Our verdict
A favorite go-to shoe by many since ’88, the New Balance 996 has been in the market providing functionality to wearers without sacrificing style. Like any NB Classic, it flaunts a fresh look of an old-school shoe that goes well with almost anything. Those who have tried on and tested a pair are generally impressed with its superior quality, supportive fit, and overall comfort.
Pros
- Classic design
- Soft wrap
- Great-value
- Affordable
- Grippy
- Lightweight
Cons
- Narrow fit
- Lacks cushioning
New Balance 2002R Green 29cm
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- want an affordable shoe with great qualities
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- need a pair of classic shoes from New Balance
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Who should NOT buy it
If you have wide feet, you can skip the NB 996. Instead, you can go for New Balance's wide shoes. And if you want something that doesn't dig deep into the pockets, get the NB 574 or the NB 505.
The NB 996 is a timeless go-to
Many reviewers appreciate the classic avoid of the New Balance 996. According to them, it's perfect for just about any outfit.
An upper that loves the foot
It's "soft" and "well-padded;" a lot of testers find it "cozy" to wear.
zapatillas de running New Balance competición constitución ligera ritmo medio talla 39
The $90 price tag of the New Balance 996 is worth it, given its superior quality and durability.
Even more, many are pleased that it looks and delivers the same as how it is described online. So much so, long-time fans purchase it year after year.
The New Balance 966 anchors you to the ground
The outsole is so tacky; there are NO reports of slips on both wet and dry surfaces.
Won't drag the foot down
This particular shoe is lightweight compared to other New Balance shoe models, New Balance FuelCell Prism Black Blue Mujeres EU 43.
New balance fresh foam 860 v12 4e extra wide nb white men running m860w12
Compared to other NB models, the New Balance 996's forefoot is a tad narrow.
Lackluster stability
"zapatillas de running New Balance mujer entrenamiento trail talla 41.5."
This is what critics have to say about the New Balance 996: "Underfoot, there's very little support"; "missteps are inevitable."
Nice to know about the NB 966
- The tongue of this shoe displays the New Balance 996 branding.
- In 2006, New Balance collaborated with two Japanese retailers, Whiz Limited and Mita Sneakers in dressing up the classic 996. The Whiz Limited x Mita Sneakers x New Balance 996 features shades of brown leather, off-white accents, and vibrant orange suede upper on the toe cap. The perforation details were updated to three small stars.
- New Balance also collaborated with J. Crew for the 996 model. In July 2015, the “Neptune Blue” colorway was released, which features different shades of blue in suede and mesh upper.
