Our verdict
Pros
- Superb Vibram outsole
- 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
Audience verdict
Comparison
The most similar running shoes compared
+ + Add a shoe | |||||
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Audience score | 78 Bad! | 85 Good! | 92 Superb! | 88 Great! | |
Price | $150 | $130 | $150 | $150 | |
Trail terrain | - | Moderate | - | - | |
Arch-support | Neutral | Neutral | Neutral | Neutral | |
Weight lab Weight brand | 10.5 oz / 298g 11 oz / 311g | 11.3 oz / 319g 10.5 oz / 298g | 10.1 oz / 286g 10.1 oz / 286g | 9.9 oz / 282g 9.9 oz / 280g | |
Drop lab Drop brand | 8.1 mm 6.0 mm | 9.2 mm 8.0 mm | 9.6 mm 9.5 mm | 6.0 mm 6.0 mm | |
Strike pattern | HeelMid/forefoot | HeelMid/forefoot | HeelMid/forefoot | Mid/forefoot | |
Midsole softness | Soft | Soft | Soft | Soft | |
Difference in midsole softness in cold | Normal | Big | Normal | Small | |
Toebox durability | Bad | Very bad | Good | Decent | |
Heel padding durability | Decent | Bad | Good | Good | |
Outsole durability | Good | - | Good | Good | |
Breathability | Warm | Moderate | Warm | Moderate | |
Toebox width at the widest part | Medium | Medium | Wide | Medium | |
Toebox width at the big toe | Medium | Medium | Wide | Wide | |
Stiffness | Flexible | Moderate | Flexible | Flexible | |
Difference in stiffness in cold | Small | Normal | Normal | Small | |
Torsional rigidity | Flexible | Moderate | Moderate | Flexible | |
Heel counter stiffness | Moderate | Moderate | Stiff | Flexible | |
Plate | ✗ | Rock plate | ✗ | Rock plate | |
Rocker | ✓ | ‐ | ✓ | ✗ | |
Lug depth | ‐ | 3.5 mm | ‐ | ‐ | |
Heel lab Heel brand | 32.2 mm 37.0 mm | 34.2 mm 35.5 mm | 34.6 mm 37.0 mm | 30.1 mm 29.0 mm | |
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand | 24.1 mm 31.0 mm | 25.0 mm 27.5 mm | 25.0 mm 27.5 mm | 24.1 mm 23.0 mm | |
Widths available | NarrowNormalWideX-Wide | Normal | Normal | NormalWide | |
Orthotic-friendly | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Heavy | ‐ | ✗ | ‐ | ‐ | |
Season | All seasons | All seasons | All seasons | All seasons | |
Removable-insole | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Ranking | #258 Bottom 3% | #186 Bottom 30% | #12 Top 5% | #115 Top 44% | |
Waterproofing | - | - | - | - | |
Popularity | #236 Bottom 11% | #88 Top 34% | #19 Top 8% | #210 Bottom 21% |
Who should buy
We're convinced that the New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 is an excellent pick for:
- Comfort-seekers who value a plush midsole above all in a trail shoe.
- New trail runners looking for a rookie-approved first shoe to start their adventures.
- Hierro series enthusiasts eager to upgrade to the latest model for its familiar flexibility and versatility.
Who should NOT buy
We're convinced the New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 isn't the best option for everyone, particularly those seeking a lightweight trail shoe. Despite its continuous improvements, it remains heavier compared to rivals like the Hoka Challenger 7 or the Saucony Peregrine 14, both of which weigh in under 10 ounces.
Additionally, while the Hierro v8's plush midsole offers undeniable comfort, it lacks the responsive feel that many trail runners prefer for faster, proprioceptive trail running. For those looking for a balance between plush foam and responsiveness, we recommend considering the Nike Wildhorse 8, or opting for the Merrell Nova 3 for a more balanced approach.
Breathability
While trail shoes generally require less ventilation than road kicks, the Hierro disappointingly scored a 2/5 in our smoke-pumping test, making it suboptimal for hot summer activities.
Using our light test, we found that New Balance reinforced the upper everywhere but the toebox. However, despite apparent ventilation holes in that area, smoke remained trapped inside during our tests.
To solve this mystery, we moved the Hierro v8 to our microscope examination area.
It became clear that while the engineered mesh is of good quality, it doesn't effectively ventilate because it features a dual-layer design with the bottom layer trapping heat—great for winter but problematic for summer.
We also noted the upper's fantastic comfort. It's evident that weight was not a primary concern in its design at New Balance HQ, as the material felt quite plush and heavy when compared to other models.
