New Balance Fresh Foam X More V4 Running Shoe - Ultra Cushioning

In this review of the Fresh Foam X More V4, the bottom line is simple: runners who prioritize maximum cushioning and day-long comfort will appreciate this shoe. The reviewer found the Fresh Foam X midsole-formulated with approximately 3% bio-based content-delivers the most plush ride in New Balance's Fresh Foam line while maintaining a surprisingly stable platform. This shoe is best for road runners, recovery miles, and anyone wanting a soft, protective feel; it is a comfort-first running shoe rather than a sharp racer or minimalist trainer.

Key Features

• Fresh Foam X midsole: Provides the most cushioned Fresh Foam experience to date for exceptional comfort on long or easy runs.
• Bio-based midsole content: Incorporates about 3% renewable materials to reduce environmental impact without sacrificing performance.
• Engineered mesh upper: Keeps the shoe lightweight and breathable while offering a secure, adaptive fit for varying foot shapes.
• Large rocker and wider platform: Smooths footstrike transitions and improves balance between cushion and support over road surfaces.
• Rubber outsole: Delivers reliable traction and durability for regular road running use.

Who It's For

The Fresh Foam X More V4 suits runners who want maximum cushioning for recovery days, long easy runs, or anyone spending lots of time on their feet. Its plush midsole and smoother rocker make it especially appealing to road runners who prefer a protected, forgiving ride.

Runners seeking a fast, responsive race shoe or a low-profile minimalist trainer should look elsewhere, as this silhouette prioritizes comfort over lightweight speed and close-to-ground feel.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Exceptional cushioning from the Fresh Foam X midsole for shock absorption and comfort.
• Breathable engineered mesh upper that keeps weight down and fit comfortable.
• Wider platform and generous rocker create stable, smooth transitions on road surfaces.
• Use of bio-based midsole content shows a modest move toward greener materials.

Cons

• Not optimized for speed; heavier, ultra-cushioned feel limits race performance.
• Approximate 4 mm drop may vary slightly due to manufacturing tolerances.

Specifications

Brand	New Balance
Model	Fresh Foam X More V4
Midsole	Fresh Foam X with ~3% bio-based content
Upper	Engineered mesh
Outsole	Rubber sole
Drop	Approximate 4 mm
Intended use	Road running, recovery and high-cushion comfort

Our Verdict

The Fresh Foam X More V4 is a strong choice for runners and walkers who want a highly cushioned, comfortable road shoe that still offers stability through a wider platform and a larger rocker. It represents good value for those prioritizing protection and comfort over lightweight speed, and the small amount of bio-based material is a sensible step toward sustainability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this shoe good for long runs?
Yes. The maximal Fresh Foam X cushioning and smooth rocker make it well suited to long, easy road runs and recovery miles.

How breathable is the upper?
The engineered mesh upper is designed to be lightweight and breathable, providing a comfortable fit in regular training conditions.

Is the shoe stable despite the extra cushioning?
Yes. A wider platform and larger rocker help maintain balance and smoother transitions, giving a stable feel despite the plush midsole.