New Balance Fresh Foam X More V4 Review

For many runners, a max-cushioned cruiser like the More v4 slots into a rotation for the days when the legs need a break. After testing, we found ourselves still using it for that purpose.

Performance Comparison

Landing Comfort

We measured 41 mm of stack height at the heel and 34 mm under the forefoot in our standardized testing. That makes it a mid-drop trainer (7 mm), and it runs exactly like that. The foam underfoot is plush and pillowy but never feels like it is stealing the energy you put into it.

We found the foam comfortable at a range of paces, but the shoe is most at home cruising on pavement. Regardless of pace, we never bottomed out the cushioning. Of course, the foam doesn't feel excellent while doing strides. The shoe isn't designed for that type of running, and landings feel a little clunky. But the More v4 will do what you ask, even if it would rather take it easy.

Responsiveness

This is an easy day shoe, and it shows. The size of the shoe isn't conducive to fast running, and the foam is optimized for comfort rather than performance. The rockered ride helps to keep things rolling along. The rocker starts around the forefoot, and while it isn't aggressive, it is noticeable. Still, this is not a performance trainer.

Stability

As a big, plush trainer with a massive chunk of foam, the More v4 isn't what we would call a stability shoe. However, there are a number of features that make it one of the more stable max-cushioned shoes in our lineup. First, there is the wide base that stays wide throughout the foot. This allows for a very planted feel and provides some support, particularly in conjunction with the sizeable sidewall along the midfoot. Second, the stiff heel cup does help provide some lateral support, keeping you planted on the foam.

Upper Comfort

The upper is very standard on the More v4. It's comfortable and functional, although not as plush as some other max-cushioned options. We experienced no rubbing or lockdown issues, although we did note that the heel collar was a little stiff and may cause issues for some users. New Balance gave the More v4 a wide platform and a high-volume upper. That means it should fit runners with wide feet, but the lacing is such that runners with narrow feet should still be able to get decent lockdown.

Weight

Well, it's not light. Our US men's size 10.5 weighed in at a hefty 11.15 ounces per shoe, making it one of the heaviest shoes we tested this round. But hey, you won't be trying to run fast in this shoe anyway — it's all about that smooth, plush cushion under your feet.

Traction

Thanks to the sections of rubber on the outsole, the More v4 handles wet and loose surfaces well. The shapes of these outsole sections function like lugs, which is great when running on gravel and dirt.

Should You Buy the New Balance Fresh Foam X More V4?

If you're looking for a comfortable and plush feeling ride to add to your rotation for easy running, the More v4 is one of the best options. We think it is right up there, competing with the best-cushioned models in our tests, and provides a tiny bit more versatility than some competitors. Just know you'll want to relax in these shoes, not chase PRs.

What Other Running Shoes Should You Consider?

The Saucony Triumph 22 is our most recommendable comfort-centric shoe for easy days. It has a less pillowy and more bouncy ride than the rockered More v4. If you're willing to shell out the big bucks, the Hoka Skyward X is the most comfortable max-cushioning shoe we've ever run in. The Asics Gel-Nimbus 26 is hard to beat for stellar comfort, with similar cushioning to the More v4 and one of our favorite uppers. The On Cloudsurfer has great cushioning and a lot more versatility, but it is very unstable and best for heel-strikers.