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 | 2 |
Average | 3.4 |
Durability
Toebox durability
The New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 boasts substantial protection in the toecap—dubbed Toe Protect—and throughout many other parts of the shoe. But the toebox itself felt fragile to us, prompting us to put it to the test with our Dremel.
What we discovered was deeply disappointing, leading us to assign it a dismal 1/5 rating. While this issue might seem minor since it affects only a small part of the upper, it's worth noting for those who have experienced wear in this area with previous models.
Interestingly, the Hierro might not quite live up to its name, which means "iron" in Spanish. However, this isn't a reference to the material but rather a nod to the rugged and beautiful terrain of El Hierro in Spain’s Canary Islands.
![New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 Toebox durability](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40394/new-balance-fresh-foam-x-hierro-v-8-toebox-durability-21567034-main.jpg)
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 | 1 |
Average | 3.1 |
Heel padding durability
After a disappointing first Dremel test, we shifted our focus to the Hierro's heel, hoping for better results.
Unfortunately, our hopes were only partially met, as the heel showed a slight improvement but still earned a lackluster rating of 2/5. This was yet another letdown in our series of Dremel tests.
![New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 Heel padding durability](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40394/new-balance-fresh-foam-x-hierro-v-8-heel-padding-durability-21567035-main.jpg)
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 | 2 |
Average | 2.9 |
Outsole hardness
Following two previous disappointments, we turned our attention to the Hierro's outsole, which held potential as a standout feature again, as it's supplied by the Italian industry leader, Vibram.
Our initial evaluation of the Vibram Megagrip outsole involved measuring its hardness, which registered at 81.5 HC—a very balanced approach. We're eager to see how it performs in our upcoming Dremel test.
![New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 Outsole hardness](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40394/new-balance-fresh-foam-x-hierro-v-8-outsole-hardness-21567038-main.jpg)
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 | 81.5 HC |
Average | 85.4 HC |
Outsole durability
Until now, it seemed that the Dremel tests and the Hierro weren't a great match, but that finally changed.
We revved up the Dremel one last time at 10K RPM and discovered that the Megagrip compound performed exceptionally well, showcasing a remarkable blend of grip and durability. The minor 0.7-mm indentation we observed truly impressed us, leaving us quite satisfied with this result.
![New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 Outsole durability](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40394/new-balance-fresh-foam-x-hierro-v-8-outsole-durability-21567036-main.jpg)
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 | 0.7 mm |
Average | 0.9 mm |
Outsole thickness
We also measured the thickness of the outsole using our vernier calipers, which registered at 3.0 mm.
This is relatively thick and, considering the excellent durability of the rubber, it's possibly more than necessary. This likely represents a missed opportunity to reduce the overall weight of the shoe.
![New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 Outsole thickness](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40394/new-balance-fresh-foam-x-hierro-v-8-outsole-thickness-21567037-main.jpg)
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 | 3.0 mm |
Average | 2.4 mm |
Weight
We just discussed the need for trimming weight, especially since the Hierro tipped our digital scale at 10.5 oz or 298g.
This is notably heavier compared to other trail shoes. New Balance would do well to reduce the Hierro's weight to below the 10 oz mark, which would significantly enhance its appeal for those who favor lightweight trail shoes.
![New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 Weight](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40394/new-balance-fresh-foam-x-hierro-v-8-weight-21567057-main.jpg)
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 | 10.51 oz (298g) |
Average | 10.34 oz (293g) |
Cushioning
Heel stack
While the Hierro v8's 32.2 mm heel stack doesn't place it in the maximalist category like the Brooks Caldera 7, it still offers a substantial amount of foam under the rearfoot.
This makes the Hierro v8 an excellent choice for multi-hour training seasons and even ultras.
![New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 Heel stack](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40394/new-balance-fresh-foam-x-hierro-v-8-heel-stack-21567040-main.jpg)
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 | 32.2 mm |
Average | 32.2 mm |
Forefoot stack
The absence of a rock plate emphasizes the need for substantial rubber and foam underfoot. Although 24.1 mm might not seem like a lot, the thicker-than-average Vibram rubber compensates for this, making the lack of a rock plate acceptable in our view in terms of protection, especially because this shoe is not meant for hard, difficult trails at all.
We also believe that this thickness particularly suits the shoe's goal of maintaining flexibility and its beginner-friendly approach.
