It's the sneaker brand that can do no wrong, and here are its finest designs
Whittling down the best New Balance sneakers is hard. This is a brand that has carved out a reputation most sneaker brands could only dream of. While others chased hype and flashy designs, New Balance quietly built an empire on craftsmanship, heritage, and a design language that speaks volumes without shouting. This is the brand that made grey suede not just acceptable but desirable, a badge of honour for those who appreciate substance over spectacle.
Founded in Boston in 1906, New Balance has a legacy that spans over a century, but it’s the brand’s focus on innovation and quality that has kept it relevant. Its famously chunky sneakers aren’t about following fleeting trends; they’re rooted in a commitment to performance and comfort. From the first $100 running shoe, the 990v1, to cult classics like the 1500 and the ubiquitous 574, New Balance has created models that have stood the test of time and evolved with it.
Their design philosophy? Sleek lines, practical materials, and a knack for balancing style and functionality. Add in a rich history of collaborations with tastemakers and streetwear giants, and you’ve got a brand that has transcended the dad-shoe stereotype to become a cultural force. New Balance isn’t just footwear; it’s a statement of authenticity and enduring style. Here are, in our opinion, the best new balance sneakers ever created.
Table of Contents
990v6
Let's start with one of the most recent. The 990v6 is New Balance’s proof that sneaker culture doesn’t have to compromise comfort for style. When it dropped, the world of “dad shoes” got a serious upgrade, thanks to a slicker shape and tech advancements that modernised a classic. Here’s the kicker: it was the first 990 overseen by Teddy Santis, creative director at New Balance and the visionary behind Aimé Leon Dore. You can see his influence in the clean lines and smartly refined aesthetics. The sneaker boasts a beefed-up ENCAP midsole for that extra plush ride, making it just as functional as it is easy on the eyes.
It’s a reimagining that honours its rich heritage—this isn’t a radical reinvention, but a respectful nod to the lineage that dates back to 1982. The 990v6 keeps one foot in the past and the other confidently stepping forward, redefining how New Balance does “timeless” with a twist.
990v3
The 990v3 is where New Balance took a beloved classic and gave it a fresh, modern spin. First released in 2012, this model marked a new chapter for the 990 series, blending heritage with a sleeker, tech-savvy look. It ditched some of the chunkiness of earlier versions and added mesh panels for breathability, making it the ideal shoe for both marathon runners and weekend walkers. Comfort is king here, with an improved ENCAP midsole and cushioning that keeps your feet feeling pampered.
This silhouette has since become a favourite of sneakerheads and casual wearers alike, proving that even dad shoes can be cool if done right. These days, it's earned its spot as one of the best New Balance sneakers ever released. It’s a model that’s equally comfortable strutting down the runway or pounding the pavement, and it set the standard for what New Balance should aspire to.
1906R
The 1906R is New Balance’s answer to the question, “What if retro-futurism met elite performance?” Originally launched in 2010, this model took cues from the early 2000s’ running tech but got a modern refresh in 2022, complete with an aged, deconstructed vibe that sneaker fans can’t get enough of. The standout feature? ABZORB and N-ergy cushioning, which make every step feel like you’re walking on clouds, even if you’re just running errands. The rubber outsole adds a layer of durability that serious runners swear by, but it’s equally at home being styled for streetwear.
The sneaker’s name nods to New Balance’s founding year, 1906, giving it a rich historical anchor. Collaborations with fashion-forward brands like thisneverthat have only amplified its cult status. The 1906R is proof that New Balance knows how to mine its archives while keeping things fresh, versatile, and packed with nostalgia.
991
Crafted in New Balance’s legendary UK factory in Flimby, the 991 has a craftsmanship legacy that’s hard to beat. Launched in 2001, it was the first 99X model to feature a revamped ABZORB sole unit. This shoe might be 20 years old, but it’s aged like a fine wine. No wonder it's widely considered to be one of the best new balance sneakers ever created.
But this isn’t just a nerdy relic. The 991 has seen a resurgence as a go-to dad sneaker for anyone with a keen sense of style. The suede and mesh construction gives it that classic look, while the made-in-the-UK quality ensures it’s built to last. It’s a sneaker that epitomises New Balance’s commitment to marrying quality with style.
992
The New Balance 992 is a shoe that became an icon largely thanks to a certain Apple founder who made it his signature sneaker. Released in 2006 to mark New Balance’s centennial anniversary, it’s got a pedigree worth bragging about. This isn’t just a sneaker; it’s a piece of wearable history that’s comfortable enough for daily dealings but stylish enough to turn heads.
