New Balance 928 v3 review

Who should buy the New Balance 928 v3

Designed to deliver all-day comfortable ride and motion control, this walking shoe by New Balance is a solid choice if:

• You suffer from neuropathy, arthritis, bone spurs, and other foot discomforts and are looking for a shoe that would help ease the pain. 
• Hygiene is a top priority to you and in need of a shoe that provides protection against microbes. 

Extra durable outsole

The New Balance 928 v3 employs the Ndurance rubber, a proprietary technology that is designed to be extremely durable even when used on hard pavements. This compound also has a textured pattern to offer traction on most outdoor surfaces as well as grooves for flexibility. The rubber is non-marking which implies that it does not leave scuff marks on floors. Its rear portion has a slight bevel which provides a smooth transition to the flat part of the outsole.

The outsole features an off-centered band of rubber known as the Walking Strike Path technology. It serves to guide the foot throughout the walking gait cycle, ensuring that it rolls smoothly from the heel to the toes. The flex grooves in the forefoot also promote flexion.

Shock-absorbent midsole

The midsole of the New Balance 928 v3 is made from CMEVA. It is a type of foam that does not readily get compressed but is soft enough to cushion the impact of each step.

The ABZORB cushioning technology lines the midfoot area, extending to the front of the midsole. It serves as an additional layer of shock-absorbing material to prevent discomfort or injuries in the lower extremities.

The Rollbar posting system in the heel section makes this model a motion control walking shoe. This technology consists of a molded TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) plate that connects the medial and the lateral postings to reduce rearfoot movement. The firm material also prevents the midsole from compressing at the sides to avoid overpronation and supination.

The rocker-shaped midsole reduces plantar flexion. It helps in the heel-to-toe-off motion, removing the stress from the ball of the foot and the toes.

Inside the shoe is the removable polyurethane (PU) sockliner. It has anti-microbial properties to ensure a healthy foot environment and has a plush characteristic that adds comfort.

Added mobility and protection

The New Balance 928 v3 utilizes a mesh fabric for the upper. This material allows air to flow into the foot chamber to keep it fresh. It is also soft to promote mobility.

Synthetic overlays line various sections of the upper. They are found in the toe box to protect it from impact and abrasion. They are also placed in the midfoot area to provide lateral support. At the back, they serve as an external heel counter to prevent the foot from wobbling.

The New Balance 928 v3 not only comes in a range of different width profiles but also in a selection of various upper materials. While the original shoe features a mesh-and-synthetic upper, other variations of the trainer include leather and suede.

In its turn, the leather model is offered in two closure options: one with a traditional lacing system and the other one with twin hook-and-loop straps.   

Added comfort

Inside the shoe is the Phantom Liner. This sock-like material provides a seamless interior to reduce irritation or blister formation.

Snug lacing system

The trainer uses a traditional lace-up closure that keeps the foot securely in place. The padded tongue prevents the round laces from cutting into the instep. It also has a plush collar that locks the foot down to avoid accidental shoe removal.