New Balance fresh foam x hierro v9

Learn more about the New Balance fresh foam x hierro v9 female running shoes, including key features, performance, reviews, model updates, and more.

New Balance fresh foam x hierro v9

Price

280

Rating

Poor

Popularity

Less Popular

The New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v9 is a versatile trail running shoe featuring enhanced cushioning and durability, positioned within the trail-oriented segment of New Balance’s lineup, offering more off-road capability compared to standard road running models.

3 colorways

Colorway: Calcium with Dark Juniper

Widths available: normal

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Summary

The New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v9 is a versatile trail running shoe designed for off-road adventures. It features a robust construction with a durable upper and a rugged outsole, providing excellent grip on uneven terrain. The shoe incorporates New Balance's Fresh Foam X midsole, delivering superior cushioning and a responsive ride for long-distance comfort. Positioned within New Balance's lineup as an all-terrain trail runner, the Hierro v9 offers a balance between the cushioning of road runners and the durability needed for trail conditions, making it ideal for runners who enjoy trail running without sacrificing comfort.

Surface

trail

Cushioning

MinLowMediumHighMax(40mm)

Breathability

LowMediumHigh( upper)

Weight

269g

Heel-to-Toe Drop

4mm0mm14mm

Support

NeutralLightHigh

Width options

normal, wide

Grip

LowMediumHighMax(high density, 4.5mm lugs) - Vibram Megagrip rubber

Suitability

___% Match

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Pros & Cons

AI-powered

Fittir conducts a detailed analysis of the New Balance fresh foam x hierro v9 to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the shoes features, pros, and cons based on 19 wear-tester reviews.

Summary: The New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v9 is a versatile and comfortable trail running shoe that excels in cushioning and durability, making it suitable for long-distance runs on less technical terrains. However, it has received mixed reviews regarding its fit, weight, and stability, with some users finding it narrow and less responsive, which may limit its appeal for more competitive or technical trail runners..

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

cushion
Cushion feeling: Firm

The main points to note are that over 25% of the pros highlight the shoe's exceptional cushioning and comfort, while more than 25% of the cons mention that the cushioning can feel firmer than expected, which may not suit everyone's preference.

stack height (3)

firmness (3)

softness (2)

height (2)

support (2)

stability (1)

midsole type (1)

dual_density (1)

Pros

"The Fresh Foam X Hero v9 features a plush cushioning system for soft landings."

cushioning

midsole

soft landings

"The Fresh Foam X midsole provides exceptional cushioning, making it ideal for longer runs."

comfort

cushioning

foam

"The cushioning offers a stable feel for a trail shoe."

cushioning

firmness

stability

"Generously padded midsole height."

stack height

midsole

cushion

"The increase in stack height further enhances the cushioning experience for the runner."

stack height

cushioning

"The cushioning of the shoe is described as nice and firm, which is positive for the reviewer."

cushioning

firmness

"The shoe increased cushioning provides better protection and comfort for long-distance runs."

long-distance

upgraded cushioning

"The Fresh Foam X Hero v9 offers an impressive amount of cushioning with a high stack height."

cushioning

stack height

comfort

"The midsole has a significantly larger stack height than previous versions, enhancing cushioning."

midsole

cushioning

thickness

"The shoe features a significant amount of cushioning in the midsole, enhancing comfort while running."

cushioning

midsole

"The dual density Fresh Foam X midsole provides a soft and stable running experience."

midsole

soft

rigid

support

"The shoe features dual density cushioning that offers both comfort and stability."

comfort

stability

long_distance

"The Fresh Foam X midsole provides excellent responsiveness and impact absorption."

impact_absorption

cushioning

"The Fresh Foam X midsole offers a highly cushioned and responsive ride."

cushioning

responsive

midsole

fresh foam

"The dual-density Fresh Foam X midsole offers a great balance of plush comfort and stability."

cushioning

durability

responsiveness

"The shoe features dual density Fresh Foam X for a balance of softness and support."

