New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running vs Saucony Women's Cohesion 15 Running Shoe, Black/Meadow, 9
Updated August 2026 — New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running wins on weight and cushioning, Saucony Women's Cohesion 15 Running Shoe, Black/Meadow, 9 wins on price.
The New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 V9 offers superior lightweight design and responsive cushioning, making it the better choice for serious runners. However, the Saucony Women's Cohesion 15 provides excellent value at a lower price.
Why New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running is better
Weight
Fresh Foam 520 V9 is lighter at just over 200 grams.
Cushioning
Fresh Foam 520 V9 has responsive fresh foam cushioning.
Design
Fresh Foam 520 V9 features a vibrant color scheme.
Why Saucony Women's Cohesion 15 Running Shoe, Black/Meadow, 9 is better
Price
Cohesion 15 is priced at $50.54.
Durability
Cohesion 15 is designed for extensive mileage.
Vegan Materials
Cohesion 15 uses recycled upper materials.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running | Saucony Women's Cohesion 15 Running Shoe, Black/Meadow, 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Current Price | $59.99 | $50.54 |
| Sales Rank | 3173 | 17375 |
| Cushion Type | Fresh Foam | VERSARUN |
| Upper Material | Mesh | Mesh |
| Outsole Type | Rubber | Rubber |
Dimension comparison
Design and Aesthetics
When it comes to design and aesthetics, the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe offers a sleek look with a color scheme of Black, Castlerock, and Metallic Rose. In contrast, the Saucony Women's Cohesion 15 Running Shoe features a more understated design in Black and Meadow. The Fresh Foam 520 V9's vibrant color accents are ideal for those who prefer a stylish flair in their running gear, while the Cohesion 15's simple color palette appeals to minimalists. Both shoes prioritize a modern look, but the Fresh Foam 520 V9 stands out for those looking for a touch of personality.
Comfort and Cushioning
The New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 V9 excels in comfort thanks to its fresh foam cushioning, designed to provide responsive comfort over long runs. Meanwhile, the Saucony Women's Cohesion 15 features VERSARUN cushioning, which absorbs impact and reduces pressure for a comfortable stride. While both shoes prioritize cushioning, the Fresh Foam 520 V9's focus on responsive comfort may make it more appealing for longer distances. However, the Cohesion 15 also provides generous cushioning suitable for various running conditions, making both options strong contenders for comfort.
Weight and Performance
The Fresh Foam 520 V9 is lightweight, weighing just over 200 grams, which is a significant advantage for runners seeking speed and agility. The Saucony Cohesion 15, while not detailed in weight, is designed for durability and performance with a focus on a smooth running experience. The lighter weight of the Fresh Foam 520 V9 makes it ideal for those who prioritize performance and speed in their running sessions. In this category, the New Balance shoe has a clear edge for those focused on lighter footwear.
Breathability
Breathability is a strong point in both shoes, but the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 V9 specifically highlights its breathable mesh construction, keeping feet cool and dry during workouts. The Saucony Women's Cohesion 15 also features a light and breathable mesh upper, ensuring comfort during runs. While both shoes effectively manage moisture and temperature, the emphasis on breathability in the Fresh Foam 520 V9 might provide a slight advantage for runners in warmer climates or those who sweat more during exercise.
Durability and Traction
When it comes to durability and traction, the New Balance 520 V9 uses a durable rubber outsole to provide reliable grip on various running surfaces. The Saucony Cohesion 15 also features a rubber outsole that draws inspiration from trusted styles, ensuring it can withstand extensive mileage. Both shoes are designed to offer long-lasting performance, but the Fresh Foam 520 V9's specific mention of traction on diverse surfaces may make it a better choice for runners who often change terrains.
Price Comparison
The New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 V9 is priced at $59.99, while the Saucony Women's Cohesion 15 is available for $50.54, making the Cohesion 15 about 17% cheaper than the Fresh Foam 520 V9. While budget-conscious buyers may lean toward the less expensive option, it's essential to consider the features and performance each shoe brings to the table. The price difference reflects varying design features and technologies, which may influence a buyer's decision based on their specific running requirements and preferences.
Sales Rank and Popularity
In terms of sales rank, the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 V9 holds a position of 3173, indicating a solid presence in the market. Conversely, the Saucony Women's Cohesion 15 has a sales rank of 17375, suggesting it may not be as popular among consumers. This difference in popularity could reflect various factors, including brand loyalty, marketing, or specific features that appeal to the running community. The higher sales rank of the Fresh Foam 520 V9 may suggest a more favorable reception among users, which could be an important consideration for potential buyers.
Which should you buy?
Ultimately, your choice between the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 V9 and the Saucony Women's Cohesion 15 will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize a lightweight design, responsive cushioning, and stylish aesthetics, the Fresh Foam 520 V9 is likely the better option for you. However, if affordability, good cushioning, and solid performance are your main criteria, the Cohesion 15 offers great value at a lower price point. Both shoes have their strengths, so consider what features matter most to you before making a decision.

