Plantar fasciitis is a degenerative irritation at the origin of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that spans from the calcaneus (heel bone) of the foot out toward the bases of the toes. It affects 1% of Americans and 10% of runners[1]National Center of Complementary and Integrative Health. Analysis of Data on the Prevalence and Pharmacologic Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis Pain . Accessed 09/25/2021. . What’s more, it’s the leading cause of chronic heel pain in adults. For the many people affected by plantar fasciitis, it can be challenging to find a pair of shoes that provide some relief.
The plantar fascia plays an important role in how you walk, providing arch support throughout the length of the foot while also helping with shock absorption. Repeated stress or overload to this tissue can lead to inflammation at one of its attachment points. The most common site of plantar fasciitis pain is at the heel bone. Pain is usually worse with barefoot walking (especially those first few steps in the morning), walking in flat-soled shoes and with increased activity.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
Many factors can contribute to plantar fasciitis, but the main culprits usually include a combination of foot muscle weakness, overtraining and excessive loading due to poor body mechanics and/or genetics (obesity, for example). That said, the wrong shoes can make any of these issues worse.
You May Also Be Interested In Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis From Our Featured Partner
QUANTUM
Key Features
Casual trainers, molds to your foot, generous toe box, lightweight
ATOM
Key Features
High performance power, flared midsole, slimmer fit
STRIDE
Key Features
Optimal flexibility, seamless upper, soft & airy
FLUX
Key Features
Flexible breathability, 15% more bounce than standard foam, seamless
KINETIC
Key Features
Anti-slip, durable, secure fit with maximum stability
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Verywell
Fit / Sabrina Jiang
A top choice for fitness walkers, New Balance shoes are known for their plush comfort and quality construction. The brand also offers sneakers in a wide range of styles that provide extra support for different types of wearers, like those with high arches or flat feet.
“New Balance shoes offer excellent support for the heel, arch, and forefoot,” Tyler Miranda, DPM, a New York-based podiatrist, says. “They also have a wide toe box, which is especially important for people who need extra space to avoid friction and pressure on bunions and hammer toes.”
We researched dozens of New Balance shoes and evaluated them based on comfort, breathability, stability, and price. Then, our running coach put 12 of them to the test for over 55 hours by walking or running in them on a treadmill, along paved roads, bike paths, sidewalks, and trails.
Based on our test, here are the best New Balance shoes on the market.
Amazon
Pros
Wide, roomy toe box
Classic style
Comes in six widths
Lightweight and comfortable, the 990v5 gets our top pick because they’re versatile, durable, and cushioned enough to wear all day long. This pair features a sturdy leather and fabric upper that provides the quality you’d expect to find in a more expensive sneaker.
While testing, our tester found that the cushioning felt soft yet responsive, offering the support needed for long distances. She also noticed that the shoe’s padded tongue and collar provided more stability, especially around the ankle. Even with the suede details, she noted that the shoe felt light and breathable—keeping her feet cool and dry and earning a 5 out of 5 for upper comfort.
The roomy toe box makes this pair a smart choice for anyone who’s had issues with blisters or bunions in the past. And for those who need a more tailored fit, these sneakers come in an impressive six widths total. While the 990v5 is a solid option for walking and running, it’s also stylish enough for all-day casual wear.
Price at time of publication: $185
Materials: Suede, mesh, and leather upper, foam and polyurethane midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning type: High | Weight: 13.7 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Care and washability: Hand wash, air dry
What Our Testers Say
“While New Balance shoes sometimes have the reputation of being a ‘dad shoe,’ this pair looks pretty cool, and I would definitely wear them casually, not just for exercise. It also has the right balance of cushioning and support, and the fit is exceptional.”—Brad Luff, Verywell Fit product tester
Amazon
Plush cushioning
Sleek, stylish design
Over 40 colors
Thin laces
The Fresh Foam Roav shoe is our other top pick because it has firm, energizing cushioning that offers solid support and stability. A sleek design makes this pair ideal for everything from fitness walking to running errands. On walks and runs, our tester noticed that the shoes offered cloud-like comfort right out of the box, helping them earn a perfect 5 out of 5 for cushioning.
