New Balance Walking Shoes are renowned for their exceptional comfort and durability, making them a popular choice among walking enthusiasts and casual walkers alike. Whether you're embarking on a daily stroll or a long-distance trek, New Balance has a wide range of walking shoes designed to meet various needs and preferences. In this review, we will delve into the features, benefits, and potential drawbacks of New Balance Walking Shoes to help you determine if they are the right fit for your walking routine.
This comprehensive review aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the New Balance Walking Shoes, focusing on their design, comfort, support, durability, and performance. By the end of this article, you will have a clear understanding of what makes these shoes a top contender in the walking shoe market and whether they align with your specific requirements. Whether you're seeking enhanced arch support, superior cushioning, or a stylish design, New Balance offers a variety of options to cater to diverse walking needs.
Join us as we explore the world of New Balance Walking Shoes, examining their standout features and comparing different models to guide you in making an informed decision.
Overview of New Balance Walking Shoes
Brand Background
New Balance has been a leading name in the athletic footwear industry since its founding in 1906. Known for its commitment to quality, innovation, and performance, New Balance has consistently delivered footwear that caters to the needs of athletes and fitness enthusiasts. The brand's dedication to creating shoes that combine comfort with functionality has made it a favorite among walkers.
Product Range
New Balance offers a diverse range of walking shoes, each designed to address specific needs and preferences for both men and women. From lightweight models ideal for casual strolls to robust, supportive options for long-distance walking, there is a New Balance shoe for every type of walker. Popular models include the New Balance 990v5, 928v3, and the 577, each bringing unique features and benefits to the table.
The New Balance 990v5 is available in men's and women's sizes, offering a perfect balance of cushioning and stability. Its versatile design makes it suitable for daily wear and long-distance walking, catering to the specific needs of both genders. This model provides options in various widths, ensuring a comfortable fit for all foot shapes. CLICK HERE TO SEE MORE
The New Balance 928v3 is another excellent choice for both men and women, known for its exceptional support and motion control. This model is particularly beneficial for walkers who need extra stability and cushioning, making it ideal for those with foot issues or who spend long hours on their feet. CLICK HERE TO SEE MORE.
The New Balance 577 caters to both men and women, offering a reliable and comfortable walking experience. With its durable construction and supportive features, this model is perfect for everyday use and longer walks, ensuring that both male and female walkers can find the comfort and support they need.
Who it is relevant for
New Balance Walking Shoes are designed for a wide array of users. Whether you are a casual walker looking for everyday comfort, a fitness enthusiast seeking shoes for rigorous walking workouts, or a senior needing reliable and supportive footwear, New Balance has you covered. Their shoes cater to various foot types, including those requiring extra support for conditions like plantar fasciitis or flat feet. CLICK HERE TO SEE MORE.
Key Features of New Balance Walking Shoes
Design and Aesthetics
New Balance Walking Shoes are renowned for their sleek, modern design that blends functionality with style. These shoes come in various styles, from classic monochromatic options to vibrant, eye-catching patterns. The brand pays close attention to detail, ensuring that each pair is not only comfortable but also visually appealing, making them suitable for both athletic and casual wear. The range of color options allows users to choose shoes that match their personal style while enjoying the benefits of advanced footwear technology.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort is a cornerstone of New Balance Walking Shoes, with a strong emphasis on creating a perfect fit for every foot type. The shoes are equipped with plush cushioning, often utilizing New Balance’s proprietary technologies such as Fresh Foam or ABZORB, which provide excellent shock absorption and comfort during prolonged walking. The fit is meticulously designed to cater to various widths and sizes, ensuring that everyone, from those with narrow feet to those needing extra-wide shoes, can find a pair that fits snugly and comfortably.
Support and Stability
One of the standout features of New Balance Walking Shoes is their superior support and stability. Many models feature enhanced arch support, making them an excellent choice for individuals with specific foot conditions like plantar fasciitis. The shoes often incorporate stability technologies, such as Rollbar or ROLLBAR with TPU posting, which minimize rear-foot movement, providing better control and stability. This is particularly beneficial for walkers who need extra support to prevent overpronation or supination.
Durability
Durability is another key attribute of New Balance Walking Shoes. Constructed with high-quality materials, these shoes are designed to withstand the rigors of daily walking. The uppers are often made from durable leather or synthetic materials, and the outsoles feature robust rubber compounds that provide excellent traction and resist wear. This focus on durability ensures that New Balance Walking Shoes maintain their performance and appearance even after extensive use.
Performance
When it comes to performance, New Balance Walking Shoes excel in providing a smooth and comfortable walking experience. The shoes are designed to enhance natural walking motion, with features like flexible outsoles and ergonomic designs that promote better gait. The traction offered by the outsoles ensures a firm grip on various surfaces, reducing the risk of slips and falls. Additionally, the breathability of the materials used helps keep feet cool and dry, enhancing overall comfort during long walks.
Versatility
New Balance Walking Shoes are versatile enough to be used for various activities beyond walking. Whether you need a reliable pair of shoes for light running, casual outings, or even standing for long periods, these shoes can handle the task. Their combination of comfort, support, and stylish design makes them a practical choice for multiple uses, adding value to your investment.
