New Balance 9060
Pros
- Comfortable and cushioned for all-day wear
- Excellent craftsmanship
- Quite heavy-duty
- Dope aesthetics
- Looks better in person
- Premium-grade materials
- Stable platform
- Great grip on dry and wet
Cons
- Limited color options
- Squeaks
- A tad warm
Key Features
- Innovative design inspired by the Y2K aesthetic
- Expanded sway bars from the classic 990 for enhanced support
- Iconic cushioning platforms featuring ABZORB and SBS technologies
- Rubber sole for improved traction and durability
- Lace-up closure for a secure fit
Specifications
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Leather
- Inner material: Textile
- Closure type: Lace-Up
The New Balance 9060 is designed for individuals seeking a comfortable and cushioned sneaker. Its robust materials contribute to an impressive cushioning system, making it a notable option among chunky sneakers.
Measurements taken with a digital caliper indicated that the cushioning system of the NB 9060 features a thickness of 37.3 mm at the heel and 26.0 mm at the forefoot. These dimensions significantly exceed average midsole thicknesses, which typically measure 31.3 mm and 20.0 mm, respectively.
In laboratory tests, the torsional rigidity of the New Balance 9060 was assessed through manual twisting and bending. The results showed a strong resistance, justifying its rating of 4 out of 5.
Despite the sturdy base's resistance to twisting, the shoe does not sacrifice comfort underfoot. It offers a notably soft experience, as evidenced by our HA durometer rating of 19.4, which contrasts sharply with the average of 30.9.
A potential drawback is the limited availability of colorways for this model. A broader selection would allow users to explore various styles while wearing the NB 9060.
New Balance 1000
Pros
- Really comfortable for all-day wear
- Soft and protective cushioning
- Great lockdown and surefootness
- Nice stability (wide platform)
- Lightweight on foot but with padded interiors
- Incredibly breathable
- Real suede
- Super stylish
- Trendy retro vibe
- Great traction for city streets
Cons
- Frail mesh components
- Tongue might be too long for some
Key Features
- Inner Material: Made of polyester, offering breathability and comfort.
- Closure Type: Lace-up design ensuring a secure fit.
- Water Resistance Level: Not water resistant; suitable for dry conditions.
Specifications
- Inner Material: Polyester
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
- Water Resistance Level: Not Water Resistant
The New Balance 1000 is designed for individuals seeking a shock-absorbing sneaker suitable for all-day wear. After extensive lab testing and practical use, we found that it features a retro aesthetic combined with lightweight yet padded materials. Its notable attributes include plush cushioning, a flexible structure, and an effortless ride.
This model incorporates height alongside stress-reducing foam, allowing users to remain on their feet longer. The stack height measures an above-average 36.5/25.2 mm, providing substantial cushioning against harsh urban surfaces. The heel exhibits a high 122 SA for shock absorption, delivering a verified 40.2% improvement in impact protection compared to the average sneaker.
The flexible design facilitates smooth transitions and promotes natural movement. Our flex test indicates it requires 10.7% less force than average to achieve a 30-degree bend. Weighing just 13.2 oz (373g), this sneaker enhances the overall riding experience, minimizing fatigue during extended periods of walking.
However, the upper material lacks durability; it was easily compromised during our Dremel test. Consumers requiring additional reinforcement in the upper may want to consider a more protective option. Overall, while the New Balance 1000 excels in cushioning and comfort, its upper construction may not meet the needs of all users.
Nike Air Max 270
Pros
- All-day comfort
- Fun and springy ride
- Incredibly lightweight
- Flexible structure
- Practical booty-like construction
- Perfect for active people
- Cool Nike Air technology
- Trendy futuristic vibe
Cons
- Upper lacks durability
- Not for people with wide feet
- Can be slippery on wet
Key Features
- Rubber Sole: Provides durability and traction for active play.
- Mesh and Rubber Upper: Offers breathability and a lightweight feel.
- Lace-Up Closure: Ensures a secure fit for all-day wear.
Specifications
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Mesh, Rubber
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
The Air Max 270 is a notable choice for those seeking a lightweight, stylish sneaker designed primarily for lifestyle use. With its towering stack height and distinctive exposed air bubble, this shoe represents a significant advancement in the Air Max lineup as the first model to be entirely dedicated to lifestyle wear.
Featuring a heel height of 36.4 mm, the AM270 establishes its presence in the chunky footwear category. It offers 21.6% stronger shock absorption than average, ensuring comfort during extended city adventures without feeling bottom-heavy.