The shoe features New Balance’s Ultra Heel design that closely hugs the back of the foot for a snug, supportive fit. And the heel is collapsible, making the Fresh Foam Roav an easy-on, easy-off shoe. Our tester noted that her feet felt locked in, but the shoe wasn’t too tight, with ample room in the toe box.
She was also impressed with the shoe’s arch support and durable rubber outsole, which provided good traction on a variety of surfaces. The laces are thin compared to laces on other shoes, so wearers may want to swap them out for thicker, sturdier ones. But with regular, half, and wide sizes available, it’s easy to find the perfect fit.
Price at time of publication: $85
Materials: Synthetic and mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole| Cushioning type: Soft and responsive| Weight: 9 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Care and washability: Hand wash, air dry
What Our Testers Say
“The Fresh Foam Roav checks all the boxes: responsive cushioning, good support, durable, and even stylish. I would feel confident wearing these shoes for an all-day amusement park outing with my kids, which I think is the ultimate test for a shoe’s comfort and blister protection.”—Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, certified running coach, certified personal trainer, and Verywell Fit product tester
Courtesy of Zappos
Pros
Good traction
Comes in three widths
Made with recycled materials
Cons
Mesh upper is too light for winter weather
While some New Balance shoes are on the expensive side, others, like the Fresh Foam Arishi v3, are more budget-friendly. During our test, the Arishi v3 held its own and performed just as well as some of the pricier models. It’s lightweight yet supportive, making it a solid choice for walking, running, or casual wear. It’s also durable, with a rubber sole that provided grippy traction during test walks and runs.
A foam midsole offers good cushioning, while a well-ventilated mesh upper keeps your feet cool all day long. The shoe’s breathability and seamless upper helped it score a 4.5 out of 5 for blister protection. That being said, our tester noted that the shoe may not be protective enough in harsher conditions.
The Arishi v3 also comes in three widths, so they’re a great option for wearers who need a precise fit.
Price at time of publication: $68
Materials: Recycledpolyester, textile, and cork upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole| Cushioning type: Medium| Weight: 9.4 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Care and washability: Hand wash, air dry
What Our Testers Say
“I’d recommend these shoes to anyone who wants a comfortable, lightweight sneaker that can easily go from the gym to casual wear. I would bring these shoes on a vacation as an all-around, multi-purpose shoe.”—Brad Luff, Verywell Fit product tester
New Balance
Pros
Lightweight
Modern, sporty design
Easy to slide on and off
Cons
Fit may be too narrow for some
Some may need more support
Breathable and lightweight, we recommend the Nergize Sport V1sneakers for wearers who want a sporty and supportive shoe. They’re also budget-friendly, but they still felt as comfortable and durable as other, more expensive New Balance shoes we tested.
Our tester noted that these sneakers can do double duty as a comfortable shoe for fitness walking or shopping. At just 5.1 ounces, they were the lightest ones we tested, so they didn’t offer as much support as some of the heavier shoes did. However, our tester noticed that the shoe’s cushioning kept her feet stabilized and comfortable during both short and long walks.
She also liked that the low-profile style and bootie construction made it easy to slip them off and on. The fit did feel a bit narrow, earning these sneakers a 4 out of 5 for fit. But they also come in wide sizes, if you need more room.
Price at time of publication: $65
Materials: Textile and mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning type: Soft and lightweight | Weight: 5.1 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Care and washability: Hand wash, air dry
What Our Testers Say
“I love the lightweight and flexible feel of this shoe. It’s great for walking outside, especially in warm weather. Plus, it’s sleek and stylish, and pairs easily with athleisure or casual wear.”—Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, certified running coach, certified personal trainer, and Verywell Fit product tester
Amazon
Pros
Well-cushioned
Excellent shock absorption
Supportive and durable
Cons
Limited color options
We recommend New Balance’s 840v5 sneaker for anyone who needs a shoe that will last for miles of walking. This pair impressed our tester as a supportive, comfortable option that’s durable enough for wearers who are on their feet for long hours. Constructed with soft foam cushioning, they offer good shock absorption and plush comfort, whether you’re walking on a treadmill or outdoors.
During our test, the midsole felt supportive and responsive, with just the right amount of flexibility—earning these sneakers a 5 out of 5 for cushioning. Our tester also found that the durable rubber outsole offered good stability and traction, even in wet conditions. And since they’re made with a mesh upper, these shoes are breathable, too, so your feet will stay dry and cool.