Fresh Foam

support

softness

"The shoe features a significant amount of cushioning, providing a plush ride."

cushioning

comfort

"The Fresh Foam X midsole offers improved comfort and performance compared to previous versions."

fresh foam

midsole

comfort

"The New Balance Hierro v9 offers extra cushioning, which is beneficial for long hours on the trail."

cushioning

trail

comfort

"The midsole provides a plush feeling, contributing to overall comfort."

midsole

cushioning

comfort

Cons

"The cushioning feels firmer than expected for a trail shoe."

cushioning

firm feel

"The cushioning may feel a bit firm compared to what some runners expect from a trail shoe."

cushioning

firm

comfort

"The cushioning feels firm, which may not suit everyone's preference."

cushioning

firm

comfort

"The shoe's outsole may reduce the perception of cushioning."

outsole

cushioning

"The shoe lacks high softness and extreme cushioning, which may disappoint users seeking plush comfort."

cushioning

comfort

performance

"Some runners might find the shoe too soft for certain terrains."

softness

long-distance

stability

"The midsole lacks the springiness expected from New Balance's Fresh Foam X technology."

midsole

lack

response

"The midsole changes, while comfortable, may lead to a disconnected feel on the trails."

midsole

cushioning

comfort

"The shoes generally feel less grounded due to the high-stack cushioning."

high-stack

cushioning

"The shoe's updated design sacrifices ground feel for extra cushioning, which may disappoint some runners."

stack_height

cushioning

"Some may not appreciate the firmer feel of the cushion compared to previous models."

firm_feel

comfort

comfort
Breathability: Less breathable

The main points to note are that the shoe is frequently praised for its comfortable fit and breathability, but it is also commonly criticized for potentially lacking comfort during long road runs and having issues with breathability and heat.

breathability (3)

padding (2)

protection (2)

long-distance (1)

upper material (1)

easy (1)

upper (1)

road running (1)

Pros

"The shoe is designed to provide a comfortable fit for long-distance runs."

Long runs

comfort

marathon training

"The upper mesh is soft and breathable, contributing to overall comfort."

breathable

soft

comfort

"The breathable knit upper and gusseted tongue contribute to overall comfort and airflow."

airflow

debris_protection

"The upper design includes an engineered mesh that enhances breathability."

mesh

comfort

debris protection

"The design features a moderate toebox ventilation, making it suitable for year-round running."

toebox

ventilation

"The shoe has additional interior padding in the tongue and heel areas, improving overall comfort."

tongue padding

heel padding

comfort

"Comfortable upper with effective padding and protection for the feet."

upper

comfort

toe protection

"The Hierro V9 offers a comfortable ride for trail running, evidenced by positive experiences over long distances."

comfortable

trail running

"The upper material is designed to be soft and plush, which contributes to overall comfort."

upper material

padding

"The robust toe protection ensures safety against stubbing toes, a common issue during long runs."

toe protection

comfort

"Effective toe protection increases safety on rugged trails."

toe cap

safety

Cons

"The shoe may not provide ideal comfort for road running over long distances."

road running

long distances

"The insole is described as standard and lacking special features, which might detract from overall comfort."

insole

comfort

standard

"The shoe may not provide enough breathability due to its design."

knit upper

gusset

overheating

"The mesh upper can heat up, causing discomfort during runs."

mesh

heat

discomfort

"Limited breathability can lead to warmer feet in hotter conditions."

breathability

heat

comfort

"The upper material wrinkles on the top of the foot, leading to discomfort."

wrinkled upper

discomfort

durability

The pros of the shoe's durability, such as protective features and overall sturdiness, are highlighted more than 25% of the time, indicating strong durability, while the cons mainly focus on weight and potential structural issues.

protection (3)

toe protection (2)

material (1)

lightweight (1)

weight (1)

design (1)

longevity (1)

structure (1)

Pros

"The construction includes protective overlays and substantial toe bumpers for enhanced durability and protection while running on trails."

overlays

toe bumper

durability

"Durable toe guard to protect the front of the shoe."

toe guard

durability

protection

"The protective toe box and heel area provide enhanced durability against rough terrain."

toe box

durability

trail

"The shoe's upper is perceived as well-made and looks durable, indicating high durability."

well-made

durable

"The shoe features a protective toe cap that adds durability on trails."

protection

durability

trail

"The toe protect technology adds a high-quality toe bumper, which is helpful for trail running."

toe protection

durability

"The shoe's lightweight design facilitates agility for the runners."

agility

durability

"The new version is significantly lighter despite the increased size of the traction lugs."

lighter

traction

performance

"The design changes in the upper provide added protection while still allowing for breathability."

