# TLDR Review: New Balance Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe

*Published: 2026-04-06 | Updated: 2026-04-06 | Source: https://shopsavvy.com/reviews-tldr/new-balance-fresh-foam-520-v9-running-shoe*

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## Product: New Balance Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe
**Brand:** New Balance

## Pros
- Extremely comfortable and lightweight, often described as some of the most comfortable shoes users have ever worn.
- Soft, supportive cushioning that helps reduce foot pain, including relief for plantar fasciitis.
- Breathable material keeps feet cool even during extended wear.
- True to size with reliable and consistent fit, especially appreciated by those needing wider or big-and-tall sizes.
- Durable build with high-quality materials that meet expectations for everyday use.
- Stylish, understated black design suitable for both casual and professional settings.
- Provides good traction on slippery surfaces like snow and ice.
- Suitable for walking, casual running (up to about 16 miles), and all-out sprints, making it versatile for beginners or budget-conscious runners.

## Cons
- Not ideal for high-mileage or long-distance running due to comfort issues over extended use.
- Durability remains uncertain to some users as long-term wear experiences are still pending.
- Lacks toe protection, making it less suitable for trail running or more rugged outdoor activities.

## Bottom Line

If you're looking for a stylish, extremely comfortable everyday shoe that offers great cushioning and breathability, the New Balance Fresh Foam 520 V9 fits the bill beautifully. It excels in casual running and walking with a reliable true-to-size fit and broad appeal for various foot widths. However, if you aim for long-distance running or need tough trail protection, these might fall short. For runners seeking more robust features in those areas, exploring other New Balance models focused on trail or marathon support may be worthwhile.

## Pros vs Cons at a Glance

| Pros | Cons |
|------|------|
| Extremely comfortable and lightweight, often described as some of the most comfortable shoes users have ever worn. | Not ideal for high-mileage or long-distance running due to comfort issues over extended use. |
| Soft, supportive cushioning that helps reduce foot pain, including relief for plantar fasciitis. | Durability remains uncertain to some users as long-term wear experiences are still pending. |
| Breathable material keeps feet cool even during extended wear. | Lacks toe protection, making it less suitable for trail running or more rugged outdoor activities. |
| True to size with reliable and consistent fit, especially appreciated by those needing wider or big-and-tall sizes. |  |
| Durable build with high-quality materials that meet expectations for everyday use. |  |
| Stylish, understated black design suitable for both casual and professional settings. |  |
| Provides good traction on slippery surfaces like snow and ice. |  |
| Suitable for walking, casual running (up to about 16 miles), and all-out sprints, making it versatile for beginners or budget-conscious runners. |  |

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*About this review: We pulled together findings from professional and user reviews, and cross-referenced them with ShopSavvy's pricing data from thousands of retailers to give you the short version.*