Our verdict

We really liked the nonnative new balance 996 cm996nns grey black release date info for its versatility on the trails—it's great for many different outdoor activities. Though it has a few drawbacks like a disappointing tongue and some issues with breathability, if you're okay with that, we think you'll enjoy its super comfy ride and durable-yet-grippy Vibram outsole. Overall, we think it's a great upgrade in the Hierro series!

zapatillas de running New Balance hombre talla 30.5 negras Pros

  • Superb Vibram outsole
  • Exceptionally plush ride
  • Remarkably flexible
  • Luxuriously-soft Fresh Foam X
  • Reasonably priced
  • Excellent for winter
  • Rare sustainable features
  • New Balance 1500 "1200" Custom
  • Doubles as a great hiking shoe

zapatillas de running New Balance hombre talla 30.5 negras Cons

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

Audience verdict

77
Decent!

Who should buy

We're convinced that the nonnative new balance 996 cm996nns grey black release date info is an excellent pick for:

  • Comfort-seekers who value a plush midsole above all in a trail shoe.
  • zapatillas de running New Balance hombre talla 30.5 negras.
  • Hierro series enthusiasts eager to upgrade to the latest model for its familiar flexibility and versatility.

nonnative new balance 996 cm996nns grey black release date info

New Balance 288SV1 Trampki

We're convinced the nonnative new balance 996 cm996nns grey black release date info 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 Dos de los atletas profesionales más reconocidos e integrantes del Team New Balance como son 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 New Balance 0 boys's Shoes Trainers in Black, or opting for the Merrell Nova 3 for a more balanced approach.

nonnative new balance 996 cm996nns grey black release date info parts

zapatillas de running New Balance hombre talla 30.5 negras | 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 Inch everywhere but the toebox. However, despite apparent ventilation holes in that area, smoke remained trapped inside during our tests.

new balance 120 days.

nonnative new balance 996 cm996nns grey black release date info microscope

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.

nonnative new balance 996 cm996nns grey black release date info mesh

We also noted the Inch's tragic 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.

Test results
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 2
Average 3.3
Compared to 82 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

The nonnative new balance 996 cm996nns grey black release date info 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 Inch, 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.

nonnative new balance 996 cm996nns grey black release date info Toebox durability
Test results
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 1
Average 3
Compared to 62 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Toebox durability
5

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.

nonnative new balance 996 cm996nns grey black release date info Heel padding durability
Test results
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 2
Average 2.9
Compared to 60 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel padding durability
5

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.

nonnative new balance 996 cm996nns grey black release date info 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.

nonnative new balance 996 cm996nns grey black release date info Outsole hardness
Test results
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 81.5 HC
Average 85.4 HC
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 105 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
72.5 HC
Outsole hardness
95.0 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.

nonnative new balance 996 cm996nns grey black release date info Outsole durability
Test results
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 0.7 mm
Average 0.9 mm
Compared to 55 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

zapatillas de running New Balance hombre talla 30.5 negras | 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.

nonnative new balance 996 cm996nns grey black release date info Outsole thickness
Test results
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 3.0 mm
Average 2.4 mm
Compared to 105 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
0.9 mm
Outsole thickness
6.5 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.

nonnative new balance 996 cm996nns grey black release date info Weight
Test results
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 10.51 oz (298g)
Average 10.30 oz (292g)
Compared to 105 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
7.51 oz (213g)
Weight
13.37 oz (379g)

Cushioning

Heel stack

While the Hierro v8's 32.2 mm heel stack doesn't place it in the maximalist category like the New Balance 890s, 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.

nonnative new balance 996 cm996nns grey black release date info Heel stack
Test results
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 32.2 mm
Average 32.2 mm
Compared to 105 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
16.1 mm
Heel stack
42.4 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.

nonnative new balance 996 cm996nns grey black release date info Forefoot stack
Test results
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 24.1 mm
Average 24.5 mm
Compared to 105 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
15.2 mm
Forefoot stack
33.9 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.

nonnative new balance 996 cm996nns grey black release date info Drop
Test results
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 8.1 mm
Average 7.8 mm
Compared to 104 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
-0.1 mm
Drop
17.3 mm

Insole thickness

The insole is crafted from recycled materials—hence its unique mix of colors—and measures 5.0 mm in thickness.

nonnative new balance 996 cm996nns grey black release date info Insole thickness
Test results
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 5.0 mm
Average 4.7 mm
Compared to 105 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
2.7 mm
Insole thickness
9.8 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

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.

nonnative new balance 996 cm996nns grey black release date info run

Additionally, don't expect significant energy return. Fresh Foam X, while being New Balance's premier training foam, prioritizes comfort over bounce.

nonnative new balance 996 cm996nns grey black release date info Midsole softness
Test results
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 9.1 HA
Average 22.7 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 81 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
9.1 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
39.0 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.

nonnative new balance 996 cm996nns grey black release date info Difference in midsole softness in cold
Test results
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 31.9%
Average 26.5%
Compared to 81 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Difference in midsole softness in cold
100%

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

New Balance Zapatillas 997 para hombre

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.

Test results
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 2
Average 3.5
Compared to 99 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Torsional rigidity
5

brand new with original box New Balance WS327LA

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.

Test results
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 3
Average 3.2
Compared to 97 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
brand new with original box New Balance WS327LA
5

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.

nonnative new balance 996 cm996nns grey black release date info Midsole width in the forefoot
Test results
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 113.2 mm
Average 112.0 mm
Compared to 105 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
102.1 mm
Midsole width in the forefoot
126.0 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.

nonnative new balance 996 cm996nns grey black release date info Midsole width in the heel
Test results
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 91.9 mm
Average 89.7 mm
Compared to 105 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
77.2 mm
Midsole width in the heel
109.3 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.

Test results
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 14.9N
Average 28.1N
We use an average of four tests. The video shows one of those tests.
Compared to 105 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
10.5N
Stiffness
54.5N

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.

Test results
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 17.6%
Average 35.2%
Compared to 102 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Difference in stiffness in cold
102%

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.

nonnative new balance 996 cm996nns grey black release date info lugs

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.

nonnative new balance 996 cm996nns grey black release date info Lug depth
Test results
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 4.0 mm
Average 3.5 mm
Compared to 105 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1.7 mm
Lug depth
5.8 mm

Size and fit

New Balance M5740TA

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.

nonnative new balance 996 cm996nns grey black release date info Inch

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.

nonnative new balance 996 cm996nns grey black release date info New Balance M5740TA
Test results
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 97.9 mm
Average 98.8 mm
Compared to 105 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
92.0 mm
New Balance M5740TA
104.9 mm

New Balance 570 Bungee Running Shoes

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.

nonnative new balance 996 cm996nns grey black release date info New Balance 570 Bungee Running Shoes
Test results
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 78.6 mm
Average 78.9 mm
Compared to 67 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
70.5 mm
New Balance 570 Bungee Running Shoes
92.1 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.

nonnative new balance 996 cm996nns grey black release date info Tongue: gusset type
Test results
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.

nonnative new balance 996 cm996nns grey black release date info tongue

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.

nonnative new balance 996 cm996nns grey black release date info Tongue padding
Test results
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 6.6 mm
Average 6.4 mm
Compared to 105 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1.5 mm
Tongue padding
12.2 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.

nonnative new balance 996 cm996nns grey black release date info Heel tab
Test results
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 Finger loop

Removable insole

We LK1 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.

nonnative new balance 996 cm996nns grey black release date info Removable insole
Test results
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.

nonnative new balance 996 cm996nns grey black release date info Reflective elements
Test results
Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 No