The New Balance 1000 Review & Lab Test of 2026

The New Balance 1000 is a retro-futuristic sneaker designed for casual wear. It is ideal for individuals seeking a blend of style and comfort, thanks to its soft cushioning and lightweight structure.

With a focus on everyday usability, the shoe's padded interiors provide support during extended periods of use. While not the most durable option available, the genuine suede upper combined with breathable mesh areas contributes to its overall comfort and aesthetic appeal.

As long as proper care is taken, this shoe can remain a reliable choice for various activities.

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

  • Rubber sole: Provides excellent traction and durability for everyday wear.
  • Synthetic outer material: Contributes to the shoe's lightweight feel while maintaining structural integrity.
  • Lace-up closure: Ensures a secure fit, allowing you to customize tightness based on your comfort preferences.
  • Not water resistant: Best suited for dry conditions; consider other options for wet weather.

Specifications

  • Sole material: Rubber
  • Outer material: Synthetic
  • Closure type: Lace-Up
  • Water resistance level: Not Water Resistant

New Balance 1000 Review & Lab Test – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

New Balance 1000 New Balance 580 New Balance 998 New Balance 9060
Price $150 $150 $185 $150
Style Retro Classic Classic Classic
Breathability Breathable Breathable Breathable Moderate
Weight lab 13.2 oz / 373g 14 oz / 397g 13.9 oz / 393g 15.1 oz / 427g
Size True to size True to size True to size True to size
Midsole softness Soft Balanced Balanced Soft
Material Mesh Leather Leather Mesh
Season Summer Summer Spring Spring
Inspired from - Running Running Running
Width / fit Medium Medium Medium Medium
Toebox width Medium Medium Medium Narrow
Leather/suede quality Real leather Real leather - Real suede
Toebox durability Bad Decent Decent Decent
Heel padding durability Bad Decent Bad Decent
Outsole durability Good Good Good Good
Heel stack lab 36.5 mm 34.8 mm 34.1 mm 37.3 mm
Stiffness Moderate Stiff Moderate Moderate
Tongue padding Average Average Average Average
Drop lab 11.3 mm 10.3 mm 14.5 mm 11.3 mm
Forefoot 25.2 mm 24.5 mm 19.6 mm 26.0 mm
Removable insole
Heel tab None None None None
Torsional rigidity Moderate Stiff Moderate Moderate
Heel counter stiffness Stiff Moderate Moderate Moderate
Reflective elements
Closure Laces Laces Laces Laces
Top Low top Low top Low top Low top
Ranking Top 49% Bottom 14% Bottom 13% Top 19%
Popularity Top 19% Bottom 31% Bottom 47% Top 1%