8 minute read
The New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v6 is a trail running shoe designed to offer comfort and protection on various terrains. This shoe is part of the New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro family, known for its plush cushioning and durable build.
Key Features:
The New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v6 is an ideal choice for trail runners who prioritize comfort and protection. Its durable build and excellent grip make it suitable for various terrains, from road-to-trail transitions to moderate off-road trails.
With an average review score of 81%, it's rated just above the median rating of similar running shoes. Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently just above the median price of running shoes today.
The New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v6 is a reliable choice for trail runners seeking comfort and protection. Reviewers appreciate its plush cushioning, provided by the Fresh Foam midsole, which makes it suitable for long-distance runs. The Vibram MegaGrip outsole offers excellent traction, although some users wished for more aggressive lugs for technical terrains. The shoe's reinforced toe and durable build add to its protective features, making it a good option for rocky trails. However, the shoe is on the heavier side, which might not appeal to those looking for a lightweight option. Additionally, the upper's breathability could be improved. Overall, the Hierro v6 is a solid choice for trail runners who value comfort and durability over speed. It excels in providing a cushioned and stable ride on moderate trails.
The New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v6 features several updates from its predecessor, the New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v5. The most notable changes include a lighter weight and a redesigned upper for a more supportive fit. The lacing system has also been updated, with traditional eyelets replacing the fabric loops used in the previous version. Additionally, the upper now features recycled materials, reflecting New Balance's commitment to sustainability.
The Salomon Sense Ride 4 is a good alternative for runners seeking a more aggressive trail shoe. It offers better grip on technical terrains and a lighter weight compared to the New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v6. However, the Hierro v6 provides more cushioning and a more comfortable fit, making it suitable for longer runs.
The Altra Superior 6 is another option for those who prefer a shoe with better ground feel. It has a lower stack height and a more flexible design, which can be advantageous on technical trails. However, the New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v6 offers more cushioning and protection, making it a better choice for long-distance runs on moderate terrains.
The Brooks Cascadia 15 is comparable to the New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v6 in terms of cushioning and protection. Both shoes are designed for trail running and offer durable outsoles. However, the Cascadia 15 is slightly lighter and more flexible, making it a better option for runners who prioritize agility on the trails.
The New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v6 GTX is a special version of the Hierro v6, designed for enhanced weather protection. This version features a GORE-TEX upper, making it waterproof and suitable for wet and muddy conditions. While it retains the same Fresh Foam midsole and Vibram MegaGrip outsole as the standard version, the GTX model offers added protection against the elements, making it a great choice for trail runners who frequently encounter wet and challenging terrains.
The upper of the New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v6 is designed with an engineered mesh (a lightweight and breathable fabric) that offers durability and breathability. The reinforced toe provides added protection against rocks and roots, making it suitable for trail running. The shoe also features a semi-bootie fit, which helps keep dirt and debris out while ensuring the tongue stays in place. However, some reviewers noted that the upper could be more breathable, especially in hot weather conditions.
The Fresh Foam midsole in the New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v6 provides a soft and cushioned ride, ideal for long-distance runs. This midsole material is known for its balance of softness and responsiveness, offering comfort without sacrificing stability. The 8 mm heel-to-toe drop ensures a smooth transition from heel to toe, making it suitable for various running styles. The midsole's cushioning is particularly appreciated on rocky and uneven terrains, where it helps absorb impact and protect the feet.
The Vibram MegaGrip outsole of the New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v6 ensures excellent traction on both wet and dry surfaces. The flat, broad lugs provide more contact area with the ground, enhancing grip and stability. However, some users wished for more aggressive lugs for better performance on technical terrains. The outsole's durability is a standout feature, making it a reliable choice for long-distance trail running.
The New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v6 fits true to size, with a roomy toe box that accommodates various foot shapes. The shoe's semi-bootie fit helps keep dirt and debris out while ensuring the tongue stays in place. Some reviewers noted that the shoe feels snug out of the box but becomes more comfortable after a break-in period. The ample padding in the upper and collar adds to the overall comfort, making it suitable for long runs.
Comfort is a key feature of the New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v6. The shoe's Fresh Foam midsole provides a plush and cushioned ride, ideal for long-distance runs. The upper is well-padded, with a thick tongue and collar that enhance comfort. However, the shoe's breathability could be improved, as some users found it runs warm in hot weather conditions. Overall, the Hierro v6 is designed to offer a comfortable and protective experience on the trails.
The New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v6 excels in cushioning, thanks to its Fresh Foam midsole. This material provides a soft and responsive ride, absorbing impact and protecting the feet on rocky and uneven terrains. The 8 mm heel-to-toe drop ensures a smooth transition from heel to toe, making it suitable for various running styles. The cushioning is particularly appreciated on long-distance runs, where it helps reduce fatigue and enhance comfort.
Breathability is an area where the New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v6 could improve. While the engineered mesh upper offers some ventilation, the shoe's overall breathability is limited due to the ample padding in the upper and collar. This can make the shoe feel warm in hot weather conditions. However, the semi-bootie fit helps keep dirt and debris out, which is a plus for trail running.
The New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v6 offers excellent stability, thanks to its wide base and supportive midsole. The shoe's Fresh Foam midsole provides a balanced ride, absorbing impact and protecting the feet on rocky and uneven terrains. The Vibram MegaGrip outsole enhances grip and stability, making it suitable for various trail conditions. The shoe's reinforced toe and durable build add to its protective features, ensuring a stable and secure fit.
Durability is a standout feature of the New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v6. The shoe's Vibram MegaGrip outsole is known for its long-lasting performance, providing excellent traction on both wet and dry surfaces. The engineered mesh upper is durable and reinforced with overlays for added protection. The shoe's overall build quality ensures it can withstand the rigors of trail running, making it a reliable choice for long-distance runs.