upper design

breathability

protection

"The shoe retains impressive durability, which is essential for trail running."

materials

stability

"The shoe's weight and design provide a sturdy, bomb-proof form factor suitable for mixed terrains."

durable

mixed terrains

Cons

"The shoe's weight might not be suitable for all runners seeking ultra-light options."

lightweight

durability

"The reduced use of fused layers may compromise the durability of the shoe's structure."

material

susceptibility

"The shoe's exposed foam could lead to quicker wear in certain areas, affecting longevity."

foam

wear and tear

performance
Distance suited: Long (>20km)
Rocker: More rocker

The main concerns about the shoe are its heaviness and lack of responsiveness, which were mentioned frequently in the reviews.

weight (3)

reactivity (2)

rocker (1)

stiffness (1)

terrain (1)

terrain suitability (1)

ground feel (1)

nimbleness (1)

Pros

"The shoe's weight is manageable given its cushioning and protection features."

weight

cushion

long runs

"The shoe is lightweight for its category, aiding performance over longer distances."

lightweight

performance

"The shoe's rocker geometry contributes to a more efficient running stride, especially for midfoot and forefoot strikers."

momentum

efficiency

"The Hierro v9 features a stiffer feel underfoot which is a good balance for trail runners."

stability

heavy runners

trail

Cons

"The shoe is relatively heavy, which might not suit all runners."

heavy

not for speed

"The shoe is relatively heavy, making it less suitable for speed and agility."

weight

performance

speed

"The midsole feels heavy and unbalanced, particularly at faster paces."

heavy midsole

unbalanced

"The shoe may not perform well on very technical terrains."

technical trails

performance

generalist

"For technical trails, the shoe lacks the reactivity needed for challenging terrain."

technical

trails

reactivity

"The softness of the midsole results in a lack of reactivity and responsiveness during runs."

soft midsole

lack of responsiveness

"While comfortable, the shoe may not be suitable for demanding terrain due to its design."

demanding terrain

comfort

design

"The shoe feels less connected to the ground due to the increased cushioning."

cushioning

ground feel

technical trails

"The lack of nimbleness compromises its performance on technical terrains."

nimble

performance

technical

"Heavier runners may find the shoe's design limiting for faster-paced runs."

heavy_runners

performance

fit
True to size: Runs small
Toebox width: Wider
Heel width: Narrower
Orthotic friendly: No

The most common pros highlight that the shoe has a secure fit and accommodates wider feet, while the main cons indicate that the shoe has a narrow fit and may not be comfortable for all foot types.

width (3)

foot_strike (1)

secure_fit (1)

toe box (1)

size (1)

lacing (1)

space (1)

gusseted tongue (1)

Pros

"The 4 mm drop encourages a natural foot strike for improved running efficiency."

natural_motion

efficiency

"The lace closure system ensures a secure fit preventing unwanted movement."

comfort

prevention

"The shoe has a roomy toe box, enhancing comfort, especially for longer runs."

roomy

natural fit

comfort

"The shoe fits true to size, providing a secure feeling during runs."

true to size

secure fit

"The updated lacing system offers a secure lockdown for the midfoot, improving overall fit."

secure lockdown

lacing system

fit adjustment

"The design offers ample space in the forefoot, catering to runners with wider feet for increased comfort."

forefoot

comfort

width

"The shoe features a semi-gusseted tongue which adds to the fit and comfort during trails."

fit

comfort

trail

"The shoe maintains a true to size fit for consistent sizing with previous models."

sizing

fit

consistency

"The addition of a gusseted tongue enhances mid-foot lockdown compared to the previous version, preventing slippage."

gusseted tongue

secure fit

"The shoe accommodates a range of foot widths, ensuring better fit options for different runners."

fit

width

"The shoe provides a roomier fit, accommodating those with wider feet."

wide fit

toe box

comfort

"Laces lock the foot securely in place, enhancing fit."

laces

fit

security

Cons

"The shoe lacks flexibility due to its protective toe bumper."

toe bumper

flexibility

"The fit may not accommodate longer distance runs well, especially downhill."

long distance

downhill

"The shoe has a narrow fit that may not be suitable for all foot types."

narrow fit

sizing

comfort

"The reviewer feels that the shoe fits smaller than expected, indicating a need for a wider size."

