As someone who has worked with training-focused footwear and apparel factories, I’m often asked:
“Is New Balance good for workouts?”
The short answer: Yes — New Balance is excellent for strength training, walking workouts, beginner running, and gym sessions, but not every model is ideal for heavy cardio or high-impact training. Here’s the clear breakdown.
Table of Contents
- Quick Answer
- 1. How New Balance Performs in the Gym
- 2. Best New Balance Shoes for Workouts
- 3. New Balance vs Other Training Brands
- 4. Who Should Choose New Balance for Training?
- FAQs
- Related Links
Quick Answer
Yes — New Balance is very good for everyday workouts, especially strength training, treadmill sessions, and low-to-moderate cardio.
The brand focuses heavily on stability, cushioning, and all-day comfort, which makes its shoes reliable for most gym users.
However, athletes who need explosive energy return or HIIT-specific stability may prefer brands like Nike or Under Armour.
External references:
- Official Site: https://www.newbalance.com
- NB Training Collection: https://www.newbalance.com/men/shoes/training/
1. How New Balance Performs in the Gym
From my OEM experience working with midsole compounds and heel stability engineering:
✔ Strengths
- great underfoot stability for strength training
- soft yet supportive cushioning
- wide-fit availability for comfort
- durable outsoles for daily gym floors
- excellent for walking workouts + machines
❌ Limitations
- not the bounciest for HIIT
- some models feel heavier than Nike
- fewer “explosive” foams compared with performance-running brands
Summary
New Balance = stable, comfortable, dependable
For HIIT or jumping workouts = not always ideal
2. Best New Balance Shoes for Workouts
| Workout Type | Best New Balance Model | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Strength training | NB Minimus TR | Stable base + low profile |
| All-around gym | NB 990v6 | Cushion + everyday comfort |
| Treadmill workouts | Fresh Foam 880 | Smooth cushioning |
| Walking workouts | NB 574 | Neutral, supportive feel |
| Light running + gym mix | Fresh Foam X 1080 | Soft and versatile |
OEM Insight:
New Balance emphasizes heel stability rather than hyper-bouncy midsoles — this is why many lifters prefer NB over softer running shoes.
3. New Balance vs Other Training Brands
| Brand | Training Strength | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New Balance | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Stability + comfort | Great for all-around use |
| Nike | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ HIIT + explosive foams | Best for dynamic workouts |
| Under Armour | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Compression + training tech | Strong for athletes |
| Adidas | ⭐⭐⭐ Versatile, softer feel | Less stable for lifting |
Key takeaway:
New Balance wins at comfort and stability, while Nike leads in HIIT and explosive training.
Who Should Choose New Balance for Training?
Choose New Balance if:
- you prioritize comfort during long sessions
- you want shoes that stabilize the heel
- you do strength training, machines, or treadmill workouts
- you need wider sizes
- you prefer durable, supportive designs
Choose another brand if:
- you do HIIT or plyometric workouts
- you want ultra-responsive foams
- you need maximum agility for court sports
Internal Link
If you're creating your own training apparel line, you can start here:
👉 https://fukigymwear.com
FAQs
Q1: Are New Balance shoes good for strength training?
Yes — their stable heel and firm midsole make them great for lifting.
Q2: Is New Balance good for cardio?
Light cardio, yes. High-intensity cardio, it depends on the model.
Q3: Are New Balance shoes supportive for long gym sessions?
Very. Cushioning and arch support are major strengths.
Q4: Are New Balance shoes better than Nike for training?
For comfort, often yes. For explosive movement, Nike is stronger.
Related Links
- New Balance Training Collection: https://www.newbalance.com/men/shoes/training/
- New Balance Technology Overview: https://www.newbalance.com/technology
- Sportswear OEM Partner: https://fukigymwear.com
