New Balance vs Brooks Shoes

When shopping for shoes, two brands often come up in conversation: New Balance vs Brooks. These brands are known for offering some of the best shoes on the market, whether you’re a runner, walker, or just looking for everyday comfort. However, choosing between New Balance and Brooks can be tricky since both have excellent reputations for quality and comfort.

In this guide, we’ll explore all the key aspects of both brands to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a runner or someone who needs supportive shoes for daily use, this article will clarify what each brand offers.

New Balance vs Brooks

Feature	New Balance	Brooks
Comfort	Softer cushioning, more variety for casual wear	Responsive cushioning, designed for long runs
Style	Fashionable and versatile	Sleek, performance-driven designs
Sizing	Available in multiple widths	Limited wide sizes, more standard sizing
Arch Support	Excellent for people with foot issues	Strong stability options for runners
Durability	Great for everyday use	Built for high-mileage runners
Breathability	Moderate to high	High, especially in running models

Comfort

New Balance

New Balance is well-known for its focus on comfort, offering shoes that cater to a variety of foot types and activities. Whether you’re on your feet all day, walking, or running, New Balance shoes are designed with soft cushioning and support.

The Fresh Foam technology used in many New Balance models, like the New Balance 1080, delivers excellent cushioning. The sole is soft yet durable, providing a plush feel with each step. This makes New Balance a great option for anyone looking for shoes that feel good from the first wear.

• Ideal for: People with foot issues, those who need extra arch support, and those looking for all-day comfort.
• Key Features: Soft cushioning, wide sizes available, and arch support.

Brooks

Brooks shoes, particularly their running shoes, are designed for performance-driven comfort. Unlike New Balance, which caters to both casual and athletic wearers, Brooks focuses primarily on runners. Their shoes are packed with advanced technology to keep your feet supported during long runs.

One standout feature is Brooks’ DNA LOFT cushioning, which provides a responsive, springy feel while still offering plenty of softness. This makes it easier to keep running for longer without feeling discomfort. Brooks also adds GuideRails technology in models like the Brooks Adrenaline, which helps prevent your foot from moving in unwanted ways, reducing the risk of injury.

• Ideal for: Serious runners, long-distance athletes, and those needing stability.
• Key Features: Responsive cushioning, stability technology, and lightweight design.

Style and Design

New Balance

New Balance is not just about comfort but also about style. Their shoes are versatile enough to wear for both athletic and casual purposes. You’ll often see New Balance shoes paired with everyday outfits because their designs are modern and trendy.

The New Balance 574 is a perfect example of a shoe that combines fashion with function. Its retro design appeals to a broad audience, from teenagers to adults. Another popular model is the New Balance 327, which brings back a 70s-inspired look but with modern performance features.

• Style: Trendy and versatile, suitable for both casual and athletic wear.
• Popular Models: New Balance 574, New Balance 990, New Balance 327.

Brooks

Brooks shoes are more focused on functionality than fashion. While they offer various color options, their primary aim is to deliver high-performance shoes for runners. That doesn’t mean they aren’t stylish, but Brooks shoes are typically designed with performance in mind rather than making a fashion statement.

If you’re looking for a sleeker design, models like the Brooks Ghost and Brooks Adrenaline offer a streamlined, athletic look that serious runners will appreciate.

• Style: Sleek, functional, and performance-oriented.
• Popular Models: Brooks Ghost, Brooks Adrenaline, Brooks Glycerin.

Sizing Consistency

New Balance

One of the standout features of New Balance is its focus on providing shoes for all foot sizes. Whether you have wide or narrow feet, New Balance has options that will fit you well. Many of their models come in various widths, including wide and extra-wide sizes.

• Sizing Accuracy: New Balance shoes generally run true to size.
• Wide Sizes Available: Yes, across many models.

Brooks

Brooks shoes are known for their consistent sizing, but they don’t offer as many width options as New Balance. If you have regular-sized feet, Brooks should fit you perfectly, but those with wider feet may find fewer options.

• Sizing Accuracy: Brooks shoes also run true to size, with slightly less emphasis on wide sizes.
• Wide Sizes Available: Limited.

Brand Reputation

New Balance

New Balance has been in the market for over a century, making them one of the most well-established shoe brands in the world. They are highly regarded for their commitment to comfort and wide sizing options. New Balance is a go-to brand for many people who need supportive, comfortable shoes for everyday wear, as well as athletes.

• Reputation Highlights: Known for comfort, wide sizes, and classic designs.
• Target Audience: Casual users, walkers, and runners looking for comfort.

Brooks

Brooks has a sterling reputation in the running community. They have been specializing in running shoes for decades, and their focus on performance and injury prevention makes them a top choice for runners worldwide. Whether you’re training for a marathon or running recreationally, Brooks shoes are trusted for their stability and comfort.

• Reputation Highlights: Highly respected among runners for performance-focused shoes.
• Target Audience: Serious runners and athletes.

