Nike V5 RNR
Pros
- Unbelievable shock absorption for the price
- Light rocker makes the ride smoother
- Good support and stability for flat feet
- Insane outsole traction on wet and dry
- Extra puffy tongue and collar
- Comfortable in-shoe feel
- Fantastic value for money
Cons
- Snug and narrow fit (not for wide feet)
- Not as breathable as it appears
Key Features
- Breathable mesh upper with synthetic leather overlays for durability.
- Plush collar lining combined with a foam midsole for all-day comfort.
- Rubber outsole featuring '00s-inspired grooves for enhanced traction.
- Metallic details and a 3D Swoosh logo for a stylish retro touch.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: A combination of Mesh, Textile, Leather, and Rubber outsole
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
The Nike V5 RNR is well-suited for both indoor and outdoor activities, featuring a slip-proof and impact-dampening base. Its chunky, retro design inspires confidence while navigating urban environments. Laboratory tests confirm its exceptional performance in stability and friction tests, highlighting it as a sneaker characterized by high shock absorption and superior traction.
Whether on slippery tiles or icy sidewalks, the V5 RNR effectively prevents missteps. In our wet-condition test, it achieved an impressive friction rating of 0.73, demonstrating 69.8% stronger traction than average. The wide and rigid base contributes to solid footing, with verified dimensions of 114.0/89.4 mm.
The sneaker's torsional rigidity was rated highly at 4/5 during manual testing, indicating robust resistance to twisting. Comfort is enhanced by the midsole, which features a tall platform measuring 35.4/23.9 mm along with fatigue-reducing foam. Testing revealed a remarkable shock absorption score of 121 SA, showcasing its potential for lasting comfort.
However, the V5 RNR may be less suitable for all-day wear in warm weather due to limited breathability, which can lead to overheating and excessive sweating. This drawback should be considered when selecting footwear for different climates.
New Balance 2002R
Pros
- Comfortable for all-day wear
- Protective cushioning technologies
- Durable upper materials
- Snug and supportive fit
- Reliable arch support
- Stable platform
- Grippy, running-inspired outsole
- Feels lightweight with a padded interior
- Stylish classic look that matches many outfits
Cons
- Not for wide feet
- Pricey
Key Features
- Adjustable lace closure for a customized fit.
- ABZORB heel cushioning that delivers superior stability and comfort.
- N-ergy outsole providing excellent shock absorption.
- Crafted with premium materials for enhanced durability.
- Modern design suitable for various styles.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Synthetic
- Inner material: Synthetic
The New Balance 2002R is a notable choice for those seeking a balance of stability and cushioning in their footwear. This model features a well-balanced mix of stiffness and comfort, along with excellent grip for reliable footing. Additionally, the upper is constructed from real suede, contributing to its overall durability.
Our HA durometer rated the midsole softness at 32.6, closely aligning with the average of 30.9. Wearing the NB 2002R offers a commendable blend of responsiveness and impact absorption, making it suitable for extended use.
In our traction test, the 2002R achieved an impressive score of 0.59, indicating it is 40.5% grippier than average. Even on slippery surfaces, we maintained steady footing without any concerns about sliding.
We conducted a fire test which verified that the upper is genuinely made of suede. Its durability was notably impressive, as it received a rating of 4 out of 5 for abrasion resistance, easily outperforming standard expectations.
However, the breathability of the New Balance 2002R was found to be lacking. Our lab assessments resulted in a ventilation rating of only 2 out of 5, indicating that this may not be the best option for warm weather conditions.
New Balance 530
Pros
- Incredibly breathable
- Comfortable and protective midsole
- Extremely lightweight with a padded interior
- Durable outsole
- Excellent value for money
- NB's classic style
- 90's retro and chunky vibe
- More colorways than a rainbow
- Great outsole grip
Cons
- Lacks durability
- Not for cold weather
Key Features
- ABZORB cushioning provides superior support and comfort underfoot, making them ideal for long walks.
- Classic design that offers a stylish retro look, perfect for casual outings.
- High-quality cotton materials ensure durability and breathability.
- Manufactured in Vietnam, reflecting New Balance's commitment to quality craftsmanship.
The New Balance 530 is designed for individuals seeking maximum comfort in a minimal build at an accessible price point of $100. This sneaker is **13.1%** more affordable than the average sneaker, and lab tests confirm notable features such as strong shock absorption, effective ventilation, and a flexible midsole. For these reasons, it is recognized as our best budget sneaker.
