New Balance 1200 review

Who should buy the New Balance 1200

The New Balance 1200 is a solid choice if:

• You are looking for a boat-styled shoe that goes well with both casual and business casual attire. 
• A walking shoe that would not weigh your foot down is what you are after.

Who should not buy the New Balance 1200

Folks who wish to have an enjoyable and uninterrupted walking activity might find the shoe disappointing as its shoelaces would not stay tied. The New Balance 1200 might also not appeal to wearers looking for a walking shoe that would not break the bank. However, other New Balance walking shoes might be enough to satisfy their needs. 

Profile of the New Balance 1200

The New Balance 1200 is a man’s classic boat shoe with a smooth leather upper. Despite its casual appeal, the footwear is built on the platform of a performance-ready athletic walking shoe. It is meant to complete a smart look while keeping the wearer comfortably supported throughout the day.

The shoe sports a slip-on design but is enhanced by a three-eyelet lacing system at the front panel. The mesh inserts are added on the sides to help in draining water out of the shoe.

Multisurface outsole grip

The bottom of the footwear is lined with a full-length rubber unit. It features rectangular pods with multi-directional patterns that render grip on various surfaces, including the wet ones.

Running between the pods are vertical and horizontal flex grooves which are meant to promote flexibility. A portion of the rubber is missing from the inner midfoot side to enhance the pliability even further.

The rubber is claimed to be non-marking. It implies that the sole brushing against the floor will not leave any skid marks.

A protective and supportive platform

The New Balance 1200 receives it's underfoot cushioning from the Abzorb foam material. It is created through a fusion of the brand’s proprietary materials and the Dupont Engage Isoprene rubber. This combination delivers immediate impact protection and rebound and is claimed to serve longer than the traditional EVA foam. It helps in keeping the foot comfortable and supported during extended periods of walking.

The Rollbar insert in the heel section is responsible for rearfoot stability. It is a TPU plate with lateral and medial posts which prevent the heel from excessively rolling inwards (overpronation) or outwards (supination).

The New Balance 1200's upper unit

The upper unit of the New Balance 1200 is made of genuine leather. It carries a classic boat shoe style with its slip-on design and moc-stitching on the forefoot.

A three-eyelet lacing system helps in securing the fit of the trainer. The metal eyelets allow for a quick tightness adjustment while protecting both the material and the laces from abrasion.

Mesh panels are added on both sides of the upper. They are meant to keep the interiors fresh by wicking water and sweat away from the footwear.