The New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro V8 Review & Lab Test of 2026

The New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 is a versatile trail running shoe designed for various outdoor activities. It is ideal for those who prioritize comfort and durability in their footwear choice. The lab-tested features, such as a resilient Vibram outsole, ensure reliable traction on diverse terrains.

While some users may find issues with the tongue design and breathability, the overall performance remains notable. The cushioning provided by the foam contributes to a comfortable ride, making it suitable for long-distance runs or hikes.

In summary, the New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 serves as a solid upgrade within the Hierro series, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts seeking dependable footwear for their adventures.

Pros

  • Exceptionally plush ride
  • Remarkably flexible
  • Luxuriously-soft Fresh Foam X
  • Reasonably priced
  • Excellent for winter
  • Rare sustainable features
  • Reliable grip on moderate trails
  • Doubles as a great hiking shoe

Cons

  • Poor ventilation
  • Problematic non-gusseted tongue
  • Durability concerns in toebox and heel
  • Not suited for technical trails

Key Features

  • Fresh Foam X midsole foam: Provides exceptional cushioning for a more comfortable run.
  • Micro-Traction Lug by Vibram: Offers superior traction on various surfaces, enhancing stability and grip.
  • Breathable upper construction: Ensures airflow while protecting your feet from external elements.

Specifications

  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole material: Rubber
  • Outer material: Mesh
  • Closure type: Lace-Up

New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro V8 Review & Lab Test – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 Nike Pegasus Trail 5 Hoka Speedgoat 6 New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v9
Price $150 $150 $155 $155
Trail terrain Light Light Moderate Light
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 10.5 oz / 298g 10.1 oz / 286g 9.8 oz / 278g 10.9 oz / 309g
Drop lab Drop brand 8.1 mm 9.6 mm 4.9 mm 4.2 mm
Strike pattern Heel Heel Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot
Size Slightly small True to size Slightly small Half size small
Midsole softness Soft Soft Balanced Soft
Difference in midsole softness in cold Normal Normal Small Small
Toebox durability Very bad Very good Good Good
Heel padding durability Decent Good Good Good
Outsole durability Good Good Decent Good
Breathability Warm Warm Warm Moderate
Width / fit Medium Medium Medium Medium
Toebox width Medium Medium Medium Medium
Stiffness Moderate Moderate Stiff Stiff
Torsional rigidity Flexible Moderate Stiff Stiff
Heel counter stiffness Moderate Stiff Moderate Moderate
Lug depth 4.0 mm 3.2 mm 4.0 mm 3.3 mm
Heel stack lab Heel stack brand 32.2 mm 34.6 mm 32.1 mm 37.3 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 24.1 mm 25.0 mm 27.2 mm 33.1 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
For heavy runners
Season All seasons All seasons All seasons All seasons
Removable insole
Orthotic friendly
Ranking Bottom 20% Top 20% Bottom 11% Bottom 36%
Popularity Top 15% Top 14% Top 13% Top 8%