Best New Balance Shoes Under $100: Top Picks Reviewed

1. New Balance 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer

We put the Men’s 608 V5 through its paces, and it quickly became apparent why this is a go-to for many. The cushioning is surprisingly robust for a shoe in this price bracket, offering a plush feel underfoot that absorbed impact well during our testing. The synthetic leather upper provided a decent amount of support, feeling secure without being overly restrictive.

The overall design leans towards function over high fashion, which is perfectly acceptable for its intended purpose. It’s a shoe built for everyday wear and light athletic activity, not for making a bold style statement. We appreciated the ample toe box room, which prevented any feeling of being cramped, even after extended wear.

This shoe excels in its comfort and versatility for casual use. Whether we were running errands, walking the dog, or engaging in light gym workouts, the 608 V5 held up admirably. It’s the kind of shoe you can slip on and forget about, which is a testament to its comfortable design.

However, we did notice that the outsole grip, while adequate for most surfaces, could be a bit slick on wet pavement. It’s not a dealbreaker, but something to be mindful of if you frequently navigate damp conditions. Additionally, the breathability isn’t top-tier; our feet felt a tad warm during more vigorous activity on a hot day.

Who is this specifically for? This shoe is an excellent choice for individuals seeking a reliable, comfortable, and affordable trainer for daily wear and low-impact fitness. It’s ideal for those who prioritize comfort and durability over cutting-edge aesthetics.

2. New Balance 515 V3 Sneaker

The Men’s 515 V3 Sneaker offers a blend of classic styling and modern comfort that we found quite appealing. The suede and mesh upper gives it a retro vibe that pairs well with casual outfits, and the construction feels solid. We noted that the lacing system provided a secure lockdown without any excessive pressure points.

When it comes to feel, the midsole provides a balanced cushioning that isn’t overly soft or firm, striking a nice middle ground for walking and light activity. The shoe has a relatively low profile, which contributes to its sleek appearance. The interior lining is soft against the skin, enhancing the overall wearing experience.

This sneaker is a fantastic option for those who appreciate a timeless look combined with everyday wearability. We found ourselves reaching for the 515 V3 for its versatility, easily transitioning from a casual outing to a light stroll in the park. It’s a shoe that doesn’t demand much attention but delivers consistent comfort.

However, the arch support is fairly minimal, which might be a concern for individuals who require significant arch reinforcement. While comfortable for general use, prolonged standing or walking on hard surfaces might become less enjoyable without additional insoles. Also, the mesh panels, while contributing to breathability, might not be the most durable in harsh, abrasive conditions.

Skip this if you have pronounced flat feet and rely heavily on built-in arch support. This shoe is best suited for those with neutral arches or who prefer to use their own custom orthotics.

3. New Balance 574 Core Sneaker

The Women’s 574 Core Sneaker is an iconic silhouette that continues to impress, especially considering it’s one of the best new balance shoes under 100. We found the suede and mesh upper to be a good balance of durability and breathability, offering a comfortable fit right out of the box. The ENCAP midsole technology provides reliable cushioning that feels supportive without being overly rigid.

The shoe has a slightly wider base than some modern sneakers, which lends a stable feel during wear. We appreciated the classic New Balance branding, which adds a touch of heritage style. The rubber outsole offered decent traction on a variety of indoor and outdoor surfaces we tested.

This sneaker is perfect for individuals seeking a stylish yet comfortable option for their daily wardrobe. Whether paired with jeans, leggings, or even casual dresses, the 574 Core adds a sporty flair. Its enduring popularity speaks to its versatility and comfort for everyday activities like commuting, shopping, and light social outings.

Our main point of critique lies with the laces; they tend to come untied more frequently than we would prefer, requiring occasional re-tying throughout the day. While the cushioning is good for general wear, those who are on their feet for extremely long periods or engaging in high-impact activities might find it slightly lacking in advanced shock absorption. The shoe also tends to run a touch narrow for some individuals with wider feet.

Avoid this shoe if you have very wide feet or if you are looking for a sneaker specifically designed for intense running or training sessions. It’s best suited for casual wear and light, everyday movement.

4. New Balance 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer

The Women’s 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer delivers on its promise of comfort and support for everyday activities. We found the ABZORB cushioning to be quite effective, providing a noticeable reduction in impact during our testing phases. The synthetic leather upper felt durable and offered a secure fit, which is crucial for cross-training or general wear.

