Hey there, fellow walker! Whether you’re an avid trekker logging miles on nature trails or a city dweller racking up steps on the concrete jungle’s sidewalks, having a good pair of walking shoes is absolutely crucial.
After all, your feet are the unsung heroes carrying you through every stride, step, and stroll – so you’ll want to treat them right with proper footwear.
If you’ve been on the hunt for some high-quality kicks to support your walking adventures, chances are you’ve come across New Balance shoes. This renowned brand has long been a go-to for athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and casual wearers alike, with a reputation for comfort, durability, and performance.
But are New Balance shoes actually any good for walking specifically? That’s what we’re going to dive into today. Lace up those fit fams (or slip into your favorite house shoes for now) and let’s explore whether these kicks truly deliver on the walking front.
Why Walking Shoes Matter
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of New Balance and their walking shoe offerings, let’s quickly cover why having a good pair of walking shoes is so darn important in the first place.
For starters, walking is a high-impact activity – perhaps more so than you’d think! With every step you take, your feet and legs absorb a force equivalent to around 1.5 times your body weight. That’s a lot of repeated impact and stress, especially if you’re logging serious mileage on your daily romps.
Wearing improper or ill-fitting shoes can not only lead to discomfort and fatigue during your walks but can also increase your risk of injuries like plantar fasciitis, shin splints, and knee pain. Ouch.
On the other hand, investing in a quality pair of walking shoes with ample cushioning and support can help absorb that harsh impact, protect your joints, and keep you comfortably striding for miles on end. It’s a simple equation: happy feet = happy walker.
New Balance: A Stellar Walking Shoe Brand
Okay, so now that we’ve established just how important proper walking footwear is, let’s turn our attention to New Balance and why this brand is an excellent choice for your ambulating needs.
First and foremost, New Balance has been in the shoe game for a very long time – like, over a century! They got their start way back in 1906 as a humble arch support company, eventually expanding into crafting innovative athletic footwear designed for superior comfort and performance.
Over the decades, New Balance has built a reputation for prioritizing fit, cushioning, and motion control in their shoe designs. This core philosophy makes them an ideal brand for walkers seeking footwear that will keep their feet well-supported and prevent fatigue or injury during long treks.
Many of their popular walking shoe models are equipped with key features like:
- Plush, responsive midsole cushioning to absorb shock
- Sturdy yet flexible outsole traction for stability on various surfaces
- Built-in arch support and motion control to promote proper gait
- Roomy toe boxes to prevent pinching or blisters
- Breathable, moisture-wicking uppers for comfort
In other words, New Balance walking shoes check all the boxes (and then some) in terms of what you want in a high-quality pair of kicks for your daily ambulates. But let’s take a closer look at some of their standout models for walkers.
Top New Balance Walking Shoe Picks
While New Balance offers a diverse range of walking shoes to suit various needs and preferences, here are some of their most popular and highly recommended models for those serious about their stroll:
New Balance 928v3
The 928v3 is essentially the cream of the crop in New Balance’s walking shoe lineup. This ultra-cushy, ultra-supportive sneaker features a full-length ABZORB midsole for premium shock absorption, as well as a sturdy rollbar system for pronation control.
With a roomy toe box, moisture-wicking lining, and a durable rubber outsole with multidirectional traction lugs, the 928v3 is built to keep your feet comfortable and properly aligned through even the most epic walking excursions.
New Balance 1540v3
If you’re an overpronator (meaning your feet tend to roll inward excessively when walking), the 1540v3 is an excellent motion control option from New Balance. This sturdy shoe boasts a dual-density posting system and a TPU heel counter to keep your stride stable and aligned.
Along with ample cushioning in the midsole and footbed, the 1540v3 also sports a breathable mesh upper and a durable rubber outsole for trusted traction. It’s a premium walking shoe that’ll keep overpronators feeling supported and blister-free.
New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v6
When it comes to plush cushioning for all-day walking comfort, the Fresh Foam Hierro v6 is hard to beat. As its name implies, this shoe features New Balance’s proprietary Fresh Foam midsole that delivers a supremely soft yet responsive ride.
But the Hierro v6 doesn’t stop at just cushioning – it also provides reliable stability and support thanks to its medial post system. With a breathable engineered mesh upper and durable rubber outsole, these kicks will keep your feet feeling fresh (no pun intended) mile after mile.
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v12
In the realm of next-level cushioning, the Fresh Foam X 1080v12 reigns supreme. This top-of-the-line neutral walking shoe combines New Balance’s Fresh Foam midsole with a plush Fresh Foam X insole for unparalleled softness underfoot.
Despite being an ultra-cushioned cruiser, the 1080v12 still delivers on support with its blown rubber outsole and medial posts. If you’re seeking a supremely comfortable yet supportive walking shoe that’ll make you feel like you’re floating on clouds, look no further.
No matter which specific New Balance model catches your eye, you can rest assured that these shoes are designed with your walking needs in mind. From shock absorption and gait support to breathable uppers and reliable traction, New Balance walking shoes aim to keep your feet happy every step of the way.
Getting the Perfect Fit
One important note when shopping for New Balance walking shoes (or any walking shoe, really): always get properly fitted! Shoes that are too tight, too loose, or sized incorrectly can lead to blisters, chafing, and other foot issues that’ll quickly put a damper on your daily jaunts.
Pop into a reputable athletic shoe store and have one of their knowledgeable staff members analyze your gait, foot shape, and any specific needs you may have. They’ll help you find the perfect New Balance walking shoe model in your true-to-size fit for optimal comfort and performance.
It’s also a good idea to break in your new kicks gradually before taking them on any epic walking adventures. Start by wearing them for short periods around the house, then work your way up to longer walks as the shoes mold to your feet’s unique contours.
FAQs About New Balance Walking Shoes
To wrap things up, let’s quickly cover some frequently asked questions about using New Balance shoes for walking:
Q: How long do New Balance walking shoes typically last?
A: With regular use, most experts recommend replacing your New Balance walking shoes every 300-500 miles. This ensures you’re getting adequate cushioning, support, and traction as the shoes gradually break down over time.
Q: Should I buy a trail walking shoe or a road walking shoe from New Balance?
A: This depends on where you’ll be doing most of your walking! Trail shoes offer extra traction and protection for hiking on uneven, rugged terrain, while road shoes prioritize cushioning for walking on pavement and smooth surfaces.
Q: Do I need to buy special insoles for extra arch support?
A: Many of New Balance’s top walking shoe models already come with built-in arch support and motion control features. However, if you have particularly high arches or require maximum support, adding a custom orthotic or insole can certainly help.
Q: Are New Balance walking shoes good for other activities like running or cross-training?
A: While New Balance makes excellent running and cross-training shoes, their walking-specific models are designed primarily for… you guessed it, walking! The cushioning and flexibility may not be ideal for high-impact activities.
Q: How do I clean and care for my New Balance walking shoes?
A: Remove the insoles and laces, then gently clean the shoes with a soft brush and mild soap and water. Stuff with newspaper to help them retain their shape as they air dry. Avoid machine washing or drying.
There you have it, folks –