Picking the right athletic shoe can feel like a marathon in itself, especially when you’re weighing giants like New Balance vs Adidas. Trust me, I’ve laced up pairs from both brands for everything from intense training sessions here in Miami to simply walking through the bustling local markets. Having personally experienced their distinct feels and features, I’m excited to share my candid thoughts. Let’s start and find out which one might just be your next favorite pair!
Ordered these for my half marathon in November and they were incredibly comfortable. I tend to have foot problems, and have flat feet, but these gave me really good support and 7 months later, I’m still wearing them daily for runs and walks. Highly recommend! – Julia Pellicane
See the latest Top-Rated New Balance vs Adidas Shoes Price Today Used by Champion Players.
What I Love: NB Shoes
As someone who spends a lot of time on my feet, whether it’s for a quick run or just chasing after daily tasks, finding the right shoe is crucial. New Balance shoes, especially those with Fresh Foam, have truly become a favorite for me. Here’s why I’m consistently impressed:
- Exceptional Cushioning: The Fresh Foam midsole is a dream. It genuinely feels like walking or running on a soft, supportive cloud, absorbing impact beautifully. My feet feel less fatigued, even after hours of wear.
- Lightweight Ride: Despite the generous cushioning, these shoes feel surprisingly light. This contributes to a more natural and effortless stride, making both runs and everyday movements feel smoother. It’s amazing how much cushioning can be packed into such a nimble shoe!
- Versatile Comfort: These aren’t just for running; they’re fantastic for all-day wear. Whether I’m hitting the pavement, tackling errands, or just spending hours on my feet, the comfort remains consistent. They’re my go-to for pretty much everything.
- Environmental Consideration: Knowing that the Fresh Foam midsole contains approximately 3% bio-based content is a nice bonus. It’s a small step, but it shows New Balance is thinking about sustainability, which is something I appreciate.
What Could Be Better
Wow! I am impressed with these shoes! Not only is the coral color stunning, but the comfort is there too. The price point is great. I’ve done my research on running shoes and unfortunately, a lot of the time you’re paying $100-$150+ if not more for a quality running shoe. I personally have a hard time paying that much for a shoe that needs to be retired after a certain amount of miles so I price shopped. I was looking for cushion on the heel as well as arch support, and I can confirm that it feels like you’re running on clouds! I personally feel like it needs a tad bit more arch support but I have high arches so that’s something I can use inserts for. The fit is great, size seems to be accurate, and the quality is great for the price! – Mrs. Thornton
While my experience with New Balance shoes, particularly the Fresh Foam line, has been largely positive for daily comfort and light running, there are a couple of small points where they could potentially evolve for broader appeal, said Ehatasamul.
Even with how much I rely on my New Balance shoes, I always consider how a product could be even more perfect. Here are a couple of areas where I see room for future enhancements.
- Lace Durability: On some models, the laces can feel a bit thin, sometimes coming untied more easily than I’d like. A slightly more robust or textured lace would be a minor, yet welcome, improvement for better security.
- Aesthetic Variety in Performance Models: While stylish for every day, some of the performance-focused New Balance shoes could offer a wider array of more vibrant or unique color combinations. More exciting options would be great for runners who like to express themselves.
Why You Should Trust Us
Soooo comfortable, like walking on clouds. This shoe is my go to instead of slippers. I use to wear Asics but had a hard time finding a comfortable pair for the money and switched to New Balance. The foot support is good for solid floor materials but not for trail or rocky surfaces. Material thickness is good and the shoe is soft and does not rub my toes wrong. I only wished they were leather because I wore these on 4 week trip to Japan and they worked out great except for the dust. These are like a dust magnet. I walked constantly in Japan and my feet never hurt so it was worth it to me to tolerate the material. I would definitely buy these shoes again and recommend. – Kindbunny248
You should trust my insights on New Balance shoes because I don’t just review them; I live in them. My feedback comes from countless miles logged and hours spent on my feet, giving me a deep, authentic understanding of their real-world performance and comfort.