The shoe’s spacious toe box offered plenty of room for wearers who need room for their toes to spread or who deal with swelling in warmer weather. They’re also deep, which adds to their superior stability and leaves plenty of room for foot inserts or custom orthotics if needed. However, they only come in a few basic color options.
Price at time of publication: $130
Material: Mesh and synthetic upper, rubber and foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning type: Medium | Weight: 10 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Care and washability: Hand wash, air dry
What Our Testers Say
“These shoes are a great choice for fitness walkers who want a high-performance, high-quality walking shoe that’s comfortable and supportive for long-term wear.”—Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, certified running coach, certified personal trainer, and Verywell Fit product tester
New Balance
If you’re looking for a great, stable pair of walking shoes, the 928v3s are it. The motion control technology gives you plenty of support while you’re logging your miles, and the Walking Strike Path on the outer part of the sole helps to guide your foot as you go. If you need extra comfort, the ABZORB cushioning has you covered.
Price at time of publication: $145
Amazon
Pros
Plush cushioning
Wide, stable base
Good blister protection
Cons
Knit upper is too light for winter weather
New and improved, we recommend New Balance’s Fresh Foam X 1080v12 sneakers for runners. Our tester felt the cloud-like comfort right away and liked that the shoes didn’t need any break-in period. She noticed that the full-length foam midsole provided ample cushioning without feeling bulky or heavy—even at the end of a long run, they still felt comfy and responsive. And the shoe’s wide base added to its overall stability.
The snug fit and breathable fabric helped reduce rubbing and moisture accumulation, which earned the shoe a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for blister protection. The upper’s stretchy fabric conforms to the shape and size of the foot, so they’re a nice choice for those who’ve had blisters and bunions.
However, the material is a bit thin, so the 1080v12 may not be the best choice for cold weather. They also come in wide sizes for those who need extra room in the toe box.
Price at time of publication: $160
Materials: Knit and mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning type: High | Weight: 8.1 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Care and washability: Hand wash, air dry
What Our Testers Say
“The shoe’s cushioning is outstanding—it felt comfortable right out of the box. The upper really stretches and hugs the foot, which helps with blister protection.”—Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, certified running coach, certified personal trainer, and Verywell Fit product tester
Amazon
Pros
Excellent traction
Lightweight and comfortable
Versatile
Cons
No padding on tongue
The Foam Arishi trail shoe can give you the support and comfort you need for trail walking or hiking. During test walks on trails, the shoe’s grippy tread provided excellent traction on various surfaces and hilly terrain, while the reinforced toe helped protect feet from rocks, roots, and debris.
Even with the shoe’s ample support and protection, it still felt lightweight and flexible. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is comfortable and supportive without feeling too bulky, earning the shoe a 5 out of 5 for cushioning. Unlike some other New Balance shoes, this pair doesn’t have a padded tongue, so it may not feel as plush as others. However, the thinner tongue enhances the shoe’s overall breathability to help prevent overheating.
Although it’s designed as a trail shoe, the Fresh Foam Arishi also works well on pavement for walking or running or even as a supportive, sturdy casual wear shoe, making it a truly versatile pick.
Price at time of publication: $60
Materials: Gore-Tex waterproof fabric,rubber sole | Cushioning type: Medium | Weight: 8 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Care and washability: Hand wash, air dry
What Our Testers Say
“This shoe felt lightweight and flexible during trail walks, yet still offered good protection and stability. It’s a nice alternative to bulky hiking boots, especially in warmer weather.”—Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, certified running coach, certified personal trainer, and Verywell Fit product tester
Amazon
Pros
Streamlined, sleek design
Very sturdy and durable
No break-in period needed
Cons
Not as breathable as other options
The 574v2 has a classic New Balance look that makes it a popular choice as a casual, everyday wear shoe. But it has more to offer than just a cool, sleek design.
Our tester’s initial thought was that the shoes were very cute but quickly found that she was equally impressed with their comfort and support. They felt comfortable right out of the box, with no need for a break-in period, helping to earn them a 5 out of 5 for our fit attribute.
