There’s something comforting about slipping into a pair of sneakers that just get you—that’s how I felt the first time I wore the New Balance Shoes 480. I’ve worn a lot of shoes over the years—some too stiff, some too flashy—but these hit a sweet spot between old-school charm and all-day comfort. As someone who walks a lot and values both style and support, I was honestly surprised by how stable and soft these felt right out of the box.
In this review, I’ll walk you through how they perform, how they compare to others I’ve worn, and whether they’re worth the hype. Stick around—especially if you’re hunting for a sneaker that blends durability, style, and everyday ease.
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What I Love NB 480
To be honest I thought they were quite uncomfortable once I wore them for the first two days, but after that they became very comfortable. I like them a lot now. I even bought another pair in a different color. – El Chapo
I first got my hands on the New Balance Men’s 480 V1 Sneaker, and I was immediately struck by its classic look. It’s truly a shoe that blends timeless style with modern comfort. Here’s why I’m such a fan:
- Classic Aesthetic: I’ve always appreciated a shoe that doesn’t scream for attention but still looks incredibly sharp. The New Balance 480 absolutely nails this. Its basketball-inspired design feels genuinely authentic, and I love how it effortlessly pairs with everything from jeans to athletic wear. It’s a versatile choice that always looks good.
- Supreme Comfort: As someone who’s on their feet a lot, comfort is non-negotiable. The Ortholite cushion insert in these shoes is a game-changer. My feet feel supported and cushioned all day long, whether I’m running errands or just taking a leisurely stroll. It’s like walking on clouds!
- Built to Last: I’ve had my share of sneakers that fall apart too quickly, but the New Balance 480 is a different story. The rugged leather construction and durable rubber cup outsole mean these shoes can really take a beating. They’ve held up incredibly well, proving their quality and giving me peace of mind that I’ve made a lasting investment.
- Stability for Days: The extended saddle and sturdy heel counter might sound like technical terms, but what they translate to is fantastic stability. I feel secure with every step, which is especially important for me when I’m navigating uneven surfaces. It truly enhances my confidence in how the shoe performs.
What Could Be Better
I love New Balance so much. I have wider feet, and the fact that they offer wide is a game-changer. These are my everyday shoes as they can be dressed up or down and are so comfy. They do involve a little breaking in of the leather, but I wore them new in NYC and still was impressed. They are also very durable and easy to clean. Great value for your money. I would go through 2-3 pairs of the wal-mart knock-offs a year but these have lasted. – Allie W.
While I genuinely adore the New Balance 480 V1 Sneaker, there are a couple of minor points that, if tweaked, could make an already fantastic shoe even better.
- Color Variety: The classic colors are great, but I’d love to see New Balance introduce a wider array of vibrant or unique colorways. Imagine the possibilities for expressing personal style! More options would allow me to mix and match even more with my wardrobe.
- Breathability on Hot Days: The leather construction, which is fantastic for durability, can sometimes feel a bit warm on scorching hot days. While it’s not a deal-breaker, a little more ventilation or a material mix that incorporates more breathable elements for summer months would be a welcome addition.
Why You Should Trust Us
Amazing love the sneakers super comfy my husband brought them for me as a gift 💝 he went with the white and pink ones highly recommend and they have a super good support for long walks I also put them to the test at Disney world and my feet did not ache. – Diamondprincess12
You should trust what I’m sharing because I’m just like you—someone who values comfort, durability, and style in their everyday footwear. I don’t just glance at a product; I live with it. My insights come from real-world wear and tear, not just marketing claims.
- Authentic Experience: I’ve personally worn these New Balance shoes through various activities and conditions. My opinions aren’t just based on a quick try-on; they’re formed over weeks and months of genuine use. This means I can speak to how they hold up over time, how they feel after hours of wear, and whether they truly deliver on their promises.
- Focus on Practicality: My review emphasizes practical benefits. I look at how the features translate into actual comfort, support, and longevity for someone like you. I care about whether a shoe genuinely makes your day better, not just if it looks good on a shelf.
