New Balance fresh foam x hierro v8

Learn more about the New Balance fresh foam x hierro v8 female running shoes, including key features, performance, reviews, model updates, and more.

New Balance fresh foam x hierro v8

Price

$280

Rating

High

Popularity

Less Popular

The New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 offers enhanced cushioning and rugged durability for trail running, sitting as a mid-range option between the entry-level trail models and high-performance options in the New Balance lineup.

New Balance
New Balance fresh foam x hierro
3 colorways

Colorway: Black with sea salt and grey matter

Widths available: normal, wide

Anthony
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Summary

The New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 is a trail running shoe designed for those who seek comfort and durability in rugged terrains. It features the Fresh Foam X cushioning, which provides a plush, responsive ride, and a Vibram MegaGrip outsole that ensures exceptional traction on various surfaces, making it ideal for trail enthusiasts. Compared to other models in New Balance's lineup, the Hierro v8 is specifically tailored for trail running, as opposed to their road-oriented models like the Fresh Foam 1080 or the FuelCell series. Its rugged design and protective features distinguish it from all-terrain or city running shoes, offering a specialized option for those who regularly tackle challenging trails.

Surface

trail

Cushioning

MinLowMediumHighMax(28mm)

Category

ResponsiveBalancedComfort

Breathability

LowMediumHigh(Hypoknit upper)

Weight

318g

Heel-to-Toe Drop

8mm0mm14mm

Support

NeutralLightHigh

Width options

wide

Grip

LowMediumHighMax(high density, 4mm lugs)

Suitability

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Pros & Cons

AI-powered

Fittir conducts a detailed analysis of the New Balance fresh foam x hierro v8 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

comfort (3)
midsole (2)
responsiveness (2)
plushness (1)
balance (1)
softness (1)
cushioning (1)
underfoot protection (1)
Pros
"The shoe provides excellent cushioning and comfort from the Fresh Foam X midsole."
Fresh Foam
cushioning
softness
"The Fresh Foam X offers excellent comfort and shock absorption."
Fresh Foam
shock absorption
comfort
"Fresh Foam X cushioning provides excellent comfort for long trail runs."
Fresh Foam X
cushioning
long runs
"The midsole delivers a soft and plush ride while maintaining responsiveness, enhancing the running experience."
cushioning
responsiveness
"The midsole balances protection and responsiveness well for shorter runs."
protection
responsiveness
shorter runs
"The soft feel and ride make for a comfortable experience on the run."
soft
comfortable
landing
"The cushioning provided by the luxuriously-soft Fresh Foam X contributes to a comfortable running experience."
cushioning
softness
comfort
"The Fresh Foam X midsole offers enhanced cushioning for comfort."
comfort
cushioning
"The shoe offers exceptional cushioning, providing a cloud-like running experience."
cushioning
comfort
trail running
"It has good cushioning, providing a pleasant riding experience during runs."
cushioning
comfort
"The cushioning provided by the Fresh Foam stack adds to the underfoot protection and comfort."
cushioning
fresh foam
underfoot
"The shoe provides a comfortable and bouncy ride with the Fresh Foam X midsole."
bouncy
comfortable
versatile
"The Fresh Foam X midsole offers great cushioning on hard surfaces."
cushioning
Fresh Foam X
road
"The Fresh Foam X midsole provides excellent cushioning and support for long trail runs."
cushioning
trail running
long-distance
"The lightweight nature of the foam ensures comfort without added weight."
lightweight
comfort
support
"The ortholite sock liner adds cushioning and manages moisture effectively."
sock liner
cushioning
long-distance
"The cushioning design absorbs impact while keeping the shoe responsive and lightweight."
responsive
lightweight
impact absorption
"The shoe's midsole foam is noted for its softness, enhancing the overall comfort for the runner."
Fresh Foam X
comfort
smooth ride
Cons
"The heel height and drop may cause discomfort for some runners."
heel height
comfort
"The midsole offers a plush ride but lacks the responsiveness that some runners seek."
midsole
plush
responsiveness
ride
"Some may find the cushioning not responsive enough for varied terrain."
cushioning
trail
soft
"The midsole cushioning lacks sufficient support for longer distances."
midsole
cushioning
long runs
"The shoe's firmer midsole makes the ride harsher during extended runs."
midsole
firmness
harshness
"The shoe lacks enough protection underfoot for daily training."
daily trainer
underfoot protection
"The midsole cushioning feels more average than exceptional, lacking the desired level of plushness."
cushioning
average
comfort
"The response and bounce from the foam is lacking, providing a firmer overall feel."
lack
energy
bounce
"The midsole foam feels inadequate over longer distances."
midsole
long runs
protection
"There's a lack of bounce from the midsole during longer runs."
fatigue
midsole
long runs
"The shoe's cushioning is not as soft and plush as some competing models."
cushioning
feel
comparison
"The cushioning may feel too soft for runners who prefer a firmer feel underfoot."
soft
comfort
cushioning

