• New Balance 9060 Review:...

New Balance 9060 Review: Is It Worth the Hype?

The sneaker world is buzzing about the New Balance 9060. But is it really worth all the hype? If you’re curious about whether you should buy the New Balance 9060, this review breaks down everything you need to know, from its features to how it stacks up against other popular sneakers. Let's dive into the details!


Table of Contents

  1. What is the New Balance 9060?
  2. New Balance 9060 Features
  3. Design and Style: What Makes the 9060 Stand Out?
  4. How to Style the New Balance 9060
  5. NB 9060 vs Other Popular New Balance Models
  6. New Balance 9060 Durability and Longevity
  7. Pros and Cons of the New Balance 9060
  8. Conclusion
  9. FAQs

What is the New Balance 9060?

The New Balance 9060 is the latest release from the iconic sneaker brand that combines modern performance with retro design. Launched as part of New Balance’s premium lineup, the 9060 appeals to both sneakerheads and casual wearers alike. But is this just another trendy shoe, or does it bring something genuinely new to the table?



New Balance 9060 Features

The New Balance 9060 is packed with features that make it stand out from the crowd, whether you're looking for style, comfort, or performance. Here’s a deeper dive into what makes this sneaker special:


Material and Construction

The New Balance 9060 is crafted using a combination of high-quality materials that provide both durability and a premium feel. The upper of the shoe features a blend of suede, mesh, and synthetic fabrics. This mix is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional.

  • Suede: The suede adds a touch of luxury and helps give the shoe a more polished, stylish look. It’s strategically placed in areas that need extra support and durability, ensuring the shoe lasts even with regular use.
  • Mesh: The mesh provides breathability, ensuring your feet stay cool and comfortable even during long periods of wear. This is especially helpful in warmer weather or if you’re on your feet for extended periods.
  • Synthetic fabrics: Synthetic overlays are used to add structure to the shoe without making it too heavy. This gives the shoe a sleek, modern look while maintaining flexibility.

The overall construction is layered, giving the shoe a chunky but sleek appearance. The craftsmanship here is top-notch, with clean stitching and well-placed materials that enhance both durability and comfort.


Comfort and Cushioning

One of the standout features of the New Balance 9060 is its comfort. The shoe is designed with ABZORB and SBS cushioning technology, which provides exceptional softness and shock absorption.

  • ABZORB cushioning: This midsole foam absorbs impact incredibly well, which means you can walk or stand in these shoes all day without feeling fatigued. It’s ideal for anyone looking for a sneaker that’s comfortable right out of the box, with no break-in period required.
  • SBS cushioning: This is a specialized gel insert found in the heel area, designed to provide additional shock absorption. Whether you're walking on pavement or a softer surface, this cushioning helps minimize the strain on your joints, making the 9060 perfect for urban environments or casual strolls.

The cushioned midsole also offers great arch support, which is often a concern for those who wear sneakers for extended periods. The comfort of the 9060 is what truly sets it apart from other models, ensuring that your feet remain supported and well-cushioned throughout the day.


Sole and Traction

The outsole of the New Balance 9060 features a chunky, multi-layered design with a durable rubber finish. The design includes multiple traction patterns to ensure good grip on various surfaces, whether you’re walking on city streets, parks, or uneven ground.

  • Rubber outsole: Provides long-lasting durability and great traction, making the 9060 a versatile shoe that can handle different terrains.
  • Chunky sole design: While some might find the chunky sole a bold design choice, it actually enhances stability and provides extra comfort through enhanced cushioning.

Breathability

Thanks to the mesh upper, the New Balance 9060 offers excellent breathability. Airflow is key in any sneaker, and the 9060 allows air to circulate around your foot, preventing sweat buildup and keeping your feet cool. This is particularly important if you plan to wear these shoes during warmer months or for longer durations.


Heel Support

The 9060 has enhanced heel support that’s particularly noticeable when you're on your feet for long periods or walking long distances. The shoe's design hugs the heel snugly, reducing the chance of blisters or discomfort. This added support is a big advantage if you need a shoe that can keep up with your daily activities.


Flexibility

Despite its chunky appearance, the New Balance 9060 remains surprisingly flexible. The combination of synthetic overlays and mesh in the upper allows the shoe to bend with your foot’s natural movement, offering a balance of support and flexibility. You won’t feel restricted while walking, and the shoe adapts easily to your foot’s movements.



Design and Style: What Makes the 9060 Stand Out?

