New Balance fresh foam x hierro v7

Learn more about the New Balance fresh foam x hierro v7 female running shoes, including key features, performance, reviews, model updates, and more.

New Balance fresh foam x hierro v7

Price

$280

Rating

High

Popularity

Less Popular

The New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v7 is a rugged, trail-running shoe designed for durability and comfort on uneven terrain, sitting between the lightweight Fresh Foam Arishi and the more cushioned Fresh Foam More Trail in New Balance's lineup.

3 colorways

Colorway: Black with orange

Widths available: normal, wide, extra-wide

Summary

The New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v7 is a trail running shoe designed to offer a blend of comfort, durability, and performance for various terrains. It features New Balance's signature Fresh Foam X midsole, which provides responsive cushioning and shock absorption, making it suitable for long-distance trail runs. The Hierro v7 also incorporates a Vibram outsole, offering excellent grip and traction on rugged surfaces, enhancing the runner's stability and confidence on uneven ground. In New Balance's lineup of running shoes, the Hierro v7 stands out as a specialized trail shoe compared to road-focused models like the Fresh Foam 1080, which prioritize cushioning on paved surfaces, or the FuelCell models that emphasize speed and energy return. The Hierro v7 caters to trail enthusiasts seeking a reliable and comfortable option for outdoor adventures, fitting into New Balance's diverse range by providing a trail-specific option that complements their broader lineup of road, stability, and performance footwear.

Surface

trail

Cushioning

MinLowMediumHighMax(25mm)

Breathability

LowMediumHigh(TPU-coated textile upper upper)

Weight

297g

Heel-to-Toe Drop

8mm0mm14mm

Support

NeutralLightHigh

Width options

normal, wide, extra-wide

Grip

LowMediumHighMax(medium density, 4.5mm lugs)

Suitability

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Pros & Cons

AI-powered

Fittir conducts a detailed analysis of the New Balance fresh foam x hierro v7 to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the shoes features, pros, and cons based on 15 wear-tester reviews.

Summary: The New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v7 is a highly regarded trail running shoe known for its comfort, lightweight design, and excellent traction, making it versatile for various terrains and distances. While it offers a secure fit and durability, some reviewers noted a decrease in forefoot cushioning and breathability, which may affect performance on more technical trails..

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

cushion
Cushion feeling: Firm

The main points to note are that many users appreciate the excellent cushioning provided by the shoe, while others feel that the cushioning, particularly in the forefoot, is insufficient for comfort.

forefoot (5)

comfort (3)

firmness (3)

cushioning (2)

support (2)

protection (1)

ride (1)

absorption (1)

Pros

"Midsole provides excellent cushioning for long runs."

well-cushioned

Fresh Foam X

defense against debris

"The New Balance Hierro v7 offers excellent cushioning for off-road running."

Fresh Foam

stability

comfort

"The shoe has a good level of cushioning for a variety of runs on different terrains."

versatile

multiple terrains

"The New Balance Hierro v7 provides a soft and smooth ride on trails."

soft

smooth

"The cushioning is soft, offering comfort even during long runs."

soft

ultramarathon

long runs

"The cushioning in the Hierro v7 offers excellent comfort during runs."

cushioning

comfort

fresh foam

"The shoe provides a high level of cushioning for trail running and hiking."

cushioning

comfort

high standard

"The shoe effectively absorbs bumps, providing a stable ride."

bump absorbing

stable

smooth motion

"The shoe offers improved cushioning with the Fresh Foam X technology."

cushioning

lightweight

protection

"The Fresh Foam X midsole is incredibly soft, providing an inviting ride."

Fresh Foam X

soft

cushioning

"The Fresh Foam X material offers a premium experience in the shoe."

Fresh Foam X

premium material

"The cushioning strikes a good balance between being plush and firm, which enhances sensitivity during runs."

medium cushioning

sensitivity

flexibility

"The Hierro v7 provides sufficient cushioning in the heel for downhill running."

heel cushioning

downhill

shock absorption

"Fresh Foam X offers plush comfort and responsiveness in the midsole."

plush

responsive

Cons

"The shoe could benefit from more cushioning."

cushioning

Fresh Foam

stack height

"The cushioning is plush but not as thick as the previous model."

cushioning

plush

softness

"The cushioning may not be soft enough for runners looking for maximum comfort."

cushioning

comfort

foam

"The initial rigidity of the Fresh Foam X may impact comfort until broken in."

rigidity

Fresh Foam X

break-in

"The Firmer Fresh Foam X may not appeal to all runners."

firmness

cushion comparison

"Forefoot strikers may find the cushioning too firm, requiring adjustment to their running style."

