Verdict from 100+ user reviews
8 reasons to buy
- Most users were happy about the versatility of the shoe. These users were able to use the Fresh Foam Arishi as a running shoe and lifestyle sneaker.
- Several reviewers said that the shoe felt sufficiently comfortable.
- Testers raved about how affordable the shoe is on their reviews.
- Some runners felt that the Fresh Foam cushioning was soft enough.
- The shoe delivered adequate grip on flat surfaces like the road, based on a number of comments from users.
- A lot of testers were pleased that the shoe came in wider widths.
- A majority of runners praised the stylishness of the shoe.
- There were runners who said that the shoe was well ventilated.
4 reasons not to buy
- Some reviews mentioned that the fit of the shoe was too narrow.
- Another tester said that her feet were aching after long hours with the shoe on.
- Most runners said that it did not have enough arch support and footbed
- One user did not like that the shoe made her feel like she was walking on the ground.
Bottom line
The New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi is a neutral running shoe that was designed with comfort, functionality, and style in mind. Equipped with Fresh Foam cushioning and a breathable upper, it’s a great choice for those seeking an affordable performance shoe that can be doubled as a lifestyle sneaker.
Tip: see the best running shoes.
Good to know
- New Balance’s Fresh Foam Arishi is stocked with the NB Response 2.0 performance insert. Inserts, or more commonly known as sock liners or insoles, are extra pieces of cushioning that heighten the level of cushioning, as well as the feel and fit. In the case of this shoe, the performance insert serves a similar purpose.
- On the upper is a highly breathable mesh material which allows air to get into the shoe. It helps reduce hot spots, providing the runner with a cool and well ventilated in-shoe environment. This material was added to the shoe with no sewing involved. The no-sew application decreases the risk of irritation on the foot.
The outsole is made up of a moderately durable rubber that protects the bottom of the shoe as well as the runner’s foot. This material provides reasonable grip on the roads. The rubber itself is somewhat pliant, giving the bottom of the shoe the kind of support that does not sacrifice flexibility.
The Fresh Foam midsole is a full-length unit that carries the foot throughout the running session. It’s created to deliver a plush and responsive underfoot experience. The patterns on its sides encourage springiness and flexibility. This midsole foam is also present in the Arishi v2, Fresh Foam Zante, and other NB running shoes.
The NB Response 2.0 performance insert is an extra piece of cushioning that improves the fit by slightly taking up space inside the shoe for better snugness. Inserts, in general, are also beneficial in terms of comfort because they follow the natural contour of the foot. This way, the runner feels that the underfoot is more supported.
The midsole drop is about 8mm, ideal for everyday wearing and running. According to several studies, the 8mm is ideal to activate the body’s natural cushioning and spring mechanisms, giving the runner more energy return and a stronger stride.
The upper was put together with a no-sew material application technique. This means that the entire upper, including the overlays, was formed without any stitching. This reduces the possibility of the foot getting irritated. With the absence of a thread or yarn, runners can feel more comfortable when running.
The upper material of the New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi is called mesh. Mesh materials are basically made up of a network of wires or fibers. Because of this construction, the upper of this shoe is granted with enough breathability to keep the foot cool at all times.
The mesh material has elastic characteristics. Once the runner puts the shoe on, the upper adapts to the shape of the foot, allowing for a more customized fit.
The lace-up closure makes the fit more secure preventing the shoe from accidentally coming off when the runner is doing vigorous movements.
The overlays, which are shaped into the N logo of the brand, provide lightweight support on the sides of the dorsal part of the foot. These structures slightly help in keeping the mid-foot steady, while minimally maintaining the shape of the shoe.
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