size

fit

width

"The fit of the shoe is quite narrow, making it uncomfortable for those with wider feet."

narrow fit

uncomfortable

big toe

"While they are designed for trails, the shoe feels too similar to a road running shoe."

fit

trail

road shoe comparison

"Lace closure system might not fit every foot type comfortably."

lace closure

fit

movement

"The fit may not be secure enough in the midfoot, leading to slippage on technical trails."

slippage

technical

secularity

"The midfoot lacing system is tricky to adjust and can leave the forefoot loose."

lacing

adjustability

looseness

"The shoe provides too little support in the midfoot area, making it unsuitable for narrower feet."

midfoot

support

narrow

"The bulkiness of padding around the ankle collar may negatively affect lockdown."

ankle collar

padding

lockdown

"The shoe has a tighter fit than expected, especially in the toe box."

snug

tight

width

fit

"The low drop may not be suitable for all runners, particularly heel strikers."

low drop

heel strikers

runner types

"The fit of the shoe is snug, which may cause discomfort for runners with wider feet."

snug

fit

width

"The snug fit can be restrictive for those who prefer more room."

restrictive

fit

size

stability
Stability level: Less stable

The main concerns about the shoe are its decreased stability for intense and technical trail running, which appears frequently in the feedback.

overall (2)

flexibility (2)

balance (1)

versatility (1)

protection (1)

design (1)

secure (1)

support (1)

Pros

"The shoe maintains a stable feel while providing adequate cushioning."

stability

cushioning

trail

"Versatile enough to handle a variety of terrains effectively."

versatile

trail

generalist

"Toprotect technology adds protection against trail hazards like rocks and roots."

trail_hazards

safeguarding

"The midsole design incorporates stability features that perform well on technical terrain."

bathtub design

stability

midsole

"The shoe’s bathtub design provides a secure fit and stability for the foot."

design

midsole

stability

"The shoe has been designed for long-distance runs, providing stability and support during extended use."

long distance

performance

"The fresh updates in the shoe, including firmness in the heel and forefoot areas, enhance its stability and feel."

stiffness

support

"It includes a rocker design which promotes a more efficient stride on trails."

rocker

stride

trail efficiency

"The shoe has a wider base that contributes to its stability despite a higher stack height."

wider base

stability

stack height

"The updated torsional structure enhances stability and support, reducing injury risk."

torsional rigidity

support

injury prevention

"The shoe's design is suitable for casual runners and provides good stability."

casual

stability

durability

Cons

"The shoe can feel chunky on uneven underfoot surfaces, which may be a downside for some runners."

stability

underfoot feel

performance

"The shoe lacks overall stability for intense trail running."

stability

trail running

rigidity

"The shoe's overall stability has decreased, making it less ideal for technical trails."

stability

technical

loss

"While the cushioning offers comfort, it may compromise stability on technical terrain."

cushioning

comfort

technical

"The shoe may be less stable due to the thicker midsole in terms of responsiveness."

midsole

cushioning

"The shoe struggles on technical trails, requiring more focus from the runner."

technical trails

performance

struggles

"Transitioning to a deeper cushioning may result in a feeling of instability for runners."

cushioning

stability

concern

"The shoe has lost its flexible nature, which may disappoint previous fans."

rigidity

stiffness

flexibility

"The shoe's rigid torsional structure may hinder flexibility during runs."

rigid_structure

flexibility

"Overall, the shoe has a stiffer ride compared to past versions that favored a more natural feel."

stiffness

comfort

flexibility

"The heel counter is moderately flexible and could impact support for sensitive heels."

heel counter

sensitivity

"The shoe might not be suitable for technical trails because of its lack of stability."

stability

technical_trails

grip

The main points to note are that excellent traction on various surfaces and the Vibram Megagrip outsole are frequently mentioned as pros, while the shoe's grip may not be sufficient for very technical trails is a common con.

traction (2)

versatility (1)

outsole (1)

stability (1)

lug size (1)

reliability (1)

technical trails (1)

effectiveness (1)

Pros

"The shoe's outsole design allows for improved traction on a variety of terrains."

outsole

traction

versatility

"Excellent traction on various surfaces due to the outsole design."