Weighing only **10.9 oz (308g)**, the New Balance 530 is **21.0%** lighter than the average sneaker, offering both affordability and comfort. Its malleable midsole enhances the natural sensation when wearing them, demonstrating an **18.8%** increase in flexibility compared to the average in our bend test. This combination contributes to an overall pleasant experience during wear.
The sneaker features a generous platform with measurements of **37.3/25.4 mm**, providing excellent underfoot comfort. The foam utilized effectively cushions each landing, which helps reduce muscle fatigue, evidenced by its strong **108 SA score** in our shock absorption test. This design element is particularly beneficial for those engaging in extended periods of activity.
Additionally, the ultra-airy mesh upper promotes breathability, preventing sweat accumulation throughout the day. Our smoke test demonstrated that air escapes steadily from the shoe, leading to a high **4/5** rating for breathability. However, this ventilation comes with a drawback; the toebox material showed signs of damage in our Dremel test, making it less suitable for users who prioritize wear resistance in their footwear.
Nike Shox R4
Pros
- Incredibly durable
- Great stability
- Bouncy ride with Nike's Shox tech
- Makes you taller
- Cool retro-futuristic style
- Trendy sporty vibe
- Reflective elements everywhere
Cons
- Not breathable
- Heavy
- Pricey
Key Features
- Synthetic and textile upper provides a soft yet durable fit, ensuring long-lasting wear.
- Nike Shox technology utilizes resilient, flexible columns that compress underfoot, offering outstanding cushioning and responsiveness.
- Modified circular Waffle outsole enhances traction, making these shoes suitable for various surfaces.
- Laser perforations throughout the design promote ventilation, keeping your feet cool during extended wear.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber and plastic for durability.
- Outer material: Synthetic and textile upper combined with a rubber outsole.
- Inner material: Cotton lining for added comfort.
The R4 is a reliable sneaker best suited for individuals seeking stability and durability in their footwear. Its solid structure features reflective elements designed for longevity, providing a secure feeling with each step. Notably, the integration of Shox technology enhances cushioning and contributes to a fun ride.
This sneaker also offers the benefit of increased height, boosting confidence during wear. However, it is advisable to avoid wearing the R4 on warm days due to its lack of airflow, which can lead to excessive sweating. Overall, while the R4 excels in performance attributes, this drawback may impact comfort in hotter conditions.
ASICS Gel 1130
Pros
- Comfortable for all-day wear
- Stable platform
- Top-notch materials
- Excellent craftsmanship
- Supportive foothold
- Grippy, running-inspired outsole
- Feels lightweight with a padded interior
- Roomy at the big toe
- Real suede and leather
- Cool 90s dad shoes retro vibe
Cons
- The leather version lacks breathability
- Quite stiff
Key Features
- Originally part of the GEL-1000 series, representing the ninth iteration of this popular shoe line.
- Suede overlays combined with mesh underlays offer a stylish, modernized look.
- GEL technology cushioning delivers outstanding shock absorption for enhanced comfort.
- TRUSSTIC support system improves stability during running activities.
- Dope-dyed sockliner contributes to sustainability by reducing water usage and carbon emissions.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Faux Leather
- Closure type: Lace-Up
The ASICS Gel 1130 maintains its nostalgic aesthetic, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a retro sneaker experience. This model is characterized by its plush cushioning and stable platform, enhancing overall comfort during wear.
The shoe retains defining features from the original design, including a bulky appearance and multiple overlays that contribute to its structured look. Its eye-catching style stands out, especially on urban streets.
Notable for its softness, the midsole received a rating of 19.0 HA from our durometer assessments, significantly lower than the average of 30.9 HA, indicating a 39% difference in softness. This design allows wearers to enjoy a cushioned step reminiscent of walking on clouds.
Despite its soft midsole, the ASICS Gel 1130 offers stability thanks to a wide platform, measuring 111.8 mm at the forefoot and 90.1 mm at the heel, surpassing the respective averages of 108.9 mm and 83.4 mm. This width minimizes the risk of slipping during use.
However, the upper's breathability is a drawback, receiving a score of only 2 out of 5 in our assessments, which may affect comfort during warmer conditions.
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.