The New Balance Fresh Foam X Evoz V4 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The New Balance Fresh Foam X Evoz v4 is a running shoe designed for those who prioritize comfort and breathability. Its plush upper, featuring a semi-gusseted tongue and well-cushioned heel padding, enhances the overall fit, making it suitable for long-distance runners.

However, lab evaluations revealed a noteworthy weight that may not appeal to all users, and traction on slick surfaces was below expectations. Additionally, the snug fit could feel restrictive for some runners, potentially impacting their experience during runs.


Pros

  • Value-packed price
  • Surprisingly stable underfoot feel
  • Breathable, premium-feel upper
  • Semi-gusseted tongue improves lockdown
  • Ideal for midfoot strikers
  • Great step-in comfort from day one
  • Best New Balance under 100 bucks

Cons

  • Lower drop won't suit everyone
  • Noticeably heavier and stiffer than its predecessor
  • Not for wide feet
  • Grips falls short on slick surfaces

Key Features

  • Fresh Foam X Midsole: This innovative foam has approximately 3% bio-based content, offering the most cushioned experience in the Fresh Foam range while helping to reduce your carbon footprint.
  • Gusseted Tongue: Designed to keep debris out, enhancing your running experience by maintaining a clean fit.
  • Molded Footbed: Increases overall comfort and provides additional support during your runs.
  • Premium Zonal Cushioning: Targeted cushioning ensures support where you need it most, improving performance across various terrains.

Specifications

  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole Material: Rubber
  • Outer Material: Mesh
  • Inner Material: Cotton

New Balance Fresh Foam X Evoz V4 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

New Balance Fresh Foam X Evoz v4 Hoka Kawana 2 Topo Phantom 3 ASICS Noosa Tri 16
Price $100 $140 $145 $135
Pace Daily running Daily running Daily running Daily running
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 10.1 oz / 286g 10.5 oz / 298g 9.5 oz / 269g 7.7 oz / 217g
Lightweight
Drop lab Drop brand 5.5 mm 5.2 mm 5.8 mm 5.9 mm
Strike pattern Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot
Size True to size True to size True to size Half size small
Midsole softness Soft Balanced Soft Soft
Difference in midsole softness in cold Small Normal Big Small
Toebox durability Decent Decent Decent Bad
Heel padding durability Decent Good Good Good
Outsole durability Decent Good Good Decent
Breathability Moderate Moderate Moderate Breathable
Width / fit Medium Narrow Medium Wide
Toebox width Medium Narrow Wide Wide
Stiffness Stiff Stiff Moderate Moderate
Torsional rigidity Stiff Moderate Stiff Stiff
Heel counter stiffness Stiff Stiff Stiff Moderate
Heel lab Heel brand 31.4 mm 33.2 mm 32.6 mm 32.8 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 25.9 mm 28.0 mm 26.8 mm 26.9 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season All seasons All seasons All seasons Summer
Removable insole
Ranking Bottom 22% Bottom 39% Top 27% Bottom 34%
Popularity Top 23% Top 15% Top 48% Top 35%