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When choosing the right sneaker, New Balance and ASICS are two popular brands that offer unique features and styles. In this article, we’ll explore the key differences and similarities between the New Balance 530 vs ASICS 1130, helping you make an informed decision. We’ll cover topics such as comfort, style and design, sizing consistency, breathability, and more. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which sneaker might be the best fit for your needs.
New Balance 530 vs ASICS 1130
| Feature | New Balance 530 | ASICS 1130 |
| Comfort | Soft cushioning, all-day wear | GEL cushioning, high-impact support |
| Style and Design | Retro-inspired, stylish, many color options | Sporty design, lightweight, performance-focused |
| Sizing Consistency | True to size, wide options available | Slightly narrow, recommend sizing up for wide feet |
| Brand Reputation | Known for durability and casual comfort | Renowned for athletic and running performance |
| Breathability | Mesh panels, moderate airflow | Breathable mesh upper, superior airflow |
| Durability | Sturdy materials, long-lasting | High-quality construction, durable outsole |
| Fit and Support | Snug fit, ENCAP midsole adds stability | Secure fit, great support for runners |
| Price Range | $80 – $100 | $70 – $90 |
| Customer Reviews | Praised for comfort and retro style | Loved for performance and cushioning |
Comfort
New Balance 530
The New Balance 530 is known for its all-day comfort. It features a cushioned midsole that supports your foot with every step. The shoe’s ENCAP midsole technology provides additional stability by combining a foam core with a durable outer layer. This is especially great for those who are on their feet for long periods.
Whether you’re walking, running errands, or going to school, the New Balance 530 offers a soft and supportive feel underfoot. The padding around the ankle and tongue adds an extra level of comfort, preventing discomfort during extended wear.
ASICS 1130
On the other hand, the ASICS 1130 is designed with a focus on running and athletic performance. It features GEL technology cushioning that helps absorb shock during impact, making it an excellent choice for those who are active or on the move a lot. The shoe’s lightweight design makes it comfortable for long-distance walking or running.
Compared to the New Balance 530, the ASICS 1130 offers more specialized support for high-impact activities like jogging or gym workouts. The midsole of the ASICS 1130 is designed to provide a responsive and cushioned feel without adding unnecessary weight.
Style and Design
New Balance 530
The New Balance 530 combines retro aesthetics with modern comfort. Its design takes inspiration from classic running shoes of the 1990s but with a fresh, contemporary look. The use of mixed materials like leather, mesh, and synthetic fabrics creates a sleek and fashionable appearance that pairs well with both casual and athletic outfits.
One of the standout features of the New Balance 530 is its wide range of color options. Whether you prefer neutral tones or vibrant hues, there’s likely a style that fits your personality.
ASICS 1130
The ASICS 1130 leans more towards a sporty design. It’s built with a focus on functionality, which is reflected in its overall aesthetic. The shoe features a breathable mesh upper with synthetic overlays, creating a lightweight yet supportive structure.
While the ASICS 1130 might not have the same retro-inspired design as the New Balance 530, it still offers a clean and streamlined look. It’s a great choice for those who prefer a no-nonsense design focused on performance.
Differences Between New Balance 530 and ASICS 1130
| Feature | New Balance 530 | ASICS 1130 |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | Soft, all-day wear | Cushioned for high-impact activities |
| Style and Design | Retro-inspired, multiple color options | Sporty, performance-focused |
| Cushioning | ENCAP midsole, soft foam | GEL technology, lightweight |
| Primary Use | Casual wear, light activity | Running, athletic performance |
Sizing Consistency
New Balance 530
The New Balance 530 is known for its true-to-size fit. This means you can order your usual size and expect a comfortable fit without needing to size up or down. However, if you have particularly wide feet, New Balance also offers wider size options to ensure a better fit.
ASICS 1130
ASICS, on the other hand, can sometimes run slightly narrow, especially for those with wider feet. It’s recommended to try the shoes on before purchasing or to order a half size up if you need extra room in the toe box. Like New Balance, ASICS also provides wide-width options for select styles.
Brand Reputation
New Balance
New Balance is a well-established brand with a reputation for creating durable and comfortable shoes. They are known for their commitment to quality, and their shoes are often recommended by podiatrists for people who need extra support.
ASICS
ASICS is widely respected in the athletic footwear industry, particularly for their running shoes. They’ve been around for decades, and their shoes are often favored by professional runners and athletes for their performance-driven designs.
