New Balance 574
Pros
- Classic NB silhouette
- Budget-friendly
- Suitable for all-day wear
- Real suede
- Highly durable
- Stable and supportive
- Easy to style
- Numerous color options
- Excellent grip on dry and wet
Cons
- Lacks breathability
- Stiff and firm platform
- Tongue shifts a little
Key Features
- Suede and mesh upper: Provides a breathable yet durable structure.
- ENCAP midsole technology: Offers superior cushioning and support for all-day comfort.
- Rubber outsole: Ensures excellent traction and durability on various surfaces.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Suede, Mesh, Rubber
- Closure type: Lace-Up
The New Balance 574 is a classic sneaker known for its comfort and versatility, making it an excellent choice for those seeking reliable footwear for daily activities.
This model offers significant comfort thanks to its effective cushioning and generously padded interior, which make it suitable for extended walks. Additionally, the timeless design seamlessly complements a variety of styles, ranging from casual to more polished outfits.
Priced at $90, the New Balance 574 stands out as an economical option, being approximately 30% less than the average sneaker price. Importantly, this affordability does not compromise the quality of its construction, featuring real suede on the upper and a robust 8-mm rubber outsole designed for durability over many miles.
However, potential buyers should note that while the shoe excels in comfort and style, its performance might not meet the needs of those requiring specialized footwear for aggressive movement or extreme conditions.
Adidas Samba
Pros
- Clean and minimalist style
- Unbelievably affordable
- Real leather and suede
- Comfortable in-shoe feel
- Long-lasting construction
- Lighter than average
- Highly flexible build
- Good grip for casual use
Cons
- Poor breathability
- Tongue slides to the side
- Not for all-day wear
- Slippery when wet
Key Features
- Metallic purple leather upper for a stylish look
- Iconic white three-stripe detailing for brand recognition
- Low-profile design for easy pairing with various outfits
- Dark gum sole for enhanced grip and durability
- Lace-up closure for a secure fit
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Leather
- Closure type: Lace-Up
The Adidas Samba, a classic sneaker with a history dating back to the 1950s, is best suited for those seeking a minimalist design with notable durability. This sneaker features a low-cut profile crafted from premium leather and suede, providing significant stability during wear.
During our testing, we noted the lack of a midsole, which contributes to an almost barefoot experience. The caliper measurement shows a stack height of 19.3/11.9 mm, allowing for minimal elevation from the ground. Weighing in at 12.1 oz (342g), the Samba maintains a loose build that enhances natural movement, as confirmed by our bend test revealing it to be 40.9% more flexible than average.
Our lab analysis confirms that the upper is made of genuine leather and suede, except for the white section at the collar, which sustained damage during testing. A durability assessment using a Dremel rated the material's sturdiness at 4/5, indicating a robust construction overall.
Originally designed for indoor soccer, the gum rubber outsole features two-directional lugs that provide enhanced traction. Our tests showed no loss of confidence while navigating sharp corners or slippery surfaces, demonstrating reliable grip throughout various conditions.
The primary drawback of the Adidas Samba is the absence of a foam midsole, which may not be ideal for individuals who spend long hours on their feet. Those seeking greater cushioning may want to explore other options.
Reebok Classic Leather
Pros
- Mighty plush
- Great investment
- Leader of the pack
- Supportive
- Aesthetically well-rounded
- Enduring
- Affordable
Cons
- Downgraded upper
- Dirt-magnet
Key Features
- Soft Leather Upper: Made from high-quality leather, providing comfort and durability.
- Minimalist Design: A clean look that works well with multiple styles.
- High Abrasion Resistant Rubber Outsole: Ensures stability and traction during wear.
- Cushioned EVA Midsole: Offers all-day comfort and support.
- Wide Size Range: Available in sizes 7-14 to accommodate different foot sizes.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Leather
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
The Reebok Classic Leather is an ideal choice for individuals with flat feet, combining a classic design with substantial support. Its robust construction is complemented by a lightweight structure, making it comfortable for extended wear. Lab tests confirm its stable platform, affirming its position as our top classic sneaker for this foot type.
This sneaker originates from the Reebok Classic collection and has historical ties to running shoes. The design features a well-cushioned stack measuring 35.7/22.1 mm, providing notable impact protection during activities. Our durometer readings show a firmness score of 35.1 HA, which is 20.6% above average, resulting in a securely planted feel.
The leather material contributes to minimal flexibility, as evidenced by our manual assessments that indicated difficulty in twisting the shoe and pinching the heel counter. Both features received a high rigidity score of 4/5, ensuring a secure foothold while walking. This rigidity enhances stability but may not suit all preferences.
Despite its sturdy build, the Reebok Classic Leather is surprisingly lightweight, weighing only 11.4 oz (323g), which is 17.2% lighter than average. This streamlined construction aids in comfort; however, it may not be suitable for those with wide feet or bunions due to its less accommodating fit. Overall, while there are advantages, potential users should consider these limitations before purchase.
New Balance 327
Pros
- Fashionably sporty
- Excellent impact protection
- Stable and planted platform
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Above average breathability
- Excellent grip
- Suitable for driving
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Not suitable for wide feet
- Not as supportive as other NB sneakers
Key Features
- Design Inspiration: A reimagining of 1970s running shoes, combining vintage aesthetics with modern technology.
- Asymmetrical Branding: Unique 'N' logo placement adds a creative touch to the overall design.
- Trail-Inspired Outsole: Offers excellent traction and stability for various terrains.
- Materials: Crafted from synthetic materials and leather, ensuring durability and comfort.
- Closure Type: Features a traditional lace-up design for a secure fit.
