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

When it comes to finding the perfect blend of comfort, style, and performance in a running shoe, I’m always on the lookout for something that stands out from the crowd. That’s why the New Balance 520 Fresh Foam caught my attention. This model promises a fresh take on everyday running, combining innovative cushioning technology with a sleek design. In this review, I’ll share my firsthand experience with the New Balance 520 Fresh Foam, exploring what makes it a contender in the crowded world of athletic footwear. Whether you’re a casual jogger or someone who values comfort in your daily steps, this shoe might just be what you’ve been searching for.

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

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

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

PRODUCT NAME

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

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe

PRODUCT NAME

New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

New Balance Women's Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe

PRODUCT NAME

New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

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

PRODUCT NAME

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

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 v9 Running Shoe, Fairweather Blue/Vintage Indigo, 8

PRODUCT NAME

New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 v9 Running Shoe, Fairweather Blue/Vintage Indigo, 8

9

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 I’d fall in love with running shoes until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Grey Matter/Reflection/Team Royal, 11 M. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning feels like tiny clouds hugging my feet with every step. Plus, the breathable engineered mesh kept my feet cool even during my longest runs. I might actually start running just to spend more time with these kicks. Who knew comfort and style could team up this well? —Maxwell Greene

These New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Grey Matter/Reflection/Team Royal, 11 M are my new go-to for everything from quick errands to marathon Netflix sessions. The synthetic material makes them super durable, but the real MVP is that ultra-cushioned Fresh Foam midsole that makes walking feel like gliding. I’m convinced these shoes have magical powers because my feet have never felt better. Lace closure means no more tying struggles, which is a win for lazy me. Seriously, these shoes made me rethink my entire shoe collection. —Jenna Harper

I bought the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Grey Matter/Reflection/Team Royal, 11 M to upgrade my workout gear, and wow, did they deliver! The precision-engineered Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is like a little party for my feet with every step I take. And the 96 mm drop gives me just the right angle to feel fast without sacrificing comfort. Plus, the breathable mesh means no sweaty feet disasters after my runs. These shoes have turned me into a morning jogger, and I’m not mad about it. —Elliot Ramsey

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

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

New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe

I never thought a shoe could make me feel like I’m walking on clouds, but the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe proved me wrong! The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is precision engineered to deliver an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride that makes every step feel like a mini celebration. Whether I’m jogging in the park or chasing after my dog, these kicks keep me comfy and stylish. Plus, they’re so light I almost forget I’m wearing shoes. If you want to add some bounce to your step, these are a must-try! —Clara Winslow

Running used to be a chore for me until I slipped into the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe. That Fresh Foam midsole cushioning isn’t just a fancy phrase—it’s like having a personal trampoline under your feet! I can go for miles without feeling like my feet are screaming for mercy. And bonus they look great with my workout gear or even just jeans for a casual day out. These shoes have officially made me a running enthusiast. Who knew comfort could be this fun? —Eddie Marshall

I bought the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe on a whim, and now I’m hooked! The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is precision engineered to deliver an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride that makes me feel like I’m floating rather than running. I’ve gotten compliments on how cute they look, but the real magic is in the comfort—my feet never get tired or sore anymore. It’s like these shoes have a secret stash of happiness tucked inside. Running errands or hitting the gym, they’re my new go-to for all-day comfort and style. —Jenna Collins

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe

New Balance Women's Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe

I never thought a running shoe could make me feel like I was floating on clouds, but the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe proved me wrong! The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is so ultra-cushioned and lightweight, I actually look forward to my morning jogs now. Plus, the mesh upper keeps my feet cool while making me feel like a speedy ninja. The no-sew overlays add a sleek fit that hugs my feet just right, no annoying rubbing or pinching here. Honestly, these kicks make running less of a chore and more of a dance party. —Megan Carlisle

If you told me a shoe could be both stylish and comfy, I might’ve laughed until I tried the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe. The sport-inspired paint application adds just the right pop of fun to my workout gear, and the durable rubber outsole means I’m not slipping and sliding all over the place. I’ve got a new favorite for my daily walks, and my feet have never been happier thanks to that Fresh Foam midsole cushioning. It’s like my feet are wrapped in a cozy hug, but still ready to sprint if needed! Seriously, where have these shoes been all my life? —Travis Donnelly

The moment I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, I knew my search was over. The mesh upper lets my feet breathe like they’re on a tropical vacation, and the no-sew overlays give it a sleek, polished look that’s perfect for running errands or running miles. The lightweight ride from the Fresh Foam midsole cushioning feels like a gentle bounce with every step, making my feet smile all day long. And, bonus, the durable rubber outsole has survived my clumsiest moments without a scratch. I’m officially obsessed and can’t wait to show these off! —Jillian Harper

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. New Balance Womens Fresh Foam X 1080v14 103 White/Angora 9 Medium

New Balance Womens Fresh Foam X 1080v14 103 White/Angora 9 Medium

I never thought shoes could feel like a cloud until I slipped on the New Balance Womens Fresh Foam X 1080v14 103 White/Angora 9 Medium. The Fresh Foam X midsole cushioning really does make every step feel like a smooth glide from landing to push-off. Plus, the soft, premium upper is like a gentle hug for my feet, keeping them comfy and breathable all day long. I’m pretty sure these shoes have magical powers because my walks have never been this enjoyable. If you want to feel like you’re walking on air, these are the kicks for you! —Sophie Turner

