The New Balance 480 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The New Balance 480 is a versatile casual sneaker designed for everyday wear. It is ideal for individuals seeking comfort during various activities, including casual outings, work, and gym sessions.

Featuring a well-padded collar, this shoe provides enhanced support. The substantial cushioning contributes to a comfortable in-shoe experience, making it suitable for prolonged use.

With its retro-inspired silhouette, the New Balance 480 blends classic aesthetics with modern comfort features, ensuring a reliable choice for your daily footwear needs.


Pros

  • Luxuriously padded and comfortable
  • Protective cushioning
  • Feels stable and supportive
  • Excellent for all-day use
  • Great traction
  • Foot slides smoothly in and out
  • Zero break-in required
  • Accommodates wide feet
  • Dope retro vibe
  • Easy to clean and keep clean
  • Budget-friendly

Cons

  • Leather isn't genuine and lacks quality
  • Durability could be better

Key Features

  • Rubber sole: Ensures durability and traction on various surfaces.
  • Perforated toe box: Enhances breathability, keeping your feet cool and comfortable during wear.
  • Suede trim: Adds a touch of style while offering additional support around the shoe.
  • Round toe: Provides ample room for natural movement of your toes.

Specifications

  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole material: Rubber
  • Outer material: Leather
  • Closure type: Lace-Up

New Balance 480 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

New Balance 480 Adidas Forum Low Nike Court Vision Low Adidas Superstar
Price $90 $110 $80 $90
Style Retro Retro Retro Classic
Breathability Moderate Moderate Breathable Moderate
Weight lab 13.9 oz / 395g 16.4 oz / 465g 12.9 oz / 366g 14.1 oz / 401g
Size True to size True to size True to size Half size large
Midsole softness - Balanced - -
Material Leather Leather Leather Cup Sole
Season Spring Spring Summer Spring
Inspired from Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball
Width / fit Narrow Medium Medium Medium
Toebox width Narrow Medium Medium Narrow
Leather/suede quality Fake leather Real leather - Real leather
Toebox durability Bad Good Good Good
Heel padding durability Bad Decent Decent Bad
Outsole durability Good Decent Decent Decent
Heel stack lab 26.7 mm 27.0 mm 21.1 mm 26.8 mm
Stiffness Moderate Stiff Moderate Flexible
Tongue padding Average Average Average Average
Drop lab 11.4 mm 12.5 mm 10.0 mm 13.2 mm
Forefoot 15.3 mm 14.5 mm 11.1 mm 13.6 mm
Removable insole
Heel tab None None None None
Torsional rigidity Flexible Moderate Flexible Moderate
Heel counter stiffness Flexible Stiff Stiff Stiff
Sustainable
Closure Laces Laces Laces Laces
Top Low top Low top Low top Low top
Ranking Bottom 23% Top 16% Bottom 26% Top 23%
Popularity Top 20% Bottom 47% Top 41% Top 29%