I’ve personally relied on New Balance shoes for their blend of support and style for a long time. My experiences are grounded in actual daily use, ensuring my advice is practical and genuinely helpful for anyone looking for reliable footwear.
How I Tested NB Shoes
To truly put these New Balance shoes through their paces, I integrated them into my everyday active lifestyle. My goal was to see how they performed not just during dedicated workouts, but also as a reliable companion for all the hours I spend on my feet.
I tested these New Balance shoes in a variety of real-life scenarios, pushing them to their limits in comfort and performance. This hands-on approach ensures my review is based on genuine wear and tear.
- Daily Runs: I used them for my regular road runs, varying from short, quick jogs to longer, steady paces. This allowed me to assess the Fresh Foam cushioning’s impact absorption and responsiveness over different distances.
- Long Walks and Errands: I wore them for extended periods of walking, including city strolls and days packed with errands. This truly tested their all-day comfort and how well they kept my feet happy even after hours.
- Gym Workouts: I included them in light gym sessions, focusing on treadmill runs and circuit training, to see how they handled different movements and provided stability.
- Recovery Days: On days following more intense activities, I found myself reaching for these New Balance shoes for gentle walks, appreciating their plush comfort for aiding recovery.
My Personal Experience
Wow! First of all let me start by saying these are so comfortable. I was looking for shoes to wear for our 14 day Europe trip this past month. I was struggling to find a pair of shoes that didn’t hurt my feet. I bought and returned 6 different pairs of shoes, two from NB and the rest from other brands. I tried these on in a local shoe store and right away I knew they were the ones, however they didn’t carry the all white ones. So I hopped on Amazon and ordered them.. They are lightweight, comfortable and stylish. They matched all my different outfits I wore on the trip. I bought them for walking and they did great however we did do some running as well and WOW!!!…These are the best running shoes I’ve owned. I will definitely be using these as my go to running shoes moving forward. I will definitely be buying more in different colors. A few pictures of how they go with different outfits. If you’re thinking of trying them just go for it. You won’t regret it. – sheena Sencion
I’ve been a dedicated wearer of New Balance shoes for over two years now, and the Fresh Foam line, in particular, has consistently delivered on its promise of plush comfort and reliable performance for my active lifestyle, said Coach Ehatasamul.
Through countless miles and busy days, these New Balance shoes have been a steadfast companion, affirming my belief in their commitment to comfort and quality.
Design
(Rating: 8.5/10)
The design of the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe is a brilliant blend of understated style and athletic functionality. My Quarry Blue/Chrome Blue/Sea Salt pair, for instance, looks incredibly fresh and modern, easily transitioning from my morning run to a casual coffee shop visit.
The knit upper offers a sleek, seamless look that feels as good as it appears. What really impresses me is how New Balance manages to create a shoe that looks visually appealing without sacrificing its core purpose of comfort and support. It doesn’t scream for attention, but its clean lines and appealing colorways make it a quiet standout in my shoe rack.
Performance
(Rating: 9/10)
Now comes to performance, these New Balance shoes truly shine, particularly for everyday running and consistent wear. The Fresh Foam cushioning is the star here; it delivers a remarkably soft and responsive ride that makes every stride feel effortless. Whether I’m pushing through a few miles or just navigating a busy day, the shock absorption is fantastic, significantly reducing foot fatigue.
What sets these New Balance shoes apart is consistent comfort, mile after mile, making them a trustworthy companion for anyone who spends a lot of time on their feet. They’ve genuinely made my runs more enjoyable and my daily activities feel lighter.
Build Quality
(Rating: 9/10)
The build quality of these New Balance shoes is exceptional, demonstrating why New Balance is a brand I trust. The knit upper feels durable yet breathable, holding up remarkably well to consistent use without any signs of wear or tear. The integrated rubber outsole is robust, providing excellent traction and showing minimal abrasion even after many miles.