plushness (3)
breathability (2)
cushion (2)
reliability (1)
plush (1)
protection (1)
fit (1)
overall (1)
Pros
"The shoe's upper is made from breathable mesh, enhancing overall comfort."
mesh
upper
comfort
"The New Balance Hierro v8 offers excellent breathability, ensuring comfort during warm conditions."
breathability
mesh
upper design
"The shoe has a plush tongue that adds to the overall comfort."
tongue
comfort
cushioning
"The upper features a borderline plush design, adding comfort to the shoe's overall feel."
plush
comfort
"The New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 offers an exceptionally plush ride, making it comfortable for long wear."
plush
comfort
long-wear
"The shoe retains the reliable comfort from its predecessor, making it a favorite among long-time users."
comfort
consistency
"The upper design is plush and comfortable, enhancing the overall foot experience."
soft materials
secure hold
comfortable
"The toe protector is beneficial for preventing injuries during runs on tougher terrains."
toe protection
injury prevention
"The Hierro 8 is very comfortable and feels like putting on slippers."
comfortable
step-in
softness
"The New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 is extremely comfortable for all-day wear."
comfort
daily wear
trail running
"The shoe is praised for its overall comfort during runs."
comfort
heel support
cushioning
"The Fresh Foam X midsole enhances overall comfort while running or walking."
comfort
midsole
cushioning
"The shoe has a good level of padding around the ankle collar, heel, and tongue, enhancing comfort."
ankle support
heel comfort
tongue padding
"The shoe's upper provides excellent comfort straight out of the box."
comfort
plush
fit
"The shoe dries quickly and drains water effectively, making it ideal for wet conditions."
quick-dry
water management
"The shoe maintains comfort during significant mileage across different terrains."
durable
comfortable
multiterrain
Cons
"The shoe's firmness becomes uncomfortable during longer runs."
long run
comfort level
"The upper could be more breathable for better comfort."
upper
breathability
comfort
"The engineered mesh upper may not provide adequate breathability in very warm conditions."
mesh
water resistance
humidity
"The heel collar is cushioned, but may feel clunky for some users."
heel collar
comfort
clunky
"The midfoot lockdown is not tight, impacting overall security."
comfort
midfoot lockdown
"The overall comfort features do not come together perfectly, leading to a less than optimal experience."
comfort
experience
"Lack of a gusseted tongue may compromise fit comfort."
gusset
fit
"The shoe may be too comfortable for rough trails, leading to a lack of connection to the ground."
road feel
comfort
connection

material (2)
weight (2)
midsole (2)
outsole (1)
wear (1)
upper (1)
breathability (1)
protection (1)
Pros
"The outsole's durability is praiseworthy, assuring long-term use on trails."
highly durable
lugs
trail surfaces
"The shoe's Vibram outsole is noted for its long-lasting durability and reliable performance."
Vibram
durability
long-lasting
"The design includes more fused overlays which contributes to enhanced durability."
durability
design
overlays
"The shoe is built with durable materials, surviving extensive use without significant wear."
durability
longevity
materials
"The shoe displays minimal signs of wear even after significant mileage, indicating durability."
mileage
wear-resistance
"The durable mesh upper with TPU overlays provides breathability and protection."
mesh
TPU overlays
protection
"The reinforced toe cap adds extra protection for the toes during runs."
toe cap
protection
trail running
"The shoe is designed for durability, making it suitable for off-road running."
durability
off-road
trail
Cons
"The weight of the shoe is heavier than expected for a trail shoe."
heavy
cushion performance
"The shoe, while durable, may feel heavy for some runners due to its additional protective features."
durability
weight
protection
"The shoe does not provide adequate rock protection, which is crucial for trail running."
rock protection
trails
durability
"There are durability concerns noted in the toebox and heel."
durability
fragile
"The heel padding durability scored poorly during testing."
durability
heel
underperformance
"The midsole foam shows signs of wrinkles after usage, which may raise concerns regarding long-term durability."
wrinkles
durability concerns
"Some wear is noticeable on the midsole after 80 miles."
wear
mileage
durability
"There are concerns about potentially quick wear of the rubber sole."
wear
concern
"The shoe is not designed for heavy rain and muddy conditions, limiting its usability in certain weather."
weather
durability
design
"Durability may be a concern as the lightweight design could wear out quicker on rough terrains."
wear
durability
lightweight

