Once a relic of dadhood deemed uncool, New Balance shoes are now in. (Although their nickname, “Dad Shoes,” still sticks. And we’re okay with that.) Their entrance into ~fashion~ is supported by sneaker-heads, hipsters, and even recommended by podiatrists, who often suggest the brand for myriad foot problems. Whether or not you realize it, your feet are super important to your overall health and well-being, especially if you spend a lot of time actively using them. So, if you’re experiencing foot pain or other issues, an easy way to address this is to change up your kicks. In fact, wearing the right and comfortable sneakers can even help alleviate foot or toe pain, knee pain, and also support your ankles.

Best New Balance shoes at a glance

• Best for walking: New Balance 997H ($70)
• Best lifestyle: New Balance 237 ($80)
• Best for standing: New Balance 577v1 ($80)
• Best for strength training: New Balance 574 Core ($90)
• Best lightweight: New Balance Fresh Foam Cruz ($90)
• Best for running: New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v13 ($140)
• Best tennis shoe: New Balance 515v3 ($50)
• Best versatile: New Balance 990v5 ($175)
• Best for hiking: New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v7 ($90)
• Best for cross-training: New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trainer ($180)
• Best for active recovery: New Balance 813v1 Hook and Loop Walking Shoe ($90)
• Best design: New Balance 550 ($110)
• Best for long walks: New Balance 840v5 ($140)

When you’re looking for a supportive sneaker, podiatrists typically recommend finding what works best for your foot type, says Bruce Pinker, DPM, a board-certified podiatrist at Progressive Foot Care, and an associate of the American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons. “For example, if one has a low arch, generally, they should be looking for a sneaker with added arch support, an anti-pronator sneaker,” Dr. Pinker says.

“Those with average arches and high arches should avoid anti-pronator models and look for the neutral styles,” he adds. (If you’re not fluent in podiatry, an anti-pronator sneaker means that the shoe protects you from walking in a way that would inadvertently flatten your feet over time.)

Why are New Balance shoes so good?

What’s so great about New Balance in particular is that it offers sneakers for a lot of different types of feet—which is no accident. “New Balance has historically designed sneakers with anti-pronator modifications, and usually [its] footwear is very well-constructed and durable,” says Dr. Pinker. He adds that it’s also nice that New Balance sneakers are available in many different widths, making it easier for individuals to find the right fit for them.

From the materials to the shape, adding a pair of New Balance shoes to your foot wardrobe is a no-brainer, says podiatrist and podiatric surgeon Dana Canuso, DPM, founder of Dr. Canuso Skincare for Feet. Why? “In general, New Balance sneakers have always been designed with the idea of support and foot structure in mind first, and then aesthetics,” says Dr. Canuso, who lauds the brand as “pioneers when it comes to podiatry-friendly sneakers.”

Below, find the best podiatrist-approved shoes from New Balance available now.

The best pairs of New Balance shoes that podiatrists *actually* recommend

Best for walking: New Balance, 997H — $70.00

Good for: Walking

“The 997H is a lifestyle sneaker,” says Dr. Pinker. “It is great for walkers and for runners who put on low to moderate mileage.” A bit more about this model: There are upper panels made of mesh, which allow moisture and heat to escape. Read: No more hot or sweaty feet thanks to New Balance’s 997Hs. I purchased a pair for myself and have worn them often, which means I can attest to the fact that they’re cool (in temperature as well as style) and mega comfortable.

The soles of this sneaker are made with IMEVA (or injection-molded EVA foam, which can lead to a firmer, higher rebound material) and rubber, which provides great foot support. This option meets the lightweight-yet-durable status for which New Balance sneakers are known.

“As an overall good, everyday sneaker, I think the 997H is a great option because they’re cushiony and have a little bit of style to them,” says Dr. Canuso. “They’re definitely a walking shoe though,” she says, recommending that people don’t run in these sneakers.