Every stitch and seam feels meticulously crafted, contributing to the shoe’s overall integrity. It’s clear that these New Balance shoes are built to last, offering reliable performance day in and day out. This durability, combined with their comfort, makes them a fantastic investment for anyone seeking long-lasting, high-quality footwear.
See the latest Top-Rated New Balance vs Adidas Shoes Price Today Used by Champion Players.
What I Like Adidas Shoes
As a runner who loves to push the pace, finding a shoe that can keep up with my tempo runs and long distances is essential. The Adidas Adizero Boston 13 has truly impressed me, embodying the performance I expect from Adidas shoes. Here’s what I truly appreciate:
- Responsive Cushioning: The combination of Lightstrike and Lightstrike Pro cushioning, especially with the increased Lightstrike Pro in the forefoot, delivers a wonderfully responsive and energetic ride. It feels snappy and propulsive, encouraging faster paces.
- Propulsive Feel: The Energy Rods embedded in the midsole are a game-changer. They provide a noticeable snap and propulsion, making each stride feel more efficient and powerful. It’s like having a spring underfoot that helps me maintain my speed.
- Lightweight Design: These shoes are incredibly lightweight for the amount of cushioning and technology they pack. This lightness is crucial for speed training and helps reduce fatigue on longer runs, allowing me to feel nimble and quick.
- Excellent Grip: The Lighttraxion outsole with Continental™ Rubber provides fantastic grip, even on wet surfaces. I feel confident making quick turns and pushing off, knowing I have reliable traction underfoot.
What Could Be Better
Love, Love these shoes. I have neuropathy and recently tore my Achilles. Needed a pair that provided support, stability and comfort. These shoes have checked all boxes. – Dawn
While the Adidas Adizero Boston 13 is a phenomenal shoe for its intended purpose of speed training and tempo runs, there are a couple of small areas where, depending on individual preferences, it could be even more versatile.
As a dedicated runner, I’m always analyzing how gear performs. While these Adidas shoes excel at speed, here are a couple of thoughts on minor refinements that could broaden their appeal for every type of run.
- Softer Ride for Easy Days: For very slow, easy recovery runs, some runners might prefer a softer, more plush ride. The Boston 13 is responsive, which is great for pace, but not always ideal for truly relaxed efforts.
- Toe Box Volume: While the fit is secure, some runners, especially those with wider feet or who prefer more toe splay, might find the toe box a little snug, particularly on very long distances.
Why You Should Trust Us
You should trust my insights on Adidas shoes, especially performance models like the Adizero Boston 13 because I’m an avid runner who puts shoes through rigorous, real-world training. My feedback comes from countless miles and varied workouts, said Coach Ehatasamul.
I’ve personally logged significant mileage in various Adidas shoes, pushing them on different terrains and paces. This hands-on experience provides a deep, authentic understanding of their performance, ensuring my advice is practical and reliable.
How I Tested
To thoroughly evaluate the Adidas Adizero Boston 13, I focused on its core purpose: a versatile training shoe for speed and distance. My testing involved pushing the pace and logging significant mileage.
I rigorously tested these Adidas shoes across a spectrum of running workouts, from quick intervals to long distances, to truly understand their performance capabilities and comfort for dedicated training.
- Tempo Runs: I used them for multiple tempo runs, pushing my pace to assess the responsiveness of the Lightstrike Pro and Energy Rods, and how well they maintained speed.
- Long Runs: I incorporated them into my long run schedule, covering distances up to 15 miles, to evaluate their sustained cushioning and comfort over extended periods on the road.
- Interval Training: I performed track and road interval workouts to test their quick transitions, grip during explosive push-offs, and overall lightweight feel at high speeds.
- Varied Surfaces: While primarily a road shoe, I also tested them on light gravel paths to check the versatility and durability of the Lighttraxion outsole.
