New Balance is a company that has been in the industry for over a century, and it has become synonymous with top-standard footwear. Two of its most famous models are the New Balance 996 and 997. Both shoes are versatile and designed with great-quality materials, making them renowned among sneaker fanatics.
The New Balance 996 has been an iconic sneaker since the 1980s. It contains a streamlined and fast-looking pattern, having high-quality suede and netting, generally with reflective “N” logos. The shoe is structured exclusively at the Boston factory, verifying high quality and plenty of ease. Conversely, the New Balance 997 is the latest addition to the brand’s lineup. It offers a modern pattern and is engineered with standard materials, making it a famous option among sneakerheads.
There are several things to contemplate regarding selecting between the New Balance 996 and 997. The material and pattern of both shoes are distinct, and they are available with different cost tags. Furthermore, the shoes’ weight, stack height, and heel drop vary, which can influence how they feel and function. In this article, we will contrast the New Balance 996 and 997 in the description so you can make an informed selection between the two.
Feature table for New Balance 996 Vs New Balance 997
| Feature | New Balance 996 | New Balance 997 |
| Design | Iconic, streamlined silhouette | Modern, athletic, sleek design |
| Upper Material | Suede, mesh | Suede, mesh |
| Midsole Technology | REVlite foam for cushioning and support | REVlite foam for superior padding and support |
| Outsole | Durable rubber with excellent traction | Durable rubber with superior grip |
| Toe Box | Moderately narrow | Slightly wider for added comfort |
| Weight | Moderate (Around 11.5 oz for men) | Lighter (Around 13.3 oz for men) |
| Versatility | Suitable for regular wear, moderate workouts | Ideal for running, gym workouts, and daily wear |
| Comfort Level | Responsive and supportive | Plush cushioning with a roomier toe box |
| Price Range | Moderately priced ($100-$130) | Moderately priced ($110-$150) |
| Popular Features | Timeless design, excellent support, durability | Modern style, superior cushioning, versatile use |
| Sizing | True to size | True to size |
| Notable Variants | New Balance 996v4 (upgraded version) | New Balance 997H (affordable alternative) |
Key Takeaways
- The New Balance 996 and 997 are famous models with versatile patterns and high-standard materials.
- The shoes vary in material, design, cost, weight, stack height, and heel drop.
- Comprehending the dissimilarities between the two models can aid you in making an informed decision when selecting between the New Balance 996 and 997.
New Balance 996: An Overview
Design and Aesthetics
The New Balance 996 is a deep-top sneaker launched in 1988. It offers a streamlined and timeless pattern, making it beloved among sneaker lovers for over three decades. The shoe’s upper is engineered of an amalgamation of suede and mesh, offering a versatile and stylish appearance. The classic “N” logo is prominently shown on the edges of the shoe, contributing to its appeal.
The 996 is accessible in various colorways, from iconic black and white to striking and vibrant hues. This versatility makes it a perfect option for both regular and sporty wear. The shoe’s design is plain yet elegant, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize a minimalist aesthetic.
Comfort and Fit
The New Balance 996 is engineered with ease in mind. The shoe offers a cushioned collar, tongue, and padded insole, which features remarkable aid and foot comfort. The shoe’s netting upper also permits permeability, which aids in keeping the feet excellent, fresh, and dry.
The 996 is obtainable in various sizes, from men’s and women’s to children’s, certifying a size that suits everyone. The shoe’s fit is true to size, and it is suggested to go with one’s regular shoe size when buying.
Performance and Durability
The New Balance 996 is a top-performance sneaker that is constructed to last. The shoe’s outsole is designed of durable rubber, giving remarkable traction and grip on various surfaces. The shoe’s midsole is structured of feathery and reactive foam, which aids in soaking up the shock and offering a snug ride.
The 996 is adaptable for various activities, from running and jogging to regular wear. The shoe’s durability verifies that it can resist the deterioration of daily use, making it a perfect investment for those who desire a dependable and long-lasting sneaker.
Overall, the New Balance 996 is an iconic and enduring sneaker with a perfect balance of style, ease, and performance. Its streamlined design, snug fit, and durable formation make it an excellent option for a classic and reliable sneaker for anyone in the industry.
New Balance 997: An Overview
New Balance 997 has been a versatile sneaker in the industry since the 1990s. The shoe is famous for its slender design, comfort, and longevity. In this part, we will look deeper at the pattern, comfort, and performance of the New Balance 997.