Materials: Various materials for upper, mesh, rubber and IMEVA sole

Sizes: 5–12 (half sizes available)

Colors: 20+

Pros:

• Lightweight
• Breathable
• Supportive soles

Cons:

• Not for running

Best lifestyle: New Balance, 237 — $80.00

Good for: Walking

Equipped with an EVA midsole (which is great because it absorbs shock from each step you take), these shoes also feature a padded collar and footbed—so they’ll offer comfort all day long. They’re also a lace-up option, which Dr. Canuso says is helpful in adjusting the sneaker to your feet. As fantastic as the New Balance 237s are, though, you probably don’t want to add this option to your cart if you’re in search of a running shoe.

“The 237 is a lifestyle sneaker, which makes it great for low to moderate activity,” says Dr. Pinker. To be sure, low-intensity activity would be taking a leisurely stroll, while moderate activity includes brisk walking, vacuuming, and raking leaves. Running falls into the vigorous-intensity camp, so hitting the track or treadmill with these sneakers isn’t recommended.

For walking though? They’re a dream. Take it from my roommate, Cherelle Lewis, who recently took these babies to the United Kingdom and Israel—where her pedometer was off the charts. “I wore them the majority of my tours and I have been happy with their performance. No blisters! By far, they’re the most comfortable option I had on my trip,” she texted me from London.

Materials: Technical weave, suede trim, rubber sole

Sizes: 5–12 (half sizes available)

Colors: 10+

Pros:

• Padded collar and footbed
• Good for low and moderate activity
• Retro style pairs well with outfits

Cons:

• Not for running

Best for standing: New Balance, 577v1 — $80.00

Good for: Walking, standing

Sometimes, we take small things for granted—like being able to tie our shoe laces. Not everyone has the mobility to do this, and New Balance is well aware of that. For that reason, they created the 577s. As opposed to being laced, this sneaker features velcro for accessibility. Also, most sneakers come with an EVA midsole, but these velcro sneakers actually feature a polyurethane midsole for stable cushioning.

According to Dr. Pinker, these shoes are also best for walking, but you might consider wearing them for work if you have to be on your feet all day. This sneaker is made of 100 percent leather, which is fantastic for durability but might not align with vegan practices. If you don’t mind purchasing leather—but are still not convinced the 577s are for you—consider that this sneaker comes in a wide, extra-wide, regular, and narrow fit. Additionally, these sneaks might be eligible for Medicare reimbursement under the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System. To check, use code A5500.

Materials: Leather, rubber sole

Sizes: 5–12 (half sizes and four widths available)

Colors: 3

Pros:

• Stable cushioning
• Durable
• Available in multiple widths
• Shock absorbing

Cons:

• May not offer enough arch support for high arches

Best for strength training: New Balance, 574 Core — $90.00

Good for: Walking, strength training (and other low-to-moderate activities)

“The 574 is also a lifestyle sneaker, somewhat similar to the 997H,” says Dr. Pinker, adding that he’d recommend this style for low to moderate activity—so they’re best for walking instead of running or hitting high-pound squats at the gym. That’s because New Balance designed the 574, the original model of this sneaker, in attempt to build “a reliable shoe that could do a lot of different things well.”

Originally designed for trail hiking, the second version of the 574 (aka the 574v2s) offers the retro aesthetics and support that’s a pillar of New Balance sneakers. The updated kicks also have built-in technology designed to offer long-term wearability. What’s more, is that there’s an ENCAP midsole, which New Balance says is a core of soft cushioning “with a tough polyurethane rim for more support and durability.” The 116-year-old brand also put a rubber outsole on these puppies, so you won’t be slipping or falling.

Materials: Suede and mesh upper, rubber sole

Sizes: 5–12 (half sizes available)

Colors: 5

Pros:

• Foam cushioning in midsole and heel
• Breathable
• Comfortable for walking and low impact activities

Cons:

• Not for running

Best lightweight: New Balance, Fresh Foam Cruz — $90.00

Good for: Running, walking

Up to this point, we’ve given ya mostly lifestyle shoes. That said, New Balance isn’t only in the daily wear game. They, of course, also make pretty great running shoes. This lightweight pair features breathable mesh, a slip-on design, and a cushioned midsole made from 3 percent renewable materials (hey, better than nothing!). They’re great for shorter runs, sightseeing, and long days on your feet.

