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10.3 oz. (294 g) for a US M9 / 8.3 oz. (236 g) for a US W7
42 mm in heel, 38 mm in forefoot (4 mm drop)
Long-distance, less technical trail runs
Dual-density Fresh Foam X midsole, Vibram Megagrip outsole, updated mesh upper
Available February 27, 2025, for $155
REESE: The last time I ran consistently in a New Balance trail shoe was in 2016 — the Leadville 1210 v2. Talk about a name, huh? I purchased the same shoe, over and over, for two years. Hell, I bought it in bulk. The shoe was simple, it fit, and it did the trick. And then, all of a sudden, the Leadville 1210 v2 was no more. When I ran (literally) out of my backstock, I looked for another perfect fit in New Balance’s lineup. Quickly, I found the original Hierro, which had just launched in 2015, and I tried to love it, but it just wasn’t the same. I went through many New Balance shoes, and for some reason or another, none of them fit as well or felt as good.
All that is to say my mindset going into reviewing the Hierro v9 was one of mostly hopeful skepticism. It’s been nearly a decade since the shoe was originally released, so the product team has had some time to perfect it, and it shows. I’m not sure what the previous few models were like, but this one is a big glow-up from the original I tried all those years ago.
MICHAEL: While my experience with New Balance’s trail offerings may not rival Reese’s extensive history or Allison’s recent familiarity, I have always enjoyed the storied brand’s road offerings and have always wondered how its successful and popular Fresh Foam X midsole compound might handle life on the trails. So, while I got the chance to review the fast, light, and FuelCell-equipped SC Trail last year, New Balance’s new Hierro v9 represents my first foray into the more relaxed, comfortable, and versatile side of the trail lineup.
With a generous helping of trail-tuned Fresh Foam X and a versatile Vibram outsole, this shoe has what it takes on paper to perform in myriad conditions and applications for training, racing, and — as the Hierro proudly proclaims on the left insole — reveling in the magnificent outdoors. Read on to see if this all-rounder lives up to those expectations.
ALLISON: Well, it’s official: I’m no longer a Believe in the Run rookie reviewer (say that three times fast). My self-proclaimed reasoning is that I reviewed the previous version of the New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro, so I can now be classified as an expert on the changes. Right out of the gate, I noticed that this shoe not only held changes but, to my delight, improvements. Honestly, I think that New Balance must have read our review (not just mine) of the Hierro v8 and noted what we wanted to see moving forward.
MELISSA: I agree with Allison that version nine of the New Balance Hierro has some major on-paper improvements, including a higher stack with dual foam midsole, roomier toe box, improved outsole, and more. But how do these changes translate on the trail? Let’s find out.
REESE: For me, most of the Hierro v9 will fall into the “like” category. But my favorite aspect of the shoe, the brightest light, is the Fresh Foam X midsole. This shoe has a thicc midsole, boasting a stack of 42 mm in the heel and 38mm in the forefoot (4 mm drop), but it’s packed with a super nice dual-density foam. The top layer is much more compliant and comfortable, whereas the layer closest to the outsole is firmer — call it a one-two punch that I’m happy to take.
My 2015 self perhaps didn’t think about how much I was slapping my feet against the ground, but my 2025 self certainly does, and my feet appreciate the springiness of the top layer of foam. It’s a legitimately noticeable feeling — like a tiny adorable trampoline is inside of the shoe, cradling the foot as it lands and then propelling it forward for the next step (there is not, in fact, a trampoline in the midsole). And normally, that much plushness would make for a super wobbly shoe. Not so in the New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v9. The lower layer of firm foam keeps your foot stable on landing and take-off. Additionally, the wide base adds a stable platform.
Speaking of stability, the outsole shines on the trails I frequent along Colorado’s Front Range. The 4.5 mm Vibram Megagrip lugs strike an ideal balance between reliable grip and maintaining speed.
While the midsole is the star of this show, I’d be remiss if I left out the upper and fit. The shoe fits true to size. I normally wear a US W7.5, and it fits me perfectly in the Hierro v9. The laces and tongue allow a decent amount of lockdown in the midfoot, while the toe box is decently roomy. More on this in the next section, though…
MICHAEL: For an all-rounder to perform well, it needs versatile cushioning, an accommodating yet secure fit, and a versatile outsole. The Hierro v9 has all three. Since my fellow reviewers have touched on the specific technical aspects of the shoe, all of which I agree with and enjoy, I’ll offer some more anecdotal remarks on what I enjoyed specifically.
Given the high stack, this shoe is remarkably stable. To achieve this, New Balance went with a bathtub design, which is becoming increasingly familiar in models ranging from the ultra-cushioned Brooks Caldera 8 and Hoka Stinson ATR to the more race-oriented Speedland GS:TAM. The idea is simple: surrounding the foot in a cradle of midsole foam promotes more security compared to sitting on top of the midsole foam.
