New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X Hierro V7 Trail Running Shoe Review
For adventurous souls who take the phrase 'off the beaten path' quite literally, the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X Hierro V7 Trail Running Shoe is an excellent companion. Designed to handle rugged terrains with ease, this shoe seamlessly blends signature performance technology with durability, ensuring you can embrace more miles comfortably while exploring nature.
The shoe showcases a combination of advanced cushioning and a robust upper designed to shield your feet from the elements. The Fresh Foam X cushioning provides incredible comfort, making those tough trails feel less daunting.
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Features
- 8 mm drop: Approximate drop due to variances in manufacturing.
- Fresh Foam X midsole: Delivers exceptional cushioning for maximum comfort.
- Synthetic and mesh upper: Offers breathability along with protection.
- Vibram Megagrip outsole: Ensures superior grip on various surfaces.
Pros
- Exceptional cushioning enhances comfort during long runs.
- Rugged outsole provides excellent traction on varied terrains.
- Breathable upper keeps feet cool and dry.
- Durable construction suitable for challenging outdoor conditions.
Cons
- May feel slightly heavy for ultra-lightweight running enthusiasts.
- Fit may not be ideal for those with wider feet.
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Feature | New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro V7 | Salomon Speedcross 5 | Hoka One One Torrent 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cushioning | Fresh Foam X | EVA | Compression EVA |
| Outsole | Vibram Megagrip | Contagrip | Rubber |
| Weight | Moderate | Lightweight | Lightweight |
| Water Resistance | No | Yes | No |
| Drop | 8 mm | 10 mm | 5 mm |
Detailed Review
The New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X Hierro V7 Trail Running Shoe excels in several key areas:
- Comfort: With its Fresh Foam X midsole, this shoe offers unmatched cushioning, making it ideal for those long, rugged trails. You will appreciate the soft landing thanks to the expertly engineered foam that adapts to your foot's shape.
- Traction: The Vibram Megagrip outsole provides remarkable grip, giving you confidence as you navigate rocky or slippery terrains. Whether you're facing mud or uneven ground, this shoe won't let you down.
- Durability: Constructed with a synthetic and mesh upper, the shoe offers a protective yet breathable experience. It stands up well against the wear and tear of trail running.
- Design: The aesthetic appeal of the Silver Moss/Deep Olive Green color scheme is another plus, making it not only functional but also stylish.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 9/10 | Excellent cushioning for long runs. |
| Traction | 9/10 | Superior grip on various terrains. |
| Durability | 8/10 | Stands up well under rough conditions. |
| Fit | 7/10 | May not suit wider feet perfectly. |
| Style | 8/10 | Attractive design and colorway. |
User Reviews
I am glad they have different widths. I have a narrow to medium foot and went with the 8.5 wide. So they probably aren’t going to be comfortable on a wider foot. I usually do a 9 in running shoes, but since these are more for walking, so I just went with the wider width and was very happy with how they fit. My first walk in them was about 9.5 miles, and decided I needed more arch support, bought inserts, and think they are going to be great! I love the way they look; the design and colors are great.
New Balance is one of my favorite workout and walking shoe. They fit perfect, however, a tad bit small for a thicker sock. I kept my 9 wide, but should have bought a 9.5. They are very nice quality. I do recommend.😊
Right before the Hawaii Iron Man 11 years ago, I was hit by a car while running. I was throwing 56 feet and nearly killed. 11 surgeries and 11 years of physical therapy later and I can walk again! I'm doing trails now because it's so much easier on my joints, so I set up to buy trail shoes. I have an exercise science BS and exercise medicine MS, so I understand biomechanics, but shoes have evolved greatly in the last couple years. I did some research and tried on literally 15 pairs of the top trail shoes.I wanted at least one pair that were waterproof (GTX). I need shoes that are lightweight, narrow/low volume, neutral, straight-lasted, max cushioned yet with road feel, stability without motion control and built to last. I thought I'd have to compromise, but I didn't! I chose these for the waterproof ones. They have added to protection for trails, also. I might have liked the Hoka Challenger ATX 7 GTX Better but couldn't find it in my size. Plus I got a good deal on these on Amazon. I have to admit the ones I like even better than these are the Brooks Caldera 6 that I also got a good deal here on Amazon. They're not waterproof and don't have much toe protection, but they are the most cushioned yet stable shoes I've ever worn.FYI, this listing offers the Hierro in both GTX and non-GTX models, so pay attention when you order. GTX models will have a tag on the side at the ankle that says Gore-Tex and the listing should say GTX. Also note that GTX is waterproof, which is superior to those that just say water resistant or shield. Also, I bought the ones with the image showing the shoes as light gray with light blue accent color, but mine came all light blue. That's fine with me, but just so you know. My photo looks a little washed out.
I really like the comfort of these shoes, for walking and easy hikes. They look a little silly to me, though, just because they're long looking, maybe by half-size.
never disappointed with new balance. needed new work shoes with good stability for my overprinting feet. these are perfect. lightweight yet sturdy, great grippy soles and super fun colors
I had high hopes for these shoes, but they had to go back. I have a higher arch, these have very little arch support. They were soft and had a good size toe box, but as soon as I shifted weight onto my foot i just pronated in. I had much better luck with Salomon for a trail runner. I live in the mountains and walk /hike daily. I need good grip. Would not suggest if you have a normal to high arch. Also this color is very baby blue, although pic looks more white.
Shoes fit true to size. They are very comfortable, feels like walking on air. Comfy but not to the point the shoe feels unstable and mushy. I feel that they correct my ankles from going too far left or right when working out. I do vigorous workouts. Just recovered from a torn Achilles and the support is perfect. Traction great, water resistant great. If outdoor workouts just lightly hose off, let dry and go again. Stability matters, indoors or on the trail.
Okay first off a read a lot of the reviews before buying this style of NB sneakers. Most reviewers suggested going up a half size but only a few reviews said normal size fit them perfectly. So I ordered a half size up to a 10 1/2 medium. Medium is normal width for my feet, I’ve never had to order wide in any shoe style…..until these. I had to send back the first pair because they felt like narrow width and my toes were all the way at top of shoe. I was shocked! But the reviewers raved about the comfort and the ankle stability so I swapped for an 11 wide. They are perfect and very comfortable. I suggest if you do not wear what I call petite shoe sizes then order a whole size up and consider wide width too. I would buy these again. I really am pleased with them.