Vibram

outsole

grip

traction

"The Vibram meag grip outsole delivers superior grip on a variety of surfaces."

wet_conditions

dry_conditions

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

vibram

outsole

grip

traction

"The use of Vibram MegaGrip Traction Lugs enhances the shoe's grip on various surfaces."

grip

traction

outsole

"The new six mill lugged vibram mega grip rubber outsole provides improved traction on various terrains."

outsole

vibram

traction

"The Vibram Megagrip outsole enhances traction, making the shoe suitable for various trail conditions."

outsole

durability

"The shoe provides excellent traction with its Vibram Megagrip outsole, making it reliable on various terrains."

traction

versatility

"The shoe is versatile and can handle various trail conditions including mud and icy surfaces."

muddy conditions

icy trails

trail running

"The revamped Vibram Mega Grip outsole enhances traction for trail running."

traction

outsole

grip

trail

performance

"The redesigned tread pattern with deep lugs enhances stability on challenging terrain."

stability

loose_terrain

"The traction lugs are larger and designed for superior grip on trail surfaces."

traction

grip

trail

"Reliable grip on various surfaces, including wet trails."

lug pattern

wet surfaces

Vibram

Cons

"Not suitable for very technical or swampy trails."

technical trails

swampy areas

"The grip may not be sufficient for varying trail conditions despite the larger lugs."

traction

trail conditions

lugs

"There could be issues with the grip on very slippery surfaces despite the tread pattern."

tread pattern

lugs

slips

"The shoe lacks the aggressive tread and depth needed for more challenging terrains."

tread

traction

terrain

other

The main concerns about the shoe are its high price and increased weight, which were mentioned frequently, indicating that many users find these aspects problematic.

design (4)

weight (4)

breathability (2)

aesthetics (1)

performance (1)

versatility (1)

build quality (1)

price (1)

Pros

"The shoe features a tongue loop to keep the tongue in place, which is viewed as a great innovation."

tongue loop

innovation

"The shoe has a gusseted tongue design, helping to keep it securely in place during use."

gusseted tongue

"The overall design and aesthetics of the shoe make it appealing as a trail option."

appearance

trail shoe

"The shoe’s upper design has been improved for a cleaner and modern look, enhancing the overall aesthetic."

aesthetics

modern

clean

"The reviewer appreciates the aesthetics of the shoe, noting it has nice colors and a good overall look."

design

color

"Improvements over previous models are noted, showcasing effective enhancement in design."

improvements

comparison

"These shoes are versatile enough for multiple activities like hiking and road running."

hiking

road running

multipurpose

"Its versatility makes it suitable for road running, trail running, and even as a lifestyle shoe for hiking."

versatile

hiking

lifestyle

"The overall materials used are of high quality, contributing to the shoe's performance and comfort."

quality

durability

Cons

"At a retail price of 250 dollars, the shoes may not be considered affordable for all runners."

cost

affordability

"The shoe's weight is noticeably heavier compared to its predecessor, which may be a concern for some runners."

heavy

long distance

comparative

"Increased weight of the shoe compared to its predecessor may be off-putting."

weight

comparison

update

"The increased weight makes it feel heavier compared to previous models."

weight

heaviness

bulk

"The updates in design lead to a slight increase in shoe weight."

heft

updates

design

"Removing some fused layers from the upper may affect breathability and protection."

mesh

protection

"The shoe lacks breathability, which can be problematic in warmer conditions, despite being advantageous during winter."

lack of breathability

temperature issues

"The lack of a GORE-TEX version means reduced versatility for wet conditions."

weather

options

"There are no reflective elements which may be a safety concern for night running."

reflective

night running

safety

"The price jump from the previous model may deter some buyers."

price increase

"The shoe does not excel in any specific area and may not meet the needs of all runners."

generalist shoe

no standout features

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Model Updates

The New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v9 features an updated Fresh Foam X midsole, providing enhanced cushioning and responsiveness compared to the v8 model. The shoe also boasts a new upper design with improved breathability and durability, designed to handle rugged trails more effectively.

Older Models

Newer Models

Reviews

Read reviews about the New Balance fresh foam x hierro v9 from across the internet, including reviews from other runners on Fittir, wear testers from google & youtube, and more.

Reviews on Fittir (-)

...

Wear-tester reviews (19)

2.9/5

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New Balance fresh foam x hierro v9

New Balance fresh foam x hierro v9

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 v9 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

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Older Models

Newer Models

...

2.9/5

Similar Shoes

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