During our test, the shoe felt sturdy and stable, while the rubber outsole provided excellent traction, even on a moderate hiking trail. The suede and mesh upper definitely adds to the 574’s sleek look, but it’s not as breathable as some other New Balance options that are intended for running. However, this classic shoe works well for walking on all types of surfaces and is comfortable all-day streetwear.
Price at time of publication: $85
Materials: Suede, mesh upper;rubber outsole | Cushioning type: Medium | Weight: 9.6 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Care and washability: Hand wash, air dry
What Our Testers Say
“I’d recommend these to anyone who wants a comfy, supportive shoe for casual wear that also looks cool. For those who don’t like the look of bulky walking shoes, they’re a super-cute, sleek alternative.”—Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, certified running coach, certified personal trainer, and Verywell Fit product tester
Amazon
Pros
Excellent stability
Extra cushioning in heel
Breathable mesh upper
Cons
Not as lightweight as other options
Thanks to a combination of arch support and a sturdy rollbar system that ensures proper motion control, the New Balance 1540 running shoe is a solid choice for those who tend to overpronate and need some extra stability. During test runs and walks, the soft, responsive cushioning, as well as the padded collar and tongue, made for a comfy ride. The thick, well-cushioned heel added more protection in the rear, a huge asset for those with a history of heel pain, such as plantar fasciitis.
Our tester noted that the shoe did feel heavier than some others we tested due to the amount of cushioning and support. However, the breathable mesh upper allowed good airflow, so the shoe didn’t feel too constricting or hot. And all that comfortable support is a worthwhile trade-off for a little extra weight and helped to earn the shoe a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for stability.
Available in narrow, regular, wide, and extra-wide widths, the 1540 can accommodate feet of all shapes and sizes and also have room for custom-made orthotics.
Price at time of publication: $169
Materials: Mesh,leather, rubber| Cushioning type: Soft and supportive | Weight: 11.2 ounces| Closure: Lace-up | Care and washability: Hand wash, air dry
What Our Testers Say
“This shoe is heavier and more supportive than I’m used to, but it’s a nice option for those who need some extra stability.”—Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, certified running coach, certified personal trainer, and Verywell Fit product tester
Amazon
Pros
Well-cushioned and flexible
Comes in four widths
Provides good motion control
Cons
Too stiff for walkers with neutral gait
Designed specifically for walkers who need a stability shoe, the 847v4 offers an ideal balance of cushioning and support, earning it a 4.5 out of 5 for cushioning and a perfect score for stability. For those who tend to overpronate or roll their ankles too far downward and inward with each step, this shoe has a Rollbar posting system to control rearfoot movement.
During test walks, the shoe felt supportive and well-cushioned but still had enough flexibility for easy stride turnover. Our tester also noted that the deep heel and cushioned collar provided good ankle stability and support. The rugged rubber outsole also provided good traction, making these shoes a nice option for walking outside on pavement, sidewalks, and even dirt trails. They also have a spacious toe box and come in wide or narrow sizes for those who may need more or less room.
If you have a neutral gait, the 847v4 may provide more correction than you need, and it might feel too stiff. However, it’s a good choice for those who want stability in an everyday walking shoe.
Price at time of publication: $140
Materials: Synthetic leather, rubber outsolte | Cushioning type: Medium | Weight: 12 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Care and washability: Hand wash, air dry
What Our Testers Say
“This shoe is great for those who need a stable walking shoe and have specific needs in terms of width. The padding around the ankle and on the tongue adds to the shoe’s comfortable, supportive feel.”—Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, certified running coach, certified personal trainer, and Verywell Fit product tester
Zappos
Pros
Good traction
Very durable
Comes in three widths
Cons
May be too warm for hot weather
A popular brand for people with wide feet, New Balance delivers with the 608v5, which features a roomy toe box and comes in several different width options. During test walks, the shoes offered a comfortable fit, earning a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for that attribute. A padded collar and tongue added to the overall plush feel.
The soft yet springy midsole offered excellent shock absorption and responsiveness, even at the end of a long walk. Our tester liked that the shoes were stable and supportive, without feeling too bulky or stiff.
