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After 55 Hours of Wear Testing, We Found the Best New Balance Shoes
For running, walking, hiking, and more
New Balance shoes are known for their plush comfort, high-quality construction, and wide range of styles with extra support for different conditions like flat feet or fallen arches. Most New Balance shoes offer solid heel, arch, and forefoot support, says podiatrist Tyler Miranda, DPM, They also have a wide toe box, which is especially important for people with bunions and hammer toes who need extra space.
To find the best New Balance shoes, we first consulted experts, including a podiatrist and orthopedic surgeon, to learn which key features you should consider as you shop. Then, we researched dozens of pairs at different price points and tested 12 New Balance shoes for ourselves in the real world. After 55 hours of wear testing, we ranked our favorite pairs based on their fit, comfort, stability, and overall value. We also had a walking coach and RRCA-certified running coach from our Review Board assess this article for accuracy, how to shop for new walking and running shoes, and what makes New Balance shoes different from others on the market.
Springy, responsive midsole
Maximum cushioning
Lightweight
Mesh upper can cause irritation
Key Specs
Materials: Synthetic upper, foam midsole, carbon fiber plate, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Plush | Weight: 8 ounces | Care: Machine wash, air dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5
Who They're For
Best for walkers or runners with neutral arches.
Why We Love Them
New Balance's FuelCell SuperComp Trainer v2 is our top overall choice for its versatility, comfort, and superior energy return. During testing, we noticed that these sneakers have neutral arch support and tons of soft cushioning that make them easy to wear for long walks or runs. We love that our feet didn't sink into the foam midsole—instead, the SuperComp Trainer v2 feels highly responsive underfoot, pushing us forward with each step.
The curved outsole creates smooth transitions between steps, while the roomy fit leaves plenty of space for your toes to wiggle around. These sneakers are also surprisingly lightweight, at just 8 ounces each. Plus, we like the stable, durable design, which kept us feeling confident on our feet throughout the testing period.
Also available in men's sizes at Amazon and Dick's Sporting Goods.
Potential Flaws
- We noticed that the shoe's mesh upper caused some irritation after a few wears.
Meet Our Tester
Our tester is a slight overpronator with neutral arches who tends to feel some heel pain after long runs on concrete. She tested these sneakers after injuring her ankle and noticed that the thick cushioning helped her walk more miles pain-free.
Verywell Fit / Alena Kharlamenko
Verywell Fit / Alena Kharlamenko
Verywell Fit / Alena Kharlamenko
Best Overall Runner-Up
New Balance Fresh Foam Roav V1
- Fit5/5
- Comfort5/5
- Stability4.5/5
- Value4.9/5
Great traction
Molded heel cup provides secure fit
Sleek, stylish design
Laces are thin
May run small
Key Specs
Materials: Synthetic mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Plush | Weight: 8.6 ounces | Care: Machine wash, air dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5
Who They're For
Best for everyday wear, especially if design is important to you.
Why We Love Them
The Fresh Foam Roav V1 is our best overall runner-up because it's comfortable and supportive for running, walking, and all-day wear. These shoes can easily take you from your workout to your errands and everything in between. During testing, we noticed they had great traction on a variety of surfaces, including pavement, sidewalks, grass, and indoor flooring.
The molded heel cup hugs your foot for a secure fit—our feet didn't move around inside this sneaker at all. We felt like we could even wear them for long, hot days at an amusement park. Another bonus? They come in over 30 different colors and boast a sleek, stylish design.
Also available in men's sizes at Amazon and New Balance.
Potential Flaws
- We found the laces to be a bit thin—they don't feel very durable.
- New Balance recommends sizing up in the Roav, as they tend to run small.
Meet Our Tester
Our tester is a running coach who's always chasing her kids around. After wearing these sneakers for over 20 miles, she loved how soft and responsive they felt for long days on her feet.
Plush foam molds to your feet
Great shock absorption
APMA Seal of Acceptance
Thin upper may not be as durable
May run small
Key Specs
Materials: Mesh upper, foam cushioning, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Plush | Weight: 8.1 ounces | Care: Not listed | Our Overall Rating: 4.3/5
Who They're For
Best for low-impact activities, like walking and running errands.
