10 New Balance Shoes That Every Man Needs to Try

"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."

FEW FOOTWEAR brands have the power to emanate an entire legacy with just one glance. We’ve seen the weight of checks over stripes, but only one company commands attention using just a single letter. Enter New Balance: the Boston-based sportswear heavyweight that has grown to one of the largest sports apparel and footwear manufacturers in the world.

In its 100+ year history, New Balance sneakers have gone from the ultimate dad shoe to a footwear mainstay for any modern man, churning out some of the best running shoes and workout shoes we’ve ever tested. Historically, New Balance shoes have touted a cushy, almost geriatric-inspired silhouette emblazoned with a signature capital “N”. Over time, the brand evolved into the shoe of choice for design-centric leaders like Apple co-founder and CEO Steve Jobs. In recent years, high-profile collaborations with of-the-moment brands like Aimé Leon Doré, Todd Snyder, Stone Island, and Casablanca have secured New Balance its rightful place in today’s stylish sneaker landscape.

With seemingly endless options in the market, it’s a little overwhelming to delve into the world of NB if you’re on the hunt for a new pair of New Balance shoes. Below, our style experts have tested and reviewed the 10 best New Balance shoes for men. These best New Balance shoes are as stylish as they’re athletic and are thus versatile enough for different occasions. Made with the brand’s signature foam technology, these best New Balance shoes will also be comfortable to wear all day long.

Made in USA 990v6

These performance retro sneakers, born in 1982, and have since earned the co-sign of people from Steve Jobs to Ben Affleck, are the classics that started it all for New Balance. They are now upgraded with a streamlined outlook and better performance to make a case for dad shoes that are pretty damn cool. Whether it’s the propulsive foam that helps you get back on your feet fast or the midsole cushioning that provides all-day comfort, you’ll feel like the patriarch of your household in them—even if you’re not a father. For walking or running, the 990v6 will lend a hand.

574 Core

If this is your first pair of New Balance shoes, opt for the iconic 574. It is the perfect combo of comfort and style. Originally released in 1988 as a cutting-edge running shoe, it set the sneaker bar using groundbreaking technology and premium material, and the design has gone pretty much unchanged for decades. Newer versions exist, but the Core is built to the original specs, with a wider base and the proprietary ENCAP heel and arch support. Whether you're mowing the lawn or at a swanky rooftop bar, these are the sneakers for the job. Today, it is the pinnacle of New Balance’s unassuming and boundary-defying style.

Fresh Foam X 880v13

Tested by Dr. Mark Mendeszoon, DPM, a board-certified podiatrist as one of the best arch support shoes out there, the Fresh Foam X 880v13 comes at a relatively great price point for the level of quality. Designed with runners seeking optimal cushioning and support in mind, this shoe features ultra-cushioned Fresh Foam X in the midsole, which provides a plush and responsive ride. It absorbs impact and distributes pressure evenly, facilitating smoothness and comfort in each step.

An engineered mesh upper offers enhanced breathability and a lightweight feel that doesn’t require breaking in, while no-sew overlays provide a secure and supportive fit.

Made in US 993 Core

You can’t go wrong with any of the legendary 990 series. This version in particular has the classic silhouette but is updated with a sleeker, more modern profile. Marketed as a 'lifestyle' shoe, it's a great choice for those looking to up their footwear game for casual walks and everyday activities. With a midsole that absorbs impact and provides underfoot cushioning and a footbed that delivers support, this is also one of our best-tested walking shoes. The fit is true to size—it hugs but also gives your toes breathing and wiggle room.

MX608v5

New Balance's 608 V5 sneakers might be the most iconic 'dad sneaker' out there. The podiatrist-approved dad shoes not only work for everyday lifestyle pursuits but for cross-training as well, making them one of the most versatile picks on this list. Take it from the 11,000+ people who've felt compelled to leave glowing reviews, they're a smart buy. Many of the buyers, we’re sure, are dads who appreciate how affordable yet durable they are. Better yet, it’s lightweight with increased forefoot flexibility, and the brand’s proprietary materials provide an enhanced midsole for better heel comfort and support to eliminate foot pain.

FuelCell SuperComp Elite v3

A champ from our 2023 Sneaker Awards, the FuelCell SuperComp Elite v3 keeps it fresh with the bright, bold, race-ready FuelCell that looks like it probably needs a recharge after every run. Designed to provide the most optimal energy return in lighter weight, these runners will keep your feet going and help you log in that mileage. We also love that the breathable knit upper has a built-in tongue and is very stable, giving our testers a secure, locked-in fit. For everyday runs or racing on the road, the FuelCell SuperComp Elite v3 is up to the task.

Fresh Foam X 1080v12

As one of the best lightweight walking shoes we’ve tested out there, the Fresh Foam X 1080v12 is also one of the most cushioned running shoes we know. The model is designed to keep your feet comfortable and light for long-distance runs, so the shoes can take on whatever daily step goal you're aiming for. A thoughtful balance of cushioning, weight, and flexibility make the shoe a great choice for those looking for a shoe to wear for casual everyday activities and hold up to long walks. A foot-hugging knit upper allows for breathability and upper foot support, too.

"The 1080V12 is heavily cushioned with the perfect amount of bounce back," says Dr. Mendeszoon. "A redesigned upper feels like a second sock on top of the foot."

Fresh Foam X 860v13

And here we have one of the absolute best running shoes available in the market right now, according to actual runners. Whether you want to run 15 miles or a quick 2-mile jaunt, the Fresh Foam X 860v13s hits the spot. They’re balanced in all the right ways: Moderate cushioning that’s not overwhelming, and are fairly stable yet flexible, but not overly so. The stability lines through the midfoot help keep your foot working in a natural movement pattern without overpronating.

The Fresh Foam cushioning is not overwhelming or too bouncy but provides the right amount of comfort for any type of run. Better yet, they’re also one of the best wide-toe box running shoes we’ve ever tested.

MT580RCB

Style-wise, New Balance’s 580 series is grossly underrated. With the ultimate, distinguished throwback style inspired by streetwear, it’s chunky yet funky, great for everyday walks, and casual styling. Including a few technical advancements like a slimmer silhouette, ROLLBAR stability, reduced collar height, and exaggerated, tech-inspired details. The 580 can absorb shock while providing cushioning and enhanced support through its midsole. We recommend wearing it with joggers and jeans, but don’t be afraid to experiment with the 580 with chinos as well—these shoes just look good.

FuelCell Rebel v3

These winners of our 2022 Sneaker Awards are a beast. As lightweight running shoes, they are very stable while still providing you with a ton of return in every step, and at just over 7 ounces. As treadmill running shoes, the FuelCell Rebel v3 will give you a very bouncy sensation due to its thick layer of foam that compresses with each step. Overall, they have a great feel for the road and are super comfortable when worn all day. We also love how easy it is to pick our feet up throughout the run in these shoes, even towards the end when our legs typically feel like Jello.

Read More About Sneakers

Best Adidas Shoes | Best Nike Shoes | Best Jordan Shoes | Best Salomon Shoes | Best ASICS Running Shoes

You Might Also Like

• The Best Hair Growth Shampoos for Men to Buy Now

• 25 Vegetables That Are Surprising Sources of Protein