New Balance fresh foam x hierro v7

Learn more about the New Balance fresh foam x hierro v7 male 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.

New Balance
New Balance fresh foam x hierro
2 colorways

Colorway: Black with orange

Widths available: normal, wide, extra-wide

Anthony
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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)

Category

ResponsiveBalancedComfort

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.

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Reviews

Read reviews about the New Balance fresh foam x hierro v7 from across the internet, including reviews from other runners on Fittir, wear testers from google & youtube, and more.

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Wear-tester reviews (15)

4.2/5

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