Design and Aesthetics
The New Balance 997 has an iconic design that has resisted time. The shoe offers an amalgamation of suede and netting on the upper, which gives it a perfect look. The shoe also has contemplative detailing, contributing a pinch of elegance and visibility in low-light conditions. The New Balance 997 is available in various color shades, so there is something for everyone.
Comfort and Fit
The New Balance 997 is a snug shoe ideal for daily wear. The shoe offers a padded midsole that features remarkable impact absorption. The shoe also has a cushioned collar and tongue, which contributes to the overall ease of the shoe. The New Balance 997 contains a true-to-size fit, which shows that it fits most people snugly.
Performance and Durability
The New Balance 997 is a hard-wearing shoe that can resist everyday deterioration. The shoe offers a rubber outsole that gives outstanding grip and durability. The shoe also has a fortified toe cap, which adds to the whole durability of the shoe. The New Balance 997 is also a perfect shoe for running and other sporty activities, thanks to its outstanding performance.
Overall, the New Balance 997 is a perfect shoe that combines style, comfort, and longevity. Whether you are searching for a shoe for regular wear or sporty activities, the New Balance 997 is perfect.
Material Comparison
Insole
The New Balance 996 and 997 models provide snug insoles that feature padding and aid for the feet. The insole of the 996 is designed of a mushy foam material that molds to the appearance of the foot; on the contrary, the 997 offers an Ortholite insole constructed to keep the feet cool, fresh, and dry. The Ortholite insole is also antimicrobial, which aids in averting the extension of odor-causing bacteria.
Midsole
The midsole is the most significant difference between the New Balance 996 and 997 lies. The 996 offers a REVlite midsole, a delicate foam material with excellent padding and support. The 997, on the other side, provides an ENCAP midsole, an amalgamation of EVA foam, and a polyurethane rim. The ENCAP midsole is famous for its durability and steadiness, making it a renowned option for runners and players.
Outsole
The New Balance 996 and 997 provide durable rubber outsoles with remarkable traction and grip on various surfaces. The outsole of the 996 is engineered with a herringbone design that aids in averting slipping, while the outsole of the 997 gives a versatile tread pattern that offers finer grip on damp and dry surfaces.
Upper
The upper of the New Balance 996 is designed with an amalgamation of suede and netting materials, which offers a snug and permeable fit. On the other side, the upper of the 997 is made of a fusion of leather and mesh components, giving a more hard-wearing and adaptive fit. The leather material also offers the 997 a more standard look and feel.
Overall, while the New Balance 996 and 997 provide top-quality materials, the midsole is where the most incredible difference lies. The 996’s REVlite midsole features remarkable padding and support; on the contrary, the 997’s ENCAP midsole is famous for its durability and steadiness.
Comparing New Balance 996 and 997
New Balance is admired for its quality sneakers; the 996 and 997 designs are no exception. Both of these models have been famous among sneaker fanatics for years. In this part, we will compare the New Balance 996 and 997, focusing on their pattern differences, comfort variations, and performance comparison.
Design Differences
The design dissimilarities between the New Balance 996 and 997 are subtle but noteworthy. The 996 has a slimmer profile than the 997, which has a chunkier look. The 996 also has a more slender toe box; conversely, the 997 contains a more rounded toe box. Another pattern difference is the position of the “N” logo. The 996 has the “N” logo on the edge; on the contrary, the 997 has it on the back.
Comfort Variations
Regarding comfort, the New Balance 996 and 997 have their versatile features. The 996 has a moderately mushier midsole, which gives a more padded feel. Conversely, the 997 has a more sturdy midsole, which offers more aid. The 997 also has a massive tongue, contributing to its comfort standard.
Performance Comparison
Regarding performance, the New Balance 996 and 997 are both perfect sneakers. The 996 is famous for its delicate feel, making it an ideal choice for running and other sporty activities. The 997, on the other side, is renowned for its durability and firmness, making it a perfect choice for regular wear.
| Model | Weight | Midsole | Upper |
| New Balance 996 | 11.4 oz | REVlite | Suede/Mesh |
| New Balance 997 | 13.3 oz | ENCAP | Suede/Mesh |
The New Balance 996 is more delicate than the 997, thanks to its REVlite midsole. The 996 also contains a suede and mesh upper, which gives permeability and stretchability. The 997, on the other side, has an ENCAP midsole, which offers more steadiness and support. The 997 also contains a suede and netting upper, contributing to its durability.