versatility (3)
transition (2)
hybrid (1)
fun (1)
responsiveness (1)
weight (1)
terrain adaptability (1)
balance (1)
Pros
"The shoe performs well in hybrid settings, suitable for both road and light trails."
hybrid
road
trail
"The shoe is described as featuring a familiar road shoe-like feel, offering a good transition to off-road running."
road feel
trail
cushioned
"The shoe has a nice heel-to-toe transition which contributes to a smooth running experience."
performance
heel-toe
smooth
"The Hierro v8 provides an exceptionally fun ride on more technical terrain."
technical terrain
fun ride
"The fresh foam material offers responsiveness, making the shoe suitable for longer distances."
responsive
long distance
"The shoe is lightweight, making it an appealing choice for everyday runs or casual hiking."
lightweight
daily use
"The engineered mesh upper contributes to a lighter shoe, enhancing overall performance."
lightweight
performance
upper material
"The flexible midsole works effectively on gravel and forest paths, enhancing overall performance on these terrains."
flexible midsole
gravel
forest paths
"The shoe is versatile enough for both trail running and moderate hiking, confirming its multifunctionality."
versatile
multi-use
hiking
"The shoe is suitable for diverse terrains including rocky trails and dirt roads."
rocky trails
dirt roads
diverse terrains
"The shoe performs well even on road surfaces, demonstrating versatility."
versatile
road
trail
"Weights at 310g are balanced and enhance responsiveness."
weight
responsive
performance
Cons
"The shoe is not suitable for technical trails due to its design."
technical
simple
"The flexible midsole may be unsuitable for challenging terrains."
midsole
terrain
performance
"The overall responsiveness is not particularly propulsive, which may impact performance during fast runs."
lack of propulsion
performance issues
"In comparison to previous models, the cushioning may feel unstable on technical terrain."
cushion
instability
technical
"The shoe feels less effective on very muddy terrain compared to other specialized models."
performance
muddy
specialization
"The shoes are heavier than some competitors, which could affect speed."
weight
speed
"The shoe doesn't perform well on muddy terrain due to insufficient lug aggressiveness."
muddy terrain
lug performance

width (6)
secure (3)
size (3)
laces (3)
width options (2)
lockdown (2)
narrowness (2)
sizing (2)
Pros
"The Hierro v8 features a spacious toe box that is crucial for stability during runs."
toe box
stability
comfort
"The shoe fits true to size and offers a roomy toebox accommodating toe splay and bunions."
fit
toebox
"The fit of the Hierro v8 is secure and comfortable, ensuring stability during runs."
comfortable
secure fit
"The fit is described as secure and comfortable, which enhances stability during runs."
secure
comfortable
stability
"The heel cup design helps secure the foot in place, reducing slippage."
heel cup
fit
slippage
"The shoe fits true to size, providing a reliable measuring for new buyers."
true to size
reliable fit
"The shoe fits true to size, providing a snug yet comfortable fit."
true to size
snug fit
"The shoes offer a true-to-size fit with options for wider widths, accommodating different foot shapes."
fit
size options
wide feet
"The overall fit is described as comfortable for most runners, adjusting well to varying foot shapes."
fit
comfort
trail running
"The shoe accommodates different foot shapes with various width options reasonably well."
width
fit
accommodating
"Various width options make the shoe suitable for runners with wider feet."
wide fit
size range
"The midfoot locking system helps ensure a secure fit and reduces slippage."
slippage prevention
secure fit
"The midfoot locking system supports a secure fit during runs."
fit
lockdown
"The traditional lacing system provides reliable and familiar fit."
traditional
fit
adjustability
Cons
"The laces are excessively long and problematic for secure fit."
length
hazard
fit issues
"The laces are thin, stretchy, and do not provide good lockdown."
lack of lockdown
stretch
poor quality
"The laces are too long and flexible, leading to issues of manageability."
length
flexibility
security
"The shoe suffers from lateral and forward slippage despite attempts to secure it."
lateral
forward
"The toe box can feel narrow, leading to discomfort during runs."
toe box
discomfort
"Some users may find the shoe runs slightly narrow, affecting overall fit."
fit
narrow
comfort
"While the upper provides comfort, it lacks the firmer support some runners may prefer."
upper
softness
support
fit
comfort
"The toe box is too tight for wider foot shapes, causing discomfort."
tight fit
narrow
discomfort
"I experienced irritation in the toe box which limited my running distance."
forefoot
irritation
running distance
"The shoelaces are overly long, which can be inconvenient."
shoelaces
fit
inconvenience
"The shoe's fit may be too narrow for some runners, posing a discomfort risk."
fit
narrow
discomfort
"The shoe's upper is seen as too snug, potentially affecting fit for some runners."
narrow
size
comfort
"The fit may not be comfortable for individuals with wider feet, as the upper is snug."
snug fit
not for wide feet
"The shoe fits slightly narrow, which may not suit all runners."
fit
narrow
wide
"Although the shoe offers a good fit, it is noted that the regular width may feel a bit snug for those with wider feet."
fit
snug
toe box
"There may be limited options for width fit, making it less ideal for wider feet."
fit
width
"The design features a problematic non-gusseted tongue."
non-gusseted
fit
debris
"The shoe sizes a bit smaller than expected."
size
recommendation
"Some users may find the fit smaller than expected, necessitating a size increase."
fit
sizing
comfort
"The shoe does not provide a lot of flexibility in the lacing system due to a traditional design."
flexibility
lacing system