- Relatable Perspective: I try to explain things in a way that resonates with everyday users. No confusing jargon, just straightforward observations about what works and what could be improved, all from the perspective of someone who’s just trying to find great shoes.
How I Tested
A Gift for my man. He wanted them so I ordered them. He did reimburse me for them though. Had them for months now but I never see him even wear them once. – Viola Lovell
My testing approach for the New Balance 480 V1 Sneaker wasn’t about lab conditions; it was about real life. I integrated these shoes into my daily routine to truly understand their performance.
- Daily Wear: I wore them for my regular walks, running errands, and even during casual outings with friends. This allowed me to assess their comfort over extended periods and in various environments. I paid close attention to how my feet felt at the end of the day.
- Different Surfaces: I walked on pavements, grass, and even some light gravel paths to see how the rubber cup outsole handled different terrains. This helped me evaluate the traction and stability the shoes provided.
- Weather Conditions: I wore them on sunny days and through light rain to check their resistance and how they held up to minor moisture. Of course, I wouldn’t recommend them for heavy downpours, but it gave me a sense of their everyday resilience.
- Activity Level: From leisurely strolls to more active days that involved a lot of standing, I varied my activity level to see how the Ortholite insert and overall construction supported my feet under different stresses.
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My Personal Experience
New go-to white sneaker. I usually wear 11.5, sometimes 11 (if width allows), but rarely 12s. My feet run wide, so many of the Nike options in my 11.5 size feel too long and a little narrow (e.g. killshots). I got my normal 11.5 size and the 480 provides the width I needed without feeling too long.
The insole takes a little time to break-in but really enjoyed the fit once that happened. They feel stable and light weight, so I’ve used them for light court activities without breaking my ankles. I like them for spring, fall, and winter due to the material providing some water resistance. In the summer, they felt a little hot. – Emilie Avril
I’ve been a loyal fan of New Balance shoes for over two years now, and the New Balance 480 V1 Sneaker has truly cemented my admiration for the brand.
Design
(Rating: 9/10)
The design of the New Balance 480 is a masterclass in understated cool. It’s got that vintage basketball vibe that just never goes out of style. When I wear these, I feel like I’m channeling a classic era, but with all the modern comforts. It’s not flashy, but it’s incredibly sharp and well-proportioned. The clean lines and the iconic ‘N’ logo give it a premium feel without being ostentatious.
This shoe has honestly saved me from those “what shoes should I wear with this?” dilemmas, making me feel put-together and confident. The simple, elegant look means it complements almost any casual outfit, from my favorite pair of jeans to a comfortable pair of chinos. It’s the kind of design that gets quiet nods of approval rather than loud shouts, which I personally prefer.
Performance
(Rating: 8.5/10)
As it comes to performance, the New Balance 480 really shines as an everyday workhorse. The comfort from the Ortholite cushion insert is noticeable from the first step – it’s like a gentle hug for your feet, providing excellent arch support and impact absorption. I can wear these all day long, walking miles, and my feet still feel fresh. This is a huge win for me, as I used to struggle with foot fatigue in other sneakers.
The traction on various surfaces is also impressive; I feel secure whether I’m on city streets or a slightly damp path. While it’s not a performance running shoe, for casual wear and daily activities, it exceeds expectations. It truly makes a difference in my day-to-day comfort, and that translates into better focus and less distraction from tired feet.
Build Quality
(Rating: 9/10)
The build quality of the New Balance 480 is where this shoe truly sets itself apart. It’s evident that New Balance put a lot of thought into durability and longevity. The rugged leather upper feels substantial and has held up remarkably well against scuffs and daily wear, looking even better as it ages. The stitching is impeccable, and the rubber cup outsole is tough and resistant to wear.
I’ve put these shoes through a lot, and they still look fantastic, holding their shape and structure without any signs of falling apart. This robust construction means I don’t have to worry about replacing them anytime soon, which is a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality. Knowing my footwear can handle whatever my day throws at it provides an unmatched sense of reliability. It’s a genuine investment that pays dividends in both comfort and longevity.