Overall, the New Balance 996 and 997 are perfect sneakers with versatile features. The 996 is an ideal choice for those searching for a feathery and padded shoe; on the contrary, the 997 is an excellent choice for those searching for a hard-wearing and stable shoe.
Price Comparison
Regarding comparing the prices of New Balance 996 and 997, there are several things to remember. Firstly, the prices of both models can differ based on the colorway, materials used, and other factors.
The New Balance 996 inclines to be moderately less costly than the 997. On average, the 996 retails for approximately $100–$120; on the other side, the 997 generally sells for $140–$180. However, it’s worth mentioning that prices can oscillate over time and may differ based on the retailer.
One purpose for the cost difference between the two models is that the 997 is considered a more standard sneaker. It offers greater-quality materials and formation and a more intricate pattern. The 996, on the other side, is a plain and more straightforward sneaker, which adds to its lower price point.
Another point to consider is that both designs have distinct editions and variations, each with its cost points. For instance, the New Balance 997H is a more economical version 997, with a cost tag of around $90–$100. Meanwhile, the New Balance 996v4 is the latest and most upgraded version of the 996, costing over $150.
Overall, while the New Balance 996 is less costly than the 997, the prices of both models can differ based on some factors. It’s obligatory to consider your budget and choices when determining which sneaker to buy.
Weight Comparison
Concerning selecting between New Balance 996 and 997, one of the factors to contemplate is the weight of the shoes. The importance of a shoe can influence the overall ease and performance, particularly during long runs.
The New Balance 996 weighs approximately 11.5 oz for men and 9.5 oz for women. Conversely, the New Balance 997 is moderately heavier, weighing 12 oz for men and 10 oz for women. While the dissimilarity in weight may not seem efficient, it can be noteworthy during elongated periods of wear.
The weight of the shoes can also differ based on the particular model and materials used. For example, the New Balance 996 Made in USA model is popular to be slightly more massive than the regular 996 because of the standard materials used in its formation.
It’s worth mentioning that the New Balance 996 and 997 are structured to balance ease and performance. The weight of the shoes is just one of the many points to consider when selecting between the two models. Eventually, the best option will be based on the individual’s particular requirements and preferences.
Stack Height & Heel Drop
Regarding selecting between New Balance 996 and 997, one of the factors to contemplate is the stack height and heel drop. Stack height consults the massiveness of the midsole; on the other hand, heel drop is the dissimilarity in size between the heel and the forefoot.
The New Balance 996 contains a stack height of 28mm in the heel and 18mm in the forefoot, resulting in a heel-to-toe drop of 10mm. This configuration offers a snug and padded ride, perfect for long-distance running and regular wear.
On the other side, the New Balance 997 comprises a stack height of 27mm in the heel and 21mm in the forefoot, resulting in a heel-to-toe drop of 6mm. This configuration features a more innate and reactive feel, making it perfect for faster-paced running and workouts.
It’s obligatory to mention that the stack height and heel drop are not the only points that detect the ease and performance of a shoe. Other factors, such as the material and pattern of the upper, the outsole, and the overall fit, also play a critical role.
In summary, the New Balance 996 and 997 contain distinct stack heights and heel drops, which can influence their ease and performance. The New Balance 996 offers a padded ride; however, the New Balance 997 gives a more natural and reactive feel. Eventually, the selection between the two models depends on the person’s preferences and requirements.
Pros & Cons
New Balance 996
The New Balance 996 is an iconic sneaker in the market since 1988. It is a beloved go-to shoe for many individuals because of its functionality and elegance. Following are several pros and cons of the New Balance 996:
Pros
- Sleek and modish design that goes well with almost anything
- Luxe suede and netting material that is porous and durable
- Shock-absorbing technology for ease
- Stable platform for all-day use
Cons
- Slightly tight fit that may not be adaptable for people with wider feet
- It may attract debris easily
- Slightly costly compared to other sneakers in the industry
New Balance 997
The New Balance 997 is a famous sneaker that has been upgraded with new attributes and designs. Following are several pros and cons of the New Balance 997:
Pros
- Extra comfortable because of its cushioning technology
- Colorful design with distinct variants and a diversity of colorways
- Excellent traction on the ground
- Well-made with top durability
Cons
- A little hard to clean
- May run tight, which may not be suitable for people with broader feet
- Expensive compared to other sneakers in the industry
Overall, the New Balance 996 and 997 have versatile pros and cons. It eventually inclines on individual preference and the attributes most important to the individual.
