New Balance 550
Pros
- Attention-grabbing throwback look
- Incredibly clean details
- Suitable for various outfits
- Durable, high-quality construction
- No visible wear after several uses
- Easy to clean
- Striking shades
- Reasonably priced
- Awesome grip on wet and dry streets
Cons
- Firm and dull platform
- Insufficient lockdown feel
Key Features
- Bold Design: The New Balance 550 Sneakers feature a striking aesthetic that makes a statement.
- All-Day Comfort: Designed with your comfort in mind, they allow you to feel good even in challenging situations.
- Durable Construction: The use of high-quality materials ensures longevity and flexibility, making these sneakers lighter than conventional options.
- Easy-to-Wear Style: The historical details add a layer of uniqueness while maintaining a classic sneaker silhouette.
Specifications
- Sole Material: Rubber, providing excellent traction and durability.
- Outer Material: Mesh, allowing breathability to keep your feet cool.
- Closure Type: Lace-Up, offering a secure fit for added support.
The New Balance 550 is a retro sneaker designed for those who appreciate classic aesthetics coupled with durability and stability. Its design retains the original look and feel, making it an appealing choice for fans of vintage footwear.
This model closely mirrors the appeal of its predecessor, earning significant praise from users. The combination of durability and secure heel clasp enhances confidence with each step, reinforcing its status as a top choice among New Balance's retro offerings.
During our durability tests, both the toebox and heel padding demonstrated notable resistance to abrasion. When subjected to a Dremel test, only minor scratches remained, leading us to rate these components an impressive 4 out of 5 for durability.
In addition to its durable padding, the heel counter effectively secures the rearfoot in place. Our lab evaluation showed that it resisted various stress tests well, receiving a commendable 4 out of 5 rating for its performance.
However, breathability is a drawback for this shoe. Our assessments indicated that neither smoke nor light could penetrate the upper material, resulting in a less favorable ventilation score of 2 out of 5.