The Vibram MegaGrip outsole of the New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v6 ensures excellent traction on both wet and dry surfaces. The flat, broad lugs provide more contact area with the ground, enhancing grip and stability. However, some users wished for more aggressive lugs for better performance on technical terrains. The outsole's grip is particularly appreciated on rocky and uneven trails, where it helps maintain stability and control.
Flexibility is an area where the New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v6 could improve. The shoe's overall rigidity can make it challenging to navigate technical terrains and steep climbs. However, the rigidity pairs well with the soft Fresh Foam midsole, providing a balanced ride that is stable and protective. The shoe's limited flexibility is a slight drawback, but it does not significantly impact its overall performance on moderate trails.
The New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v6 is ideal for trail runners who prioritize comfort and protection. It's a great choice for those who run on moderate trails and need a shoe that can handle both road and trail surfaces. Runners who appreciate a cushioned ride and durable build will find this shoe suitable for long-distance runs. Additionally, those who value a roomy fit and reinforced toe for added protection will benefit from this model.
Runners who prefer lightweight and highly flexible shoes may not find the New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v6 suitable. Its heavier weight and limited flexibility can be a drawback for those who run on technical terrains or require a more agile shoe. If breathability is a top priority, this shoe may not be the best choice due to its ample padding. For those seeking a more aggressive lug pattern, other trail shoes might be a better fit.
The New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v6 is good for trail running on moderate terrains. Its cushioned midsole and durable outsole make it suitable for everyday running and long-distance runs. The shoe's protective features, such as the reinforced toe and Vibram MegaGrip outsole, are ideal for rocky and uneven trails. Additionally, its comfortable fit and cushioning make it a good option for speed training and road-to-trail transitions.
Yes, the New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v6 can handle road running thanks to its cushioned midsole and modest lug design. It's a good option for runners who need a shoe for road-to-trail transitions.
The New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v6 fits true to size with a roomy toe box. Some users find it snug out of the box, but it becomes more comfortable after a break-in period.
The standard version of the New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v6 is not waterproof. However, the New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v6 GTX features a GORE-TEX upper, making it waterproof and suitable for wet conditions.
The New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v6 is best suited for moderate trails with rocky and uneven surfaces. Its Vibram MegaGrip outsole provides excellent traction, while the cushioned midsole offers comfort and protection.
The New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v6 features a lighter weight and a redesigned upper for a more supportive fit compared to the New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v5. The lacing system has also been updated for improved performance.
β ββ Now viewing New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v6 | ||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
bestDeal | Show prices | |||||
priceBand | Price band | |||||
similarity | Similarity | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar | ||
released | ReleasedFeb 2021 | Jun 2022 | Jun 2022 | Dec 2023 | Dec 2022 | Jul 2023 |
expertReviewScore | Expert Review Scoreβ β | β β | β β | β β | β β | β β |
productAthletes | Pro athlete users | |||||
Weight | WeightM: 337 g W: 281 g | 298 g | 303 g | M: 264 g W: 224 g | M: 252 g W: 218 g | M: 286 g W: 249 g |
Forefoot | Forefoot20 mm | 21 mm | 27 mm | 29 mm | 26 mm | 30 mm |
Heel to toe drop | Heel to toe drop8 mm | 8 mm | 5 mm | 9 mm | ||
Heel | Heel28 mm | 29 mm | 27 mm | 29 mm | 31 mm | 38 mm |
Usages | UsagesRacingSpeed training | RacingSpeed training | Daily runningRacingSpeed training | RacingSpeed training | RacingSpeed training | RacingSpeed training |
Brand | BrandNew Balance | New Balance | Altra | Altra | Hoka | Nike |
Shoe Type | Shoe Type | Low dropZero drop | Low dropZero drop | ComfortableMaximalist | ||
Breathable | Breathable | |||||
Carbon fiber plate | Carbon fiber plate | |||||
Techs | TechsNew Balance Fresh FoamVibram | New Balance Fresh FoamVibram | Vibram | Vibram | ||
Environmental Characteristics | Environmental CharacteristicsSustainable | Sustainable | Sustainable | |||
Common characteristicsTrailNeutralNeutral pronationFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeHigh archOrthotic friendlyRemovable insole |
Characteristics | |
---|---|
Sports | Running (+2049) |
Terrain | Trail (+533) |
Usages | Racing (+183)Speed training (+302) |
Brand | New Balance (+125) |
Support Type | Neutral (+1603) |
Pronation Type | Neutral pronation (+1578) |
Strike Type | Fore/Midfoot strike (+1116)Heel strike (+1097) |
Arch Type | High arch (+1525) |
Fit | Wide toe box (+273) |
Features | Orthotic friendly (+456)Removable insole (+439) |
Materials | Mesh (+942) |
Techs | New Balance Fresh Foam (+63)Vibram (+84) |
Events | 10k (+711)5K and 10K (+135)Half marathon (+711)Marathon (+711)Obstacle course racing (+168) |
Environmental Characteristics | Sustainable (+175) |
Colorways | Betonfarben, Black, Blue / Black / Grey, Brown, Burgundy, Green, Green / Grey / White, Grey / Blue / Turquoise / Black, Mountain Teal Blaze, Purple |
Specifications | vs Average | |
---|---|---|
Model | v6 | |
Released | Feb 2021 | |
Measurements | ||
Weight | M: 337 g W: 281 g | |
Heel to toe drop | 8 mm | |
Heel | 28 mm | |
Forefoot | 20 mm |