New Balance Women's Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe - Cushioned our

In this review of the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe the bottom line is simple: these are a comfortable, stylish option for runners and daily walkers who want a lightweight, cushioned shoe that works for both workouts and casual wear. The single biggest reason to buy is the Fresh Foam midsole, which pairs an ultra-cushioned feel with a surprisingly light footprint and about 3% bio-based content for reduced environmental impact. The reviewer found the shoe versatile enough for road running, gym sessions, and all-day wear while noting the fit can vary by foot shape.

Key Features

• Fresh Foam midsole: Delivers an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride that helps soften impact on pavement and during gym sessions.
• Bio-based content: Approximately 3% of the midsole foam is made from renewable resources, which slightly reduces the shoe's carbon footprint.
• GORE-TEX waterproof fabric: Protects feet from wind, rain and water without sacrificing breathability for wet-weather runs or chores.
• Forefoot flex grooves: Allow the toes and forefoot to move more freely and naturally for a smoother toe-off.
• Breathable mesh upper: Keeps the shoe feeling lighter and helps airflow during workouts and everyday wear.
• EVA foam insert: Adds an extra layer of cushioning and underfoot comfort for longer periods on your feet.

Who It's For

These shoes are best for women who want a multi-use running shoe that doubles as a casual everyday sneaker. Runners doing road miles at easy to moderate paces, gym-goers, and commuters who face occasional rain will appreciate the waterproof GORE-TEX and the cushioned Fresh Foam midsole.

Shoppers seeking maximalist cushioning or a very wide toe box should look elsewhere; some customers report a slightly snug fit in the toe area and mixed impressions about arch support. Those needing very firm stability features for overpronation may prefer a more structured stability model.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable, lightweight Fresh Foam midsole provides soft, responsive cushioning for everyday runs and walks.
• GORE-TEX waterproofing keeps feet dry in wet conditions while maintaining breathability.
• Durable rubber outsole and breathable mesh upper balance longevity and ventilation for varied use.

Cons

• Fit and sizing are mixed; some users find the toe box a bit tight, so trying before committing is advisable.
• Cushioning and arch support receive varied feedback, so athletes needing pronounced support may find it insufficient.

Specifications

Brand	New Balance
Model	Fresh Foam Arishi V4
Gender	Women
Midsole	Fresh Foam with ~3% bio-based content
Upper	Breathable mesh with GORE-TEX waterproof fabric
Insole	EVA foam insert for added comfort
Outsole	Durable rubber

Our Verdict

The New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi V4 is a solid everyday running shoe for women who want a lightweight, cushioned ride and reliable wet-weather protection. It offers strong value for casual runners and commuters, though those needing wide toe boxes or firmer support should evaluate fit carefully before buying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes waterproof?
Yes, the Arishi V4 uses GORE-TEX fabric to protect feet from wind and rain while remaining breathable.

Do they run true to size?
Fit is mixed; many find them true to size but some report a tighter toe area, so try them on if possible.

Is the cushioning good for long runs?
The Fresh Foam midsole provides a comfortable, lightweight cushion suitable for easy to moderate long runs, though runners seeking maximal cushioning or strong arch support may prefer another model.