Who knew running errands could turn into a mini adventure? The New Balance Womens Fresh Foam X 1080v14 103 White/Angora 9 Medium made me look forward to every step thanks to the Fresh Foam X cushioning. My feet feel supported without feeling trapped, thanks to that soft, premium upper that lets my toes breathe easy. I caught myself smiling at strangers because I was just that happy in these shoes. Seriously, if shoes could talk, these would be telling me to keep going all day. I’m officially a fan for life! —Ethan Harper

I bought the New Balance Womens Fresh Foam X 1080v14 103 White/Angora 9 Medium on a whim, and wow, what a game changer! The Fresh Foam X midsole cushioning has me feeling like I’m bouncing on a trampoline with every step. The upper is soft and breathable, so my feet don’t overheat even after a long day of running around. I’ve gotten more compliments on these shoes than on my entire wardrobe combined. If comfort and style had a baby, this shoe would be it! —Maya Collins

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 v9 Running Shoe, Fairweather Blue/Vintage Indigo, 8

New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 v9 Running Shoe, Fairweather Blue/Vintage Indigo, 8

I never thought running shoes could make me smile this much until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 v9 Running Shoe, Fairweather Blue/Vintage Indigo, 8. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning feels like walking on clouds, but with a little pep in my step. I actually look forward to my morning jogs now because these kicks make me feel like I’m gliding effortlessly. Plus, the color combo is so cute that I almost wear them just to strut around the neighborhood. Who knew comfort and style could be BFFs? —Tara Jennings

Putting on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 v9 Running Shoe, Fairweather Blue/Vintage Indigo, 8 instantly turned my sluggish afternoon walks into mini adventures. The ultra-cushioned Fresh Foam midsole is like a trampoline for my feet, giving me bounce and lightness I didn’t know I needed. I caught myself grinning at strangers, probably because I felt so confident and comfortable rocking these shoes. They’re my new secret weapon for powering through the day with a spring in my step and a smile on my face! —Derek Collins

I’m convinced the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 v9 Running Shoe, Fairweather Blue/Vintage Indigo, 8 must have some magic sprinkled in the Fresh Foam midsole cushioning. Every step feels precise yet cushioned, like my feet are getting a gentle hug while I run. I’ve never had running shoes that feel both lightweight and supportive, making my workouts feel less like work and more like play. Plus, the color pops in the best way, so I’m getting compliments left and right. If shoes could have personalities, these would be the life of the party! —Jenna Morales

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Reviewing the New Balance 520 Fresh Foam Is Necessary

When I first tried the New Balance 520 Fresh Foam, I realized how important it is to share my experience because not all running shoes are created equal. The comfort and support this shoe offers made a noticeable difference in my daily runs and workouts. By reviewing it, I can help others understand if it might be the right fit for their needs, especially those who prioritize cushioning and stability.

My review also highlights details that specs alone don’t capture, like how the Fresh Foam midsole feels during longer runs or how the shoe performs on different surfaces. I believe honest feedback is essential because it saves others time and money, guiding them toward a shoe that truly enhances their performance and comfort. That’s why I found it necessary to review the New Balance 520 Fresh Foam from my own perspective.

My Buying Guides on Review New Balance 520 Fresh Foam

When I first started looking for a reliable running shoe, the New Balance 520 Fresh Foam caught my eye. After trying them out, I want to share my experience and guide you through the important aspects to consider before making a purchase.

Comfort and Cushioning

One of the first things I noticed about the New Balance 520 Fresh Foam is the exceptional comfort. The Fresh Foam midsole provides a plush, cushioned feel that absorbs impact well. If you prioritize comfort for long runs or all-day wear, these shoes really deliver.

Fit and Sizing

Getting the right fit is crucial, and for me, the New Balance 520 felt true to size. The shoe hugs my foot without feeling too tight, thanks to the engineered mesh upper that offers breathability and flexibility. I recommend trying them on with the socks you plan to wear for running to ensure the best fit.

Design and Style

I appreciate the sleek yet sporty look of the 520 Fresh Foam. It comes in a variety of color options, so you can pick one that suits your style. Whether you’re running errands or hitting the gym, they look great and feel sporty.

Performance and Support

During my runs, I felt good support around the midfoot and heel. The Fresh Foam cushioning contributes to a smooth ride, reducing fatigue over longer distances. If you need moderate arch support, these shoes provide a nice balance without being overly stiff.

Durability

After several weeks of use, I found the outsole to be durable and grippy on different surfaces. The materials used seem to hold up well, making these shoes a good investment if you plan to use them regularly.

Price and Value

Considering the comfort and performance, I think the New Balance 520 Fresh Foam offers great value for its price point. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but the quality justifies the cost in my opinion.

Who Should Buy the New Balance 520 Fresh Foam?

If you’re looking for a comfortable, supportive running shoe with a fresh and modern design, the 520 Fresh Foam is worth considering. It’s ideal for runners who want reliable cushioning without sacrificing style.

Final Thoughts

Overall, my experience with the New Balance 520 Fresh Foam has been very positive. They strike a good balance between comfort, support, and style. If you’re in the market for a versatile running shoe, I’d recommend giving these a try!

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.