![New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 Forefoot stack](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40394/new-balance-fresh-foam-x-hierro-v-8-forefoot-stack-21567039-main.jpg)
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 | 24.1 mm |
Average | 24.6 mm |
Drop
The Hierro series has traditionally featured an 8-mm drop, and despite New Balance's claims that the Hierro v8 has a reduced 6-mm offset, our precise measurements—aligned with World Athletics guidelines—revealed an 8.1-mm drop.
Plus, on our feet, it delivered the same running experience as previous models.
![New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 Drop](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40394/new-balance-fresh-foam-x-hierro-v-8-drop-21567041-main.jpg)
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 | 8.1 mm |
Average | 7.7 mm |
Insole thickness
The insole is crafted from recycled materials—hence its unique mix of colors—and measures 5.0 mm in thickness.
![New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 Insole thickness](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40394/new-balance-fresh-foam-x-hierro-v-8-insole-thickness-21567044-main.jpg)
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 | 5.0 mm |
Average | 4.7 mm |
Midsole softness
This isn't the first New Balance shoe with Fresh Foam X that we've analyzed in the lab, the velvet-soft 1080 v13 being another recent example. But we initially thought that New Balance might have adjusted the foam's formulation to make it firmer for trail conditions.
However, our Shore A durometer reading of 9.1 HA confirmed that it remains incredibly plush compared to most other trail shoes.
However, there's a caveat. While the EVA foam itself is exceptionally soft, it is sandwiched by a firmer-than-usual insole and a thick outsole. This combination creates a firmer-than-expected overall feel, making the midsole less soft than equivalent plush road shoes.
Additionally, don't expect significant energy return. Fresh Foam X, while being New Balance's premier training foam, prioritizes comfort over bounce.
![New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 Midsole softness](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40394/new-balance-fresh-foam-x-hierro-v-8-midsole-softness-21567042-main.jpg)
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 | 9.1 HA |
Average | 22.6 HA |
Difference in midsole softness in cold
After chilling the Fresh Foam X midsole in our freezer for 20 minutes, its softness was reduced by 30.6% (12.0 HA)—a decent performance, though there is still potential for enhancement.
![New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 Difference in midsole softness in cold](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40394/new-balance-fresh-foam-x-hierro-v-8-difference-in-midsole-softness-in-cold-21567043-main.jpg)
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 | 31.9% |
Average | 26.3% |
Rocker
The latest trend in running shoes leans towards creating rockered silhouettes, and the Hierro v8 kinda embraced it. Our comparisons show that the toe spring in the Hierro v8 is more pronounced than in its predecessor, though it still maintains a more level design compared to other New Balance road shoes such as the Rebel v4.
Stability
Lateral stability test
Those seeking stability in a trail shoe might want to bypass the Hierro v8 despite its gigantic midsole sidewalls. However, neutral runners will find it performs well on easy trails and gravel roads without any issues.
For New Balance aficionados with stability concerns, the Fresh Foam X More Trail v3 is a better pick with its broader sole.
Torsional rigidity
As mentioned earlier in this lab review, New Balance prioritizes comfort in the Hierro v8, which is evident from the shoe's low torsional rigidity we observed during bending and twisting tests.
In our lab assessment, this feature scores just a 2/5, indicating limited rigidity.
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 | 2 |
Average | 3.5 |
Heel counter stiffness
To boost stability, New Balance has robustly reinforced the heel counter, crafting it to resemble that of a road daily trainer. We rated this strategic enhancement a solid 3/5, as it fortifies stability effectively without making the heel too stiff.
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 | 3 |
Average | 3.1 |
Midsole width in the forefoot
Upon examining the midsole dimensions, we observed that New Balance has preserved the streamlined silhouette of this series at just 113.2 mm.
We endorse this strategy—while other brands are excessively broadening soles to boost stability, New Balance focuses on maintaining agility and hiking performance in the Hierro, staying away from an oversized design.
![New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 Midsole width in the forefoot](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40394/new-balance-fresh-foam-x-hierro-v-8-midsole-width-in-the-forefoot-21567049-main.jpg)
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 | 113.2 mm |
Average | 112.1 mm |
Midsole width in the heel
The heel mirrors the design of the forefoot, offering a width of 91.9 mm—again around the average and well-suited for multiple activities.
![New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 Midsole width in the heel](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40394/new-balance-fresh-foam-x-hierro-v-8-midsole-width-in-the-heel-21567050-main.jpg)
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 | 91.9 mm |
Average | 89.9 mm |
Flexibility
Stiffness
From the outset, the Hierro v8 won us over with its exceptional flexibility. New Balance has engineered this by incorporating multiple holes in the Vibram Megagrip outsole, enhancing the shoe's ability to flex in every direction—evidenced by a mere 14.9N in our 90-degree flexibility test.
