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Article updated on March 30, 2023.
Everything old is New again! It’s the return of the New Balance sneaker. Once considered shoes primarily worn by dads, these comfy kicks have gained a cult following among trendsetters, influencers and A-list celebrities. Every star under the sun has been photographed rocking this fashionable footwear: Olivia Wilde showed off her trendy New Balance x Staud sneakers while out and about in London. Jennifer Aniston chose New Balance as her travel uniform while boarding a plane in Hawaii. Zoey Deutch made a fashion statement in the desert taking her New Balances to Coachella. Hailey Bieber matched her green New Balances to her green workout set. And Kendall Jenner even modeled white and grey New Balance sneakers to celebrate the launch of The Kardashians on Hulu. The list goes on and on.
So, how did a shoe brand go from the dad demo to the editorial elite? Partly by owning its roots and incorporating looks from the archives, rather than just appealing to the trends of the time. According to Glamour, “New Balance didn’t chase either trend, sticking instead to classic silhouettes, understated color palettes and clever marketing campaigns that drew on ads from the brand’s archives. And shoppers, it seemed, were eager for this back-to-basics approach.” In other words, New Balance’s classic aesthetic has proven to be exactly what the people want.
New Balance has also been collaborating with some of the coolest companies in the fashion industry. As Glamour reports, “Every collaboration it touches from ALD, L.A.–based womenswear label Staud, maverick footwear designer Salehe Bembury, even Italian luxury brand Miu Miu — seems to turn to gold; and last spring it signed Santis, one of the most exciting designers and brand-builders working today, as the new creative director of its locally manufactured Made in USA line.” In the ‘90s, New Balance sneakers were the ultimate status symbol. Today, they’re a style symbol at an affordable price point.
How We Picked the Best New Balance Sneakers for Women
They say that variety is the spice of life. Keeping that philosophy in mind, we made sure to choose an assortment of colors and designs when narrowing down this list. We had to include New Balance’s signature sneakers of course, but additional options also made the cut. Taking inspiration from the brand’s loyal fan base, we selected styles that would suit a wide range of shoppers. While some of these sporty sneakers function as running shoes, others are more of a multi-purpose everyday essential.
I’m a life-long sneaker supporter. When Taylor Swift sang, “She wears high heels, I wear sneakers,” I could absolutely relate. Whether I’m donning dresses or activewear, I always prefer teaming my outfits with trainers. With an eye for style and two feet primed for comfort, you can trust that these shoe suggestions are coming from a reliable source.
Without further ado, here are the 7 best New Balance sneakers for women. These iconic shoes will put a spring in your step. Shop these popular pairs below!
1. New Balance Classics WL574v2
Cult Classic
Channel old-school New Balance vibes with these classic kicks. Available in 11 colors, the grey and ivory shades are especially versatile. “The 574’s are my go-to sneaker,” one faithful fan declared. “This particular pair is without a doubt the best pair I’ve ever had. This pair feels like I’m walking on clouds. There was no “break in” period at all. I can’t express any more how perfect they are.”
Pros:
- Variety of colors
- Comfortable
- Classic style
Cons:
- Shoppers say they run small and recommend ordering a half size up
Available at: Zappos
Also available at: Shopbop
2. New Balance 5740 Sneakers
Color-Block Cool
Primary color palette! Inspired by the old-school kicks of the ’80s and ’90s, these color-block sneakers are a fresh take on vintage style. Featuring suede trim and a pop of yellow, these chunky sneakers are anything but basic. They’re already out of stock in certain sizes, so act fast!
Pros:
- Vibrant
- Vintage-inspired
Cons:
- Selling out quickly!
Available at: Shop Bop
3. New Balance 996 Sneakers
Cloud 9
For a pair of sneakers in the color “Nimbus Cloud,” these shoes sure live up to their name! From the airy design to the ivory aesthetic, these New Balance sneakers will feel like walking on clouds. These athletic shoes feature performance mesh panels and a padded collar and tongue for extra comfort. And we’re smitten with the chic metallic trim and the signature ‘N’ logo.
Pros:
- Super comfortable
- Versatile color
Cons:
- Might get dirtier more easily
Available at: Amazon
4. New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v12
Cushioned Comfort
Run like the wind in these comfy foam kicks! Certain details make this athletic shoe stand out from the rest: foam technology, breathable mesh fabric, soft textile lining and a removable cushioned insole. “Overall light weight fabric and very breathable,” one customer commented. “No need to ‘break them in’ perfect fit and A+ on comfort!”
Pros:
- On sale!
- Ideal for walking or running
Cons:
- Some shoppers say these shoes are tight
Available at: Zappos
5. New Balance Fresh Foam Roav
All-American Activewear
Red, white and blue! These classic kicks feel like they’re straight off the Ralph Lauren runway. From the crisp white design to the red stitching and navy details, these running shoes are preppy and patriotic. Take them from the tennis court to the track.
Pros:
- Running shoes
- Crisp and classic
Cons:
- White may get dirty easily
Available at: Zappos
6. New Balance 327 Sneakers
This New Balance heritage style with suede and leather trim harkens back to the ‘70s! We love a vintage moment (and a pop of pink!). The oversized ‘N’ logo, paired with the wraparound heel design, creates a look that is at once old-school and contemporary.
Pros:
- Stylish silhouette
- Versatile
Cons:
- More of a fashion sneaker than an athletic shoe
Available at: Shopbop
7. New Balance 997 Sneakers
Think Pink
As a wise Elle Woods once said, “Whoever said orange is the new pink was seriously disturbed.” These pink New Balances are probably closest in appearance to the brand’s original 990 design. The mesh details and knit accents make this shoe a closet staple. Plus, it’s on the lower price point compared to other sneakers on this list.
Pros:
- Classic silhouette
- Affordable
Cons:
- Pink isn’t for everyone (but it’s certainly for Us!)
Available at: Shopbop
Cariuma’s Top-Selling Sneakers Come in New Colors That Are Perfect for Spring
Looking for additional ways to elevate your shoe collection? Check out more picks below:
The Absolute Best (and Worst) Shoes for Back Pain
The Best Comfy Shoes for Standing All Day
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