The new version of the New Balance Hierro arrives with great innovations in the midsole foam and outsole material to reinforce its profile as a comfortable and resistant trail shoe. Aimed at long distance trail running for the popular runner, from medium to ultras, the Hierro v9 provides great comfort and stability. It is not the best choice for very technical terrain and very fast paces, but it is not the best choice either. With a new Vibram outsole and new lug design, they improve grip, while improved toe protection encourages you to run with confidence.
Mediasuela Fresh Foam X en dos densidades
The Fresh Foam X foam is the main protagonist of the new features of the Hierro v9, since in addition to the great comfort offered by this EVA compound, it has a dual density design. The lower density upper is responsible for the characteristic soft feel of this foam, while a firmer bottom helps build a more stable package, which is essential in an all-terrain shoe like this one. Although the drop has decreased to 4 mm, bordering the low drop category for these Hierro v9, the midsole height has increased by 4 mm in the rearfoot and 6 mm in the rearfoot, which means more cushioning and more midfoot impact in the stride.
This new design confirms its rolling character, as the changes introduced aim above all at comfort and stability, making the tread easier and softer. It is a higher shoe, with a more marked rocker effect to run for more kilometres without feeling more tired than necessary.
Protección y confort en cada detalle del upper
In the upper, the novelties come from a higher and more forceful protection in the toecap, continuing with the structure of the mesh. This is not one of the lightest, something we don’t particularly mind, as it always offers better protection than lighter tights. They may be warm in warmer temperatures, but when tested in winter they have contributed significantly to ride comfort. The upper part of the tongue has a more than remarkable padding, and it is held in place by a wide elastic that keeps it in place in any situation. The padding and protections in the ankle and heel area are remarkable. Actually, the upper seems to be designed for more protection and stability, which might make it a bit warm when temperatures start to rise. A generous heel strap will help us to fit comfortably, a detail to be appreciated.
Nuevo compuesto Vibram y nuevo diseño de tacos
In the outsole, the Vibram compound is still present, but now the Ecostep Natural rubber compound has been replaced by MegaGrip. In addition, the structure and design of the knobs has changed radically. First of all, the sole has been eliminated in the central part, lightening the weight a bit, but the studs are now completely different from the v8 version, as their size and design varies according to their position. Larger and spaced apart in the heel and outer sole area, and smaller and closer together in the inner midfoot and toe area, resulting in a much improved grip. In addition, their truncated pyramid construction with a wider base and greater depth, a design that New Balance calls Traction Lug, makes them especially effective, leaving aside a little of the versatility of the previous version’s heel. However, on asphalt sections we don’t think that this new outsole will penalise at all.
Comodidad y protección para el trail
The New Balance Hierro Fresh Foam X v9 is a great option for runners looking for comfort and stability over medium to long distances. The renewed Fresh Foam X midsole, with double density and a reduced drop, offers a soft and cushioned ride. The new Vibram MegaGrip outsole now features lugs that are very trail oriented, but do not penalise on other surfaces. These shoes are ideal for those who prioritise comfort, especially on long runs that are not very technical. Their robust design, with toe protection and a padded upper, especially in the instep, ankle and heel area, makes them perfect for those looking for a comfortable and versatile shoe, although they may be a bit warm on very hot days. They are not the best choice for runners looking for speed or ultralight shoes for very technical terrain, but they are ideal for trail runners who value comfort and protection over long distances.
Pros
Designed for comfort.
Excellent grip.
Upper designed to protect.
Cons
They are not light and do not excel in very technical terrain.
Data sheet
Brand
New Balance
Model
New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v9
Description
Trail running shoes with dual density EVA midsole, upper with reinforced toe cap and padded tongue and Vibram rubber outsole with grippy lugs.
Fit system
Lace-up
Upper
Mesh with Toe Protect toe cap reinforcement and padded tongue.
Midsole
In two-density Fresh Foam X foam, soft on top and firm on the bottom.
Sole
Vibram MegaGrip with pyramid-shaped Traction Lug design.
Drop
4 mm
Available sizes
From 40 to 52
Weight
293 g
Price
160 €
Available colours
green-orange.
More information here (https://www.deporvillage.net/new-balance-fresh-foam-x-hierro-v9-shoes-green-orange)