While many modern trail shoes opt for increased stiffness to boost stability, the Hierro v8 stands out as a flexible yet cushioned trail shoe. We're happy to see it offer an alternative in a market trending towards rigidity, filling a much-needed gap for those who value comfort over everything else.
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 | 14.9N |
Average | 28.0N |
Difference in stiffness in cold
In the second freezer test, we examined how the stiffness of the shoe altered after being frozen. Remarkably, the stiffness only increased by 17.6%, which is excellent news! This minimal change underscores the Hierro's consistent feel, even under extreme cold conditions.
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 | 17.6% |
Average | 34.8% |
Grip / Traction
Lug depth
In line with its design focused on versatility, the lugs on this shoe measure 4.0 mm deep—ideal for tackling easy challenging terrain effortlessly.
Of course, it's evident that these lugs aren't suited for more demanding terrains, so it's best to steer clear of muddy or slippery conditions or exhilarating downhills. However, they excel on simpler trails, a performance that's we found it's enhanced by Vibram's Traction Lug technology.
![New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 Lug depth](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40394/new-balance-fresh-foam-x-hierro-v-8-lug-depth-21569567-main.jpg)
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 | 4.0 mm |
Average | 3.5 mm |
Size and fit
Toebox width at the widest part
While we've established that the midsole isn't particularly wide, our curiosity led us to measure the toebox. Our digital calipers showed a width of 97.9 mm at its broadest point.
We're confident that this dimension comfortably accommodates the needs of about 80% of runners, providing a good fit for most feet. Additionally, it’s important to highlight that New Balance makes this model available in a wide option in some markets (including the US) which a nice bonus.
![New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 Toebox width at the widest part](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40394/new-balance-fresh-foam-x-hierro-v-8-toebox-width-at-the-widest-part-21567052-main.jpg)
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 | 97.9 mm |
Average | 98.9 mm |
Toebox width at the big toe
Our second measurement, taken in the big toe area, confirmed the toebox's average dimensions at 78.6 mm. However, it's slightly narrower by 1.9 mm compared to the Hierro v7, meaning runners with square-shaped feet might find the previous model a better fit.
![New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 Toebox width at the big toe](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40394/new-balance-fresh-foam-x-hierro-v-8-toebox-width-at-the-big-toe-21567051-main.jpg)
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 | 78.6 mm |
Average | 79.1 mm |
Tongue: gusset type
One crucial feature of a proper trail shoe is a tongue that is fixed to the sides, which provides two significant benefits: enhanced lockdown and better protection against debris entering the shoe.
Regrettably, New Balance opted for a non-gusseted tongue in their latest Hierro, a choice we found quite disappointing here in the lab, especially because this is not a cheap shoe at all. This omission compromises both the fit and the shoe’s ability to keep out small debris.
![New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 Tongue: gusset type](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40394/new-balance-fresh-foam-x-hierro-v-8-tongue-gusset-type-3-21585087-main.jpg)
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 | None |
Comfort
Tongue padding
The only upside to the tongue is that it includes 6.6 mm of padding, which provides adequate comfort in the instep area.
However, our disappointment deepened when we discovered that, not only is the tongue non-gusseted, but it is also completely detached, lacking any integration with the lacing system—a standard feature in almost any other running shoe.
![New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 Tongue padding](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40394/new-balance-fresh-foam-x-hierro-v-8-tongue-padding-21567056-main.jpg)
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 | 6.6 mm |
Average | 6.5 mm |
Heel tab
The heel includes a convenient finger-loop heel tab, a useful feature retained from its predecessor, thankfully avoiding any downgrade in this aspect.
![New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 Heel tab](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40394/new-balance-fresh-foam-x-hierro-v-8-heel-tab-21567055-main.jpg)
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 | Finger loop |
Removable insole
We appreciated that the insole of the Hierro v8 is crafted from recycled materials, although this does result in a firmer feel than usual. Fortunately, if you prefer a softer footbed, you can easily remove the original and swap it with one that better suits your comfort preferences.
![New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 Removable insole](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40394/new-balance-fresh-foam-x-hierro-v-8-removable-insole-21567058-main.jpg)
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 | Yes |
Misc
Reflective elements
A proper trail running shoe should include reflective features, yet the Hierro v8 fails to include them. While not a deal breaker, we are quite disappointed with this oversight.
![New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 Reflective elements](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40394/new-balance-fresh-foam-x-hierro-v-8-reflective-elements-21567054-main.jpg)
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 | No |