The New Balance 996 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The New Balance 996 is a versatile daily wear shoe designed for comfort and breathability. Its construction features authentic suede overlayers and mesh in the toebox, making it ideal for those seeking a lightweight and breathable footwear option.

The flexible design of the shoe allows for natural foot movements, enhancing the overall walking experience. Although the price point may deter some, the durability and performance metrics can justify the investment for frequent users.


Pros

  • All-time popular New Balance design
  • Suitable for all-day wear
  • Long-lasting structure
  • Fantastic breathability
  • On the lighter side
  • Comfortable and smooth ride
  • Authentic suede
  • Easy to style

Cons

  • Really expensive
  • Not supportive for overpronation

Key Features

  • Craftsmanship: Handcrafted in the USA with a premium pigskin suede and mesh upper for durability and style.
  • Impact Absorption: Equipped with ABZORB midsole technology that offers superior cushioning and compression resistance.
  • Customizable Fit: Features an adjustable lace closure that allows for a personalized fit.
  • Timeless Design: Boasts a classic 99X series look presented in an OG grey colorway.
  • Versatile Wear: Suitable for various occasions, from casual outings to more formal events.

Specifications

  • Sole material: Rubber
  • Outer material: Mesh
  • Inner material: Cotton
  • Closure type: Lace-Up

New Balance 996 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

New Balance 996 New Balance 991 v2 New Balance 998 New Balance 1906R
Price $220 $250 $185 $150
Style Classic Dad Classic Classic
Breathability Breathable Breathable Breathable Breathable
Weight lab 13.8 oz / 390g 13.9 oz / 395g 13.9 oz / 393g 14.1 oz / 401g
Size True to size True to size True to size True to size
Midsole softness Firm Firm Balanced Firm
Material Leather Mesh Leather Mesh
Season Spring Summer Spring Spring
Inspired from Running Running Running Running
Width / fit Medium Medium Medium Medium
Toebox width Medium Medium Medium Medium
Leather/suede quality - Real leather - Real suede
Toebox durability Decent Decent Decent Decent
Heel padding durability Decent Decent Bad Bad
Outsole durability Good Decent Good Good
Heel stack lab 34.8 mm 35.2 mm 34.1 mm 37.1 mm
Stiffness Stiff Flexible Moderate Moderate
Tongue padding Average Average Average Average
Drop lab 14.3 mm 15.6 mm 14.5 mm 11.5 mm
Forefoot 20.5 mm 19.6 mm 19.6 mm 25.6 mm
Removable insole
Heel tab None None None Extended heel collar
Torsional rigidity Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate
Heel counter stiffness Flexible Flexible Moderate Flexible
Reflective elements
Closure Laces Laces Laces Laces
Top Low top Low top Low top Low top
Ranking Bottom 20% Bottom 6% Bottom 13% Top 18%
Popularity Bottom 37% Bottom 15% Bottom 47% Top 15%