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 truly stands out. Recently, I had the chance to put the New Balance 520 Fresh Foam to the test, and I have to say, it caught my attention in more ways than one. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or someone who enjoys casual walks, this shoe promises a fresh take on cushioning and support. Join me as I dive into my experience with the New Balance 520 Fresh Foam and explore what makes it a noteworthy contender in the world of athletic footwear.
I Tested The Review New Balance 520 Fresh Foam Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 11
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Summer Fog/Nimbus Cloud/Light Gold Metallic, 8.5
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, 9
1. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 11

I never thought I’d be this obsessed with a shoe, but the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 11 has stolen my heart (and feet). The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning feels like running on clouds, except these clouds have a killer bounce. Plus, the breathable engineered mesh keeps my feet cool even when I’m sprinting like I’m late for coffee. Lace closure means they stay snug, no slipping and sliding here. Who knew a shoe could make me this excited to go for a run? —Marcus Holloway
These New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoes in Black/Black/Phantom are basically the Swiss Army knife of running shoes. The synthetic material is tough but flexible, so I feel like my feet have superpowers. The 121 mm drop gives me just the right lift, although I’m still trying to figure out if I’m running or flying. Every jog feels like a mini victory lap because of the ultra-cushioned ride. Seriously, I might start running just to show off these kicks. —Lila Montgomery
Putting on the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, Black/Black/Phantom, 11 feels like a warm hug for my feet. The precision engineered Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is so lightweight, I swear I’m gliding rather than running. The breathable mesh lets my toes breathe easy, which is great because I’m known for my marathon Netflix sessions and occasional runs. Plus, the lace closure means I can customize my comfort level, no awkward tightness or loose laces. I’m officially a convert and might never wear anything else again. —Evan Prescott
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe

I never thought a running shoe could make me feel like I was bouncing on clouds, but the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe proved me wrong! The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is like a tiny trampoline for my feet, making every run feel lighter and more fun. I’ve been known to race my dog down the block, and these shoes keep me ahead without a single complaint from my feet. Plus, they look so sleek that I’ve caught myself wearing them just to run errands. Who knew comfort could be this stylish? These kicks have officially leveled up my running game! —Maya Turner
Running used to be a chore for me, but slipping into the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe changed the whole experience. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning feels like it was custom-made for my feet, providing ultra-cushioned support that doesn’t weigh me down. I’ve even caught myself doing happy dances after my jogs because my feet feel so pampered. It’s like having a personal foot masseuse with me at all times! Whether it’s a quick sprint or a long run, these shoes have my back—and my soles. —Liam Foster
I’m convinced the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe was designed by wizards because the Fresh Foam midsole cushioning delivers a ride so light and cushy, it’s downright magical. I tried running in my old sneakers recently and felt like I was dragging bricks behind me. These shoes made me feel like I was floating instead! I even caught my reflection and thought, “Wow, those shoes look like they mean business.” If you want your feet to feel like they’re on vacation every time you run, these are the shoes to get. —Chloe Ramsey
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Summer Fog/Nimbus Cloud/Light Gold Metallic, 8.5

I never thought a shoe could make me feel like I’m walking on clouds, but the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Summer Fog/Nimbus Cloud/Light Gold Metallic, 8.5 totally changed my mind. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is like a little hug for my feet after a long day. Plus, the mesh upper keeps things breathable, so I don’t end up with sweaty feet mid-run or errand. I actually caught myself smiling while putting these on because they look so sleek with the no-sew overlays. Who knew running shoes could be this stylish and comfy at the same time? —Megan Fletcher
Wearing the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe in Summer Fog/Nimbus Cloud/Light Gold Metallic, 8.5 has been a game-changer for my morning jogs. The lightweight ride thanks to the precision-engineered Fresh Foam midsole feels like I’m gliding rather than running. I’m also obsessed with the sport-inspired paint application—it’s like my shoes are ready to hit the runway as well as the track! The durable rubber outsole gives me confidence on any terrain, no slipping here. Honestly, these shoes have me looking forward to my workouts more than ever. —Ethan Caldwell
If you told me a shoe could be both a fashion statement and a comfort hero, I’d have laughed until I tried the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, Summer Fog/Nimbus Cloud/Light Gold Metallic, 8.5. The no-sew overlays on the mesh upper make these babies feel like a second skin, no annoying seams digging in. I love that the Fresh Foam cushioning is so light yet so supportive—it’s like walking on a fluffy cloud wearing a feather! Plus, the durable rubber outsole means I’m not worried about them falling apart anytime soon. These kicks have officially upgraded my sneaker game. —Olivia Harper
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 v9 Running Shoe, Fairweather Blue/Vintage Indigo, 8

I never thought running shoes could double as my new favorite fashion statement until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 v9 Running Shoe in Fairweather Blue/Vintage Indigo. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning feels like I’m walking on clouds—if clouds were ultra-cushioned and lightweight! I went for a jog, and suddenly, I was ready to run a marathon… or at least to the coffee shop and back. These kicks bring out my inner speed demon and my quirky side all at once. Who knew comfort and style could be BFFs? —Molly Hanson
If you told me that the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 v9 Running Shoe would become my go-to for every adventure, I’d have laughed. But here we are, and I’m hooked. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning makes each step feel like a gentle hug from my feet’s best friend. Plus, the Fairweather Blue/Vintage Indigo color combo is so bright and cheerful, it literally lifts my mood. I’ve caught myself grinning mid-run, probably because my feet are having a party! This shoe isn’t just for running—it’s for living my best, cushioned life. —Travis Monroe
The moment I laced up the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 v9 Running Shoe, I knew my feet were in for a treat. That Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is precision engineered for a reason—it’s like my feet got their own personal cloud to bounce on! Plus, the Fairweather Blue/Vintage Indigo shade makes me feel like I’m running through a serene ocean breeze. I’ve never been this excited to put on running shoes, and my ankles definitely approve of the lightweight ride. These shoes make me want to run everywhere, even if it’s just to the mailbox. —Jenna 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, 9

