New Balance 998 review
86
Good!
4.3 / 5
from
157 users
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all sneakers.
Verdict from 100+ users
Pros
- Cushy
- Stable
- Excellent heel hold
- Soft wrap
- Retro style
- Great-value
- Grippy
Cons
- Poor durability
Any color
Men
Women
79% say it's true to size.
Amazon
$190
Zappos
Running Warehouse
REI
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Rankings
- Top 6% most popular sneakers
Comparison to similar sneakers
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Table of contents Best PricesCoreScoreVerdictProsConsComparisonWho should buy the New Balance 998Who should NOT buy itSoftness in every stepSupport is top-notch!Heel slips are a thing of the pastFit that doesn't irritate the feetThe NB 998 brings back the '80sA value-for-money purchaseClings like clawsStrength negates priceNice to know about the NB 998Facts / SpecsPopularityVideo reviews
Overview
Who should buy the New Balance 998
The 998 from New Balance is a flawless choice for those who:
- want a sporty-looking daily shoe
- want to flaunt an '80s throwback ensemble
- are looking for a cushy sneaker
- need a pair of stable shoes for everyday wear
Who should NOT buy it
The New Balance 998 is not for you if you're looking for a pair of cheap sneakers. If you want the same sporty design minus the hefty price, go for the Adidas Lite Racer Adapt 3.0 or the Reebok Classic Nylon.
Softness in every step
Big fans of the NB 990 series love the updated NB 998 because of its "plush," "pillowy" comfort. According to them, the ABZORB feature makes their strides very "cushy;" none of them has experienced sore feet.
Support is top-notch!
This New Balance running-inspired sneaker has excellent stability. Although cushy, it doesn't waver even on challenging and uneven terrains.
Heel slips are a thing of the past
The reinforcement on the rear is appreciated by many reviewers. It locks the foot in place so well from lace-up down to the last stretch.
Fit that doesn't irritate the feet
An abundant sum of users gives this shoe an excellent rating due to its buttery smooth suede cover.
The NB 998 brings back the '80s
Many find the New Balance 998 a nostalgic pair of sneakers that's alluring as it brings them back to the 1980s era.
A value-for-money purchase
A large pool of testers considers this 998 model by New Balance a good value for money as it is made with exceptional artistry.
Clings like claws
Thanks to its "sticky outsole," the NB 998 has "excellent" slip control. On wet and dry pavement, it's a star.
Strength negates price
For $180, several critics are disappointed with the shoe's weak construction. After only six months, it has already worn down.
The sole has already detached from the rest of the shoe.
Nice to know about the NB 998
The upper is mostly made of pig suede and segmented into different layers. One can come up with a personalized version of this much-sought vintage profile through the NB1 customization platform.
Facts / Specs
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New Balance 998 unboxing and on-feet videos