Models Comparison
Feature | New Balance 990v5 | New Balance 928v3 | New Balance 577 |
Design | Classic look with suede and mesh upper for breathability and style | Leather upper for a classic and polished look | Leather upper with a simple, understated design |
Comfort | Dual-density collar foam for added comfort around the ankle | ABZORB cushioning in the midfoot for exceptional shock absorption | Polyurethane midsole offers stable cushioning |
Support | ENCAP midsole technology for maximum support and durability | ROLLBAR stability post system helps control rear-foot movement | Walking Strike Path technology stabilizes the foot through the gait cycle |
Durability | Blown rubber outsole for superior grip and longevity | Rubber outsole designed for long-lasting wear | Solid rubber outsole ensures durability and traction |
Pros | - Excellent cushioning for all-day comfort<br>- High-quality materials ensure durability<br>- Stylish design suitable for casual and athletic wear<br>- Available in various widths for a perfect fit | - Outstanding support for individuals with foot conditions<br>- Durable construction with high-quality materials<br>- Comfortable for extended periods of walking<br>- Available in wide and extra-wide sizes | - Affordable price point<br>- Reliable support and cushioning<br>- Durable and suitable for daily walking<br>- Easy to clean and maintain |
Cons | - Higher price point compared to other models<br>- Slightly heavier due to robust construction | - Limited color options<br>- Leather upper may require more maintenance | - Basic design with fewer color choices<br>- Less advanced cushioning compared to higher-end models |
Price | $$$ | $$ | $ |
Widths | Various | Wide and extra-wide | Standard |
Scorecard/Comparison Table
To provide a clear overview of how the different New Balance walking shoe models stack up against each other, here's a detailed comparison table. This scorecard rates the models on various crucial aspects such as comfort, support, durability, and price, helping you make an informed decision.
Feature | New Balance 990v5 | New Balance 928v3 | New Balance 577 |
Design | 9/10 – Classic look, suede and mesh upper | 8/10 – Polished leather upper | 7/10 – Simple and understated design |
Comfort | 9/10 – Dual-density collar foam, excellent cushioning | 9/10 – ABZORB midfoot cushioning | 8/10 – Polyurethane midsole, stable cushioning |
Support | 9/10 – ENCAP midsole technology | 10/10 – ROLLBAR stability post system | 8/10 – Walking Strike Path technology |
Durability | 9/10 – Blown rubber outsole, long-lasting | 9/10 – Durable rubber outsole | 8/10 – Solid rubber outsole |
Weight | 7/10 – Slightly heavier due to robust construction | 8/10 – Moderate weight | 9/10 – Lightweight |
Price | $$$ – Higher price point | $$ – Mid-range | $ – Budget-friendly |
Widths | Various – Multiple width options available | Wide and Extra-wide – Options for wider feet | Standard – Limited width options |
Overall Score | 8.5/10 | 8.5/10 | 8/10 |
Detailed Analysis
Design: The 990v5 scores highest for its stylish and functional design, suitable for both casual and athletic wear. The 928v3 follows closely with a polished leather look, while the 577 offers a simple, straightforward design.
Comfort: Both the 990v5 and 928v3 offer exceptional comfort with advanced cushioning technologies, making them ideal for extended wear. The 577 provides reliable comfort but with slightly less advanced cushioning.
Support: The 928v3 leads in support, especially for those with foot conditions, thanks to its ROLLBAR stability post system. The 990v5 also provides strong support with its ENCAP midsole technology, while the 577 offers good but more basic support features.
Durability: All models are built to last, but the 990v5 and 928v3 use higher-end materials and construction techniques, making them slightly more durable than the 577.
Weight: The 577 is the lightest, making it ideal for those who prioritize a lightweight shoe. The 928v3 has a moderate weight, while the 990v5 is slightly heavier due to its robust construction.
Price: The 990v5 is the most expensive, reflecting its high-end features and materials. The 928v3 offers a balance between price and features, while the 577 is the most budget-friendly option.
Widths: New Balance excels in providing various width options, especially with the 990v5 and 928v3, catering to a wide range of foot types. The 577, however, offers more limited width choices.
Each model has its strengths, making them suitable for different preferences and needs. The 990v5 and 928v3 both score high overall due to their advanced features and support, while the 577 offers great value for those on a budget.
Product Specifications
To help you further in your decision-making process, here are the detailed specifications for two popular models of New Balance walking shoes: the New Balance 990v5 and the New Balance 928v3.
New Balance 990v5
Specification | Details |
Weight | 14.8 oz (420 grams) |
Upper Material | Suede and mesh |
Midsole | ENCAP midsole technology |
Outsole | Blown rubber |
Available Sizes | Men's: 7-16, Women's: 5-13 |
Width Options | Narrow (2A), Standard (D), Wide (2E), Extra Wide (4E) |
Color Options | Grey, Black, Navy, and more |
Price Range | $175 - $185 |
Key Features
ENCAP Midsole Technology: Provides a combination of soft cushioning and durable support.