forefoot

cushioning

adjustment

"The forefoot lacks sufficient cushioning, which may affect comfort for some runners."

cushioning

forefoot

comfort

"There is less cushioning in the forefoot compared to expected levels."

cushioning

forefoot

"There is less cushioning in the forefoot compared to the previous version, affecting overall comfort."

cushioning

comfort

forefoot

"There is insufficient cushioning in the forefoot area, impacting comfort for certain runners."

cushioning

forefoot

comfort

"The shoe may not be ideal for forefoot strikers due to insufficient cushioning and a steep heel-to-toe drop."

heel-to-toe drop

forefoot

performance

"The Hierro v7 has less cushioning compared to the previous model."

cushioning

comparison

discomfort

"There is decreased arch support in the Hierro v7."

arch support

cushioning

neutral foot

"The midsole lacks inviting cushioning, making long runs less enjoyable compared to the previous model."

midsole

cushioning

ride

"The shoe lacks sufficient cushioning for long runs."

cushioning

long distance

comfort

comfort
Breathability: Less breathable

The main points to note are that comfort is frequently highlighted as a strong advantage of the shoe, while breathability issues in the upper material are a common concern.

breathability (7)

padding (1)

irritation-free (1)

transition (1)

weight (1)

overall (1)

initial comfort (1)

initial (1)

Pros

"The upper is designed for comfort with a good amount of cushioning."

cushioned

comfortable fit

plushness

"Unmatched comfort for long distances without irritation."

comfortable on long runs

no irritation

suitable for distances

"The shoe has a smooth transition, ensuring comfort over rough terrain."

smooth transition

comfort

seamless

"The Hierro v7 feels lightweight while still providing support underfoot."

lightweight

supportive

"The shoe features a breathable upper, enhancing comfort during runs."

breathable

comfort

upper

"Excellent breathability and resilience of the upper material."

upper material

breathability

durability

"The shoe features excellent breathability which helps regulate temperature during runs."

breathable

temperature regulation

mesh

"The upper mesh is breathable, promoting comfort during runs in warmer conditions."

mesh

breathability

comfort

"The shoe is breathable due to its thin mesh upper, providing comfort during extended wear."

breathable

comfort

mesh upper

"The shoe is very comfortable for long runs."

long-distance

comfortable

Softness

"The shoe offers a comfortable fit right out of the box, which persists through long runs."

comfortable

flat runs

"The shoe offers great comfort right out of the box."

comfort

fit

"The midfoot contouring adds to the comfort and security during runs."

contouring

secure

"Comfort in the upper is emphasized, providing a luxurious step-in feel for runners."

comfortable

luxurious

padding

"The shoe provides true to size comfort with a spacious toe box."

toe box

true to size

"Step in comfort is excellent, making it suitable for long durations."

long runs

comfort

"The upper fits securely and protects the foot well against debris."

secure fit

trail debris

"The shoe provides a comfortable running experience, making it a great all-day companion."

all-day comfort

versatility

"The Fresh Foam X midsole enhances comfort during long runs."

Fresh Foam

comfort

long runs

Cons

"The upper of the shoe is not breathable enough, which can lead to discomfort in warm conditions."

breathability

warm conditions

"The mesh upper can feel too thick in hot weather, potentially causing discomfort."

breathability

heat

comfort

"The upper material lacks breathability, leading to warmth during runs."

upper

warmth

breathability

"The thicker synthetic mesh upper creates warmth, which may not be ideal for summer running conditions."

material

warmth

breathability

"The upper can become too warm in hot weather."

breathability

warmth

"The upper is not the most breathable available."

breathability

"While breathable, the upper mesh may not provide enough protection in rough terrains."

breathable

lightweight

"The upper material may not provide enough ventilation for hot weather running."

upper

breathability

comfort

"Flexibility can decrease in cold conditions, affecting performance."

cold

performance

rigidity

"The cushioning is decent but may require pairing with cushioned socks for better fit and comfort."

cushioning

socks

fit

durability

The main points to note are that durability is frequently highlighted as a strong feature of the shoe, but there are also significant concerns about its long-term durability and protection against rough conditions.

weight (3)

build (1)

midsole (1)

versatile durability (1)

outsole durability (1)

construction (1)

ready to use (1)

long-term (1)

Pros

"The shoe has a durable build quality suitable for rugged conditions."

durable materials

quality

rugged

"The shoe has undergone a significant weight reduction compared to the previous version."

lightweight

durability

performance

"The shoe is significantly lighter than previous versions."

weight reduction

lighter

previous versions

"The Hierro v7 is lightweight, making it easier to run over long distances without feeling weighed down."