Why We Love Them
For a shoe that can support all the activities you do every day, the Fresh Foam X 840v1 is our top pick. We love that the breathable mesh upper has a no-sew design, meaning there aren't any seams to cause irritation or blisters. Another bonus: These sneakers have received the American Podiatric Medical Association's (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, meaning a group of podiatrists has determined that their design promotes good foot health. They also come in three widths, so finding the right fit is easy.
During testing, we noticed that the foam midsole feels springy and responsive, with great bounce. The padding molds to your feet over time, for a soft feel and solid stability on different surfaces. With plush cushioning and a sleek silhouette, this is our favorite New Balance sneaker for anyone who's always on the go.
Also available in men's sizes at Zappos, New Balance, Amazon, and Holabird Sports.
Potential Flaws
- The mesh upper fabric is very thin and breathable, but we think it may not be as durable as some other shoes we've tested over time.
- We ordered a half size up from our usual during testing for the right fit.
Meet Our Tester
Our tester enjoys daily walks outside and on a treadmill. She has high arches and underpronates, meaning her ankles roll outward as she walks. She usually gravitates towards Brooks running shoes but loved this pair for its ultra-soft midsole.
Prevents overpronation
Great shock absorption
Come in four widths
Heavy and bulky
Key Specs
Materials: Mesh and leather upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Plush | Weight: 12 ounces | Care: Machine wash, air dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Who They're For
Best for overpronators (meaning your ankles roll inward as you walk).
Why We Love Them
If your preferred form of exercise is walking, we recommend the 847v4. This sneaker offers plenty of stability while still being responsive enough to propel you with each step. Two types of foam in the midsole provide lots of cushioning, while a lightweight graphite bar in the back prevents overpronation for walkers with flat feet. And they're available in four widths, in case you need a little extra room in the midfoot or toe box.
We like that the synthetic leather upper is broken up by breathable mesh panels, so air can flow into the shoe to prevent sweaty feet. During testing, we were impressed by the 847v4's durable construction and superior arch support. Plus, the thick midsole absorbs shock to protect your ankles, knees, and hips.
Also available in men's sizes at Amazon and Zappos.
Potential Flaws
- These are one of the heavier pairs on our list. It's also worth noting that, while they do look bulky, we noticed in testing that they're pretty easy to wear.
Meet Our Tester
Our tester is an overpronator who walks and runs three to five miles every day. Before this test, she was loyal to her Brooks sneakers. She was impressed by how responsive these felt, despite their heavy design.
Best for Beginner Runners
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13
- Fit5/5
- Comfort5/5
- Stability4/5
- Value4.5/5
Responsive midsole
Good ankle support
Comes in four widths
Outsole isn't as durable
Key Specs
Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Weight: 9.2 ounces | Care: Machine wash, air dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5
Who They're For
Best for runners with neutral arches who run shorter distances on concrete or asphalt. Also good for running at night, since they have reflective details.
Why We Love Them
New Balance's Fresh Foam X 1080v13 is the newest iteration of a solid running shoe, with plenty of cushioning and stability for new runners. During testing, we loved how the responsive midsole provided the perfect amount of bounce to keep us going. Plus, this sneaker has additional foam padding around the collar, heel, and tongue for better ankle support.
Worried about sweaty or cold feet? The breathable upper regulates temperature to keep your feet dry and protected. It also comes in four widths to fit every foot. An unexpected favorite during our test, the 1080v13 quickly won us over with its solid shock absorption, close fit, and responsive midsole. We recommend it for everything from your first mile to your first 10k.
Also available in women's sizes at New Balance, Amazon, and Dick's Sporting Goods.
Potential Flaws
- We noticed that the outsole has a tendency to wear down quickly, meaning you may need to replace these shoes more often.
Meet Our Tester
Our tester is a regular runner who deals with occasional heel pain. After testing this sneaker, it quickly became his favorite for light workouts.
