Ever found yourself staring at a wall of shoes, wondering which pair will actually make your walks feel good, not like a chore? It’s a common problem. When it comes to choosing Men’s New Balance walking shoes, the sheer variety can be overwhelming. You want comfort, support, and something that looks good, but sorting through all the features and styles can leave you feeling a bit lost and even frustrated.
This is where we come in. We understand the struggle, and we’re here to make your life easier. By the time you finish reading this post, you’ll have a clear understanding of what makes a great New Balance walking shoe for men. We’ll break down the key features to look for, highlight some of the best options available, and help you pinpoint the perfect pair to keep your feet happy on every step.
Our Top 5 Men’S New Balance Walking Shoes Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Men’S New Balance Walking Shoes Detailed Reviews
1. New Balance Men’s 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer
Rating: 9.4/10
The New Balance Men’s 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer in White/Navy, size 10.5 Wide, offers a blend of classic style and modern comfort. These shoes are designed for your everyday adventures, whether you’re running errands or hitting the gym. The clean white and navy colorway makes them versatile enough to pair with almost any casual outfit. They feel supportive and comfortable right out of the box.
What We Like:
- The leather upper gives these shoes a sturdy and classic look.
- The ABZORB midsole cushioning really helps soften every step, making them great for long days on your feet.
- You get extra comfort from the premium PU insert, which feels soft and supportive.
- They offer a good amount of room in the wide size, which is a big plus for many people.
What Could Be Improved:
- While comfortable, the design is fairly basic and might not appeal to those seeking a more trendy look.
- The white leather can show dirt easily, so you’ll need to keep them clean to maintain their fresh appearance.
Overall, the New Balance 608 V5 is a reliable and comfortable choice for anyone needing a go-to casual shoe. They deliver on their promise of comfort and everyday wearability.
2. New Balance Men’s FuelCell Walker Elite V1 Walking Shoe
Rating: 8.8/10
Step out in style and comfort with the New Balance Men’s FuelCell Walker Elite V1 Walking Shoe. This shoe comes in a cool Black/Team Red/Silver colorway and is a size 10.5. It’s designed to make your walks feel effortless and enjoyable, whether you’re running errands or going for a long stroll.
What We Like:
- The FuelCell foam makes you feel like you’re being pushed forward with every step, giving you a nice boost.
- The engineered mesh upper looks really modern and gives your foot a snug, comfy fit.
- It has a lightweight cushioned midsole that keeps your feet happy all day long.
- You can adjust the laces to get a perfect, secure fit.
- The insole is made of soft textile and you can even take it out.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the “propulsive feel” a bit too much if they prefer a softer, more traditional cushioning.
- While the engineered mesh is great for breathability, it might not offer the same level of water resistance as other materials for very wet conditions.
This New Balance shoe offers a fantastic blend of performance and comfort for walkers. You’ll love how it supports your feet on any adventure.
3. New Balance Men’s 877 V1 Walking Shoe
Rating: 8.6/10
Step into comfort and support with the New Balance Men’s 877 V1 Walking Shoe. This shoe, in a classic Grey/Grey color and a roomy 12 X-Wide size, is designed for those who prioritize a comfortable walk. It features a thoughtful construction that aims to keep your feet happy mile after mile.
What We Like:
- The suede and mesh upper offers a good mix of breathability and durability.
- A sturdy rubber outsole provides reliable traction on various surfaces.
- These shoes are proudly assembled in U.S. factories, supporting American workers.
- The Medicare/HCPCS code (A5500) means they might be eligible for Medicare reimbursement, offering potential savings.
- The 11 mm drop is designed to provide a comfortable walking experience.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 11 mm drop is an approximate measurement and can vary slightly.
- The “Assembled in the USA” label notes that the domestic value is less than 70%.
If you’re looking for a dependable walking shoe that offers comfort and potential reimbursement benefits, the New Balance 877 V1 is a solid contender. Its construction and features make it a practical choice for daily wear.
4. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe
Rating: 8.8/10
The New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe in Black/Castlerock/Silver Metallic, size 10, offers a smooth and comfortable running experience. These shoes are built with a special Fresh Foam midsole. This foam is carefully made to give you lots of cushioning without making the shoe feel heavy. The upper part of the shoe is made from a breathable engineered mesh. This helps keep your feet cool and dry while you run. The shoe closes with laces, so you can get a snug fit.
What We Like:
- The Fresh Foam midsole provides excellent cushioning for a soft feel underfoot.
- The engineered mesh upper is very breathable, keeping your feet comfortable.
- The shoe is lightweight, making it feel less tiring on your feet during runs.
- The synthetic material used is durable.
- The lace closure allows for a secure and adjustable fit.
What Could Be Improved:
- The stated 10 mm drop is approximate and can vary slightly due to manufacturing.
- While great for many runs, they might not offer enough support for very long or intense training sessions.
Overall, the New Balance Fresh Foam 520 V9 is a solid choice for runners seeking comfort and a lightweight feel. It’s a good option for daily training and casual runs.
5. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe
Rating: 8.6/10
The New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe in Black/Silver Metallic/Gum 2, size 11.5, offers a fresh take on running comfort. These shoes are built to help you feel good on your feet, whether you’re hitting the pavement or exploring new paths. Their design brings together cool style and smart features for your active life.