lightweight

durability

performance

"The midsole is reinforced for enhanced durability even after extended use, maintaining stability."

durable

long-lasting

"Although considered lightweight compared to its predecessor, it remains durable for trail conditions."

lightweight

versatility

durable

"The outsole shows minimal wear after extensive use, indicating good durability."

long-lasting

extensive use

"The shoes provide enhanced durability thanks to a specialized construction."

durable

off-road

protection

"The shoe is designed to be worn immediately without needing a break-in period."

durability

no break-in

ready to wear

Cons

"Durability has not been tested over extensive mileage yet."

durability

testing

mileage

"The outsole is not as durable as a road shoe outsole."

outsole

durability

road

"There is a concern about the long-term durability of the lightweight materials used."

weight

durability

outsole

"The inability to assess long-term durability of the Fresh Foam X is a concern."

Fresh Foam X

uncertainty

performance

"The shoe offers less foot protection than competitors, which may leave runners vulnerable on rugged terrain."

foot protection

rugged terrain

"The shoe lacks a rock plate, which is noticeable and reduces protection against sharp objects."

rock plate

sharp objects

"Durability may not hold up against extremely rough conditions."

durability

rough terrain

performance
Distance suited: Medium (10-20km)
Rocker: Less rocker

The shoe's lightweight design and versatility are frequently praised, while concerns about its responsiveness and performance on technical terrain are common issues.

versatility (3)

responsiveness (2)

nimbleness (1)

adaptability (1)

weight (1)

lightweight (1)

agility (1)

transitions (1)

Pros

"Offers a nimble yet protective ride for various surfaces."

nimble

protective

trail navigation

"Delivers a consistent and smooth performance across various run lengths."

consistent performance

smooth transitions

daily use

"It has an adaptable design, performing well in various scenarios, from trails to casual wear."

adaptable

multi-use

versatile

"The shoe offers a versatile performance for varied surfaces, from road to trail."

road

trail

durability

"The design minimizes tension points for better adaptability to uneven terrain."

adaptability

terrain

performance

"This shoe is designed to be lighter, making it more agile for long distances."

lightweight

nimble

agility

"The lightweight construction of the shoe supports efficient trail runs."

lightweight

performance

trail running

"It features a lightweight design that enhances agility and comfort during longer runs."

lightweight

agility

smooth run

Cons

"Heel-to-toe transitions can feel slappy at times, affecting ride smoothness."

transitions

ride smoothness

"Performance on very technical terrain may be limited compared to heavier models."

performance

terrain

technical

"The shoe is not responsive enough for speed or fast trail races."

performance

speed

responsiveness

"Less responsiveness than expected from the updated design."

softness

responsiveness

weight reduction

"The shoe feels clunky despite being lighter than its predecessor."

clunky

weight

"The shoe is not designed for ultra-distance runs, limiting its versatility for certain runners."

ultra-distance

middle-distance

"The shoe may not be suitable for advanced runners seeking speed."

performance

speed

"The shoe's flexibility is limited, which can hinder performance on technical ascents and descents."

flexibility

technical trails

ascents

descents

"Despite being marketed as trail-ready, the shoe may not be suitable for technical trails with significant elevation changes."

technical trails

elevation

performance

fit
True to size: True to size
Toebox width: Narrower
Heel width: Average
Orthotic friendly: No

The main concerns about the shoe's fit are that it can be too tight in the toe box and too loose for some runners, which may not suit everyone's needs.

width (2)

toe box (2)

lockdown (1)

size (1)

flexibility (1)

improvement (1)

break-in (1)

accuracy (1)

Pros

"Provides a secure fit that prevents slippage."

secure lock

no slippage

midfoot wrap

"The shoe fits true to size, providing a comfortable fit without excess room."

true to size

comfort fit

snug

"The size is consistent for standard fitting, indicating reliable sizing."

size accuracy

running fit

"This shoe is available in multiple widths, accommodating a variety of foot shapes."

wide

multiple options

"The Hierro v7 is accommodating for wide feet, eliminating toe cramping."

wide feet

toe box

comfort

"The shoe's design allows the foot to flex without discomfort."

mesh

flexible

comfortable

"The shoe has been improved to provide a better fit compared to previous models."

better fit

previous models

"The shoe's fit will likely improve after breaking in due to the soft nature of the Fresh Foam X."

break-in

fit improvement

"The shoe fits true to size, ensuring a secure fit for the majority of foot shapes."

true to size

secure fit

"The shoe features an accommodating fit in the forefoot, ensuring comfort even on longer runs."