Specifications
- Origin: Made in the USA or Imported
- Sole Material: Synthetic Rubber
- Outer Material: Synthetic
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
The New Balance 327 is a sneaker that offers notable ventilation and luxurious comfort at an affordable price point of $90, making it a recommended choice for those seeking breathable footwear.
During our assessment, we verified the upper's porosity by shining a light on it. The numerous vent openings around the quarter and toe box became evident when smoke continuously flowed during our smoke test.
Weighing in at 10.62 oz (301g), the 327 is lightweight, being 35.2% lighter than most tested sneakers. However, this model may not be suitable for individuals with broader feet, as our measurements indicated a maximum toebox width of 94 mm, which is 4 mm below the standard width. For wide-footed wearers, opting for sneakers that provide more room in the toe area may be advisable.
Adidas Superstar
Pros
- Iconic style
- Generously padded and comfy
- Nice and flexible
- Sufficient arch support
- Very durable toebox
- Accommodating toebox
- Lots of colorway options
- Affordable
- Excellent grip for urban surfaces
Cons
- Needs breaking in
- Average breathability at best
Key Features
- Iconic Design: Classic leather upper with a timeless silhouette.
- Shell Toe Protection: Durable toe cap that adds an extra layer of defense.
- Comfortable Fit: Lace-up closure ensures a secure and customized fit.
- Cultural Significance: Celebrated by various music and fashion icons over the decades.
- Versatile Wear: Suitable for casual outings or more laid-back events.
Specifications
- Outer Material: Leather
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
- Water Resistance Level: Not Water Resistant
- Available Sizes: Size 9 (additional sizes available)
- User Rating: 4.4 out of 5 from 109 reviews
The Adidas Superstar is a notable choice for those seeking a classic basketball sneaker that combines style with functionality. It features a traditional silhouette that connects to its basketball heritage, making it well-suited for casual wear and light court activity.
Durability is a significant strength of the Adidas Superstar, constructed to withstand frequent use. The support and traction offered by this model exceed expectations, providing reliable performance on various surfaces.
Comfort is another key attribute, thanks to the effective cushioning that allows for extended wear without discomfort. Ample arch support contributes to pain-free experiences, while sufficient toe wiggle room helps prevent hotspots during movement.
The overall quality of the Adidas Superstar is impressive; it shows minimal signs of wear even after extensive outdoor use. However, it is important to note that a wearing-in period may be necessary, as the sneaker can feel stiff initially. If immediate comfort is a priority, consider exploring other basketball sneakers that provide a more accommodating fit from the start.
Vans Old Skool
Pros
- A classic silhouette deserving of any wardrobe
- Easy to wear in
- Super comfortable
- Fits true to size
- Incredibly breathable thanks to the all-canvas upper
- Clean aesthetics
- Very durable outsole
- Brakes well on the board
Cons
- Not very durable in comparison to other modern skate shoes
- Collect stains easily
Key Features
- Classic cut ideal for all foot types
- Lightweight and predictable cushioning for comfort
- Secure fit with supportive cushioning
- Versatile design that matches multiple outfits
- Easy-to-use Velcro closure for convenience
Specifications
- Fabric type: 100% Synthetic
- Sole material: Rubber
- Shaft height: Tobillo (ankle)
- Outer material: Leather
The Vans Old Skool is a versatile sneaker that excels in both style and functionality, making it ideal for skaters and casual wearers alike. This shoe offers comfort for all-day use, whether on the board or navigating city streets. With its design rooted in skate culture, the canvas construction facilitates easy maneuverability and requires minimal break-in time.
The midsole provides excellent board connection, responding effectively to movements and enabling tricks with reduced effort and increased precision. Off the board, it serves as a stylish and comfortable casual shoe. The rubber sole delivers reliable braking capabilities while enduring the demands of pavement, showcasing notable wear resistance even after extensive use.
A significant drawback is the canvas upper, which tends to attract stains. Individuals who prefer low-maintenance footwear may want to consider alternatives made from more dirt-resistant materials. Overall, the Vans Old Skool remains a top choice among skate sneakers for its blend of performance and aesthetic appeal.
Adidas Busenitz
Pros
- Incredibly durable
- Fits true to size
- Grippy as anything
- Technical shoe for responsive skating
- Surprisingly weatherproof
- Classic silhouette
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Takes a long time to break it
- Narrow in the toe box
- The big tongue isn't for everyone
- Not very breathable
Key Features
- Signature model of professional skateboarder Dennis Busenitz.
- Durable suede uppers for extended longevity.
- Geofit padded collar for enhanced ankle support.
- Lace-up closure for an adjustable fit.
- Textile lining promoting breathability during wear.
- Stabilizing heel counter for improved control.
- Vulcanized rubber outsole for flexibility and traction.
Specifications
- Fabric type: 100% Synthetic.
- Origin: Imported.
- Sole material: Rubber.
- Outer material: Polyester.
- Weight: 14.8 oz (based on size 10, width D - Medium).
The Adidas Busenitz is designed for individuals seeking significant impact protection and support, whether for extended walks or performing tricks. This cup sole skate sneaker is noted for its reliable grip and durability, making it suitable for various activities, including casual outings.
Featuring ample cushioning, the Busenitz protects the feet during demanding landings from ollies and kickflips. The chunky heel of the cup sole provides essential support for prolonged hours on the skateboard.
The suede upper demonstrated notable resistance to wear during our abrasion test, indicating that even the most intense skaters can rely on the longevity of the Busenitz. Additionally, the rubber outsole features deep grooves that enhance traction as effectively as its construction.
However, the cup sole contributes some stiffness to the ride, requiring a break-in period. Individuals who prioritize maneuverability and immediate comfort may prefer a more flexible option.