Unfortunately, it doesn’t always work out, as a shoe’s stability still depends on a whole host of other factors, and blisters are definitely a cause for concern. In the Hierro v9, however, I think it’s implemented perfectly. There’s just enough stability from the bathtub to allow the shoe’s maximally cushioned footprint to shine over technical terrain and add that needed versatility in an all-rounder.
Second, I thought the subtle rocker of the Hierro v9 was really well executed. Like the bathtub construction mentioned above, this design feature really allows the thick midsole to shine and prevents the ride from feeling too sluggish.
Lastly, while the toe bumper does add the potential for blisters, I found it to be relatively benign, offering solid protection in the shoe’s forefoot when the stability and capable outsole beckoned me down more technical terrain than its stack height would suggest it’s suited for. On that outsole, of course, it performed wonderfully. It’s Vibram, and it’s the best — nuff said.
ALLISON: New Balance, thank you for addressing the feedback from my review of the Hierro 8 with the fantastic updates in the Hierro 9. First, let’s talk about the laces. Gone are the long, sloppy laces from the previous model that were better off as jump ropes. The new laces are the perfect length for a secure double knot, with no excess to worry about. This small change makes a big difference, at least for klutzes like me.
Next, the cushioning and support are much better this time around. The previous version lacked the plush feel I’ve come to expect from New Balance, but the Hierro 9 delivers comfort and stability on every stride. It’s a welcome upgrade for longer runs and rougher trails, not to mention that Vibram grip.
Lastly, the toe box has been redesigned to feel more spacious and natural. Unlike the previous version, where the toe cap felt restrictive, the Hierro 9 provides ample room without compromising durability. It feels open and accommodating, making it a great choice for those with wider feet or who simply prefer a roomier fit.
MELISSA: First off, New Balance made a solid choice with its design and colorways for the Hierro v9 — it finally looks like a true trail shoe. The upper remains comfortable, with a major improvement in the lacing system. It’s breathable and cushioned very nicely around the heel and tongue, and the fit now has more room in the toe box. I usually opt for a women’s D width in most New Balance shoes, but with the Hierro v9, my standard size and B width fit perfectly.
The midsole is cushioned but more responsive than the Hierro v8, thanks to the addition of a firmer foam layer underneath. This upgrade resolves the unbalanced, overly squishy feel of the last Hierro, delivering a smooth and comfortable ride with just the right amount of bounce. I’m currently training for a road half marathon (I know, I know), and my legs and feet were super grateful for the Hierro v9 on recovery days following long road workouts.
The Vibram outsole offers excellent grip on any terrain and is a great improvement over last year’s traction. While I previously recommended the Hierro v8 as a road-to-trail hybrid, this one shines as a 100% trail shoe.
Shop The Shoe - Men Shop The Shoe - WomenREESE: There isn’t a ton to gripe about with this shoe, but there are a few things I noticed on my runs that are worth mentioning. The mesh upper was mostly breathable, but my feet did heat up occasionally. Now, that could be because it was 60 degrees in December when I started testing the shoe, but it happened more than once.
I mentioned above that the lacing system allowed me to lock down the midfoot. While true, once I started running on fairly technical trails, I noticed the mesh didn’t keep my foot totally secure. I’d attribute my occasional slippage to the fact that the shoe is fairly roomy, which is great at mile 60 of a run but maybe not mile four.
MICHAEL: While I thoroughly enjoyed the shape and tooling of the midsole, it didn’t seem to have that Fresh Foam X magic I’ve come to expect from New Balance’s road lineup. While the denser durometer provided much-needed protection underfoot for the trail, it lacked springiness.
Also, the midfoot lacing was a bit tricky to figure out. Once I got it locked in, the Hierro fit quite well, and I largely felt secure and stable on all but the most technical terrain. My only real complaint here is that the lacing chain is very short, leaving the forefoot a bit loose with no way of reigning it in.
ALLISON: Like Michael and Reese, I have very few complaints about the Hierro 9, but there are a few areas where it could be improved. I noticed the same midfoot issue they mentioned, which caused slight discomfort during runs. While I appreciated that the laces were shorter and more manageable than the previous version, I didn’t always feel securely locked in, which affected my confidence on uneven trails.
Additionally, while the increased cushioning provided more comfort on longer runs, it seemed to compromise stability on technical terrain. These factors make the shoe less suited for challenging conditions despite its overall solid performance.
MELISSA: I have very little criticism for the Hierro v9. Others noted some midfoot looseness, which I have to agree with. However, it didn’t bother me since I tend to wear my trail shoes on the looser side, especially for easy runs and long, slow efforts.
Shop The Shoe - Men Shop The Shoe - WomenREESE: New Balance really nailed it with this shoe. It’s an excellent choice for most trail runs and even some of the more runnable races. With ample cushioning for long distances and a surprisingly lightweight feel, it’s a versatile option that exceeded my expectations. I keep comparing max cushion shoes to the Brooks Caldera 7 for some reason, likely because everyone tries that shoe out at some point, but this shoe feels much more responsive. I love the noticeable springiness of the foam. The shoe is roomy throughout, but you can create a bit (not a lot, but it’s there) of stability in the midfoot with secure lacing. While the upper could use some help with stability features, the rest of the shoe is stable.