Best for Standing All Day
New Balance Fresh Foam X More v4
- Fit4.5/5
- Comfort5/5
- Stability5/5
- Value5/5
APMA Seal of Acceptance
Breathable upper
Maximum foam cushioning
May feel loose in the heel
Key Specs
Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Plush | Weight: 8.4 ounces | Care: Machine wash, air dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5
Who They're For
Best for anyone with joint pain, thanks to the thick foam cushioning.
Why We Love Them
The Fresh Foam X More v4 was designed with long walks and runs in mind—but we've found that they work just as well for standing all day, too. During testing, they felt stable and supportive, with thick, bouncy cushioning—the most in New Balance's Fresh Foam line. Like some other pairs on our list, they've also won the APMA's Seal of Acceptance for their functional, foot-friendly design.
We like how roomy the toe box is, and the breathable mesh upper kept our feet cool and dry. Super springy and comfortable, we recommend them for sightseeing in a new city or getting your 10,000 steps in. Choose from a wide range of bright and neutral colors—and note that the insoles are removable, in case you have your own inserts you'd like to wear.
Also available in men's sizes at Amazon and New Balance.
Potential Flaws
- We noticed that our heels tended to slide around in the back of the shoe during testing. However, it's worth noting that we didn't feel any blisters start to form.
Meet Our Tester
Our tester runs occasionally, but mostly wears sneakers while walking around New York City. She has flat feet and was impressed by how comfortable this extra-plush pair felt underfoot.
Bonus Favorites
Even though we haven't tested these New Balance shoes for ourselves yet, we still think they're worth considering. Many of these sneakers have features and price points that are similar to other pairs we've tried and loved.
Great stability and support
Reflective details
Comes in five widths
Heavy
Pricier than other options
Key Specs
Materials: Suede upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Plush | Weight: 10.5 ounces | Care: Machine wash, air dry
Who They're For
Best for overpronators.
Why We Love Them
For low arches or flat feet, we recommend New Balance's 990v6 sneaker. It's one of the first running shoes the brand ever designed—and we've found through testing that it's a solid shoe with great stability and support.
Although we haven't worn the 990v6 yet, we've taken the previous model (the 990v5) for a few test miles. We love the 990v5 for its comfortable midsole and targeted arch support that gently aligns your feet as you walk or run. This updated version also features reflective details, a removable footbed, and mesh panels in the upper for better breathability. And we appreciate that they come in five widths to fit both wide and narrow feet.
Also available in women's sizes at New Balance and Amazon.
Potential Flaws
- These sneakers are one of our heavier picks, weighing over 10 ounces each.
- Although they're pricey, we think their stability and support are worth investing in if you have flat feet.
Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples
Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples
Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples
High stack height
Wide, stable base
Chunky lugs on outsole
Gets heavy when wet
Key Specs
Materials: Synthetic and mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Plush | Weight: 8.8 ounces | Care: Machine wash, air dry
Who They're For
Best for hitting the trails, whether you enjoy hiking or trail running.
Why We Love Them
The Fresh Foam More Trail v3 is a well-cushioned and stable shoe for hiking and trail running. It's designed with an abrasion-resistant, breathable upper for comfort and durability. The thick sole is packed with foam cushioning, while the outsole features extra chunky lugs to make navigating rough, rocky terrain a little easier.
We love that the base of the shoe is very wide, which helps prevent ankle rolling and keeps you solid and stable on uneven ground. The high stack height (or thick outsole) also protects your feet from sticks, rocks, and other debris.
Also available in men's sizes at Amazon and New Balance.
Potential Flaws
- Some wearers have found that these shoes tend to feel heavier when they get wet. In a downpour, we recommend opting for waterproof boots instead.
Lightweight
Comes in four widths
Great arch support and shock absorption
Not enough support for overpronators
Key Specs
Materials: Mesh and synthetic upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Weight: 7.4 ounces | Care: Machine wash, air dry
Who They're For
Best for combatting heel pain, especially if you have neutral arches.
Why We Love Them
For a supportive, well-cushioned shoe to help manage plantar fasciitis symptoms, the Fresh Foam X 880v14 is our top pick. Although we haven't tried this model out for ourselves yet, we ran in the 880v13 and loved the midsole's arch support and cushioning. The wide heel provides some serious balance and stability, while the fit is roomy enough to accommodate insoles or orthotics if you need them.