accommodating

comfort

long distances

"The upper material is of high quality, contributing to the overall comfort and fit of the shoe."

quality

comfort

fit

"The shoe fits like a snug road runner, which enhances its overall performance."

fit

road-like

"The tongue design prevents lace pressure and stays securely in place during runs."

gusseted tongue

lace pressure

secure fit

"The semi gusseted tongue helps keep the foot secure and debris out."

tongue design

debris protection

"The shoe's fit is designed to be true to size, ensuring comfort and security."

fit

comfort

true to size

"The shoe offers two width options, enhancing accessibility for different foot types."

width options

fit

inclusive

Cons

"The fit of the shoe is shallow in the forefoot, which may not suit all runners."

shallow fit

forefoot

"The shoe's fit may vary significantly for different users despite running true to size for some."

fit

true to size

individual variation

"Some runners might find the heel-to-forefoot drop higher than their preference."

drop

heel-to-forefoot

fit

"The shoe may feel too tight for some runners due to its bootie construction."

bootie

upper

fit

"The toe box is narrower than expected for a long-distance trail shoe."

narrow

fit

toe box

"The fit in the toe box may be too narrow for runners who prefer more space, which could lead to discomfort."

toe box

narrow fit

"The midfoot fit feels overly supportive and rigid at first."

supportive

rigid

fit

"The boxed design contributes to a deceptive fit that might not suit all foot shapes."

boxy

design

fit

"The shoe's fit may not accommodate everyone, especially those needing specific arch support."

fit

arch support

not for everyone

"The fit can be difficult to adjust, particularly in the heel area, which may cause issues for some runners."

fit

heel

adjustment

"The fit may be too loose for some runners, impacting stability."

fit

stability

"The fit may not be ideal for runners with narrow feet due to a roomy toe box and lack of heel lock."

fit

narrow feet

toe box

stability
Stability level: More stable

The pros of the shoe highlight its stability and suitability for various terrains, appearing frequently, while the cons mention insufficient support for hardcore trails and a lack of a rock plate, which are less common concerns.

platform (2)

drop (1)

protection (1)

base stability (1)

heel (1)

turning (1)

stability (1)

tongue design (1)

Pros

"The shoe has a decent heel to forefoot drop that accommodates midfoot strikers."

8mm drop

midfoot strike

"Toe Protect technology enhances protection against obstacles on the trail."

protection

trail

toe

"The shoe provides decent protection for light trails, making it suitable for moderate terrains."

foot protection

light trails

moderate terrain

"The Hierro v7 features a stable ride with a wider platform."

wider platform

stable ride

support

"The shoe offers a stable ride thanks to its wider platform, ideal for technical terrains."

stability

wider platform

technical terrain

"The shoe maintains a stable ride thanks to its relatively wide base."

wide base

stability

support

"The stability provided by the shoe's 10mm drop and heel cup allows for confident running."

stability

heel cup

"The shoe is stable during sharp turns, making it suitable for technical trails."

stability

sharp turns

technical trails

"The shoe provides excellent stability when navigating rocky terrains."

rocky terrain

descents

"The new design features a gusseted tongue, which keeps the tongue in place, enhancing comfort and stability."

gusseted tongue

stability

comfort

Cons

"The shoe may not provide sufficient support for hardcore trails."

hybrid

trail

support

"The shoe's design lacks a rock plate, which can detract from protection on technical terrain."

rock plate

stability

technical terrain

grip

The main points to note are that the shoe's grip is frequently praised for its effectiveness on various terrains, while it is also commonly criticized for struggling on wet surfaces and during steep descents.

traction (4)

outsole (1)

lugs (1)

wet conditions (1)

lug design (1)

wet (1)

design (1)

Pros

"Features a highly grippy outsole for diverse terrains."

grippy

multi-directional lugs

Vibram

"The outsole provides great grip and traction on varied terrains."

Vibram

grip

traction

"The long lugs on the outsole significantly improve grip on wet and muddy terrain."

lugs

wet surfaces

muddy trails

"The Vibram MegaGrip outsole provides excellent grip on various terrains."

Vibram

traction

outsole

"The shoe provides effective grip on various terrains."

Vibram MegaGrip

outsole

traction

varied terrains

"The redesigned outsole with Vibram Megagrip enhances traction and versatility."

Vibram

outsole

traction

"The Vibram® MegaGrip outsole provides excellent grip in various conditions, enhancing confidence during runs."

Vibram

MegaGrip

excellent grip

"The aggressive traction provided by the Vibram MegaGrip outsole ensures a secure grip on a variety of terrains."

traction

grip

"The Hierro v7 features superior grip thanks to its updated Vibram outsole with a new lug pattern."