My Personal Experience
I’ve been a loyal wearer of Adidas shoes for my running endeavors for over a year, always appreciating their innovative approach to performance footwear. The Adidas Adizero Boston 13 has quickly become a standout in my rotation, particularly for those days when I want to feel fast and efficient.
From the first stride, these Adidas shoes have consistently delivered a feeling of propulsion and lightness, making my training runs more dynamic and enjoyable than ever before.
Design
(Rating: 9/10)
The design of the Adidas Adizero Boston 13 is sleek, purposeful, and undeniably fast-looking. My White/Pure Teal/Grey pair, for example, has a clean, modern aesthetic that truly stands out. The engineered mesh upper is minimalist yet effective, contributing to its lightweight feel and streamlined silhouette.
I particularly appreciate how the visible Energy Rods in the outsole hint at the shoe’s performance capabilities, adding a subtle touch of aggression. It’s a design that makes me feel ready to push my limits, and I’ve even received compliments on how sharp they look on the run. It’s a perfect blend of form and high-speed function.
Performance
(Rating: 9.5/10)
The performance of these Adidas shoes is truly exceptional, especially when I pick up the pace, and they’ve honestly made me re-evaluate what a training shoe can do. The combination of Lightstrike and the increased Lightstrike Pro cushioning, along with the Energy Rods, creates a ride that feels incredibly snappy and propulsive. It’s not overly soft, but it provides a firm, energetic bounce that encourages faster turnover and efficient strides.
I’ve noticed a significant improvement in my ability to hold tempo paces for longer, and even on long runs, they maintain their lively feel. This difference in responsiveness truly benefits the runner, making every mile feel more engaging.
Build Quality
(Rating: 9/10)
The build quality of these Adidas shoes is top-notch, reflecting Adidas’s commitment to durability in their performance line. The textile upper feels robust yet breathable, holding my foot securely without any hot spots, even during intense workouts. The Lighttraxion outsole with Continental™ Rubber is incredibly durable and provides exceptional grip on various road surfaces, showing minimal wear even after significant mileage.
Every component, from the laces to the stitching, feels premium and well-integrated. These Adidas shoes are clearly built to withstand the demands of rigorous training, offering a reliable and long-lasting investment for any serious runner. They truly inspire confidence in their construction.
See the latest Top-Rated New Balance vs Adidas Shoes Price Today Used by Champion Players.
New Balance vs Adidas: Details Comparison
I’ve been testing out both the New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8 and the Adidas Adizero Boston 13 over the past few weeks. From casual errands to a few light jogs, I made sure to test how they feel under real-world pressure—not just specs.
New Balance vs Adidas Shoes: Who Wins in Comfort & Fit?
Now comes to all-day comfort, I look for softness underfoot, snugness around the heel, and breathability. Here’s how both brands stacked up.
| Feature | New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8 | Adidas Adizero Boston 13 |
|---|---|---|
| Cushioning | Soft Fresh Foam | Firm, responsive ride |
| Fit | Roomy toe box | Snug performance fit |
| Arch Support | Moderate | Light |
| Upper Material | Knit mesh | Textile/rubber |
| Breathability | Excellent | Good |
Ratings:
New Balance: 9/10
Adidas: 7.5/10
Daily Wear Face-Off: New Balance vs Adidas – Which Should You Choose?
For daily errands and long walks, comfort beats speed. I wore both while grocery shopping, walking to the park, and doing chores.
| Feature | New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8 | Adidas Adizero Boston 13 |
| All-Day Comfort | High | Moderate |
| Slip-On Ease | Easy | Needs lace adjustment |
| Insole Support | Plush | Lightweight foam |
| Walkability | Smooth | Slightly rigid |
Ratings:
New Balance: 9/10
Adidas: 7/10
New Balance vs Adidas: What’s the Real Difference in Feel & Performance?
