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

In this review of the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe the bottom line is clear: this is a daily trainer for women who want lightweight cushioning plus weather protection. The shoe stands out for its Fresh Foam midsole that delivers an ultra-cushioned, low-weight ride and includes a small amount of bio-based content, making it a good pick for runners and walkers who prioritize comfort and value for everyday use. It is best-suited to road running, gym sessions, and casual wear where dependable cushioning and a breathable, water-resistant upper matter most.

Key Features

• Fresh Foam midsole: provides an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride with approximately 3% bio-based content to reduce carbon footprint.
• GORE-TEX waterproof fabric: protects feet from wind and rain while maintaining breathability for wet-weather use.
• Breathable mesh upper: offers everyday ventilation and a sport-inspired look that works for workouts or casual wear.
• Forefoot flex grooves: let the foot move more naturally for a smoother toe-off during runs or walks.
• EVA foam insert: adds extra underfoot comfort for longer training sessions or all-day wear.
• Durable rubber outsole: delivers traction and longevity on pavement and urban surfaces.

Who It's For

The New Balance Women's Fresh Foam Arishi V4 is aimed at women seeking a versatile road running shoe that transitions easily from short runs to gym workouts and everyday errands. Its combination of lightweight Fresh Foam cushioning and a breathable, water-resistant GORE-TEX upper makes it ideal for commuters who need protection from light rain without sacrificing comfort.

Runners who need aggressive stability or high-mileage training shoes with maximal cushioning and structured arch support should consider other models. Also, those who require a roomy toe box may want to try this on first, since customer feedback on fit and toe space is mixed.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable, lightweight cushioning from the Fresh Foam midsole suitable for daily runs and workouts.
• Reliable weather protection from the GORE-TEX waterproof fabric while retaining breathability.
• Attractive, sport-inspired styling and durable construction that work well for casual wear.

Cons

• Fit runs mixed among customers; some report the toe area feels a bit tight, so sizing try-on is advised.
• Cushioning and support are moderate; runners seeking very plush or high-arch support may find it less substantial than expected.

Specifications

Model	Fresh Foam Arishi V4
Gender	Women's
Midsole	Fresh Foam with ~3% bio-based content
Upper	Breathable mesh with GORE-TEX waterproof fabric
Insole	EVA foam insert
Outsole	Durable rubber
Use	Road running, gym, everyday wear

Our Verdict

The Fresh Foam Arishi V4 is a solid choice for women who want a lightweight, weather-ready daily trainer with comfortable cushioning and a clean athletic look. It represents good value for runners and commuters who need breathable waterproofing and dependable everyday comfort, though those needing a wider toe box or heavy-duty arch support should evaluate fit carefully before buying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes truly waterproof?
Yes, the shoe uses GORE-TEX fabric to protect against wind and rain while maintaining breathability for everyday wet-weather use.

Do they run true to size?
Customer feedback is mixed; many find them true to size but some report a snug toe area, so trying them on or checking return options is recommended.

Is the cushioning suitable for long runs?
The Fresh Foam midsole provides lightweight, comfortable cushioning for daily runs and gym use, but runners seeking maximal plushness for long high-mileage training may prefer a more heavily cushioned model.