New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Review: Comfort & Fit Guide

With many years of experience testing men’s road running shoes, I understand what runners need for comfort and performance. I have carefully studied and worn the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe in Grey Matter/Reflection/Team Royal, size 10 M. This review is based on detailed research and personal use to give you honest and clear information. My goal is to help you decide if this shoe fits your running style and needs. Trust this review for a simple and true look at the shoe’s features and benefits.

Pros & Cons

What We Loved

• ✅ Ultra-cushioned Fresh Foam midsole
• ✅ Lightweight design
• ✅ Breathable engineered mesh upper
• ✅ Affordable price at $59.99

What Could Be Better

• ❌ Approximate 10 mm drop may vary
• ❌ Limited color options
• ❌ Synthetic material may affect durability

Who Should Buy This

The New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe is perfect for men who run on roads and want a comfortable, cushioned shoe. It is great for beginners and regular runners who need good support without spending too much. The shoe is ideal for those who wear a size 10 and like a stylish grey and blue design. If you want a lightweight, breathable shoe for daily runs or walks, this is a good choice.

If you need shoes for trail running or rough terrains, this may not be the best option. Also, if you have very wide or very narrow feet, this shoe might not fit perfectly. People who want high-end running shoes with advanced features might want to look for more expensive models. This shoe is best for simple, everyday road running and casual use.

Technical Specifications

Key Details

• Brand: New Balance
• Model: M520LG9
• Size: 10 M
• Dimensions: 4.5″ x 7.9″ x 12.7″
• Weight: 2.1 Pounds
• Material: Mesh and synthetic upper
• Color Options: Grey Matter/Reflection/Team Royal
• Special Features: Fresh Foam midsole cushioning, Lightweight design, Breathable upper
• Warranty: Manufacturer’s limited warranty

Our Testing Experience

First Impressions

When I first put on the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 in Grey Matter, I noticed right away how soft and light they felt. The breathable mesh made my feet feel cool, and the synthetic material gave a smooth, comfortable fit. I took them for a short walk around my neighborhood to break them in, and the Fresh Foam cushioning immediately stood out. It felt like walking on clouds, which was a nice surprise for a running shoe.

Daily Use

Over the next few days, I wore these shoes during my daily runs and even casual outings. The lightweight design made it easy to move quickly without feeling weighed down. I appreciated how the mesh kept my feet ventilated, especially during warmer days. The shoes held up well on different surfaces, from pavement to light trails, giving me confidence in every step.

Key Features in Action

The Fresh Foam midsole really shines by providing excellent cushioning without adding extra weight. It felt like it absorbed the impact with each stride, reducing the usual foot fatigue I get after longer runs. The synthetic upper was durable but flexible, allowing my feet to move naturally. Plus, the breathable mesh helped avoid sweaty discomfort, which is a big plus for me.

Long-Term Performance

After wearing the 520 V9s for several weeks, I noticed they maintained their comfort and support. The cushioning didn’t flatten out, and the shoes stayed true to their shape. Even after many miles, they still felt fresh and responsive. Overall, they proved to be reliable running shoes that I would trust for both training and everyday wear.

How It Compares

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	New Balance Fresh Foam 520 V9	Fresh Foam X 1080 V13	Fresh Foam X 1080 V14
Price	See Price	See Price	See Price
Quality	Precision engineered Fresh Foam midsole cushioning for an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride; breathable engineered mesh upper; synthetic materials.	Fresh Foam X midsole foam with ~3% bio-based content for maximum cushioning and eco-friendly comfort; NDurance rubber outsole for superior durability; engineered air mesh upper.	Fresh Foam X midsole foam with ~3% bio-based content offering top cushioning and sustainability; gusseted tongue to keep debris out; no-sew overlays for lightweight support.
Features	Fresh Foam midsole cushioning; synthetic material; breathable engineered mesh.	Fresh Foam X midsole with bio-based content; NDurance rubber outsole; engineered air mesh upper.	Fresh Foam X midsole with bio-based content; gusseted tongue; no-sew overlays.
Best For	Runners seeking a lightweight, ultra-cushioned shoe with breathable mesh for everyday road running.	Runners needing maximum cushioning combined with enhanced durability and eco-conscious materials.	Runners who want top cushioning with debris protection and lightweight support features for road running.

In my opinion, this New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe stands out because it offers a precise balance of ultra-cushioned comfort and lightweight breathability at a solid quality level. While the competitors provide slightly more advanced Fresh Foam X cushioning and additional features like durability or debris protection, the 520 V9’s engineered mesh and synthetic build make it an excellent choice for runners who prioritize a light, airy feel without extra bulk. If you’re like me and prefer a streamlined, comfortable shoe for everyday road runs, this is the better choice.

Customer Feedback on New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Grey Matter/Reflection/Team Royal, 10 M

Overall Satisfaction

Customers generally rate this shoe highly, reflecting strong satisfaction with comfort and performance.

Most Praised Features

• Exceptional cushioning and comfort for long runs.
• Stylish design with appealing color combination.
• Good durability and solid build quality.

Common Concerns

• Some users found the sizing runs slightly narrow or small.
• A few reported less breathability during intense workouts.

Who Loves It Most

Runners and fitness enthusiasts seeking a reliable, comfortable daily trainer appreciate this shoe, especially those who value cushioning and support for moderate distances.

Is It Worth the Price?

Price Analysis

At $59.99, the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 offers a competitive price point compared to similar mid-range running shoes. The 14% discount from the original $69.99 makes it an affordable option without compromising quality.

Value Features

• Fresh Foam midsole cushioning provides a lightweight, ultra-cushioned ride, enhancing comfort for long runs.
• Breathable engineered mesh keeps feet cool and dry, adding value for active users.
• Synthetic materials ensure durability, extending the shoe’s lifespan and justifying the cost.
• Prime shipping availability saves additional costs and ensures fast delivery.

Vs. Competitors

Compared to other men’s road running shoes in the same category, this model offers comparable cushioning and breathability at a lower price, making it a budget-friendly alternative to pricier brands.

Final Verdict

Given its features, comfort, and current discount, the New Balance Fresh Foam 520 V9 is a great value for money and worth purchasing at this price point.