Let’s be real—sneakers are as much about style as they are about comfort. The New Balance 9060 nails this. It has a sleek, futuristic look combined with the brand’s iconic retro vibe. The chunky silhouette, combined with subtle yet bold colorways, makes it a versatile option whether you're pairing it with jeans or joggers. The shoe manages to ride the line between retro and modern, giving it a unique edge over other sneakers in the market.


Performance Review: Does It Live Up to Expectations?

For all the style, how does the New Balance 9060 perform? The answer is—quite well. The shoe offers excellent grip and stability, making it great for both casual wear and light physical activity. While it’s not a running shoe per se, the support around the heel and ankle makes it suitable for light jogging or long walks.



How to Style the New Balance 9060

Wondering how to incorporate the New Balance 9060 into your wardrobe? These kicks are incredibly versatile. Pair them with athleisure for a sporty look, or throw them on with slim-fit jeans and a hoodie for a casual day out. The neutral color options also make them easy to match with almost anything in your closet.



NB 9060 vs Other Popular New Balance Models

New Balance is known for producing a wide range of sneakers, from timeless classics to modern innovations. If you're trying to decide between the New Balance 9060 and other popular models like the 990 or 574, this breakdown will help you understand how the 9060 stands out, and where it fits in New Balance’s broader lineup.


New Balance 9060 vs New Balance 990

The New Balance 990 is an icon in the sneaker world, often associated with timeless design, superior comfort, and its “Made in USA” badge of honor. While the 990 has been a favorite for decades, how does the 9060 compare?

Design and Aesthetics

  • NB 9060: The 9060 is a modern twist on New Balance's heritage. It has a chunkier silhouette with exaggerated proportions, which gives it a futuristic vibe while still nodding to retro elements. The blend of suede, mesh, and synthetic materials also gives it a more layered, bold appearance. The 9060 is for someone who wants a sneaker that makes a statement.
  • NB 990: The 990 is more traditional, with a streamlined silhouette that's been a staple since the '80s. It has a minimalist, classic design that focuses on comfort and functionality, making it more suitable for those who prefer a timeless look over trends.

Comfort and Cushioning

  • NB 9060: The 9060 focuses heavily on comfort, featuring ABZORB and SBS cushioning in the midsole, providing a plush, cloud-like feel underfoot. It's perfect for all-day wear, whether you're running errands or just out and about. The additional padding around the ankle adds to the overall comfort, especially for long-term use.
  • NB 990: The 990 also excels in comfort, featuring ENCAP cushioning, which combines lightweight foam with a tough polyurethane rim for stability. While the 990’s cushioning is reliable and more focused on support, the 9060 offers a softer, more cushioned experience. The 990’s comfort is more utilitarian, whereas the 9060 feels more like a sneaker for everyday walking and lifestyle activities.

Performance

  • NB 9060: The 9060 is more of a lifestyle sneaker than a performance model. It's designed for casual wear rather than athletic purposes, focusing on comfort, style, and all-day wearability.
  • NB 990: Originally designed as a running shoe, the 990 is still equipped to handle more physical activity. While it’s primarily used as a casual shoe today, it offers better stability and support if you’re looking for a sneaker that can also function during light workouts or jogs.

 

 

New Balance 9060 vs New Balance 574

The New Balance 574 is one of the brand’s most popular models, known for its affordable price point and versatile design. Here’s how the 9060 stacks up against the 574:

Design and Aesthetics

  • NB 9060: The 9060's design is much more daring and modern. With its oversized sole, layered materials, and exaggerated proportions, it gives off a futuristic, streetwear-ready vibe. The colorways for the 9060 also tend to be more experimental, featuring bolder combinations that stand out.
  • NB 574: The 574 is more of a classic, understated model. Its design is simple and clean, with a low-profile silhouette that fits in seamlessly with almost any outfit. The 574’s appeal lies in its versatility and timeless look, which has made it a go-to shoe for decades.

Comfort and Cushioning

  • NB 9060: As mentioned, the 9060 provides more advanced cushioning technology with the ABZORB midsole, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize comfort and a plush feel. If you’re looking for a sneaker that feels soft and cushioned with every step, the 9060 will likely be more appealing.
  • NB 574: The 574 is comfortable but doesn’t offer the same level of cushioning as the 9060. It uses New Balance’s EVA foam midsole, which provides decent comfort for everyday wear, but it lacks the extra padding and plushness of the 9060. If you want something simple and functional without the added bulk, the 574 is a solid option.

Durability

  • NB 9060: The materials used in the 9060, including premium suede and mesh, are built for long-term wear. Its chunky sole adds durability, and the overall construction feels more premium, making it a great investment if you’re looking for a shoe that will last.
  • NB 574: The 574 is also quite durable, though it’s more of a basic shoe in terms of material quality. While it holds up well for daily use, it doesn’t have the same premium feel or long-term durability as the 9060. However, given its lower price point, the 574 still offers good value for its longevity.