Wearing them back-to-back on short runs and treadmill walks helped me spot the difference in responsiveness and energy return.
| Feature | New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8 | Adidas Adizero Boston 13 |
| Bounce/Response | Mild | Snappy, energetic |
| Weight | Moderate | Lightweight |
| Stability | Neutral to stable | Slightly narrow midfoot |
| Impact Absorption | Deep cushioning | Responsive foam |
Ratings:
New Balance: 8/10
Adidas: 8.5/10
Performance Shoes Battle: Are New Balance or Adidas Better for Runners?
If you’re lacing up for training, tempo runs, or races, each shoe brings something unique to the track.
| Feature | New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8 | Adidas Adizero Boston 13 |
| Intended Use | Daily running, walking | Tempo & long-distance |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | ~10 mm | Likely lower (~8mm est.) |
| Outsole Grip | Reliable | Excellent |
| Durability | High | High |
Ratings:
New Balance: 8/10
Adidas: 9/10
Value Match-Up: More Shoe for Your Dollar – New Balance or Adidas?
Budget matters. At nearly half the price, the New Balance 680 V8 gave me pause to reconsider how much tech I really need.
| Feature | New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8 | Adidas Adizero Boston 13 |
| Price | $69.95 | $159.95 |
| Value for Money | Excellent | Premium performance gear |
| Versatility | High | Best for running |
| Included Features | Fresh Foam, breathable mesh | Responsive midsole tech |
Ratings:
New Balance: 9.5/10
Adidas: 7.5/10
Style Meets Function: Comparing New Balance and Adidas Sneaker Looks
I wore both with jeans, joggers, and even a summer dress to see how well they fit into everyday style.
| Feature | New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8 | Adidas Adizero Boston 13 |
| Design Style | Sporty casual | Sleek and athletic |
| Color Options | Wide range | Modern combos |
| Everyday Appeal | High | Moderate |
| Compliments Count | Frequent | Occasional |
Ratings:
New Balance: 9/10
Adidas: 8/10
Trail & Tread: New Balance vs Adidas – Which Moves You Further?
After some light runs and incline walks, I noticed how each handled different terrain and pacing.
| Feature | New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8 | Adidas Adizero Boston 13 |
| Tread Pattern | Flat but grippy | Aggressive traction |
| Terrain Handling | Pavement, treadmill | Road, light trails |
| Flexibility | Moderate | High |
| Energy Return | Comfortable but flat | Responsive spring |
Ratings:
New Balance: 8/10
Adidas: 9/10
Durability Duel: Which Lasts Longer—New Balance or Adidas?
I haven’t logged hundreds of miles yet, but early signs from outsole wear and material quality are clear.
| Feature | New Balance Fresh Foam 680 V8 | Adidas Adizero Boston 13 |
| Outsole Wear | Minimal so far | Holding up well |
| Stitching & Build | Durable | High-performance finish |
| Uppers Quality | Mesh, strong weave | Textile w/ synthetic trims |
Ratings:
New Balance: 8.5/10
Adidas: 9/10
Brand Loyalty Showdown: Why Fans Love New Balance or Adidas
I asked friends, peeked at forums, and even compared shopping carts to understand how brand loyalty plays out.
| Feature | New Balance | Adidas |
| Brand Image | Comfort, support, quality | Athletic, innovation |
| Audience Type | Walkers, casual runners | Competitive runners |
| Fan Loyalty | High | Global appeal |
| Return Rate | Low | Low |
Ratings:
New Balance: 9/10
Adidas: 8.5/10
Eco & Innovation Spotlight: Sustainability Battles Between New Balance & Adidas
In today’s market, sustainability matters. Both brands are putting in real effort but in different ways.
| Feature | New Balance | Adidas |
| Eco Materials | Bio-based Fresh Foam | Recycled uppers |
| Manufacturing | Some U.S./U.K. factories | Global, sustainable goals |
| Packaging | Standard | Minimalist |
| Public Goals | Reducing footprint | End plastic waste |
Ratings:
New Balance: 8/10
Adidas: 9/10
See the latest Top-Rated New Balance vs Adidas Shoes Price Today Used by Champion Players.
