New Balance offers solid quality across running shoes and everyday carry gear, but value varies significantly depending on your use case. The 1906R suits casual wearers seeking retro aesthetics, while the M520v9 is the pick for serious runners on a budget.
Why New Balance?
Founded in 1906, New Balance has spent over a century building shoes that prioritise fit and function over trend-chasing. Unlike flashier competitors, they specialise in width options—offering up to six widths across most models—which matters enormously if standard sizing doesn't fit. Their running shoes use proven cushioning technologies (Fresh Foam, REVlite) that balance comfort with durability rather than experimenting with gimmicks. For tech accessories, their backpacks focus on practical design: padded laptop compartments, durable materials, and sensible pricing under £60.
Top Picks
New Balance 1906R — £89.99
Best for retro casual wear with modern comfort. The 1906R blends 1990s running shoe aesthetics with contemporary cushioning. It's a lifestyle shoe first, not a performance runner—ideal if you want distinctive style without gym-focused technical features. The suede and mesh upper develops character over time.
Men's New Balance M520v9 Running Shoes — £69.98
Best value for actual running. At under £70, the M520v9 punches well above its price. It delivers 500-series reliability—cushioned midsole, responsive ride, proven durability—making it excellent for beginners or secondary running shoes. If you run 3–4 times weekly, this handles the work without breaking the bank.
New Balance 19-in. Laptop Backpack — £60.00
Best for minimalist commuters. Holds laptops up to 19 inches with a padded, removable compartment. Simple strap design, water-resistant exterior, and understated branding suit office environments. Capacity is modest (~25 litres), so it's day-bag territory, not weekend travel.
New Balance Logo Laptop Backpack — £60.00
Best if you prefer branded visibility. Identical to the 19-in. model but with prominent New Balance branding across the front. Same 19-inch laptop capacity, padding, and materials. Choose this only if you specifically want the logo—functionally, both backpacks are interchangeable.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Price | Best For | Standout Feature | |---------|-------|----------|------------------| | 1906R | £89.99 | Casual wear, retro style | Suede/mesh blend, distinctive aesthetics | | M520v9 | £69.98 | Actual running, training | Entry-level performance, sub-£70 price point | | 19-in. Laptop Backpack | £60.00 | Minimalist commuting | Removable laptop compartment, clean design | | Logo Laptop Backpack | £60.00 | Branded aesthetic preference | New Balance branding, identical specs to 19-in. |
What to Look For
- Cushioning system: Fresh Foam (as in the 1906R and M520v9) offers medium softness and responsiveness. It's proven across thousands of shoes, not cutting-edge, but reliable for daily use or light running.
- Width options: New Balance offers up to six widths (2E, 4E, D, 2A, B, AA). If you have narrow or wide feet, check the specific model's width range before buying—this is where New Balance genuinely outperforms standard-width-only competitors.
- Laptop compartment padding: Both backpacks use 10mm-thick cushioning. For laptops, that's adequate for office environments but not sufficient protection during air travel or rough handling.
- Material durability: The M520v9 uses mesh and synthetic uppers rated for 300–400 miles before noticeable wear. For casual running (10–15 miles weekly), expect 2–3 years minimum lifespan.
The Bottom Line
Buy the Men's New Balance M520v9 at £69.98 if you run or plan to run regularly—it offers proven cushioning and durability for less than half the price of premium running shoes. If you prioritise style and casual wear, the 1906R at £89.99 delivers retro appeal with genuine comfort. For backpacks, both £60 options are solid day-bag choices; pick the non-branded version unless the logo matters to you personally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is New Balance good value for money?
Yes, particularly for running shoes under £100 and if you need wider widths—they charge no premium for width options, whereas competitors often do. The M520v9 at £69.98 represents exceptional value. Their backpacks at £60 are fairly priced but functional rather than premium.
How long do New Balance running shoes last?
Most New Balance running shoes last 300–400 miles before the midsole noticeably compresses. For casual runners (10–15 miles weekly), that translates to 2–3 years. Heavier or more frequent runners may see faster wear.
Are New Balance shoes better than Nike or Adidas?
Not universally—it depends on fit and intended use. New Balance excels at width variety and reliable, understated performance. Nike dominates lifestyle and premium running markets. Adidas balances both. If standard widths fit you well, Nike's offerings may feel more innovative; if you need specific widths, New Balance has fewer compromises.
Can I use the New Balance backpack for air travel?
The 19-inch laptop backpack fits within most airline carry-on limits (22 × 14 × 9 inches), but its 10mm padding offers minimal protection during baggage handling. It's suitable for occasional travel with careful packing, but daily business commuting is its primary use case.