Its resurgence in the 2020s proves the 992 is timeless. Whether paired with tailored trousers or joggers, it’s got a way of making you look like you’ve cracked the code. Let’s just say, if you know, you know.
550
The New Balance 550 is the Cinderella story of sneakers. A forgotten basketball shoe from the late ’80s brought back into the limelight thanks to Aimé Leon Dore’s Teddy Santis. This silhouette had been sitting quietly in the archives until its 2020 revival. Now you’d be hard-pressed to find a sneakerhead who doesn’t own a pair. With its low cut, clean lines and a vintage vibe, it’s got that classic appeal that turns outfits from good to great.
The 550 stands out for being both minimal and impactful. There’s nothing too flashy about it, but that’s the whole point. Its leather-and-suede combo, retro branding, and chunky midsole make it the perfect match for everything from cropped trousers to oversized denim. It’s proof that sometimes, the simplest designs are the ones that leave the biggest impression.
574 & 576
The New Balance 574 and 576 are two models that, together, wrote a hefty chunk of the brand's history. The 574, introduced in the late '80s, became a kind of everyman’s sneaker. It was affordable, accessible, and offered in every colourway under the sun. In the early 2000s, you could pick up two pairs for $89 at Foot Locker. It was ubiquitous, beloved, and often the first New Balance for many. But die-hard NB fans knew it was a stripped-down version of the pricier 576, designed by the legendary Steven Smith in 1988. The 576 was built with all the bells and whistles for serious runners, while the 574 was made to be more budget-friendly.
The 576, still made in the UK, remains a favourite for its premium build. Meanwhile, the 574 has evolved, seeing more refined, premium editions while retaining its legacy as the sneaker that introduced New Balance to the masses.
577
The 577, first released in 1989, has cemented its place as on of the best new balance sneakers. Made predominantly at the Flimby factory in England since its launch, the 577 has always carried a sense of craftsmanship and heritage. While it might look like a sleeker sibling to the 576, it has a history all its own. Early iterations were even made in the United States and Asia, but the British-made pairs have always held a special allure for collectors.
This shoe was one of the original grails before hype culture even had a name. Over the years, the 577 has been reimagined by countless collaborators. Yet, it’s hard to beat the timeless simplicity of the OG blue and grey version.
1500
Another of the best New Balance sneakers ever designed. Once the crown jewel of New Balance’s lineup, the 1500 has a storied history that any sneaker enthusiast would respect. This model became the talk of the town in the mid-2000s, especially when New Balance’s collaboration game started heating up. Its debut collab, way back in 1995 for Just For Feet, is often hailed as the brand’s first official partnership, making it a pioneer in the now-crowded world of sneaker collabs.
President Bill Clinton famously wore the 1500, giving it a presidential nod of approval. Fast forward to the 2000s, and this silhouette was in the hands of European heavyweights like Solebox and Sneakersnstuff, creating some of the most memorable colourways still admired today. Though it shifted from being Made in USA to Made in England, with some pairs produced in Asia, the 1500 remains a testament to New Balance’s commitment to quality and timeless design.
990v1
The New Balance 990v1 changed the game in 1982 when it became the first sneaker to retail at $100. It was a mind-blowing price at the time, considering it’s equivalent to over $300 today. It was the OG dad shoe before that was even a term. Crafted with grey suede and functional aesthetics that resonated with everyone, from suburban joggers to hustlers in Washington, D.C. The comfort was unmatched, and it became a status symbol for well-heeled indivuduals.
Its cultural significance in the DMV area is legendary, where it matched perfectly with the grey Georgetown Hoyas gear. Even now, the 990v1 is still Made in the USA, staying true to its roots. Though it might be overshadowed by chunkier, more modern iterations, it stands proud as the one that started New Balance’s obsession with performance and premium design.
2002R
The 2002R is a story of a comeback better than the original. The MR2002 debuted in 2010 as a high-end performance runner with a steep price tag. Fast forward to 2020. New Balance breathed new life into it with the 2002R. A remix that borrowed the midsole from the 860v2, making it more affordable yet just as stylish. The strategy paid off. The 2002R became a hit, bolstered by Salehe Bembury’s “Peace Be the Journey” collab and Yue Wu’s “Protection Pack,” which had sneakerheads in a frenzy.
From tech-inspired general releases to trendsetting limited editions, the 2002R has found a way to be everywhere in 2023. You see on fashion influencers and regular folks alike. Proof that New Balance knows how to rework its archives with finesse. It’s a case study in how a second act can sometimes steal the spotlight from the original.
Thinking of grabbing a pair? Make sure to check our sizing guide.
