7 Best New Balance Walking Shoes, 20+ Shoes Tested in 2023
This guide focuses on the athletic walking shoes from New Balance. They are different from classic NB sneakers, like the 574, which are typically associated with the brand.
New Balance walking shoes are made for walking, hiking, and traveling. The primary focus of these shoes is set on comfort and support.
We have reviewed more than 20 walking shoes from NB to help you find your next favorite pair. Our tests covered various categories as some people may appreciate shoes with arch support, some are looking for a light shoe, and some want to add style to their casual outfits.
Our top picks below will help you fulfill each of these needs.
How we test walking shoes
Our teammates at RunRepeat keep an eye on all the walking shoe offerings from 12+ top brands, including New Balance. We consider both popular and little-known NB models to keep the competition fair.
- We have researched all the nitty-gritty details of over 25 (and counting) NB walking shoes to understand the benefits they offer.
- 46,000 reviews from experts and regular buyers have been summarized to compare and shortlist the top-performing shoes.
Our final verdict is presented in the form of CoreScore, a number from 1 to 100 found next to each model name.
Best New Balance walking shoes overall
Corescore
Pros
- Very breathable
- Comfy, well-padded upper
- Non-slip lockdown
- Multiple widths available
- Impact absorbing
- Consistently smooth ride
- Outsole can withstand a bomb
- Grippy on wet roads and light trails
- Best for tackling daily miles
Cons
- Generally snug throughout
- Very heavy
What makes it the best overall?
Best New Balance walking shoes for flat feet
Corescore
Pros
- Excellent stability shoe
- Good lacing
- Looks the part
- Comfortable
- Consistent ride in any condition
- Good grip
- Perfect daily runner
Cons
- Runs half a size small
- Heel counter is not for everyone
- Quite heavy
What makes it the best for flat feet?
Best New Balance work shoes
Corescore
Pros
- Lasting comfort
- Excellent ankle support
- Stable platform
- Available in varying widths
- Relieves pain
- Allows orthotic inserts
- Quality materials
Cons
- Stiff sole unit
- Insufficient forward roll
- High price tag
- Lacks ankle support to some
What makes it the best work shoe?
Best New Balance sneaker
Corescore
Pros
- Comfortable
- Timeless aesthetics
- Premium quality
- Stable strides
- Superior ventilation
- Fashionable dad sneaker
- Worth the price
- All-rounder
Cons
- So-so finish
- Hard to cop
What makes it the best sneaker?
Best New Balance walking shoe for hiking
Corescore
Pros
- Grippier than ever before
- Ready for a rough beating
- Very light
- Seamless heel-to-toe
- Stable during sharp turns
- Mutes out impact
- Welcomes wide feet
- Tongue stays in place
- Also for hiking
Cons
- Lacks breathability
- Forefoot lacks cushion
What makes it the best for hiking?
Best value New Balance walking shoes
Corescore
Pros
- Supportive midsole
- Stylish
- Good color selection
- Relieves foot issues
- Reasonably priced
- Fits perfectly
Cons
- Upper and sole durability issues
What makes it the best value?
Most popular New Balance walking shoes
Corescore
Pros
- Comfortable for walking
- Available in multiple widths
- Helps to relieve pain from plantar fasciitis
- Affordable
- Fits well with orthotics
- No slipping or sliding
- Good for moderate gym use
- Approved for diabetes (A5500 code)
Cons
- Laces are too long
- Not many colorways
What makes it the most popular?
What makes walking shoes from New Balance stand out
Big focus on arch support. Originally started as an arch support manufacturer, the brand has always taken flat feet and overpronation seriously.
Multiple width options. New Balance is one of the very few major athletic brands that make shoes in several width options, from Extra Narrow to Extra Wide.
Diabetes approved. Nearly every pair of New Balance walking shoes is recognized as appropriate for people with diabetes. These shoes are given the A5500code and are subject to Medicare reimbursement.
3 questions to ask before buying an NB walker
1. Use: city or trail?
If you need a walking shoe for commuting, working on concrete or tile floors, going shopping, or simply getting through your day, consider New Balance shoes for urban use.
If what you have on your mind are forest trails, countryside roads, and not very rocky mountain tracks, go for the brand’s trail walking shoes. These models are also waterproof.
2. Style: athletic or classic?
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Athletic
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Classic
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breathable flexible |
sturdy supportive durable most come with arch support most are approved for diabetes some have Velcro straps more expensive |
3. Arch support: needed or not?
- If you have a proven case of flat feet, complemented by a noticeable inward rolling of the foot (see image below), we recommend NB’s motion control walking shoes.
- If you have a normal arch and haven’t experienced any issues in foot stability, go with New Balance shoes for neutral pronation.
If in doubt, see the illustration below to guide you. You can also learn more about pronation and arch support in our meta-analysis of 150+ studies on the topic.
Other New Balance shoes to consider
Apart from the dedicated walking shoes, your daily walking needs may also be satisfied by New Balance sneakers and running shoes.
However, the choice will depend on your personal preferences in footwear. Here is how these three categories differ:
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All-day support
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All-day support
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All-day support
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Motion control
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Motion control
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Motion control
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Lightness
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Lightness
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Lightness
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Style
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Style
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Style
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New Balance walking shoes are best for those who want to feel supported all throughout the day and look for a more conservative shoe style.
