Boston-based New Balance created its first running shoe back in 1928. The perfect mix of a no-fuss aesthetic, fit and performance, New Balance sneakers are now worn all around the world by runners and style enthusiasts alike. The instantly recognizable N logo features on low-top sneakers like the 410, 320 and 373, in an array of shades and combinations of leather, suede and mesh.
The New Balance Sneakers Buying Guide
Since developing the first technical running shoe to hit the $100 point, New Balance has grown into a global footwear phenomenon. From casual low-tops equipped with quick-drying SuperFabric technology, to performance-focused lace-ups with soft Fresh Foam cushioning, the brand ensures both professional athletes and novice runners are catered for. Ahead, take a look at our New Balance men’s sneakers buying guide, which will help you narrow down the styles that work best for you, find your size, and learn how to care for your shoes.
The Most Wanted New Balance Sneakers
New Balance’s 990 Sneakers
Described by New Balance when it was first as ‘stability, cushioning and flexibility, all in one shoe,’ the 990 was a true innovation. New Balance’s cutting-edge 990 sneakers have been tweaked a handful of times since its launch in 1982, with the original’s three-part EVA midsole and leather upper swapped with a durable ENCAP midsole and mesh fabrication. Whether it’s the V2, V3, V4 or V5 version, expect each one to be accented with an instantly recognizable ‘N’ at the side.
New Balance’s 998 Sneakers
New Balance’s 998 sneakers take inspiration from the brand’s American heritage and craftsmanship. Made from panels of suede, mesh and leather, these lace-ups sit on supportive ENCAP midsoles for all-day comfort and cushioning. They come in a range of unique color combinations.
New Balance’s 1080 Sneakers
Delivering a combination of runner’s data, supreme comfort and cutting-edge design, New Balance’s Fresh Foam 1080 sneakers work for city and trail running alike. The low-top running shoe silhouette is updated with a Fresh Foam midsole for enhanced softness and an energetic rebound. This style comes complete with a Hypoknit upper, which provides strategic areas of stretch and support.
The New Balance Sneakers Sizing Guide
Not sure what size you are in New Balance men’s sneakers? The brand uses US sizing and you can use the below chart to find your corresponding UK or EU shoe size.
For example, if you are a UK men’s size 9 or a EU size 43, you should buy your shoes in a New Balance size 9.5.
New Balance also offers various width sizes. The standard width for men is D, and you should choose this fit if the majority of shoes fit you correctly. There is also a narrower width size in B, and wider width sizes available in 2E, 4E and 6E. B (Narrow), D (Standard), 2E (Wide), 4E (X-Wide) and 6E (XX-Wide)
| US | UK | EU | LENGTH (CM) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3.5 | 36 | 22 |
| 4.5 | 4 | 37 | 22.5 |
| 5 | 4.5 | 37.5 | 23 |
| 5.5 | 5 | 38 | 23.5 |
| 6 | 5.5 | 38.5 | 24 |
| 6.5 | 6 | 39.5 | 24.5 |
| 7 | 6.5 | 40 | 25 |
| 7.5 | 7 | 40.5 | 25.5 |
| 8 | 7.5 | 41.5 | 26 |
| 8.5 | 8 | 42 | 26.5 |
| 9 | 8.5 | 42.5 | 27 |
| 9.5 | 9 | 43 | 27.5 |
| 10 | 9.5 | 44 | 28 |
| 10.5 | 10 | 44.5 | 28.5 |
| 11 | 10.5 | 45 | 29 |
| 11.5 | 11 | 45.5 | 29.5 |
| 12 | 11.5 | 46.5 | 30 |
| 12.5 | 12 | 47 | 31.5 |
| 13 | 12.5 | 47.5 | 32 |
How To Care For Your New Balance Sneakers
The brand recommends the following steps to keep your sneakers looking their best:
- Clean with a light bristle brush or toothbrush, and a mild laundry or dish detergent. Any suede or leather panels should be treated with a specialist suede or leather cleaner
- Once clean, use a damp cloth to wipe clean
- Let shoes air dry thoroughly for 24 hours
- It is best to avoid putting your sneakers in the washing machine, submerging them in water or exposing them to direct heat
- Are New Balance sneakers made in the USA?
New Balance makes and assembles over 4 million pairs of sneakers in the USA each year, and is the only major company to do so. Any sneakers crafted in the brand’s Maine and Massachusetts factories are labeled as ‘Made in the USA’.
- What New Balance sneakers are good for plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel and arch pain, and can be caused by activities that place a lot of stress on the area such as long-distance running. New Balance has a variety of sneakers with smart features that can help alleviate pain, including those built with good arch support, supportive cushioning, such as the 1080v9 Fresh Foam Running Shoe.
- Do New Balance sneakers run small?
New Balance sneakers typically run true to size. The brand’s footwear is designed to fit right out of the box, without the need to be broken in. To ensure they fit better and perform better, New Balance’s sneakers come in multiple sizes and multiple width options.
If you are in between sizes, we would recommend taking the larger size.