One downside is that the leather and mesh upper is not as breathable as some other New Balance shoes we tested. However, the shoe’s grippy rubber outsole offers excellent protection and traction in all types of conditions and surfaces. Even better, they’re reasonably priced, making them a great value for high-quality leather shoes.
Price at time of publication: $134
Materials: Leather and mesh upper, rubber outsole | Cushioning type: Soft and flexible | Weight: 9.8 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Care and washability: Hand wash, air dry
What Our Testers Say
“These shoes offer a roomy, comfortable fit and are definitely a great option for women who’ve had trouble with too-tight shoes in the past. They have a spacious toe box and plenty of space for orthotics or foot inserts, if needed.” —Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, certified running coach, certified personal trainer, and Verywell Fit product tester
Pros
Excellent traction
Plenty of ankle support
Reinforced toe offers protection
For runners who like to go off-road, the Fresh Foam X Hierro v7 Trail Running Shoes provide the right combination of reliable grip and support, plus cushioned comfort. During test trail runs, the shoe’s durable outsole offered rugged traction that handled uneven terrain, loose gravel, and other hazards on the trails. Our tester was also impressed that the shoe kept out dirt, rocks, and debris, while the reinforced toe offered additional protection.
Despite being tough on the outside, the foam midsole provided a comfy ride, while the upper’s no-sew construction and breathability offered good protection from blisters, earning it a nearly perfect score of 4.5 out of 5 for upper comfort. While the shoe already has a spacious toe box, it’s available in wide sizes for those who need some extra space. Plus, the shoe’s streamlined, sleek look makes it a nice alternative to bulky hiking shoes. They’re more expensive than many road running shoes but are a good investment for avid trail runners.
Price at time of publication: $140
Materials: Synthetic upper, rubber sole | Cushioning type: Medium | Weight: 8.3 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Care and washability: Hand wash, air dry
What Our Testers Say
“These shoes are a lightweight yet protective option for trail running as well as hiking. The traction is fantastic, and I felt secure and stable on hilly terrain and all types of surfaces.”—Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, certified running coach, certified personal trainer, and Verywell Fit product tester
Best Men’s Overall: New Balance Men’s M990v5 Running Shoes | Amazon | 4.9
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.5 |
Best Women’s Overall: New Balance New Balance Women's Fresh Foam Roav V1 | Amazon | 4.9
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.5 | 4.5 |
Best Men’s Budget: New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi v3 Shoe | Amazon | 4.7
| 4.5 | 4 | 4.5 | 4 | 4 |
Best Women’s Budget: New Balance Nergize Sport | Amazon | 4.7
| 4 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4 |
Best for Walking: New Balance New Balance 840v5 Running Shoes | Amazon | 4.7
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.5 | 4.5 |
Best for Walking Runner-Up: New Balance Men's Walking Shoes | Zappos | Testing Now | |||||
Best for Running: New Balance New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v12 | Amazon | 4.7
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 3 |
Best for Trail Walking: New Balance Women's Arishi Trail Running Shoes | Amazon | 4.8
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.5 | 4.5 |
Most Stylish: New Balance New Balance Women's 574 Core Sneaker | Amazon | 4.7
| 5 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4 | 4.5 |
Best for Stability: New Balance New Balance Women's 1540 V3 Running Shoe | Amazon | 4.6
| 4.5 | 5 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 5 |
Best for Overpronators: New Balance New Balance womens 847 V4 | Amazon | 4.7
| 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4 | 5 |
Best for Wide Feet: New Balance 608v5 | Walmart | 4.7
| 5 | 5 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.5 |
Best for Trail Running: New Balance New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v7 Trail Running Shoes | Amazon | 4.6
| 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4 | 4.5 |
How We Rated the Best New Balance Shoes
4.8 to 5 stars: These are the best New Balance shoes we tested. We recommend them without reservation.
4.5 to 4.7 stars: These New Balance shoes might have minor flaws, but we still recommend them.
4.0 to 4.4 stars: We think these are great New Balance shoes, but others are better.
3.5 to 3.9 stars: These New Balance shoes are just average.
3.4 and below: We don't recommend shoes with this rating; you won't find any on our list.
How We Selected and Tested the Best New Balance Shoes
To compile our list of the best New Balance shoes for walking and other activities, we researched more than 25 pairs of shoes and considered key features including fit, comfort, support and stability, materials, traction, and durability. We also consulted with experts for recommendations and advice on what to look for when selecting shoes for various activities.