Materials: Synthetic and mesh upper, rubber sole, renewable foam midsole

Sizes: 6–13 (half sizes and two widths available)

Colors: 2

Pros:

• Cushioned midsole
• Breathable mesh upper and slide-on design

Cons:

• Limited color options

Best for running: New Balance, Fresh Foam X 880v13 — $140.00

Good for: Running

Dr. Canuso loves how the 880v13 shoes offer more stability—which means they’re not as flexible as other options on this list. That, however, is not a bad thing. “When you first put a running sneaker on, it’s not going to feel as comfortable, but it’s going to protect you a lot more when you’re running. In the long run, it’ll actually make it more comfortable for you to wear since it takes a lot more shock absorption,” says Dr. Canuso.

She adds that folks generally want to look for a lightweight running shoe, and the 880v12s are that shoe, considering that they only weigh 8.6 ounces. The sneakers are also equipped with a dual-layer midsole, which has foam cushioning and Fresh Foam X. In case you’re wondering, Fresh Foam X is a material that’s super-soft and still comfy as well as supportive. The Fresh Foam 880v13s were built to help you run more comfortably for longer, says New Balance’s website. They also come with a blown rubber outsole for a better rebound.

Materials: Knit and mesh upper, rubber outsole

Sizes: 5–13 (half sizes and three widths available)

Colors: 5

Pros:

• Strategic zones of support
• Breathable
• Lightweight

Cons:

• May run small
• Limited color options compared to other running shoes

Best tennis shoe: New Balance, 515v3 — $50.00

Good for: Walking

These tennis shoes are reminiscent of the classic style you might envision when you think of New Balance. Because they’re made with EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and rubber on the outsole, New Balance’s 515s are not just lightweight—they’re also super comfy on your heels. That said, though, these shoes aren’t meant for running. As a 500-level shoe, it’d probably be best to stick to walking in these.

If you know you’ve got a lot of steps in your future, take this five-star review from an Amazon customer, where the 515v3s have 4.6 out of 5 stars: “I got these planning ahead for my NYC trip, where I knew I’d be walking miles and miles every day. I was very happy since they were extremely comfortable but also look nice to get into museums, restaurants, etc.”

Materials: Fabriccand suede, rubber outsole

Sizes: 5-12 (half sizes and two widths available)

Colors: 20+

Pros:

• Cushioning in midsole and heel
• Underfoot cushioning
• Rubber sole for traction

Cons:

• May run small

Best versatile: New Balance, 990v5 — $175.00

Good for: Running and walking

Dr. Pinker, who says he often recommends New Balances to patients, lists the 990s as his favorite New Balance sneaker. “They are mostly running sneakers that have added cushion and shock absorption, making them ideal for runners, as well as for walkers,” he says.

The 990v5s, specifically, are composed of suede and mesh, which makes a more flexible sneaker; a dual-density midsole cushioning, so your ankles are comfy and supported; an ENCAP midsole and Otholite insert, both providing all-day support; and blown rubber outsoles, which give you a better rebound.

Materials: Suede and mesh upper, rubber sole

Sizes: 5–15 (half sizes and five widths available)

Colors: 4

Pros:

• Support for ankles
• Supportive midsole
• Can be used for running or walking

Cons:

• Bulkier size

Best for hiking: New Balance, Fresh Foam X Hierro v7 — $90.00

Good for: Walking and hiking (low, moderate, and higher intensity activities)

Weighing in at 9.1 ounces, these New Balance shoes come with a foam midsole, meaning there’s a lot of cushion between your foot and the ground. That also means that there’s more support for your feet and less of a shock that your body takes with each step. Simply put, the stacked midsole absorbs the impact instead of your body, making them ideal for walks and hikes. Also nice is the Vibram sole to offer grip on all types of terrain. Pretty neat, if you ask me.

Materials: Synthetic and mesh upper

Sizes: 5–12 (half sizes and two widths available)

Colors: 7

Pros:

• Hybrid road/trail shoe
• Foam midsole for comfort and support

Cons:

• May run small

Best for cross-training: New Balance, FuelCell SuperComp Trainer — $180.00

Good for: Cross-training

With a stacked midsole, a carbon fiber plate, and a flexible design that hugs your foot, these shoes are great for supporting you and your feet during various workouts in or outdoors. The knit mesh upper is breathable so your feet stay cool, and the shoes are lightweight for easy wearability. These can also be worn every day, bringing a sleek style to any outfit.