support (3)
ground feel (2)
wide_base (1)
protection (1)
ground connection (1)
performance (1)
wing tips (1)
foam stability (1)
Pros
"The shoe's stable ride is enhanced by its relatively wide base and additional stability features."
stability
support
"The shoe has substantial toe protection with a toe bumper."
toe bumper
protection
"It offers a very stable feel, which enhances confidence during runs."
stability
performance
confidence
"The shoe feels more grounded and stable when compared to previous models, offering a connected feel to the terrain."
stability
connectedness
control
"The shoe provides a good ground connection, enhancing stability."
stability
ground feel
"Despite being heavier than some trail shoes, the added stability compensates well."
weight
stability
performance
"The shoe features purposeful wing tips that enhance stability during descents."
stability
descents
control
Cons
"The Fresh Foam X doesn't provide much stability, especially on uneven terrain."
stability issues
uneven terrain
"Although the shoe is known for comfort, there may be better options for those needing extra stability."
stability
base
wide
"The upper lacks sufficient support for technical trails, making it less suitable for aggressive terrains."
upper support
technical trails
stability
"The shoe might not provide sufficient support for runners needing more stability on uneven terrain."
stability
support
"The shoe may not provide enough stability for runners who require extra support on uneven terrain."
traction
stability
uneven terrain
"The shoe lacks sufficient protection for very rocky terrains, which limits its use in certain trail conditions."
rock protection
limited use
"The shoe lacks stability on more technical trails."
stability
technical trails
"The transition from heel to toe is reported to be smoother than previous versions, indicating possible changes that may not suit everyone's preferences."
transition
heel
toe

traction (5)
mud (2)
seasonal (1)
reliability (1)
debris management (1)
terrain suitability (1)
lug (1)
Pros
"The outsole features Vibram Eco Step, providing excellent grip on various terrains."
Vibram
grip
outsole
"The outsole provides excellent traction in various conditions, including ice, snow, and mud."
traction
versatility
"The grip offered by the outsole is immense, providing confidence on various surfaces."
great grip
confident strides
rocky terrain
"The outsole provides excellent grip on a variety of surfaces, boosting performance."
grip
traction
performance
"The shoe features a superb Vibram outsole that enhances grip and traction on trails."
Vibram
outsole
grip
"The outsole provides good traction and durability with its Vibram® Eco-Step Natural material."
Vibram
durability
traction
"The shoe provides great traction, allowing for confident movements on various surfaces."
Vibram
outsole
grip
"The New Balance Hierro v8 features a unique outsole designed by Vibram, enhancing grip on trails."
vibram
traction
outsole design
"The shoe features improved grip with the new vium outsole design."
grip
outsole
traction
"Grip on drier trails is notably good, indicating performance in favorable conditions."
grip
traction
"The Vibram R Meag Grip outsole offers outstanding traction on various surfaces."
outsole
grip
stability
"The updated outsole tread pattern provides tacky traction and effective grip."
tread
lug pattern
tacky
aggressive
"The outsole uses Vibram Mega Grip for superior traction on various surfaces."
Vibram Mega Grip
superior traction
wet surfaces
dry surfaces
"The Vibram grip provides excellent traction on various surfaces, enhancing stability."
grip
traction
stability
"The shoe is excellent for winter use, offering good protection and traction in colder conditions."
winter
cold weather
traction
"Its reliable grip on moderate trails makes it a solid option for less technical running."
grip
moderate terrain
footing
"The shoe effectively sheds mud and debris due to its optimized lug design."
mud shedding
traction
cleaning
Cons
"The outsole's grip may not be reliable on technical terrain."
technical terrain
grip issues
"The shoe's lugs are less aggressive, which may reduce effectiveness in challenging conditions."
aggressiveness
outsole
traction
ice
mud
"The outsole lacks deep lugs, reducing traction on muddy terrain."
outsole
lugs
mud
"Traction may not be sufficient for very loose or sharp terrain."
traction
loose terrain
"Some users may prefer the previous model's larger lugs for traction over the smaller ones on the current version."
traction
lugs
performance
"The lug depth of the shoe is not as deep as the previous version, potentially impacting traction in very muddy conditions."
lug depth
muddy conditions
"The traction is insufficient in muddy conditions."
traction
muddy
performance
"The shoe's grip struggles significantly in muddy conditions."
traction
slipping
muddy
"The shoe lacks sufficient aggressive lug patterns for muddy conditions."
lug pattern
aggressiveness
grip

