The New Balance Fresh Foam X EVOZ v4 is a neutral, cushioned road-running shoe designed for everyday training and comfortable all-day wear. It is aimed at runners who prefer a straightforward, soft-feeling trainer rather than an aggressive plated racing shoe. The EVOZ v4 is a separate model from New Balance's 860, 880 and 1080 ranges, and the generation matters when comparing specifications.
New Balance uses a Fresh Foam X midsole for cushioning and a breathable engineered-mesh upper with zonal padding. A gusseted tongue is intended to reduce movement around the midfoot, while the moulded footbed adds step-in comfort. Manufacturer specifications for the men's reference shoe include an approximately 299 g weight and an 8 mm heel-to-toe drop. The shoe is described as neutral, with conventional lacing and a road-focused sole.
Runners needing substantial motion-control support or aggressive grip for muddy trails should consider a more specialised model. The relatively soft ride may also be less suitable for short, high-speed races. New Balance advises that many wearers choose half a US size larger, so compare measurements and retailer returns before buying. No independent wear testing is claimed.
Price guide (checked 21 October 2026): US$120 suggested retail price reported by a US specialist retailer for one pair, separate from its current discounted offer.