Breathability

New Balance

Many New Balance shoes feature breathable mesh uppers, which allow air to flow freely through the shoe. This is especially important for keeping your feet cool during long walks or runs. Models like the Fresh Foam 1080 are designed with breathable materials, ensuring that your feet don’t overheat during physical activity.

• Breathability Rating: Moderate to high, depending on the model.
• Best Models for Breathability: New Balance Fresh Foam 1080, New Balance 990.

Brooks

Brooks excels in breathability, particularly in their running shoes. Models like the Brooks Ghost and Brooks Adrenaline feature engineered mesh uppers that promote excellent airflow. If you’re a runner, you’ll appreciate how well Brooks shoes keep your feet dry and cool, even during intense runs.

• Breathability Rating: High, especially in running-focused models.
• Best Models for Breathability: Brooks Ghost, Brooks Adrenaline, Brooks Glycerin.

Durability

New Balance

New Balance shoes are built to last, especially those designed for running and walking. Many users report that their New Balance shoes remain comfortable and supportive for a long time, even with regular use. The New Balance 990 is particularly known for its durability, making it a solid investment if you need shoes that can handle daily wear and tear.

• Durability Rating: High, especially for models like the New Balance 990 and 1080.

Brooks

Brooks shoes are designed to withstand high mileage. If you’re a runner who racks up the miles, Brooks shoes are built to last without losing their supportive features. The Brooks Adrenaline and Brooks Ghost are known for maintaining their cushioning and stability over many miles of use.

• Durability Rating: High, particularly in running models like the Brooks Ghost and Adrenaline.

Fit and Support

New Balance

New Balance shoes are known for their excellent support, particularly for those with foot issues like flat feet or plantar fasciitis. The extra arch support in models like the New Balance 990 helps reduce foot pain and keeps your feet aligned. This makes New Balance a great choice if you need shoes with more stability and cushioning.

Brooks

Brooks takes support a step further with its GuideRails technology. This system is designed to keep your feet stable during runs, reducing the risk of injury. For runners who overpronate (roll their feet inward too much), Brooks offers excellent support, particularly in models like the Brooks Adrenaline GTS.

• New Balance Focus: Excellent arch support and soft cushioning.
• Brooks Focus: Stability and injury prevention during runs.

Pricing

New Balance

New Balance shoes typically range from $80 to $180, depending on the model. Shoes in the lower price range, such as the New Balance 574, offer great value for casual wear. On the other hand, performance shoes like the New Balance 990 or Fresh Foam 1080 can cost more but deliver high-quality cushioning, durability, and support. New Balance is often seen as a solid investment for anyone needing shoes for daily wear, fitness, or walking.

• Price Range: $80 – $180
• Value for Money: Great for those looking for everyday comfort and a variety of style options.

Brooks

Brooks shoes are generally priced a bit higher than New Balance, especially when it comes to their top-tier running models. Expect to pay between $100 to $200 for most Brooks shoes. Models like the Brooks Ghost and Brooks Adrenaline GTS sit at the higher end, but they are specifically engineered for runners who need advanced stability and cushioning features. Brooks shoes are seen as an investment in performance, especially if you’re logging high miles.

• Price Range: $100 – $200
• Value for Money: Excellent for serious runners who need reliable performance and injury prevention.

Customer Reviews

New Balance

New Balance shoes tend to receive high praise from customers for their comfort, durability, and versatility. One of the standout features users appreciate is the availability of wide and extra-wide sizes, which many shoe brands lack. People with specific foot problems, like plantar fasciitis, also find that New Balance shoes offer significant relief and comfort.

• Positive Feedback: Great comfort for everyday use, wide size options, and stylish designs.
• Negative Feedback: Some users report that certain models can feel a bit bulky or heavy.

Brooks

Brooks shoes are loved by the running community. Many reviews highlight how well Brooks shoes perform over long distances, with users mentioning the durability and comfort even after hundreds of miles. The GuideRails technology in stability models like the Brooks Adrenaline GTS is frequently praised for helping runners maintain good form and prevent injury.

• Positive Feedback: Excellent support for long-distance running, high durability, and advanced stability features.
• Negative Feedback: Some users feel that Brooks shoes can be a little narrow, and the prices are on the higher side.

Conclusion

Choosing between New Balance vs Brooks ultimately depends on your needs and preferences. Both brands offer outstanding shoes, but they focus on slightly different aspects.

• If you need shoes that provide all-day comfort, a wide range of sizes, and a mix of casual and athletic style, New Balance is an excellent choice. Their shoes are great for people with foot issues and those who want versatile shoes for both casual wear and exercise.
• On the other hand, if you’re a runner or someone who focuses more on performance, Brooks may be the better option. Brooks shoes excel in providing stability, durability, and injury prevention, making them a go-to brand for serious athletes.

In the end, both brands have something great to offer. Whether you pick New Balance or Brooks, you’ll be getting a high-quality shoe that supports your feet and keeps you comfortable.

Frequently Asked Questions