sustainability (5)
versatility (2)
protection (2)
movement (1)
value (1)
sensitivity (1)
weight (1)
price (1)
Pros
"The shoe features a well-padded and breathable upper constructed from 100% recycled materials for environmentally-conscious runners."
breathability
environmentally friendly
"The Hierro v8 includes rare sustainable features, which is a plus for environmentally-conscious consumers."
sustainability
eco-friendly
features
"The engineered mesh upper is made from 100% recycled polyester, promoting sustainability."
eco-friendly
recycled materials
"The shoe is made from sustainable materials, showcasing environmental commitment."
sustainability
recycled material
"The shoe's eco-friendly materials contribute to a lower carbon footprint."
sustainable
eco-friendly
low carbon footprint
"The shoe is remarkably flexible, which allows for better movement on various terrains."
flexibility
versatility
movement
"It is reasonably priced compared to other trail shoes on the market."
price
value
affordability
"The shoe doubles as a great hiking shoe, increasing its versatility for outdoor activities."
hiking
outdoor
versatility
"The shoe manages to blend functionality well for both road and light trails."
road
light trails
versatility
"The shoe provides a balanced amount of sensitivity, allowing for some trail feedback without compromising comfort."
sensitivity
trail feedback
comfort
"The shoe has a fairly lightweight design, contributing to a feeling of unobstructed movement while running."
lightweight
durability
weight
"The shoe is reasonably priced for its features and performance, making it a good value option."
value
affordability
"The shoe provides excellent waterproofing capabilities, keeping feet dry even in heavy rain."
waterproof
rain
weather resistant
"The colorway and design of the shoe is aesthetically pleasing and innovative."
aesthetic
design
colorway
"The shoes feature Gore-Tex technology for water resistance while maintaining breathability."
Gore-Tex
water resistance
breathability
Cons
"The shoes may not provide enough protection against harsher terrains or conditions due to a less aggressive design."
terrain
hiking
road
trail
"The upper can potentially allow dirt and rocks to enter despite having protective features."
breathability
protection
mesh
"The shoe has poor ventilation."
poor
heat
summer
"The shoe is heavier compared to others in its category."
heavy
trail
weight
"Reflective elements are not included, which is disappointing for a trail shoe."
missing
safety
disappointment
"The laces are longer than typical, which can be cumbersome during use."
long laces
inconvenience
"The upper material tends to absorb water, which may not be ideal in wet conditions."
water absorption
wet conditions
"Compared to its predecessor, this model is less impressive."
previous model
performance
"While the shoe is reported to be waterproof, it may not completely prevent water from entering if submerged too deeply."
waterproof
exposure
limitations
"The price has seen a slight increase compared to the previous version, which might concern budget-conscious buyers."
price increase
budget

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Model Updates

The New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 features an updated Fresh Foam X midsole for enhanced comfort and energy return, significantly improving the running experience compared to its predecessor. Additionally, it boasts a redesigned upper that provides better durability and breathability, catering to the demands of rugged trail conditions.

Older Models

Newer Models

Reviews

Read reviews about the New Balance fresh foam x hierro v8 from across the internet, including reviews from other runners on Fittir, wear testers from google & youtube, and more.

Reviews on Fittir (-)

...

Wear-tester reviews (15)

4.1/5

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