Here are Sneaker Geeks we have compiled a list of 9 New Balances that will keep you fresh and not break the bank. New Balance used to be the unofficial dad shoes. Recently their popularity has been resurgent. This is in part due to collaborations with Salehe Bembury or Joe Freshgoods.
With that has come a price tag increase. Some of these releases like the 990v2 will set you back $220 easily. As a father of three spending $200 plus on every pair of sneakers is not feasible.
Here is our curated list of Newbies that will keep the rotation fresh. It will also keep a little lunch money in your pocket. This is in no particular order and these are pairs that I currently have in my rotation.
New Balance 725 V1
Silhouette: 725v1
Colorway: Raincloud w/ shadow grey and sea salt
Style Code: ML725AA
Retail Price: $109.99
Where to Purchase: newbalance.com
Our first pick is available in two different colorways. It features a C-CAP midsole with a mesh and suede upper. The lace closure is adjustable for a custom fit. The materials are a combination of suede and mesh making it a good option for running or walking around town.
New Balance 574 Core
Silhouette: 574 Core
Colorway: Black w/ white
Style Code: ML574EVB
Retail Price: $89.99
Where to Purchase: newbalance.com
Next on the list is the 574 core. This timeless classic should be a staple in any sneaker rotation. The one thing that is nice about this is the number of available colorways. For this, we picked black and white because of its versatility. This silhouette has an ENCAP midsole, and suede/mesh upper, with portions made of recycled polyester. The one drawback of this shoe is its narrow fit. I would recommend going a half to a whole size up for a more comfortable fit.
New Balance 480 Low
Silhouette: 480 Low
Colorway: White/Black
Style Code: BB480LBA
Retail Price: $90
Where to Purchase: champs.com
This 480 low is the black and white colorway and is an all-around silhouette. The 480 can be dressed up for a classy look or down with a pair of jeans. The ortho-lite cushioning provides all-day comfort, so rocking these during a festival is an option. The 480 features a sturdy heel counter and rubber cup outsole. This is no need to size this one up as it fits true to size.
New Balance 530
Silhouette: 530
Colorway: Sea Salt/ Ice Blue
Style Code: F2136
Retail Price: $100
Where to Purchase: Hibbett
If you are looking for comfort and style then the 530 should be in your lineup. The ABZORB cushioning is going to keep your feet feeling good for all-day wear. The upper is comprised of synthetic and mesh. The lace closure is adjustable for a custom fit.
New Balance 5740
Silhouette: 5740v1
Colorway: Brown/White
Style Code: M5740CCD
Retail Price: $79.99
Where to Purchase: footlocker.com
The 5740 features hairy suede overlays with an oversized N logo on the panels. New Balance does a good job using the hairy suede on their shoes. The suede combines well with the mesh and leather. The wavy thick mudguards are aesthetically pleasing to the eyes and provide a unique look.
New Balance 327
Silhouette: 327
Colorway: Black/Madra Orange
Style Code: MS327HN1
Retail Price: $100
Where to Purchase: stockx.com
The New Balance 327 offers a unique asymmetrical design with an oversized N logo. It offers a breathable mesh construction with suede overlays. Making it a great option for running around with the kids. I picked a pair up last year and they are part of my weekly rotation. This one fits true to size so there is no need to go up or down. The 327 will not disappoint and the number of colorways provides many options for different fits.
New Balance 580
Silhouette: 580
Colorway: Nimbus Cloud/Natural Indigo
Style Code: MT580GNV
Retail Price: $91
Where to Purchase: feature.com
These next two picks are slowly becoming my favorite New Balance silhouette. The 580 features a chunky ABZORB midsole with rollbar stability. I recently picked up a pair of Stray Rats 580s and wore them all day during a recent trip to the museum. The 580 features suede throughout and a mesh toe box.
New Balance 580
Silhouette: 580
Colorway: Castlerock/Moonbeam
Style Code: MT580RCB
Retail Price: $98
Where to Purchase: feature.com
If you are getting into New Balance, I would start with the 580. This silhouette is a versatile sneaker that is stylish and functional. The mesh and suede combination are breathable so your feet will stay cool. This 580 colorway made the list because of its neutral colors. The gray, navy and white combination makes this a good choice for many fits.
New Balance 860v2
Silhouette: 860v2
Colorway: White/Team Royal
Style Code: ML860XB
Retail Price: $98
Where to Purchase: socialstatus.com
The 860 model provides a nice fit and cushion if you are going to be on your feet all day. This one finds its way on my feet for the weekend-long sporting events with the kids. The combination of synthetic textile and mesh upper is durable for running up a down the stands or on the soccer field. The 860 silhouette features a padded tongue and NERGY cushioning. The 860 is a forgotten silhouette, but don’t hesitate to add this to your rotation.
Most of the picks in this list have been in my rotation at one time or the other. Some I have gotten rid of to only regret and purchase another pair. New Balance delivers over and over again on style, comfort, and functionality. Stay tuned for more of our picks that will keep you stylish and break the bank.
