Verdict from 100+ user reviews
5 reasons to buy
- Comfortable: The New Balance 1700 is a comfortable option for all-day wear, as stated by numerous reviewers.
- Durable: A lot of people who wear this New Balance walking shoe daily commend its durability.
- Stable: The Rollbar is effective in keeping foot steady, says a good number of users.
- Pain relief: Multiple people who suffer from plantar fasciitis, spurs, bunions, and neuropathy claim that this footgear has relieved pain.
- Professional-looking: According to many buyers, the leather top makes this model suitable for work and formal events.
2 reasons not to buy
- Tight: Some wearers have stated that this walking shoe from NB needs breaking in because the leather top feels tight in the ball area.
- Slippery laces: A few people aren't happy that they have to double tie the round shoelaces because they keep getting untied.
Bottom line
Go from office to a party with the New Balance 1700 and do not feel out of place because of its smart-casual vibe. Its full-length ABZORB cushioning makes standing and walking all day not much of a bother. Meanwhile, the Rollbar technology prevents over- and underpronation while walking. It comes recommended for work and casual use.
Tip: see the best walking shoes.
Good to know
- The New Balance 1700 is a motion control walking footwear designed for men who want a leather shoe with the comfort and cushioning of an athletic trainer. It employs an all-leather upper for a supportive coverage with a classic look.
- A stable gait is ensured by the ROLLBAR technology. It is placed in the heel, featuring firm TPU posts on both medial and lateral sides to prevent the foot from excessive inward rolling of the foot.
- The proprietary ABZORB midsole affords full-length cushioning. It is also made pliable to accommodate natural foot flexibility.
The New Balance 1700 comes in a men’s version only. It can be obtained in US sizes 7 to 15 with half-sizes available as well. Like most walking shoes from New Balance, the shoe is offered in a broad array of options to accommodate all kinds of foot dimensions: from a standard D - Medium to 2E - Wide, 4E - Extra Wide, and 6E - Extra Wide.
A rubber compound lines the bottom of the New Balance 1700. It shields the platform of the shoe from being abraded by concrete pavements and other outdoor surfaces. It is also non-marking, implying that it doesn’t scuff floors with black marks.
The heel and the forefoot are geared with rubber pods for enhanced traction. The pods in the front are intermittent, letting the forefoot bend freely. The midfoot portion is free of pods and is made slightly elevated, contributing to the flexibility and reducing the weight of the trainer.
The New Balance 1700 relies on a full-length ABZORB midsole for cushioning. Made of a foam-based polymer, it makes sure that the foot is padded throughout the walking session.
The trainer also features a molded footbed. It complements the midsole and provides additional underfoot comfort.
Leather is responsible for providing snug support in the upper unit. Additional leather overlays wrap the heel, the forefoot, the eyelets, and the throat of the shoe for enhanced abrasion-resistance of these areas.
The closure of the New Balance 1700 is comprised of round laces which run through metal eyelets. The laces can be cinched to regulate the tightness of the footwear.