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

In this review of the Fresh Foam Arishi v4, the bottom line is simple: these are versatile road running shoes for women who want a lightweight, cushioned daily trainer that also works as an everyday sneaker. The biggest reason to buy is the Fresh Foam midsole, which delivers an ultra-cushioned, comfortable ride while keeping weight low thanks to about 3% bio-based content. The reviewer finds the blend of breathable mesh, an EVA foam insert, and a durable rubber outsole makes these shoes feel polished enough for casual wear while still offering enough performance for light runs and urban training.

Key Features

• Fresh Foam midsole: Precision engineered cushioning provides a soft, responsive ride that reduces fatigue during long walks or shorter runs.
• Bio-based content: About 3% of the midsole comes from renewable resources, which helps lower the carbon footprint without sacrificing cushioning.
• GORE-TEX waterproof fabric: A protective layer keeps feet dry in rain and wind while maintaining reasonable breathability for wet-weather use.
• Breathable mesh upper: Lightweight mesh promotes airflow so feet stay cooler on warmer days or during moderate activity.
• Forefoot flex grooves: Engineered grooves allow a more natural toe-off and make the shoe feel more nimble during short runs or everyday movement.
• EVA foam insert: Added underfoot padding increases comfort for standing, walking, or recovery runs.

Who It's For

These shoes suit women who want a comfortable, everyday running shoe that doubles as a casual sneaker. They are a good match for runners who do road miles, weekday gym sessions, or regular walks and value a lightweight, cushioned feel with a protected upper for damp conditions.

They are less appropriate for runners seeking maximal stability or aggressive heel lockdown for speedwork, and those who need very wide toe boxes or heavy-duty trail traction should look elsewhere. Sizing can run mixed, so buyers who require exact fit precision may want to try them on first.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable, well-padded Fresh Foam midsole that keeps runs smooth and reduces impact.
• Lightweight construction and breathable mesh make these shoes easy to wear all day.
• GORE-TEX waterproofing protects feet in wet weather without being overly heavy.

Cons

• Sizing feedback is mixed; some find the fit runs small or narrow, so fit checks are recommended.
• Some users report uneven heel support, so they may not satisfy runners seeking strong heel stability.

Specifications

Brand	New Balance
Model	Fresh Foam Arishi v4
Midsole	Fresh Foam 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 Fresh Foam Arishi v4 is a strong value for women who want a comfortable, lightweight road shoe that also performs as a stylish daily trainer. With a cushioned Fresh Foam midsole, waterproofing, and a breathable upper, it suits light running, recovery days, and everyday wear - just check sizing and heel feel if you need a very precise fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes waterproof?
Yes, the upper uses GORE-TEX waterproof fabric to protect feet from rain and wind while retaining breathability.

Do they run true to size?
Customer feedback is mixed; some wearers find them true to size while others report a slightly small or narrow fit, so trying them on is advised.

Are they good for long runs?
They offer comfortable cushioning suitable for shorter to moderate road runs and recovery miles, though runners seeking heavy-duty support for long or fast sessions may prefer more specialized models.