The New Balance 978 provides moderate arch support. There is no traditional medial post but there are several other features which combine to provide both stability and support. There is a TPU plate called Rockstop whihc runs from the forefoot to the midooft that provides the majority of stability. In addition, the Rollbar in the heel includes bilateral pieces of TPU that rest on a piece of graphite. The combination of these three pieces provide plenty of support for your heel.

So will there is nothing in the shoe that is directly acting on your arch, the overall platform of the shoe has been built to provide stability and support.

-Bryan Gothie, NB Product Manager

I would hesitate to say that all New Balance runs narrow, it really depends on the last that is used as well as the materials used in construction. On the WT909OR, the combination of our SL-1 last and the TPU on the toe creates a fuller fitting toe box. This is great for toe splay as well as swelling when running. If you have "really narrow feet" as you mentioned, I would recommend tracking these down in a 2A width instead. I think this would come closer to providing you with the proper fit for which I am sure that you are looking. Backcountry should be able to order them from New Balance if they are not in stock.
- Bryan Gothie, NB Product Manager - Outdoor

Hi Kelly,
There a few things that separate the 909 from the 875. The 909 was intended to be a "bigger" shoe with more support in the upper than the 875 as a result of the N-Lock webbing system, more overlays and an asymmetric design that provides added medial support. To go with the added structure of the upper, the soleunit of the 909 features 2 layers of foam. The top layer is a low density, high cushion foam. The bottom layer (red in the photo) is a higher density, less cushioned foam that is stiff enough to provide forefoot protection, midfoot stability and bilateral heel support. The 875 doesn't feature any additional support features as it is intended for a runner with a neutral gait. With all the added features, the 909 is intended for a runner looking for some added stability. The trade-off is weight though as the 909 does weigh more but you get added protection and support that provides some runners with added confidence on more aggressive terrain. Hope this helps. Please let me know if you have any more questions.
- Bryan Gothie, New Balance Product Manager

The New Balance 1520 was made in China.

Ryan,

Sorry to correct you but it is actually 12 oz per shoe. A 6 oz shoe would be something along the lines of a lightweight track spike.

Bryan Gothie - NB Outdoor Product Manager

Hi Laurel,

Unfortunately, this shoe was not made in a 2A width. However, it was built on a last that was originally used on cross country and track spikes so it tends to fit a little snugger to begin with. Hope that helps.

Bryan Gothie - NB Outdoor Product Manager