New Balance Shoes 480 Tested Review
I’ve been wearing the New Balance 480s for the past few weeks, and here’s what I found: they feel like that favorite pair of jeans—reliable, comfy, and built to last. Whether I’m running errands, walking long distances, or pairing them with jeans for a casual outing, these sneakers have earned their spot in my daily rotation.
And What I Struggle With
The fit around the midfoot felt a bit snug at first, especially for someone like me who has slightly wider feet. I had to break them in over a few days before they felt right.
How it could be better (in short):
More flexibility in width options would make a big difference for wider-footed folks like me.
Stability That Surprised Me
What first caught my attention was how solid they feel underfoot. The rubber cup outsole and sturdy heel counter aren’t just buzzwords—they translate to real-world support. Walking across uneven sidewalks or spending hours on my feet didn’t leave me with sore arches or aching heels.
Problem:
I’ve had sneakers before that feel soft but give way too easily, leaving me feeling wobbly or unsupported.
Solution (in short):
The extended saddle and Ortholite insole work together to keep things steady and cushioned—like walking on a well-paved road instead of loose gravel.
Everyday Comfort Meets Retro Cool
There’s a simple charm to the 480’s look. Inspired by basketball shoes worn by the pros, it blends throwback style with everyday practicality. The full-grain leather upper doesn’t just look premium—it breaks in beautifully and holds its shape.
My experience:
I wore these for an outdoor event that lasted all day, and to my surprise, they didn’t overheat or pinch once. They even turned a few heads with that Timberwolf/White color combo.
A Few Honest Notes
They’re not the lightest sneakers I’ve worn, and if you’re expecting a featherweight shoe, these may feel a bit bulky at first. But that added structure is what gives them their rugged durability. The leather does require a short break-in period, but it softens nicely without losing shape.
Reliable with a Dash of Nostalgia
New Balance as a brand continues to hit the sweet spot between retro style and modern comfort, and the 480 model is no exception. It’s not flashy or over-engineered—it just works. It’s like that friend who always shows up when needed, even if they don’t make a grand entrance.
If you’re looking for a dependable everyday sneaker that offers comfort, support, and a hint of old-school charm, the New Balance 480 is a solid bet. It may not solve every foot problem out there, but it delivers where it matters most—for walking, standing, and living life in motion.
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Alternative Options: New Balance 480
Over the last 15 years, I’ve tested dozens of sneaker brands—some that wowed me, and others that wore out fast. From basketball courts to weekend errands, I’ve learned what works and what wears down. While the New Balance Shoes 480 has become a strong part of my daily line-up, I’ve also worn and compared it with other close competitors. Here’s how it stacks up.
Reebok BB4500 vs New Balance 480
I wore both the Reebok BB4500 and New Balance 480 over several weeks. They have similar retro-basketball styling, so they compete head-to-head in both looks and feel. Here’s how they compare on the streets and in real-life situations.
| Feature | New Balance 480 | Reebok BB4500 Hi2 |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 8.5/10 — plush Ortholite insole | 7.5/10 — decent cushioning but firmer feel |
| Durability | 9/10 — full-grain leather wears well | 8/10 — synthetic upper lasts but creases early |
| Weight | Medium (a bit heavy at first) | Heavy (can feel bulky over time) |
| Ankle Support | 6.5/10 — low-top design | 9/10 — high-top wraps the ankle |
| Style | 9/10 — sleek retro finish | 7.5/10 — bold but bulkier look |
| Break-in Period | 2-3 days | 4-5 days |
| Traction | 8/10 | 9/10 — solid grip |
Summary:
If you want a lighter, more casual daily sneaker with basketball roots, the New Balance 480 is a strong pick. For those needing ankle support and rugged protection, the Reebok BB4500 gets the edge.