This might be the New Balance shoe I was looking for back in 2016. I’m a little late to the party, but this one will definitely be part of my shoe rotation. For most training runs on the front range, this one will do the trick and keep my feet feeling fresh.
MICHAEL: Like Reese said, there’s not a ton to complain about in the Hierro v9, but what will ultimately keep me from dishing out top marks is the fact that none of its features are truly class-leading, given my remarks above. That being said, this shoe really is a solid, dependable, no-frills trainer. It’s got protection, stability, grip, and pretty good looks in a simple package.
For me, similar comparisons to the Hierro v9 include the Brooks Caldera 7 and Topo Ultraventure 4, both of which were contenders in our Best in Gear awards last year. So, at the end of the day, the Hierro v9 simply does a great job of making its imperative insole statement a possibility: to revel in the great outdoors.
ALLISON: Thank you, New Balance, for listening to my Hierro v8 feedback and making thoughtful improvements. If you’re looking for a reliable trail shoe that can handle the miles, the Hierro v9 is an excellent choice. It’s a no-fuss, no-muss daily driver designed to get you where you need to go with comfort and ease. The improved cushioning and roomy toe box make it a standout option for trail enthusiasts.
MELISSA: New Balance’s Fresh Foam X Hierro 9 is a high-stack trail shoe that is perfect for easy runs and long efforts on the trail. You’re not going to feel every rock or root beneath you, but if you’re looking for something that offers great grip and enough cushioning to keep you from getting banged up by the trail, this is a great option.
The improvements over the last model are significant enough that the Hierro v9 has become my go-to for trail runs. It’s super comfortable and priced similarly, so you’re getting a lot of bang for your buck with this one.
You can pick up the New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v9 for $155 on February 27, 2025, from New Balance by using the buttons below.
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Reese Ruland is a Fort Collins, Colorado-based ultra trail runner with over 15 years of competitive running experience. She has a penchant for PopTarts, a gear addiction, and is always taking photos of her two French Bulldogs, Loaf and Oatie. In addition to her athletic endeavors, Reese serves as an ambassador for Project Heal, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting accessible mental health care for those affected by eating disorders. She’s also one of the fastest women ever to run R2R2R (7:59).
More from ReeseAn engineer living with his wife and cat in Birmingham, Ala., Michael loves chill morning runs in the neighborhood, but especially enjoys soaking up long miles of technical southeast singletrack. Occasionally, he’ll get a racing itch and actually string together some “organized” training for a trail race or FKT. In his free time, Michael enjoys books, backpacking, and hanging out with friends.
More from MichaelBorn and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, Allison is a die-hard sports enthusiast and long distance runner. As co-leader of Trail Sisters and FKT manager, she’s dedicated to fostering community and empowerment in the outdoors. Fun fact: she met her husband on Strava, proving that it does go down in the DMs.
More from AllisonEast Coast raised and West Coast trained, Melissa truly enjoys running, especially ultra distances. She currently lives on the Southern California coast and can be found exploring Santa Barbara front country on the weekends.
All-time favorite shoes: HOKA Clifton, Nike Vaporfly NEXT %, Altra Lone Peak
More from Melissa
Bah. I’m sad the stack height has increased. V8 was in the increasingly sparsely populated sweet spot between too thin to soak up impact (lots of us run from our front doors and inevitably have to run some distance on tarmac) and having so much foam underfoot that flexibility and proprioception suffer. 40mm is too much shoe for me, so when my v8s wear out I’ll have to look for an alternative.
I may even take the – for me – drastic step of buying a spare pair of v8s. They’re not my perfect shoe, but I can forgive the less-than-generous toe-wiggle room and hopelessly stretchy, slippery laces for the sake of a shoe that combines flexibility, goldilocks cushioning and lugs that can handle a British winter.
Didn’t provide the weight in the review but the New Balance site shows 10.3 oz. for what I assume is a men’s size 9, which is pretty reasonable given the increased stack height.
The Leadville V2 was my favorite shoe of all time. I have been comparing every shoe to it since 2017 and nothing has ever come close. Are you saying that this shoe is a worthy replacement for the trusty Leadville?
Is the tongue gusseted in this version?
Great review, the Hierro line has never worked for me, just didn’t run wide enough, even in wide widths. The Fresh Foam X Trail More line worked very well for me though. This seems to be taking a lot from that shoe, and I would even say a possible replacement.
The lugs look perfect for the tail, and I would agree, no longer a road to tail shoe but a true trail shoe.
Looking forward to getting a pair and hitting the trails, might be the new go too.
thank God they ditched that terrible Vibram Ecostep trash from the v8