Materials: Knit mesh upper

Sizes: 5–12 (half sizes and wide sizes available)

Colors: 3

Pros:

• Lightweight
• Bootie construction provides a snug fit
• Stacked midsole

Cons:

• Priciest pick on this list

Best for active recovery: New Balance, 813v1 Hook and Loop Walking Shoe — $90.00

Good for: Walking, active recovery

Another accessible option? The 813v1s, which also come as velcro sneakers instead of lace-ups. While laces may be your best bet in terms of fitting the shoe to your foot, exactly, these shoes come with a hook and a loop to make it more foot-forming. Moreover, they’re equipped with New Balance’s Roll Bar technology, which helps prevent your foot from rolling inward or outward when you’re walking.

Like its velcro sister (577v1s), the 813v1s are best for walking, are made of 100 percent leather, and have a rubber outsole, which helps you keep your footing in a range of terrains. There’s also a soft, padded collar to allow comfort to your Achilles heel (read: No blisters!) as well as extra room in the toe box. A number of Amazon reviewers have mentioned this shoe was perfect for them during recovery from foot surgery and for folks with limited hand mobility or neurodivergencies. Also akin to the 577v1s, this model may be eligible for Medicare reimbursement under code A5500 of the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System.

Materials: Leather, rubber sole

Sizes: 5–13 (half sizes and three widths available)

Colors: 3

Pros:

• Soft collar
• Motion control technology for stability
• Maybe be eligible for Medicare

Cons:

• Bulkier size

Best design: New Balance, 550 — $110.00

Good for: Walking

If you’re looking for shoes that support your feet and will turn heads, consider adding the New Balance 550’s to your cart—like ASAP. The style originally debuted in 1989 and has made its way to basketball courts and streetwear for two decades. These sweet kicks boast a low-top design, sleek look, and exaggerated elements that resemble the style of the 80s. It’s the perfect sneaker to add to your collection if fashion is what you’re after.

Materials: Leather, rubber

Sizes: 5-11 (half sizes available)

Colors: 2

Pros:

• Stylish design
• Durable leather design

Cons:

• Requires breaking in
• Limited color options

Best for long walks: New Balance, 840v5 — $160.00

If you’re going on long walks, Dr. Cunha recommends the 840v5s. They strike the perfect balance between flexibility and stability. “They are constructed with soft foam cushioning that is comfortable, supportive, and responsive for people walking for long periods of time,” he says. What’s more, the upper is made of a breathable mesh that makes walking breezy (literally).

Materials: Synthetic and mesh upper

Sizes: 5–13 (half sizes and three widths available)

Colors: 1

Pros: 

• Available in three widths
• Breathable mesh
• Supportive and comfortable for long walks

Cons: 

• Smaller toe box

Frequently asked questions

What are the most popular New Balance shoes?

Miguel Cunha, DPM, podiatrist and founder of Gotham Footcare, tells W+G that the most iconic and popular New Balance style of all time is the New Balance 574. “This vintage-inspired shoe is New Balance’s most classic and recognizable design shoe since it was originally released in 1988.” Not only is casual and ideal for everyday running, but the shoe boasts some foot-friendly perks like a wide toe box, mesh upper, and midsole cushioning.

To keep your shoes looking fresh, learn how to wash shoes here.

What is New Balance’s best sneaker?

It depends on the style of activity being performed, says Dr. Cunha. The best way to determine the best shoe for you is by testing out different styles and picking the shoe based on your activity of choice: running, walking, hiking, etc.

Are New Balances worth it?

Yes, some are! “New Balance shoes have been granted the American Board of Podiatric Medicine seal of approval, which recognizes New Balance products as significantly beneficial to the maintenance of good foot health” and for good reason, explains Dr. Cunha. The shoes are designed with engineered footbeds that offer arch support, comfort, stability, and spacious toe boxes. Additionally, the brand’s kicks have deep heel cups to maintain proper foot alignment and pressure relief of the plantar fascia with heel strike, adds Dr. Cunha. All of these features combined make New Balance a standout brand.

For more foot-friendly shoes, check out our picks of the best shoes for standing all day, shoes for foot pain,shoes for balance, and shoes recommended by podiatrists.