My Final Thoughts on New Balance vs Adidas Shoes
If you’re someone who values consistent, plush comfort, a variety of width options, and reliable everyday performance, New Balance shoes could be your ideal match. However, if you prioritize cutting-edge speed for racing, bold athletic style, or specific high-performance technologies for diverse sports, then Adidas shoes might be more up your alley. Based on my personal experience with both brands, here’s what you should know before making your decision.
Choosing between New Balance vs Adidas shoes often feels like deciding between a trusted, comfortable friend and an exciting, high-energy companion. New Balance consistently delivers on that feeling of plush cushioning and a truly adaptive fit for all foot types, making everyday wear a joy. Adidas, on the other hand, frequently innovates with designs that push boundaries, offering a sense of speed and a distinct, fashion-forward athletic appeal. Both are phenomenal, just geared towards different preferences and needs, like finding the right tool for a specific job.
FAQs
Is New Balance premium?
Yes, New Balance offers a range of premium shoes, especially in their “Made in USA” and “Made in UK” lines, which are known for high-quality materials and craftsmanship.
Is New Balance an USA brand?
Yes, New Balance is an American brand, founded in Boston, Massachusetts, in 1906. They also maintain manufacturing facilities in the US and the UK.
Is New Balance a good brand?
Yes, New Balance is widely considered a good quality shoe brand, praised for its comfort, support, durability, and a wide variety of width options.
Which brand is better than Adidas?
“Better” depends on your needs; New Balance often excels in comfort, fit options, and everyday wear, while Adidas is known for cutting-edge athletic performance and fashion-forward designs.
What is so special about New Balance?
New Balance is special for its commitment to domestic manufacturing (Made in the USA/UK), offering a wide range of widths, prioritizing comfort and fit, and its classic, versatile aesthetic.
Do doctors recommend New Balance?
Yes, many podiatrists recommend specific New Balance models, particularly those with good arch support, cushioning, and various width options, for foot health and comfort.
Which brand is better, Nike or New Balance?
Nike generally leads in cutting-edge performance technology and global popularity, while New Balance often excels in comfort, stability, and offering shoes in multiple widths. The “better” brand depends on individual priorities.
Is New Balance more popular than Adidas?
Globally, Adidas is generally more popular and has a larger market share than New Balance. However, New Balance has a very dedicated following and strong popularity in specific segments like lifestyle and comfort footwear.
See the latest Top-Rated New Balance vs Adidas Shoes Price Today Used by Champion Players.
Founder, Owner, and CEO of TaekwondoKing.
He is one of the top 100 martial artists in the World and among the top 20 referees in Bangladesh.
Ehatasamul Alom is an esteemed Kukkiwon Certified Taekwondo 3rd Dan Black Belt with over 15 years of experience in this dynamic martial art. Born in Rajshahi, Bangladesh, Ehatasamul’s journey with Taekwondo began at the tender age of seven. His passion led him to compete at national and international levels, where he has bagged numerous awards and honors. He is also a member of the Taekwondo National Referee Panel.
With a Bachelor’s degree in Sports Science from the prestigious Rajshahi University, Ehatasamul has a deep understanding of the technical and scientific aspects of martial arts and some other martial arts.
In 2022, Ehatasamul created the “TaekwondoKing.com” blog to share his knowledge and Real experiences. His articles focus on Taekwondo training techniques, competition strategies, and the art’s rich history and philosophy. He also writes about the importance of mental fortitude and discipline, key aspects of his teaching philosophy. His goal is to inspire both beginners and seasoned practitioners worldwide through insightful and engaging content.
If you need any help, contact Ehatasamul Alom at any time.