The shoe has a substantial feel to it, suggesting good construction and longevity. The padded collar and tongue contribute to a comfortable fit around the ankle, preventing any irritation. We noticed that the tread pattern on the outsole provided good grip on various surfaces, including gym floors and paved paths.

This trainer is an excellent choice for women who need a reliable shoe for a mix of activities, from walking and gym workouts to simply running errands. It’s a workhorse shoe that prioritizes comfort and stability, making it a solid option for those who are on their feet frequently. The overall feel is one of dependable support.

However, the design is decidedly utilitarian, and some may find it lacking in modern aesthetic appeal. While functional, it’s not the most stylish option available. We also observed that the shoe can feel a bit stiff initially, requiring a short break-in period before reaching optimal comfort levels. The breathability is average, and our feet did feel a bit warm during prolonged periods of activity in warmer weather.

Skip this shoe if you are looking for a lightweight, minimalist trainer or a fashion-forward sneaker. This is a no-nonsense, supportive shoe built for performance and comfort, not for making a style statement. (See Also: Best White Nike Shoes Womens)

5. New Balance 574

The Womens 574 offers a classic and enduring style that we found to be a reliable choice for everyday wear. The combination of suede and mesh in the upper provides a pleasant texture and decent ventilation. We noted that the fit was true to size for us, offering a comfortable embrace without being too tight or too loose.

Underfoot, the ENCAP midsole technology delivers a supportive and comfortable ride, suitable for walking and standing for extended periods. The shoe has a well-balanced feel, not too heavy nor too light, making it easy to wear throughout the day. The outsole provides adequate traction for typical urban environments.

This sneaker is ideal for women who appreciate a timeless aesthetic and seek a comfortable shoe for casual outings. It’s a versatile option that pairs well with a variety of outfits, from athleisure wear to more casual weekend ensembles. The 574 has a certain charm that transcends fleeting trends.

However, we did find the cushioning to be somewhat basic; while comfortable for general use, it might not provide the advanced shock absorption needed for high-impact activities or long-distance running. The laces, much like its Core counterpart, can also be a bit prone to coming undone, which is a minor but consistent annoyance. Additionally, the shoe doesn’t offer significant ankle support, so those needing that feature should look elsewhere.

Avoid this shoe if you require substantial ankle support or if your primary need is for a high-performance running or training shoe. It is best suited for casual wear and moderate activity levels.

6. New Balance Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe

When hunting for the best New Balance shoes under $100, the Men’s Fresh Foam 520 v9 Running Shoe often pops up, and for good reason. We found these to be a surprisingly comfortable option for everyday runs and gym sessions. The Fresh Foam cushioning provides a soft landing, absorbing impact effectively without feeling mushy. The upper is constructed from a breathable mesh that kept our feet cool during longer workouts.

During testing, I noticed the fit was generally true to size, with a comfortable width for most standard feet. The outsole offered decent traction on paved surfaces, making it a reliable choice for road running. However, the material on the heel counter felt a bit stiff initially, requiring a short break-in period before it felt truly comfortable. It’s not a dealbreaker, but something to be aware of.

This shoe is ideal for the casual runner or someone looking for a comfortable, no-frills athletic shoe for daily wear. If your runs are primarily on pavement and you’re not looking for advanced support features, the 520 v9 delivers solid value. It’s a great option for hitting the treadmill or going for a light jog around the neighborhood.

However, runners who demand a highly responsive feel or require significant pronation control might find the 520 v9 a bit too basic. The cushioning, while soft, doesn’t offer a lot of energy return, and the support structure is fairly minimal. If you have wider feet, you might also find the standard width a little snug after extended wear.

7. New Balance 237 V1 Sneaker

The Women’s 237 V1 Sneaker is a fantastic entry in the “best New Balance shoes under $100” conversation, especially for those who prioritize style alongside casual comfort. We were immediately drawn to its retro-inspired silhouette, which pairs effortlessly with a variety of outfits, from athleisure to more casual weekend wear. The combination of suede and textile overlays gives it a premium feel that belies its accessible price point.

On foot, the 237 V1 offers a comfortable, albeit not overly cushioned, ride. The midsole provides adequate support for walking and light activities, and the padded collar adds a nice touch of comfort around the ankle. I did notice that the lacing system felt a bit basic, with standard eyelets that could potentially wear down over time with frequent adjustments. It’s a minor aesthetic point, but something a discerning eye might pick up on.