Sizing Comparison
Sizing Table For New Balance 997
Regarding sizing, the New Balance 997 is popular to run true to size. However, several individuals must size up or down based on their foot appearance and personal preference. Following is a sizing table for the New Balance 997 to help you discover your perfect fit:
| US Size | EU Size | UK Size | Foot Length (in) | Foot Length (cm) |
| 5 | 37 | 4 | 8.66 | 22 |
| 5.5 | 37.5 | 4.5 | 8.86 | 22.5 |
| 6 | 38 | 5 | 9.06 | 23 |
| 6.5 | 38.5 | 5.5 | 9.25 | 23.5 |
| 7 | 39 | 6 | 9.45 | 24 |
| 7.5 | 40 | 6.5 | 9.65 | 24.5 |
| 8 | 40.5 | 7 | 9.84 | 25 |
| 8.5 | 41.5 | 7.5 | 10.04 | 25.5 |
| 9 | 42 | 8 | 10.24 | 26 |
| 9.5 | 42.5 | 8.5 | 10.43 | 26.5 |
| 10 | 43 | 9 | 10.63 | 27 |
| 10.5 | 44 | 9.5 | 10.83 | 27.5 |
| 11 | 44.5 | 10 | 11.02 | 28 |
| 11.5 | 45 | 10.5 | 11.22 | 28.5 |
| 12 | 46 | 11 | 11.42 | 29 |
| 13 | 47.5 | 12 | 11.81 | 30 |
Sizing Table For New Balance 996
The New Balance 996 is also popular to run true to size. However, some individuals must size up or down based on their foot shape and personal preference. Following is a sizing table for the New Balance 996 to help you discover your ideal fit:
| US Size | EU Size | UK Size | Foot Length (in) | Foot Length (cm) |
| 5 | 37.5 | 4.5 | 8.86 | 22.5 |
| 5.5 | 38 | 5 | 9.06 | 23 |
| 6 | 38.5 | 5.5 | 9.25 | 23.5 |
| 6.5 | 39.5 | 6 | 9.45 | 24 |
| 7 | 40 | 6.5 | 9.65 | 24.5 |
| 7.5 | 40.5 | 7 | 9.84 | 25 |
| 8 | 41.5 | 7.5 | 10.04 | 25.5 |
| 8.5 | 42 | 8 | 10.24 | 26 |
| 9 | 42.5 | 8.5 | 10.43 | 26.5 |
| 9.5 | 43 | 9 | 10.63 | 27 |
| 10 | 44 | 9.5 | 10.83 | 27.5 |
| 10.5 | 44.5 | 10 | 11.02 | 28 |
| 11 | 45 | 10.5 | 11.22 | 28.5 |
Comparing Sizing with Other Models
Sizing Comparison Of New Balance 997
New Balance 997 is renowned for having a snug fit, but it can be demanding to detect the correct size. The following table gives a comparison of New Balance 997 measures with other famous shoe brands:
| Shoe BrandNew Balance 997 SizeNike Air Max 10.5 size smallerAdidas Ultra Boost0.5 size smallerVans Old Skool0.5 size smallerConverse Chuck Taylor All-Star0.5 size smallerPuma Suede Classic0.5 size smaller |
It is obligatory to mention that the sizing of New Balance 997 can differ based on the model. It is always suggested to try on the shoes before buying them to verify a perfect fit.
Sizing Comparison Of New Balance 996
New Balance 996 is another famous model that has a comfy fit. To help detect the correct size, consult the following table that compares New Balance 996 sizes with other favorite shoe brands:
| Shoe BrandNew Balance 996 SizeNike Air Max 1Same sizeAdidas Ultra BoostSame sizeVans Old SkoolSame sizeConverse Chuck Taylor All-StarSame sizePuma Suede ClassicSame size |
It is necessary to note that the sizing of New Balance 996 can also differ depending on the model. Again, trying on the shoes before buying them is always suggested to certify an ideal fit.
In summary, both New Balance 997 and 996 have a snug fit, but it is critical to try on the shoes before buying them to ensure an ideal fit. The sizing of both models can differ depending on the design, so it is suggested to refer to the sizing charts and compare them with other shoe companies.
Which runs true to size? – NB 997 Vs 996
Concerning sizing, the New Balance 997 and 996 have several dissimilarities. Following is what you require to know:
- According to Feetlot, the New Balance 996 runs half a size less than the Clarks Desert Boot and half a size more significantly than the New Balance 574. Conversely, the New Balance 997 fits accurately like the Vans Authentic and is half a size more significant than the Adidas YEEZY 500.