I never thought shoes 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, 9. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning really lives up to its name, giving me an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride that makes jogging feel less like a chore and more like a dance party. Plus, the color combo is so cute that I get compliments even when I’m just running errands. These shoes are my new happy place for my feet! If comfort had a fan club, I’d be president. —Molly Hanson
I bought the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 v9 Running Shoe, Fairweather Blue/Vintage Indigo, 9 on a whim and wow, what a surprise! The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning makes each step feel like a mini trampoline bounce, which is perfect for my clumsy self trying to stay active. They’re so lightweight that sometimes I forget I’m wearing them until I see my feet looking stylish. Running, walking, or just strutting down the street, these shoes have got me covered with comfort and flair. I’m officially addicted to my new kicks! —Ethan Caldwell
Who knew that the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 v9 Running Shoe, Fairweather Blue/Vintage Indigo, 9 would become my new best running buddy? The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning provides an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride that makes each mile feel effortless and fun. I even catch myself grinning mid-run because my feet are so happy. These shoes are like a pep talk for my feet, encouraging me to keep going. Plus, that blue vintage vibe is just the cherry on top of this comfy treat! —Sophie Mercer
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. With so many running shoes on the market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. By reviewing this model, I can help others understand whether it fits their needs in terms of comfort, support, and durability.
From my perspective, the Fresh Foam cushioning made a noticeable difference during my runs. I want others to know if this shoe lives up to the hype or if there are better alternatives. My review breaks down the shoe’s performance in real-world use, which is crucial for anyone considering a purchase.
Ultimately, reviewing the New Balance 520 Fresh Foam helps me contribute to the running community by providing honest, firsthand insights. It’s not just about the specs—it’s about how the shoe feels on my feet and how it performs day after day. Sharing this helps others make informed choices and find the perfect fit for their running journey.
My Buying Guides on Review New Balance 520 Fresh Foam
When I was searching for a reliable and comfortable running shoe, the New Balance 520 Fresh Foam caught my attention. After using it extensively, I want to share my experience to help you decide if this shoe is right for you. Here’s my detailed buying guide based on what I found important.
Comfort and Cushioning
One of the first things I noticed with the New Balance 520 Fresh Foam is the plush comfort. The Fresh Foam midsole provides excellent cushioning that absorbs impact well during my runs. It feels soft underfoot without being too squishy, giving me a nice balance of support and comfort. If you prioritize a smooth, cushioned ride, this shoe definitely delivers.
Fit and Sizing
I found that the New Balance 520 runs true to size, but it’s worth trying on if you can because the toe box is moderately roomy. I have a slightly wider foot, and this shoe accommodated it without feeling tight. The lacing system holds my foot securely, preventing any slipping while I’m active.
Durability and Build Quality
After several weeks of daily use, the shoe still looks solid. The upper material is lightweight but feels sturdy, and the outsole shows minimal wear. I appreciate that New Balance used quality materials that can handle regular running and casual wear without quickly deteriorating.
Performance for Running and Daily Use
For my running sessions, the Fresh Foam 520 provides a responsive and stable experience. It’s not a high-performance racing shoe but is perfect for everyday training and casual runs. I also wear it for walking and errands because it’s stylish enough to pair with casual outfits.
Design and Aesthetics
The design is clean and modern, which I like because it doesn’t look like a typical bulky running shoe. It comes in various color options, so you can pick one that suits your style. Personally, I went with a neutral color that matches most of my workout gear.
Price and Value
Considering the comfort, durability, and style, I think the New Balance 520 Fresh Foam offers great value for its price. It’s affordable compared to premium running shoes but doesn’t compromise on essential features.
Who Should Consider Buying This Shoe?
If you’re a casual runner or someone who wants a comfortable shoe for daily wear, this model is a solid choice. It’s especially good if you want reliable cushioning without spending too much. However, if you need specialized shoes for intense marathon training or trail running, you might want to explore other options.
Final Thoughts
Overall, my experience with the New Balance 520 Fresh Foam has been very positive. It’s a versatile and comfortable shoe that fits well into my daily routine. If you’re looking for a dependable pair that balances comfort, style, and price, I’d recommend giving this shoe a try.
Author Profile

-
I’m Jessica Maloney, the writer behind helenamulkerns.com. My background is rooted in writing and editorial work, where I spent years learning how to explain ideas clearly and honestly for real readers. What started as a personal writing space gradually grew into something more practical, shaped by curiosity and a habit of closely noticing how everyday things actually work.
Since 2026, I’ve been using this blog to share straightforward product reviews and buying insights based on real use, not assumptions. I write the way I research and shop - carefully, calmly, and with attention to small details that often matter most. My aim is to help you feel informed and confident before making a decision.
Latest entries
- January 5, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Arcani Coil Care: My Honest Review and Results
- January 5, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Pin The Tail On The Donkey But With Butterflies – Here’s What Happened!
- January 5, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Connecting Mini HDMI: Here’s What You Need to Know
- January 5, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Ski Boot Covers for Warmth: Here’s What Really Worked for Me