This sneaker is perfect for the fashion-conscious individual who needs a stylish and comfortable shoe for everyday errands, casual outings, and light walking. It’s not designed for intense athletic performance, but rather for looking good and feeling good while navigating your day. If you appreciate a classic New Balance aesthetic with modern comfort touches, the 237 V1 is a strong contender.

However, those seeking a shoe with robust cushioning or significant arch support for prolonged standing or walking should look elsewhere. The primary focus here is on style and a casual feel, not on technical running or athletic performance. People who need a lot of flexibility in their shoe might also find the construction a little on the stiffer side initially.

8. New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe

The Women’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe is a solid contender for those looking for a versatile trainer that won’t break the bank. We found the Fresh Foam X midsole to be a noticeable upgrade from previous versions, offering a softer and more responsive feel underfoot. This made our test runs feel more enjoyable, with a good balance of cushioning and a hint of energy return.

The engineered mesh upper is both lightweight and breathable, allowing for good airflow to keep feet comfortable. The fit was generally true to size, and the padded tongue and collar added to the overall comfort. My only real niggle was with the durability of the mesh in high-wear areas; after a few weeks of consistent use, I noticed a slight fraying near the toe box, which suggests it might not hold up as well for very high-mileage runners.

This shoe is an excellent choice for the everyday runner who logs moderate mileage or anyone seeking a comfortable, supportive shoe for gym workouts and cross-training. It offers a good blend of cushioning and stability for a variety of activities. If you’re a beginner runner or just want a reliable shoe for your fitness routine, the Arishi V4 is a compelling option within its price range.

However, if you’re an elite runner or someone who demands maximum cushioning and responsiveness for long-distance races, this shoe might feel a bit lacking. The durability concern in the mesh also means it’s not ideal for trail running or extremely rugged terrain. Those who prefer a very firm ride or require substantial motion control will likely want to explore other models.

9. New Balance Fresh Foam 410 V9 Trail Running Shoe

For those venturing off the beaten path without a hefty price tag, the Men’s Fresh Foam 410 V9 Trail Running Shoe presents a compelling case. We were impressed with the aggressive lug pattern on the outsole, which provided excellent grip on a variety of uneven surfaces, from loose gravel to damp forest floors. The Fresh Foam midsole offered a surprisingly comfortable ride for a trail shoe, absorbing some of the shock from roots and rocks.

The upper is constructed from a durable synthetic material that offers good protection against trail debris. The toe bumper is robust, which we appreciated when navigating rocky terrain. My main critique, however, lies in the breathability of the upper; while durable, it felt a bit stifling during warmer weather runs, leading to slightly warmer feet than we would have preferred. It’s a trade-off for that added protection.

This shoe is an excellent choice for the recreational trail runner or hiker who tackles moderate trails and wants a shoe that offers good traction and protection without being overly aggressive or expensive. It’s perfect for weekend adventures on well-maintained singletrack or exploring local nature preserves. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option to get started with trail running, the 410 V9 is a solid pick.

However, serious trail runners tackling technical descents or extremely muddy conditions might find the grip to be adequate but not exceptional. Furthermore, individuals who prioritize maximum breathability and a lightweight feel might find the shoe a bit warm and heavy for their liking. It’s also not designed for ultra-marathon distances where enhanced cushioning and support are paramount.

10. New Balance 410 V8 Trail Running Shoe

The Men’s 410 V8 Trail Running Shoe offers a budget-friendly entry point for those looking to explore trails. We found the outsole to provide a decent level of grip on dry, packed surfaces, which is suitable for light trail use. The cushioning is present, offering a basic level of comfort for shorter excursions, though it’s certainly not the most responsive or plush we’ve encountered.

The upper is made from a synthetic and mesh combination that aims for durability and some breathability. During our testing, I noticed that the fit was a little on the narrow side, which might be an issue for runners with wider feet. The lacing system felt functional but unremarkable, and I experienced some minor rubbing on the Achilles tendon during longer runs, suggesting the padding here could be more generous. (See Also: Best Shoes For Nike Tech Fleece)

This shoe is best suited for the beginner trail runner or someone who needs a shoe for light, casual trail walking and occasional use. It’s a good option for someone just getting into the sport or for traversing park trails rather than challenging mountain routes. If you’re looking for a no-frills, affordable shoe for occasional light trail use, the 410 V8 could fit the bill.

However, serious trail enthusiasts or those who run frequently on varied or challenging terrain should steer clear. The limited traction, narrow fit, and minimal cushioning mean it won’t provide the performance or comfort needed for more demanding runs. Runners who require substantial support or a highly cushioned experience will definitely want to consider other options.