New Balance Hierro v9 Reviewed & Tested
If you’re craving a soft, supportive hug underfoot and a shoe that confidently bridges the gap between long-haul comfort and sturdy trail performance, the New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v9 is absolutely your trail confidante.
The core of the New Balance Fresh Foam x Hierro V9 is its dual-density Fresh Foam X midsole – 42mm of cushioning in the heel, 38mm up front, and just a 4mm drop. It’s not a springy bouncefest, but it feels like a gentle trampoline cradle for every step with a firm base layer that keeps the ride surprisingly controlled.
The low-drop geometry encourages mid/forefoot striking, and you’ll feel more centered and agile on uneven ground – which is pretty much the idea of a trail shoe (unless you know of any flat trails?!). Unlike its predecessors, this version leans into max cushioning – ideal if you’re chasing kilometres in the dirt while craving comfort.
The stack height? It’s sturdy thanks to its subtle rocker to aid transitions; that rocker, by the way… definitely aids in propulsion without feeling gimmicky, and allows me to go on longer jaunts in total comfort.
The Vibram Megagrip outsole features approximately 4.5mm lugs (some are up to 6mm when I measure them), with a revamped pattern that strikes a balance between aggressive bite and smooth roll – capable on gravel, rocks, grass, even wet patches, though not meant for super muddy conditions.
Read more trail running shoe reviews
– Asics Metafuji Review
– Teva Aventrail Laceless Review
– Brooks Caldera 8 Review
– The North Face Vectiv Enduris 4
Despite its lofty foam, there’s no sensation of wobbliness so it lends your foot a secure, planted feel. The engineered mesh, zonal TPU overlays, toe bumpers, a padded gusseted tongue, and cushioned collar are all built with durability in mind. Lace lockdown is pretty schmick (I love a good lace lock), and the toe box definitely accommodates my swelling, but take note – the New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro V9 runs slightly snug, so it’s recommended you go up half a size if you’re between, or plan, long days.
Breathability is great, though the plush padding can trap some warmth on hot runs, so best to use thinner socks.
I clocked multiple runs – trail forging, gravel troths, forest paths, urban links – and this shoe delivered consistent comfort and traction. The ride has been luxurious and protective, and it’s a rock-solid piece of gear on moderately rough trails. Starting with a morning romp on some gravel roads and leaf litter, instantly the shoe’s plush step-in comfort wowed me – responsive and firmly rounded. The volume of foam doesn’t weigh me down during the midweek crunch, and the outsole grips well – no slips backwards, and no sliding over pebbles.
For everyday trail training, relaxed trail grabs, weekend explorations and even mixing in road runs, this shoe is a dream. Beginner-to-intermediate runners will especially enjoy less fatigue over their distances as it’s a daily cruiser for trail lovers who prefer to feel pampered underfoot.
My final take? The New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v9 is a comfort-first trail workhorse with stability and traction, great for daily cruising, and has the potential to be your dependable companion for hundreds of kilometres on the dirt.
Available in women’s colours Black, Hot Mango with Peach Blossom, and Calcium with Dark Juniper, while for the men they are available in Black Cement, Dark Juniper with Black and Dried Apricot, and Electric Jade with Black.
Key details of New Balance Fresh Foam x Hierro V9
Great for: Long, cruisy trails on rolling terrain, mixed surfaces, mild technical
Not so great for: Speedy efforts, tight and technical runs
Ideal foot type: Neutral to slightly high arches
Test terrain: Forest trail, gravel roads, compact dirt, dry singletrack, shallow rockbeds
RRP: $250.00 AUD / $280.00 NZD
Website: newbalance.com.au / newbalance.co.nz
Conditions: Shoes in Calcium with Dark Juniper provided for testing by New Balance