Breathability
New Balance 530
The New Balance 530 features mesh panels that allow for decent airflow, helping to keep your feet cool during light activity. However, because of its retro design and mixed material upper, the breathability isn’t as strong as more performance-focused shoes.
ASICS 1130
The ASICS 1130 excels in terms of breathability. Its mesh upper allows for continuous airflow, making it a great choice for more intense activities or warmer weather. If you’re looking for a sneaker that will keep your feet cool during workouts, the ASICS 1130 has the edge here.
Durability
New Balance 530
New Balance is known for creating shoes that last, and the 530 is no exception. The sturdy construction and quality materials mean the shoes can withstand regular wear and tear, making them a solid long-term investment.
ASICS 1130
The ASICS 1130 is built for performance and durability, particularly for runners. Its durable outsole and high-quality construction ensure that it can handle the repeated impacts of running or daily use without wearing down quickly.
Fit and Support
New Balance 530
The New Balance 530 offers a comfortable and snug fit for most foot shapes. The ENCAP midsole technology adds stability, while the cushioning provides excellent support, making it a great option for people who need extra foot support during long walks.
ASICS 1130
The ASICS 1130 is designed with runners in mind, providing a snug, secure fit that ensures your foot doesn’t slide around during high-impact activities. The GEL cushioning adds support, particularly in the heel and forefoot, which helps reduce fatigue.
Pricing
| Model | Price Range |
|---|---|
| New Balance 530 | $80 – $100 |
| ASICS 1130 | $70 – $90 |
Both the New Balance 530 and ASICS 1130 fall within a similar price range, making them relatively affordable for most consumers. However, depending on where you shop or if there are sales, you might find slight variations in pricing.
Customer Reviews
New Balance 530
Many users of the New Balance 530 praise its comfort and style. It’s often highlighted for its retro look, which appeals to those who want a stylish yet functional sneaker. People also appreciate the variety of color options and the availability of wide sizing.
ASICS 1130
ASICS 1130 receives glowing reviews, especially from runners and athletes. Customers love its performance-driven design, highlighting the lightweight feel and excellent cushioning as key strengths. Some users note that the shoe runs a bit narrow, so wide-footed individuals should consider sizing up.
Pros and Cons
New Balance 530
Pros:
- Comfort: Offers excellent cushioning and support for all-day wear, making it suitable for casual activities.
- Style: Retro-inspired design with various color options appeals to those seeking a fashionable sneaker
Cons:
- Breathability: While it has mesh panels, the breathability is not as high as performance-focused shoes, making it less suitable for intense activities.
- Weight: Slightly heavier compared to other lightweight running shoes, which may affect performance during vigorous workouts.
ASICS 1130
Pros:
- Performance: Designed for runners, featuring GEL cushioning that absorbs shock during high-impact activities.
- Breathability: Mesh upper provides excellent airflow, keeping feet cool during workouts.
Cons:
- Sizing: May run slightly narrow, which can be uncomfortable for those with wider feet; sizing up may be necessary.
- Limited Style Options: Focused more on performance than fashion, leading to fewer style options compared to New Balance 530.
Conclusion
When deciding between the New Balance 530 and the ASICS 1130, it really comes down to your lifestyle and personal preferences. If you’re looking for a stylish, retro-inspired sneaker that’s comfortable for everyday wear, the New Balance 530 might be the better choice. On the other hand, if you need a high-performance sneaker for running or athletic activities, the ASICS 1130 is a great option with its lightweight design and GEL cushioning.
Both sneakers are reasonably priced, durable, and come from reputable brands, so either option would be a solid addition to your footwear collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which shoe is better for running?
The ASICS 1130 is specifically designed for running with its lightweight design and GEL cushioning. It provides better support for high-impact activities compared to the New Balance 530.
Does the New Balance 530 come in wide sizes?
Yes, the New Balance 530 is available in wide sizes, making it a great option for those with wider feet.
How do the prices of the two shoes compare?
The New Balance 530 is slightly more expensive, typically ranging from $80 to $100, while the ASICS 1130 is priced between $70 and $90.
Are both shoes breathable?
Yes, both shoes offer decent breathability, but the ASICS 1130 provides better airflow thanks to its mesh upper, making it more suitable for intense activities.
Do New Balance and Asics fit the same?
New Balance’s sizing scheme is identical to that of Adidas, Brooks, and Hoka, and has minor half-a-size differences with ASICS and Nike in some sizes.