Weighing in at 23.5% less than the average sneaker, the AM270's flexibility contributes to a weightless experience. Our bend test reveals it is 27.5% more malleable than standard options, allowing it to easily adapt to natural foot movements.
Constructed from breathable mesh, the AM270 effectively keeps feet cool and comfortable throughout the day. The inner lining is soft, and the well-ventilated design ensures a sweat-free environment, achieving a breathability score of 5/5 in our lab tests.
A potential drawback is that the upper material lacks wear resistance, as demonstrated by our Dremel test. If durability is a key concern for you, it may be worthwhile to explore other alternatives.
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.
ASICS GT 2160
Pros
- Very stable and supportive
- Super lightweight structure
- Breathable design
- Great for all-day wear
- GEL technology
- Durable outsole
- Trendy retro sporty clean style
Cons
- Upper lacks durability
- Not the best for running
Key Features
- Polyester mesh upper: Ensures breathability and comfort throughout your run.
- FF BLAST PLUS ECO cushioning: Made from recycled materials, this cushioning provides softer landings and an energized feel at the toe box.
- Tongue wing construction: Improves fit and minimizes tongue movement for added stability.
- Heel stabilizer: Offers support and helps maintain a balanced stride.
- AHAR outsole: Enhances durability and traction even on less-than-ideal surfaces.
- Reflective details: Improve visibility in low-light conditions, enhancing safety during evening runs.
- 8 mm heel-to-toe drop: Provides a comfortable transition from heel to toe.
Specifications
- Sole material: Rubber
- Closure type: Lace-Up
- Water resistance level: Not Water Resistant
The ASICS GT 2160 offers luxurious comfort and reliable support, making it an ideal choice for individuals with wide feet seeking stability during extended periods of wear.
This sneaker features a broad platform combined with a twist-resistant midsole, ensuring rock-steady footing. Our caliper measurements confirm an above-average reading of 114.0/91.6 mm, enhancing step security and stability.
The midsole provides strong lateral support, evidenced by its high torsional rigidity score of 4/5, which contributes to overall performance. We assessed the roominess through a gel mold, revealing a width of 97.0 mm at the ball of the foot, surpassing the average of 92.5 mm, making it suitable for broad feet and bunions.
An inspection of the midsole shows a GEL insert in the heel, contributing to its cushioned feel. Testing for shock absorption yielded an above-average score of 105 SA, indicating effective reduction of ground impact forces.
However, the toebox material and heel padding are more susceptible to wear than average, which may be a drawback for those prioritizing durability in their footwear choices.
New Balance 237
Pros
- Super affordable
- Very durable materials
- Breathable and ready for the summer
- Out-of-box comfortable
- Impressive traction on dry and wet
- Retro vibes and effortlessly chic
Cons
- Firm dead-feeling sole
- Materials wrinkle
Key Features
- Unbacked suede and mesh upper for breathability and durability
- Retro style with exposed foam tongue detail for a nostalgic touch
- Oversized N logo with asymmetric rubber tip wrap enhances visual appeal
- Large-scale ripple outsole for excellent grip on various surfaces
- EVA rubber midsole provides lightweight cushioning and support
- Angled ‘New Balance’ text at heel tab adds to the classic design
Specifications
- Fabric type: 100% Fabric
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Linen
The New Balance 237 is designed for individuals seeking notable impact protection and ground control. In our wear tests, it demonstrated significant durability while maintaining breathability and grip, making it a strong contender among New Balance sneakers for traction.
This model features a full-length rubber outsole, which achieved a high 0.58 friction coefficient in wet conditions, ensuring excellent grip on slick surfaces. Our testing revealed no loss of footing during walks on wet and polished terrain. Additionally, the rubber outsole displayed 27.3% less wear than average in our Dremel test, highlighting its sturdiness.
The upper part of the shoe is crafted from real suede, as confirmed by its performance in our torch test. It balances breathability and durability effectively, providing comfort and protection for the feet. The 237 scored a solid 4/5 in both our smoke and Dremel tests, indicating reliable performance in these areas.
Underfoot, the midsole is engineered to decrease strain on knees and joints, reflected in a high 109 SA rating in our shock absorption test. However, it is important to note that the cushioning is quite firm, which may not satisfy those looking for a plush, sink-in sensation. This characteristic represents a potential drawback for some users.