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

In this review of the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, the bottom line is simple: these are versatile, comfortable shoes for everyday runs and casual wear that prioritize a soft, lightweight ride. The single biggest reason to buy is the Fresh Foam midsole, which delivers a noticeably cushioned feel without adding bulk, making the shoe a good pick for runners and walkers who want reliable daily comfort and a sporty look. The review highlights fit notes and where the Arishi V4 fits in a running shoe rotation.

Key Features

• Fresh Foam midsole: Provides an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride with approximately 3% bio-based content to reduce environmental impact.
• GORE-TEX waterproof fabric: Keeps feet protected from wind and rain while maintaining breathability for wet-weather use.
• Breathable mesh upper: Aids airflow during activity so the shoe feels less stuffy during workouts or long days on your feet.
• Forefoot flex grooves: Allow the front of the foot to move more naturally, improving comfort during the toe-off phase of running.
• EVA foam insert: Adds an extra layer of underfoot comfort for everyday wear and recovery runs.
• Durable rubber outsole: Provides reliable traction and long-wearing durability for road running and daily use.

Who It's For

The Arishi V4 suits women who want a lightweight, cushioned shoe for daily runs, gym sessions, and casual wear; its sport-inspired styling also makes it an easy choice for commuting or errands. Runners who prioritize a soft ride and breathable upper, plus occasional wet-weather protection thanks to the GORE-TEX, will appreciate the balance of comfort and utility.

Those seeking a maximalist cushioning system or a highly structured stability shoe should look elsewhere, since the Arishi balances cushioning and responsiveness rather than offering aggressive support. Also, shoppers with wide toe boxes may want to try these on first, as some customers report a snug feel in the forefoot.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable and lightweight ride from the Fresh Foam midsole that fits daily miles and recovery runs.
• GORE-TEX waterproofing keeps feet dry in wet conditions without making the shoe overly hot.
• Attractive, sport-inspired appearance that works for workouts and everyday wear.
• Durable outsole and breathable upper combine for long wearability.

Cons

• Fit runs mixed for some users, with a few finding the toe area a bit tight compared to expectations.
• Support and cushioning are adequate for many, but not as pronounced as in higher-cushion or stability models.

Specifications

Brand	New Balance
Model	Fresh Foam Arishi V4
Midsole	Fresh Foam with ~3% bio-based content
Upper	Breathable mesh with GORE-TEX waterproof fabric
Insole	EVA foam insert
Outsole	Durable rubber for road use
Intended use	Road running, gym, everyday wear

Our Verdict

The New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi V4 is a strong choice for women seeking a comfortable, lightweight daily trainer with wet-weather protection and casual style. It represents good value for runners who want a soft, reliable ride and a shoe that transitions well from workouts to everyday life, provided you check the fit if you need extra toe room or stronger arch support.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Do they run true to size?
Fit is mixed in customer reports: many find them true to size, but some people experience a tighter feel in the toe area, so trying them on is advised.

Is the cushioning suitable for long runs?
The Fresh Foam midsole offers a cushioned, lightweight ride suitable for daily runs and recovery miles, though runners wanting maximal cushioning may prefer a different model.