The 880v14 is lightweight, at just over 7 ounces per shoe, with a breathable mesh and synthetic upper that allows air to circulate while you run. Designed for everyday runs, it has a slightly chunky sole that absorbs shock without getting in the way of your training plan. Choose from four widths that make finding the right fit simple.
Also available in men's sizes at Amazon, Marathon Sports, and New Balance.
Potential Flaws
- These sneakers don't have enough motion control to combat overpronation. If you also have flat feet, we recommend one of the other pairs on our list.
Powerful energy return
Rocker sole provides smooth transitions
Lightweight
Sole may take time to get used to
Pricier than other options
Key Specs
Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, synthetic rubber outsole | Cushioning: Plush | Weight: 6.6 ounces | Care: Machine wash, air dry
Who They're For
Best for race days and breaking your personal record.
Why We Love Them
If you run regularly and want a lot of cushioning to protect your joints, we recommend the FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4. Although we haven't tested this model yet, we loved the v3—and this pair has many of the same features. These shoes are super lightweight, despite their thick sole and plush foam cushioning.
Just like the v3, the v4 has a springy plate underneath the midsole that provides great energy return. During testing, we noticed that our pace improved without having to push ourselves beyond our limits. The chunky rubber outsole has a rocker shape to help with smooth transitions. We also like that this shoe comes in two widths for runners with wide feet.
Also available in men's sizes at Amazon and Dick's Sporting Goods.
Potential Flaws
- It can take some time to get used to this sneaker's thick, curved sole.
- These are one of our pricier picks—but for race days, we think they're worth the additional investment.
Retro design
Deep lugs for better traction
Cork insole absorbs shock
Only come in one width
Key Specs
Materials: Suede and nylon upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Light | Weight: 9.2 ounces | Care: Not listed
Who They're For
Best for casual wear, especially if you have neutral arches.
Why We Love Them
To add a little retro style to your wardrobe, we recommend New Balance's 327 shoe. It's a 1970's-inspired sneaker with plenty of modern technology, like a shock-absorbing cork insole and a large tread pattern that's both eye-catching and grippy.
The arch support and cushioning are light in these, making them ideal for walking and daily casual wear. We also like they come in modern colors, with trail-inspired lugs on the outsole for better traction.
Also available in men's sizes at New Balance and Foot Locker.
Potential Flaws
- Unlike most other New Balance sneakers on our list, these only come in one width.
Compare
Best Overall: New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trainer v2 | $155 at Amazon |
Best Overall Runner-Up: New Balance Fresh Foam Roav V1 | $79 at Amazon |
Best for Everyday Wear: New Balance Fresh Foam X 840v1 | See price at Amazon |
Best for Walking: New Balance 847v4 | $53 at Zappos |
Best for Beginner Runners: New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13 | See price at Amazon |
Best for Standing All Day: New Balance Fresh Foam X More v4 | $150 at Amazon |
Best for Flat Feet: New Balance Running Shoes | $200 at Amazon |
Best for Hiking: New Balance Fresh Foam More Trail v3 | See price at Amazon |
Best for Plantar Fasciitis: New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v14 | $140 at Amazon |
Best Cushioned: New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4 | See price at Amazon |
Most Stylish: New Balance 327 | $100 at Dick's |
New Balance Shoes We Also Tested
We've tested a dozen pairs of New Balance shoes so far, but they haven't all earned a spot on our list. Ultimately, these sneakers didn't quite meet our expectations:
- New Balance's FuelCell Walker Elite shoes are very stable—we even found they helped us stand straighter. But we wish they had more cushioning in the heel.
What to Look for When Shopping for New Balance Shoes
- Purpose: New Balance shoes provide effective lateral and medial support. This makes them great for a variety of activities, like running, boot camp workouts, and HIIT circuits with lunges, jumping, and squats, says Pamela Mehta, MD, orthopedic surgeon and medical advisor to The Good Feet Store. When choosing a shoe, consider your workout routine and when you'll be wearing them.