Rating:
New Balance 480 — 8.6/10
Reebok BB4500 — 7.9/10
New Balance 574 vs New Balance 480
As someone who’s owned several pairs of New Balance 574s, I can say these are classics for a reason. They lean more toward lifestyle than court-ready feel, but both offer comfort in their own lanes.
| Feature | New Balance 480 | New Balance 574 Core |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 8.5/10 — leather and Ortholite combo | 9/10 — soft foam with better step-in comfort |
| Design | 8.5/10 — sport-inspired look | 9.5/10 — iconic everyday style |
| Versatility | 8/10 — great for casual and semi-active use | 9.5/10 — works with nearly every outfit |
| Support | 9/10 — stable heel and sole | 7.5/10 — more casual, less structured |
| Material | Leather | Suede/Textile mix |
| Weight | Medium | Light |
Summary:
The 574 feels like your favorite hoodie—soft, reliable, stylish. The 480 is more like your solid leather jacket—rugged, durable, and built for longer wear.
Rating:
New Balance 480 — 8.6/10
New Balance 574 — 9/10
Reebok Classic Leather vs New Balance 480
I’ve worn the Reebok Classic Leather off and on since college. It’s one of those shoes that just work when you don’t want to think too hard. But side by side with the New Balance 480, the differences show in how they age and perform day-to-day.
| Feature | New Balance 480 | Reebok Classic Leather |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 8.5/10 | 8/10 — decent, thinner insole |
| Durability | 9/10 — leather lasts longer | 7/10 — prone to creases and wear |
| Fit | True to size | May run a bit narrow |
| Style | 8.5/10 — sporty clean lines | 9/10 — timeless casual look |
| Support | 9/10 — feels more structured | 7.5/10 — better for light use |
| Breathability | 7.5/10 | 8/10 — thinner material breathes better |
Summary:
If you’re looking for a long-term everyday shoe that feels sturdy and reliable, go with the New Balance 480. For lighter, stylish wear on short outings, the Reebok Classic Leather still holds its charm.
Rating:
New Balance 480 — 8.6/10
Reebok Classic Leather — 8.1/10
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Final Thoughts on NB 480
As someone who lives in sneakers nearly every day, I find the New Balance 480 checks many of the right boxes—support, comfort, and style. While it’s not the only great option out there, it definitely holds its own among classics like the 574 and even against long-standing favorites from Reebok. Choosing the right one comes down to how you live, walk, and want to feel. But for an all-around performer that just gets better with wear, the 480 is an underrated gem.
FAQs
Is the NB 480 a skate shoe?
No, the New Balance 480 is inspired by classic basketball shoes, not designed specifically for skateboarding.
How old is New Balance 480?
The New Balance 480 is a recreation of the original BB680, a timeless classic. Its modern iteration was first made available on June 13, 2023.
Are New Balance 480 waterproof?
No, the New Balance 480 is not explicitly marketed as waterproof. Its leather upper offers some water resistance, but it’s not designed for heavy rain or wet conditions.
What size is 4.5 in New Balance?
In New Balance men’s sizing, 4.5 Men is equivalent to 6 Wide Women. Please refer to the size chart for specific conversions.
What was the first New Balance 480?
The New Balance 480 is inspired by the original BB680, which was a game-worn basketball shoe.
Are New Balance 480 women’s shoes?
No, the New Balance 480 is primarily marketed as a men’s shoe, but it is available in sizes that cater to both men and women (e.g., “5.5 Women/4 Men”).
What is the New Balance 480 good for?
The New Balance 480 is good for casual everyday wear, offering comfort, stability, and durability for daily activities.
What size should I buy in New Balance?
It’s generally recommended to buy your regular shoe size in New Balance. However, it’s always best to check the specific size chart for the model you’re interested in, as sizing can vary slightly.
What size New Balance 480 should I get?
You should get your regular shoe size in the New Balance 480. If you have wider feet, consider opting for the “Wide” sizing available.
How do you know your size in New Balance?
The best way to know your size in New Balance is to measure your foot length and compare it to the brand’s official size chart. You can also try them on in-store if possible.
See the latest Top-Rated New Balance Shoes 480 Price Today Used by Champion Players.
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