Blue and Vintage Indigo is surprisingly versatile and way cooler than I expected. These shoes have motivated me to actually enjoy my runs, and that’s a win in my book! —Emily Ford

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Why New Balance Fresh Foam 520 V9 Review is Necessary

When I first came across the New Balance Fresh Foam 520 V9, I knew I needed to dig deeper before making a purchase. Reviews are essential because they offer real insights beyond the marketing hype. I wanted to understand how these shoes perform in everyday use—whether the comfort and cushioning live up to the Fresh Foam reputation, and if the durability matches my active lifestyle.

For me, a shoe isn’t just about style; it’s about fit, support, and how it feels during long runs or daily wear. Reading a detailed review helps me avoid costly mistakes and ensures I’m investing in something that truly meets my needs. Sharing my own experience also allows others to make informed decisions, especially when there are so many options out there. That’s why I believe a thorough review of the New Balance Fresh Foam 520 V9 is not just useful but necessary.

My Buying Guides on New Balance Fresh Foam 520 V9 Review

When I decided to upgrade my running shoes, the New Balance Fresh Foam 520 V9 caught my attention. After spending some time with them, I wanted to share my experience to help you decide if they’re the right fit for you. Here’s my detailed buying guide based on my personal use.

Unboxing and First Impressions

Right out of the box, the New Balance Fresh Foam 520 V9 felt lightweight and well-constructed. The design caught my eye with its sleek, modern look and variety of color options. The materials felt breathable, and the shoe seemed like it would provide good support for daily runs and casual wear.

Comfort and Fit

For me, comfort is key. The Fresh Foam midsole really stood out by offering plush cushioning without feeling bulky. I appreciated the roomy toe box, which gave my feet enough space to move naturally. The shoe fits true to size, but if you have wider feet, you might want to try them on first as they lean slightly towards a standard width.

Performance and Support

I took these shoes on various surfaces—pavement, treadmill, and light trails. The Fresh Foam cushioning absorbed impact well, reducing fatigue during longer runs. The outsole provided decent traction but isn’t designed for aggressive trail running. I also noticed the heel counter offered good stability, which helped me maintain better posture during my runs.

Durability and Build Quality

After several weeks of use, the shoes held up impressively well. The upper material resisted wear and tear, and the sole showed minimal signs of abrasion. For my typical running mileage, I expect these to last several months before needing replacement.

Style and Versatility

I liked that these shoes worked well beyond running. Their stylish design made them easy to pair with casual outfits for everyday wear. Whether I was hitting the gym or running errands, the Fresh Foam 520 V9 felt versatile enough.

Price and Value

Considering the comfort and quality, I found the New Balance Fresh Foam 520 V9 to be reasonably priced. They offer good value for runners who want reliable cushioning and support without breaking the bank.

Who Should Consider Buying This Shoe?

If you’re a runner or someone who spends a lot of time on your feet and needs a comfortable, cushioned shoe, this model is worth trying. It’s especially good for neutral runners looking for daily trainers with a soft ride. However, if you need specialized support for overpronation or trail-specific shoes, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts

Overall, my experience with the New Balance Fresh Foam 520 V9 has been positive. The balance of comfort, support, and style makes it a solid choice for many. If you’re on the fence, I recommend trying them on and seeing how they feel during your own activities. They might just be the upgrade your running routine needs!

Author Profile

Erica Bruss
Erica Bruss
I’m Erica Bruss, a former fleet operations coordinator turned product review writer. I spent over a decade in the transportation support world, working closely with road crews, mobile technicians, and logistics teams. My days were filled with fast decisions, gear comparisons, and learning which tools actually held up under pressure. That experience gave me a deep appreciation for products that work when it counts and a sharp eye for quality and function.

In 2026, I launched ResQTRx.com to bring that same no-nonsense insight to everyday buyers. Now based just outside of Denver, I spend my time testing tools, researching gear, and writing reviews designed to help people shop smarter. Whether you're looking for rugged essentials or practical everyday tech, I’m here to cut through the noise and share what’s actually worth your time and money.