- It is essential to note that sizing can differ based on the individual’s foot appearance and preferences. Several individuals prefer a comfortable fit, while others prioritize a looser fit. Therefore, trying on both designs before hitting the jackpot is suggested.
- Another factor to contemplate is the width of the shoe. New Balance is famous for offering an extent of widths, from tight to extra wide. If you have a broader foot, consider going up a half size to cater for the width.
- Furthermore, it is worth mentioning that both the New Balance 996 and 997 have a streamlined silhouette, which may make them feel narrower than other running shoes. However, this pattern also adds to their versatile and voguish look.
In summary, the New Balance 996 and 997 have moderately different sizing, but they eventually incline on the individual’s foot appearance and preferences. It is suggested to test both models and contemplate the width of the shoe before breaking the bank.
Can You Run Wearing a New Balance 997 or 996?
New Balance is famous for manufacturing shoes that are functional and modish. The New Balance 997 and 996 are no exception. While they are not advertised as running shoes, they feature attributes that make them adaptable for running.
New Balance 996
The New Balance 996 has been an iconic shoe in the industry since 1988. It offers an adaptive fit and finer quality. The shoe is engineered in the USA and is famous for its longevity. The shoe has a fresh appearance of an old-school shoe that goes well with almost anything.
The New Balance 996 is not advertised as a running shoe but provides characteristics that make it ideal for running. The shoe contains a supportive fit that maintains the foot stable during runs. The shoe also has a hard-wearing outsole that provides grip on different surfaces.
New Balance 997
The New Balance 997 is another shoe not marketed as a running shoe but can be utilized for running. The shoe comprises a good fusion of impact absorption, firmness, and traction. The shoe is also supremely snug, making it perfect for long runs.
The New Balance 997 has a foam midsole with padding and aid during runs. The shoe also has a long-lasting outsole that provides grip on different surfaces. The shoe’s upper is suede and mesh, offering permeability and durability.
Conclusion
While the New Balance 996 and 997 are not advertised as running shoes, they feature attributes that make them adaptable for running. Both boots have an adaptive fit, durable outsole, and perfect traction. The New Balance 997 has a foam midsole that features padding and support during runs; on the contrary, the New Balance 996 has a finer quality and supportive fit.
How Comfortable is NB 997 Compared to NB 996?
Concerning comfort, both the New Balance 996 and 997 models are famous for their extraordinary comfort. However, several dissimilarities may make one more snug than the other for specific individuals.
The New Balance 997 offers a moderately thicker midsole than the 996, which gives finer padding and impact absorption. Additionally, the 997 has a broader toe box, which permits more space and stretchability for the toes. This can be particularly advantageous for those with more comprehensive feet or who prioritize a more relaxed fit.
Conversely, the New Balance 996 has a moderately lower profile and a tighter midsole, which can feature a more reactive and stable ride. This can be mainly helpful for runners prioritizing a more sturdy and supportive feel.
Regarding materials, the 996 and 997 feature top-quality materials such as suede, leather, and mesh. However, the 997 may be more permeable because of the netting material used on the upper.
The New Balance 996 and 997 are snug sneakers offering remarkable support and padding. However, the slight differences in midsole massiveness, toe box width, and profile may make one more snug than the others for specific individuals.
Conclusion
Concerning selecting between the New Balance 996 and the 997, it eventually inclines on individual preference and intended use. Both models provide an incredible amalgamation of style and performance, with finely drawn differences that may attract distinct individuals.
The 996 is an iconic design that has resisted time, with a streamlined, slender silhouette perfect for regular wear. It offers a suede and netting upper with a padded midsole for extraordinary comfort. The 996 also provides remarkable traction, excellent for moderate running and gym workouts.
Conversely, the 997 is a slightly more modish and athletic take on the classic New Balance design. It provides a delicate and porous upper, with a REVlite midsole that gives superior padding and support. The 997 also has a more aggressive outsole, making it adaptable for more acute workouts and running.
Regarding sizing, both models typically fit true to size, but it’s always a perfect idea to try them on before hitting the jackpot. Furthermore, the 996 tends to be moderately heavier than the 997, which may be a consideration for several individuals.
Overall, the New Balance 996 and 997 are remarkable choices for anyone searching for a stylish and snug shoe that can perform well during moderate workouts and running. With their iconic designs and finer quality, it’s no wonder New Balance is a famous option among sneaker fanatics.
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