Vibram

output

outsole

lug pattern

"The Vibram outsole offers secure traction on wet and uneven surfaces."

wet conditions

stability

"The traction on the Fresh Foam X Hierro v7 is exceptional, making it suitable for steep and slippery terrain."

grip

Vibram

performance

steep terrain

"The shoe provides great traction on various surfaces, enhancing overall performance."

traction

grip

wet surfaces

"The shoe features an improved Vibram MegaGrip outsole, enhancing grip on slippery surfaces."

Vibram MegaGrip

traction

improved grip

"Chunkier lugs on the outsole provide better grip compared to previous iterations."

chunky lugs

outsole performance

"The MegaGrip outsole's rubber compound offers great grip, especially in wet conditions."

MegaGrip

wet weather

muddy conditions

Cons

"Separation in lugs might be an issue for some."

lugs

grip

mud

"Grip on wet surfaces may not be as strong as expected, despite the Vibram outsole."

grip

wet surfaces

outsole

"The shoe struggles to provide grip on rockier and wet terrains, leading to less confidence."

traction

rocky terrain

confidence

"The traction may not be adequate for more aggressive running styles or technical trails due to smaller lugs."

traction

lugs

technical trails

"The traction may not be adequate for steep descents."

traction

descents

muddy conditions

"The shoes do not provide enough grip on wet or loose terrain, particularly during descents."

grip

descending

sharp turns

"The outsole's design allows for easy cleaning but compromises grip on slippery surfaces."

cleaning

slippery terrain

outsole design

other

The main concerns about the shoe are its breathability issues in warm weather and limited ventilation, which appear frequently in the cons.

design (4)

breathability (3)

versatility (1)

waterproof (1)

eco-friendliness (1)

weight (1)

sustainability (1)

protection (1)

Pros

"The shoe's overall design allows for efficient road-to-trail transitioning."

road-to-trail

multiple surfaces

functional design

"The shoe's overall design retains its identity as a trail shoe, differentiating it from road models."

trail identity

design

"The shoe's stylish design allows it to be worn casually."

style

casual wear

design

"The design of the shoe is visually appealing and has significantly reduced weight, making it look less clunky than its predecessor."

lightweight

visual appeal

design

"A carefully designed color scheme allows the shoe to stand out while remaining stylish."

style

colorway

design

"The Gore-Tex lining adds waterproof capabilities to the shoe without significant weight penalty."

Gore-Tex

lightweight

water resistance

"The upper material is breathable and eco-friendly, made of 50% recycled materials."

breathability

eco-friendly

upper material

"The Hierro v7 is significantly lighter than previous models, enhancing its usability for daily runs."

lightweight

daily running

upgraded

"The shoe's design incorporates eco-friendly materials, making it a sustainable choice."

eco-friendly

sustainable materials

"The Toe Protect technology effectively guards against trail hazards."

Toe Protect

trail hazards

foot protection

"It combines a sleek design with good protection from trail debris."

protection

debris

"The shoe remains lightweight at just over 8 ounces, contributing to its overall agility."

weight

agility

"The shoe provides excellent sensitivity thanks to its flexible design."

sensitivity

flexibility

Cons

"The Gore-Tex lining may affect breathability in warmer weather."

Gore-Tex

breathability

weight

"The shoe lacks sufficient airflow, making it too warm for summer running."

airflow

summer

comfort

"Breathability might be compromised in muddy conditions."

breathability

weather conditions

"The shoe's weight isn't as impressive considering its level of protection, indicating it may not live up to expectations."

weight

protection

"The shoe's design may not be suitable for very warm weather due to limited ventilation."

padding

ventilation

comfort

"The shoe is not designed for technical trails, limiting its use."

technical trails

speed

"Some runners looking for a more rugged shoe may find these insufficient for difficult terrain."

rugged

difficult terrain

Model Updates

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Reviews

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Wear-tester reviews (15)

4.2/5

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New Balance fresh foam x hierro v7

New Balance fresh foam x hierro v7

Surface

Cushioning

Category

Breathability

Weight

Heel-to-Toe Drop

Support

Width options

Grip

Suitability

Based on your running style and needs

Want to know if the New Balance fresh foam x hierro v7 is right for you?

Pros & Cons

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

cushion

Pros

Cons

comfort

Pros

Cons

durability

Pros

Cons

performance

Pros

Cons

fit

Pros

Cons

stability

Pros

Cons

grip

Pros

Cons

other

Pros

Cons

Older Models

Newer Models

...

4.2/5

Similar Shoes

Find out if the New Balance fresh foam x hierro v7 is right for you.