Dual-Density Collar Foam: Offers superior comfort around the ankle.
Blown Rubber Outsole: Enhances durability and traction.
New Balance 928v3
Specification | Details |
Weight | 13.4 oz (380 grams) |
Upper Material | Leather |
Midsole | ABZORB cushioning |
Outsole | Rubber |
Available Sizes | Men's: 7-16, Women's: 5-13 |
Width Options | Narrow (B), Standard (D), Wide (2E), Extra Wide (4E), Extra Extra Wide (6E) |
Color Options | White, Black, Brown |
Price Range | $140 - $150 |
Key Features
ABZORB Cushioning: Provides exceptional shock absorption.
ROLLBAR Stability Post System: Controls rear-foot movement for enhanced stability.
Leather Upper: Offers a classic, polished look and added durability.
Summary of Specifications
Feature | New Balance 990v5 | New Balance 928v3 |
Weight | 14.8 oz (420 grams) | 13.4 oz (380 grams) |
Upper Material | Suede and mesh | Leather |
Midsole | ENCAP midsole technology | ABZORB cushioning |
Outsole | Blown rubber | Rubber |
Available Sizes | Men's: 7-16, Women's: 5-13 | Men's: 7-16, Women's: 5-13 |
Width Options | Narrow (2A), Standard (D), Wide (2E), Extra Wide (4E) | Narrow (B), Standard (D), Wide (2E), Extra Wide (4E), Extra Extra Wide (6E) |
Color Options | Grey, Black, Navy, and more | White, Black, Brown |
Price Range | $175 - $185 | $140 - $150 |
These detailed specifications provide a comprehensive overview of the key features and options available for the New Balance 990v5 and 928v3 models. Whether you need superior stability, advanced cushioning, or a variety of size and width options, these New Balance walking shoes cater to a wide range of preferences and requirements.
New Balance Walking Shoes Review FAQ
What are the key features of the New Balance 990v5 walking shoes?
The New Balance 990v5 walking shoes are renowned for their premium materials and exceptional comfort. They feature a blend of suede and mesh in the upper for durability and breathability. The ENCAP midsole technology offers excellent support and cushioning, making them suitable for long walks. These shoes also come with a dual-density foam collar for added comfort around the ankle. The rubber outsole provides good traction, and the overall design balances stability with flexibility, making them a popular choice for both casual and serious walkers.
How does the New Balance 928v3 support foot health?
The New Balance 928v3 is designed with several features that promote foot health. It includes a ROLLBAR stability system that helps control rear-foot movement, reducing the risk of overpronation. The Walking Strike Path technology ensures a smoother stride, enhancing gait efficiency. These shoes also come with a plush ABZORB midsole for superior shock absorption and comfort. Additionally, the leather upper offers a snug fit while the moisture-wicking lining keeps feet dry. These elements work together to provide excellent support and comfort, especially for individuals with specific foot health needs.
What makes the New Balance 577 a good choice for walkers?
The New Balance 577 walking shoes are a great option for walkers due to their combination of comfort, durability, and support. They feature a leather upper that offers a secure and comfortable fit. The polyurethane midsole provides cushioning and stability, helping to reduce foot fatigue during long walks. The shoes also have a reflective detailing for improved visibility in low-light conditions, enhancing safety. Additionally, the rubber outsole ensures reliable traction on various surfaces. These features make the 577 a dependable choice for daily walking routines.
How do the New Balance 990v5, 928v3, and 577 compare in terms of durability?
All three models, the New Balance 990v5, 928v3, and 577, are built with durability in mind, but they cater to slightly different needs. The 990v5 features a high-quality suede and mesh upper that withstands regular use while providing flexibility. The 928v3, with its sturdy leather upper and robust ROLLBAR technology, is particularly durable and supportive, ideal for those needing extra stability. The 577 also boasts a durable leather upper and a long-lasting polyurethane midsole, making it a solid choice for everyday walking. Each model is crafted to endure extensive walking while maintaining comfort and support.
Which New Balance walking shoe is best for individuals with flat feet?
For individuals with flat feet, the New Balance 928v3 is often the best choice. This model is specifically designed to provide enhanced support and stability, which are crucial for flat-footed walkers. The ROLLBAR stability post system helps control rear-foot movement, reducing the risk of overpronation. The ABZORB cushioning in the midfoot provides exceptional shock absorption, alleviating stress on the feet. Additionally, the 928v3's design supports a smoother stride, which can be beneficial for those with flat feet who need extra arch support and stability.
Are the New Balance 990v5, 928v3, and 577 suitable for long-distance walking?
Yes, the New Balance 990v5, 928v3, and 577 are all suitable for long-distance walking, each offering unique benefits. The 990v5 provides a balance of cushioning and flexibility, making it comfortable for extended wear. The 928v3 excels in stability and support, thanks to its ROLLBAR technology and ABZORB cushioning, ideal for those who need extra support on long walks. The 577 is known for its durability and comfort, with a cushioned midsole and a supportive leather upper, making it a reliable choice for prolonged walking sessions. Each model caters to different walking needs but ensures comfort and support for long distances.
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