NB 9060 vs New Balance 2002R

The 2002R is another model in New Balance's lineup that has gained popularity, especially among sneakerheads. Both the 9060 and 2002R are geared more toward lifestyle wear, but they have some key differences:

Design and Aesthetics

  • NB 9060: The 9060’s futuristic design is the more attention-grabbing of the two. It’s bold, chunky, and designed to stand out. If you want a sneaker that makes a fashion statement, the 9060 is a top pick.
  • NB 2002R: The 2002R has a sleeker, more performance-driven aesthetic. It has a classic running shoe design, with a more understated appearance compared to the 9060. The 2002R often comes in more muted, classic colorways, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more low-key look.

Comfort and Cushioning

  • NB 9060: The 9060 offers more cushioning and a softer ride thanks to its ABZORB and SBS midsole technology. This makes it better for long-term wear, especially if comfort is your top priority.
  • NB 2002R: The 2002R is equipped with N-ergy cushioning, providing excellent shock absorption and a responsive feel. While it’s more performance-oriented, it’s still incredibly comfortable for everyday wear. However, it doesn’t quite have the plush, sink-into feel that the 9060 offers.

Price Point

  • NB 9060: Priced as a premium lifestyle sneaker, the 9060 tends to be more expensive than models like the 574 or 2002R. You’re paying for the innovative design and high-end materials, so it’s worth it if you value aesthetics and comfort.
  • NB 2002R: The 2002R offers a slightly lower price point while still delivering excellent performance and comfort. If you're looking for a great balance between style and function at a more affordable price, the 2002R is a strong contender.

Verdict: Which New Balance Model is Right for You?

  • If you prioritize bold, modern design and want a sneaker that makes a statement both in style and comfort, the New Balance 9060 is the way to go. It’s ideal for those who love streetwear and don’t mind a chunky, futuristic silhouette.
  • If you’re after a timeless, versatile sneaker that works for almost any occasion, the New Balance 990 or 574 might be more up your alley. The 990 offers a more premium feel, while the 574 provides a solid option at a more affordable price.
  • For those who want a sleeker, performance-driven look with great comfort for everyday wear, the 2002R is a strong option. It balances style, comfort, and price beautifully, though it lacks the boldness of the 9060.

In the end, the New Balance 9060 is for those who aren’t afraid to take risks with their footwear, offering unmatched comfort with a design that stands out in a crowd.



New Balance 9060 Durability and Longevity

When you invest in a sneaker, you want it to last. Fortunately, the 9060 is built to stand the test of time. The high-quality materials and robust construction mean you won't be replacing these shoes anytime soon. In fact, some users report that their New Balance sneakers last for years without showing significant signs of wear.


Price vs Value: Is the New Balance 9060 Worth It?

Let’s talk price. At first glance, the New Balance 9060 might seem a bit steep, especially if you’re used to more budget-friendly options. However, when you consider the premium materials, comfort, and versatility, the price starts to make sense. Plus, if you’re someone who values longevity, these sneakers are a solid investment.



Pros and Cons of the New Balance 9060

Pros:

  • Superior cushioning
  • Stylish, versatile design
  • Durable materials
  • Suitable for all-day wear

Cons:

  • Higher price point
  • Chunky design might not be for everyone

Conclusion

So, is the New Balance 9060 worth the hype? In short—yes! If you're looking for a sneaker that delivers on both style and comfort, this model is a great option. While the price might make you hesitate, the quality, durability, and versatility more than justify the cost. Whether you're a sneakerhead or just someone looking for a reliable pair of everyday shoes, the New Balance 9060 ticks all the boxes.



FAQs

-  Are New Balance 9060 true to size? 

Yes, most users find that the New Balance 9060 fits true to size, but if you have wider feet, you might want to go half a size up.

- Can I use the New Balance 9060 for running? 

While the 9060 offers excellent cushioning and support, it's not specifically designed as a running shoe. It's best suited for casual wear and light activities.

-  How do I clean my New Balance 9060? 

You can clean the shoes by using a soft brush to remove dirt, followed by a damp cloth for stains. Avoid submerging them in water to protect the materials.

-  Is the New Balance 9060 unisex? 

Yes, the New Balance 9060 is available in both men's and women's sizes, making it a great option for everyone.

-  Are there any limited-edition colorways for the 9060? 

Yes, New Balance often releases limited-edition colorways for their models, including the 9060. Keep an eye on the official website for any new drops.