After further research, we tested 12 pairs of New Balance shoes—totaling more than 55 hours of walking and running. Our two testers did short walks or runs on the treadmill, pavement, sidewalks, and/or trails in each pair of shoes, depending on the shoe’s intended purpose. They also did one long-distance walk or run to evaluate comfort, support, and blister protection after miles of wear. Additionally, our testers wore the shoes casually to assess overall comfort and support for everyday wear.
After testing, we evaluated each New Balance shoe for its cushioning, fit, responsiveness, comfort, stability, and blister protection, and then we scored each attribute with a rating of 1 (would not recommend) to 5 (highly recommend). Each pair was also given an overall star rating, which represents our general impression of the shoe and its performance and whether we would recommend it.
What to Look for in New Balance Shoes
Purpose
Certain New Balance shoes, such as their running shoes, can be used for a range of activities. “New Balance shoes are great for running, boot camp activities, and HIIT workouts with lunges, jumping, and squats,” Pamela Mehta, MD, orthopedic surgeon and medical advisor to The Good Feet Store, says. “They provide effective support laterally, medially, and to the heel cup.”
Other New Balance shoes are specifically designed for activities like trail running or walking and are best used for those particular purposes.
Width
One of the benefits of New Balance shoes is that they offer different widths to accommodate all sizes of feet. If you have narrow or wide feet, you’ll want to choose a model that offers those widths to get a more accurate fit.
Foot Type
When buying shoes, it’s important to consider what type of feet you have. People with flat feet typically need more cushioning and arch support. If you tend to overpronate when you walk, which means your feet roll inward, you’ll be better off with a shoe that’s more rigid and will hold your feet in the correct alignment to prevent strain on your joints. If you aren't
sure what you need, visit a specialty running store for advice (the pros there can help with walking shoes too).
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do podiatrists recommend New Balance?
Podiatrists recommend New Balance because they’re a trusted brand whose shoes are designed with foot anatomy in mind. “The engineering of New Balance’s shoes is based on their extensive experience, and they are built to last,” Dr. Miranda says. “They offer shoes for all levels of activity, from the casual walker to the high-level athlete.” Podiatrists also like that New Balance shoes can properly accommodate the custom orthotics that some of their patients need.
How do you wash New Balance sneakers?
Use a dye-free laundry detergent or dish soap, a damp cloth, and an old toothbrush to clean your New Balance walking shoes. Wipe the shoes clean with the cloth, and allow them to air dry. In between cleanings, you can use a deodorizing shoe spray for odors.
How often should you replace your walking shoes?
Replace your walking shoes every 300 to 400 miles or four to six months. “That’s heavily influenced by the frequency of use, environment, and individual wearing the shoes,” Victor Ornelas, senior director, vendor management for Fleet Feet, says. If your shoes are visibly worn out before that, you should replace them sooner.
What is the difference between walking sneakers and running sneakers?
In general, running shoes can be used for walking, but walking shoes shouldn't be used for running. This is because running shoes have more cushioning, a thinner, flared heel, and are more flexible than walking shoes.
“A walking shoe will typically have a straight last and wider midfoot to increase ground contact surface area, which delivers increased balance and stability,” Ornelas says. “In addition, you'll find uppers that may include leather.”
What can you expect to pay for New Balance Shoes?
You can expect to pay between $65-$185 for quality New Balance shoes. Pricier New Balance shoes will likely last you a little longer because of their higher-quality material. You may also have to spend a little more if you require a specialized shoe, like one that offers extra stability or that's made specifically for overpronators. Budget-friendlier shoes will likely wear faster.
The cheapest New Balance shoe on our list is often available for less than $65. Our top men's recommendation, the New Balance’s 990 v5 Running Shoes, cost $185 when we published this list, while our top women's recommendation, New Balance’s Foam Roav Shoes, cost $85.
Why Trust Verywell Fit
As a running coach, certified personal trainer, marathon runner, and fitness writer, Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, has spent years researching and recommending running and walking shoes. To exercise in comfort and reduce injury risk, she suggests getting properly fitted for shoes and replacing them regularly.