What We Like:
- The Fresh Foam midsole gives you amazing cushioning. It feels super soft and light with every step.
- The mesh upper breathes well and keeps your feet cool.
- Trail-inspired webbings add a tough, stylish look.
- No-sew overlays on the upper make the shoes fit smoothly and feel great.
- The colors are inspired by a beautiful Utah sunset, making them look really sharp.
- The lace-up closure lets you get a snug and secure fit.
What Could Be Improved:
- While great for many runs, they might not offer enough support for very long or intense trail running.
- The gum sole, while stylish, could show wear more quickly on rough surfaces compared to a different rubber compound.
Overall, the Arishi V4 is a fantastic choice for runners who want a blend of comfort, style, and versatility. You’ll enjoy how light and cushioned your runs feel.
Step into Comfort: Your Guide to New Balance Walking Shoes for Men
New Balance makes great walking shoes for men. They help your feet feel good when you walk. This guide helps you pick the best pair for you.
1. Key Features to Look For
Good walking shoes have special things that make them work well.
Comfort is King
- Cushioning: Look for shoes with soft padding inside. This padding absorbs shock when your foot hits the ground. It makes walking feel easier.
- Arch Support: Some shoes have built-in support for your arch. This helps keep your foot in a good position. It can stop your feet from hurting.
- Wide Toe Box: A roomy toe box lets your toes spread out naturally. This stops your toes from feeling squeezed.
Fit and Stability
- Secure Fit: The shoe should hug your foot without being too tight. Laces or straps help you adjust the fit.
- Good Grip: The bottom of the shoe, the outsole, needs to have good treads. This stops you from slipping on wet or smooth surfaces.
- Flexibility: The shoe should bend easily where your foot naturally bends. This happens at the ball of your foot.
2. Important Materials
The materials used in New Balance walking shoes make a big difference.
Uppers
- Mesh: Many New Balance shoes use mesh. Mesh is light and lets air flow through. This keeps your feet cool and dry.
- Leather or Synthetic Leather: These materials can be more durable. They might offer a bit more support.
Midsoles and Outsoles
- EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate): This is a common foam material. It’s lightweight and provides good cushioning.
- Rubber: Rubber is used for the outsole. It gives you good traction and is tough.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a New Balance walking shoe better, and some things can make it worse.
What Makes Them Great
- Brand Reputation: New Balance is known for making quality shoes. They have been doing it for a long time.
- Thoughtful Design: The shoes are designed with walkers in mind. They focus on comfort and support.
- Durable Construction: Good stitching and strong materials mean the shoes last longer.
What Can Be Less Good
- Cheaper Materials: Sometimes, very inexpensive shoes might use less durable materials.
- Poor Fit: Even a good shoe won’t feel good if it doesn’t fit your foot right.
- Overly Stiff: A shoe that is too stiff can make walking uncomfortable.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
People use New Balance walking shoes for many reasons.
Everyday Comfort
Many people wear these shoes for daily errands. They walk to the store, to the park, or just around their neighborhood. The comfort helps them feel good all day.
Fitness Walking
For those who enjoy brisk walks for exercise, these shoes provide the support and cushioning needed. They help prevent foot fatigue during longer walks.
Travel
When traveling, you do a lot of walking. New Balance walking shoes are great for exploring new cities. They keep your feet happy as you see the sights.
Standing for Long Periods
If your job requires you to stand for hours, these shoes can offer much-needed relief. The cushioning and support help reduce strain on your feet and legs.
Common Questions About New Balance Walking Shoes for Men
Q: How do I know if a New Balance walking shoe fits me correctly?
A: You should have about a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. Your heel should not slip up and down when you walk. The shoe should feel snug but not tight.
Q: Are New Balance walking shoes good for running?
A: While they offer comfort, New Balance walking shoes are not designed for running. Running shoes have different features to handle the impact of running.
Q: Can I wear my New Balance walking shoes in wet weather?
A: Some models have water-resistant features. Check the product description. Most standard mesh shoes will get wet.
Q: How often should I replace my New Balance walking shoes?
A: You should replace them every 300-500 miles of walking, or when you notice the cushioning feels flat or the treads are worn down.
Q: Do New Balance walking shoes come in different widths?
A: Yes, New Balance offers many of their walking shoes in different widths like narrow, standard, wide, and extra-wide. This helps you find a perfect fit.
Q: What is the difference between a New Balance walking shoe and a New Balance running shoe?
A: Walking shoes are designed for forward motion and offer good stability. Running shoes are built for higher impact and often have more cushioning and flexibility in different areas.
Q: Are New Balance walking shoes good for people with flat feet?
A: Many New Balance walking shoes offer good arch support. Some people with flat feet find them comfortable, but it’s always best to try them on or consult a podiatrist.
Q: How do I clean my New Balance walking shoes?
A: For most mesh shoes, use mild soap and water with a soft brush. Let them air dry away from direct heat.
Q: Are there waterproof New Balance walking shoes for men?
A: Yes, New Balance makes some walking shoes with GORE-TEX or other waterproofing. Look for these features in the product details.
Q: Where can I buy New Balance walking shoes?
A: You can buy them at sporting goods stores, shoe stores, and online on the New Balance website or other online retailers.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.