- Width: Most New Balance shoes offer multiple widths, ranging from narrow to extra-wide. If you have narrow or wide feet, make sure the sneaker you're looking at comes in the right width.
- Foot Type: When buying running shoes or walking shoes, it’s also important to consider your foot type. If you have flat feet or you tend to overpronate, meaning your feet and ankles roll inward when you walk, choose a sneaker with a support system that will align your feet and cut down on excessive movement. If you have high arches, look for a shoe with more arch support to prevent foot pain. Not sure what you need? Try visiting a specialty running store for advice from the pros.
How We Tested the Best New Balance Shoes
To find the best New Balance shoes, we've researched and tested dozens of pairs. For the shoes we select through research, we first consult experts to learn what sets different models apart. Next, we review key specs and customer feedback for top New Balance styles at different price points. When testing these shoes in the real world, we often have two people wear each pair to get the most accurate results. So far, we've worn 12 pairs for over 55 hours while walking and running on treadmills, pavement, sidewalks, and trails. As we continue to test and evaluate more New Balance shoes, we keep these critical criteria in mind.
- Fit: First, we try the sneaker on to assess the fit. Can we wiggle our toes in the toe box? Does our foot slide around, or is it locked securely in place? Do we feel any tingling or numbness? These observations help us determine whether the shoe runs narrow, wide, or true to size.
- Cushioning: During testing, we check how firm or pillow-like the cushioning feels. Does it absorb shock well? Do we notice any joint pain or fatigue? We prioritize shoes that have plenty of cushioning to support our feet and joints.
- Comfort: To evaluate the comfort of each shoe, we look for flexible, breathable uppers that don't irritate or chafe. Do we notice any blisters, irritating seams, or hot spots? We also pay attention to how the arch support feels—does the shoe have enough, and is it in the right spot?
- Responsiveness: A responsive shoe has a springy midsole that pushes you forward with each step. We prioritize pairs that help us walk or run for longer—bonus points if our legs feel less tired after each wear.
- Stability: To evaluate stability, we walk and run on multiple surfaces, like treadmills, concrete, and trails. Do we trip, wobble, or slip in the sneakers, or can we wear them confidently? Shoes that help us feel steady and balanced receive high scores.
- Overall Value: To assess a shoe's value, we wait until after testing is complete to check how much it costs. Does the price reflect the shoe's performance during testing? We only recommend shoes that we think are truly worth the price—and ones we'd recommend to our friends or family.
Our Experts
We relied on experts at every point while researching and reporting this story. Some, like Miranda, explained how the technology in New Balance shoes can be beneficial for different foot types and conditions. Others, like Ornelas, shared important information about the design and lifespan of walking shoes, including models from New Balance. We choose products independently, but input from experts influences our decisions.
- Pamela Mehta, MD, orthopedic surgeon and medical advisor to The Good Feet Store
- Tyler Miranda, DPM, New York-based podiatrist
- Victor Ornelas, senior director of vendor management for Fleet Feet
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do podiatrists recommend New Balance?
Podiatrists recommend New Balance because it is a trusted brand that designs shoes with foot anatomy in mind. It also offers shoes for everything from the casual walker to the high-level athlete, Miranda adds.
How often should you replace your walking shoes?
When you replace your shoes is influenced by the frequency of use and environment, says Ornelas. A good rule is to replace your walking shoes every 300 to 400 miles or every four to six months. But if they're visibly worn out, you may need to replace them sooner.
What is the difference between walking sneakers and running sneakers?
Running shoes have more cushioning, a thinner, flared heel, and more flexibility. Walking shoes typically have a straighter shape and a wider midfoot to increase your balance and stability, says Ornelas.
What can you expect to pay for New Balance Shoes?
You can expect to pay between $65 and $250 for high-quality New Balance shoes. You may also have to spend a little more if you require a specialized shoe, like one with extra stability or that's made for overpronators.
Why Trust Verywell Fit
As a running coach, certified personal trainer, marathon runner, and fitness writer, Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, has spent years researching and recommending running and walking shoes. To exercise in comfort and reduce injury risk, she suggests getting properly fitted for shoes and replacing them regularly.