New Balance 550 is a low-top basketball sneaker that was originally released in 1989.
It was designed by Steven Smith, who also designed the popular New Balance 574.
New Balance 550 was discontinued in the early 1990s, but it was re-released in 2020 and has since become a popular choice for sneakerheads and fashionistas alike.
New Balance 550 has a classic, chunky silhouette that is reminiscent of other popular basketball sneakers from the late 1980s and early 1990s.
It is made with a mix of leather, mesh, and synthetic materials, and it features a rubber outsole for traction and durability.
New Balance 550 is available in a variety of colors and styles, so you can find a pair that matches your personal taste.
In this review, we will explore why New Balance 550 is a must-have.
| Factor | Score/10 |
|---|---|
| Materials | 9.5 |
| Traction | 9.6 |
| Cushion | 8.5 |
| Support | 9.5 |
| Fit | 9 |
| Comfort | 9.4 |
| Breathability | 8.5 |
| Durability | 9.6 |
| Water Resistance | 8.5 |
| Style | 10 |
| Brand Reputation | 10 |
| Warranty and Guarantees | 9 |
| Value for money | 10 |
| Users' ratings | 9 |
| Average Score | 9.2 |
Introduction
New Balance 550 sneaker is a retro-inspired lifestyle shoe that artfully blends vintage basketball styling with contemporary design and premium materials.
First debuting in 1989, New Balance 550 silhouette has been resurrected in recent years to much fanfare, cementing its status as a modern classic.
With its low-profile leather upper, EVA midsole, and durable rubber outsole, New Balance 550 offers the perfect fusion of old-school appeal and performance-driven comfort.
It manages to check all the boxes: versatility, durability, eco-friendliness, and most importantly, timeless style.
In this comprehensive review, we'll break down everything you need to know about New Balance 550.
From sizing and fit to aesthetics and construction quality, we'll cover all the nitty-gritty details.
Read on to find out if these iconic retro sneakers deserve a spot in your rotation.
Key Features
Here are some of the key features of New Balance 550:
- Low-top silhouette
- Leather, mesh, and synthetic upper
- Rubber outsole
- Lace-up closure
- Available in a variety of colors and styles
New Balance 550 features a sleek, minimalist profile that takes inspiration from vintage basketball shoes of the 80s and 90s.
The low-top silhouette includes a mix of full-grain leather, nubuck, mesh, and suede across the upper for premium durability and breathability.
Signature New Balance branding appears on the side panels and heel tab, while the tongue and collar are generously padded for comfort. Underfoot, a thick EVA foam midsole provides lightweight cushioning and shock absorption.
On the bottom, a high-traction rubber outsole grips surfaces and includes a unique rippled tread pattern.
New Balance 550 combines retro stylistic elements with modern constructions and technologies for a versatile, everyday sneaker.
If you're looking for a classic basketball sneaker with a modern twist, New Balance 550 is a great option (Check the price). It's comfortable, stylish, and versatile, and it's sure to turn heads wherever you go. (
Comfort
When it comes to all-day wearability, New Balance 550 delivers exceptional comfort across the board. The plush leather upper forms smoothly around the foot for a contoured, glove-like fit.
Both the tongue and collar are padded, helping to eliminate abrasion and irritation. Inside, a removable OrthoLite insole supplies soft, long-lasting cushioning and moisture-wicking abilities.
| Factor | Score |
|---|---|
| Comport | 9.4 |
Underfoot, the EVA foam midsole compresses to absorb shock with each step. It has a higher durometer rating than standard EVA, giving it increased firmness and rebound. The result is a responsive ride with plenty of spring in your step.
Rubber outsole lugs provide traction, while also allowing the shoe to flex naturally. Everything from the premium materials to the considerate construction makes New Balance 550 an incredibly comfortable lifestyle sneaker.
Durability
New Balance 550 is constructed to stand the test of time. Starting with the upper, full-grain leather is used across high wear areas. Full grain leather comes from the strongest part of the hide and develops a beautiful patina over time.
Mesh and suede panels add lightweight durability in the forefoot and midfoot. Triple stitching reinforces the seams to prevent tearing or blowouts. The premium materials are engineered to withstand daily wear while maintaining their structure.
In the midsole, high-quality EVA foam retains its cushioning properties and shock absorption even after extended use. Rubber outsole lugs are placed strategically in a waffle-like pattern to prevent uneven wear.
| Factor | Score |
|---|---|
| Durability | 9.6 |
Careful attention was paid to crafting a sneaker built for longevity. From office commutes to urban exploring, the New Balance 550 has the materials and construction to hold up to heavy rotation.
Performance
Despite its vintage basketball roots, New Balance 550 is best suited as a casual, lifestyle sneaker nowadays. The supportive EVA midsole and traction rubber outsole offer plenty of performance for daily use.
The EVA foam provides shock attenuation to reduce foot fatigue, while also giving some responsiveness for a lively, energized ride. Flex grooves along the forefoot promote natural movement.
The zig-zag rubber sole grips floors and pavements securely, keeping you steady on your feet in various environments. Extra traction comes from the unique ripple tread along the edges.
While not ideal for intense athletic activities, New Balance 550 handles everyday adventures, short runs, gym sessions, and light trails with ease. The retro b-ball roots shine through in a design optimized for versatile performance.
Fit and Sizing
New Balance 550 fits true to size for most, but does run slightly narrow. The leather upper conforms closely to the shape of the foot for a contoured, personalized fit.
Those with wide feet may need to size up half a size. It's recommended to try them on in-store if possible. The padded tongue and collar lock the heel in place securely.
Lace-up closure lets you fine-tune the fit, while also reducing pressure across the instep. For proper support, be sure to get the right size.
New Balance 550 is available in standard medium widths in sizes 7-13, 14, 15 for men and 5-11 for women. Half sizes are offered as well to really dial in your ideal fit.
Design and Aesthetics
New Balance 550 replicates the aesthetics of vintage basketball shoes from the 70s, 80s, and 90s. The low-top silhouette features a sleek profile with minimal layered panels.
Most colorways utilize a two-tone or three-tone color-blocking scheme. Grey, white, and navy make up the core neutral palette seen across many iterations. Pops of color come through on accents like the heel tab, tongue, and outsole.
Notable details include the prominent 'N' logo on the sides, nubuck heel overlay, and perforations on the toe box. These elements provide texture and visual interest.
The mix of leather, nubuck, mesh, and suede gives each material variation in sheen and texture. As a whole, Nen Balance 550 achieves a refined, sporty look that pairs well with everything from joggers to button-downs.
Materials and Construction
New Balance 550 utilizes premium materials from heel to toe for a high-end look and feel. Full-grain leather makes up the bulk of the upper, with nubuck, mesh, and suede integrated along high-movement areas.
Full-grain leather comes from the top layer of cowhide, giving it inherent strength and durability. A lightweight mesh tongue improves ventilation, while the nubuck and suede accents add varied texture.
The plush foam sockliner and die-cut EVA midsole deliver lightweight, responsive cushioning. Rubber outsole lugs are carefully placed to allow flexibility and promote durability in areas of high wear.
Triple stitching reinforce the seams, and embroidered branding elements elevate the refined construction. Built to feel broken-in yet retain its structure, New Balance 550 achieves a perfect balance of quality and comfort.
Traction and Grip
With its heritage basketball roots, New Balance 550 provides excellent traction and grip ideal for lateral movements and changes in direction.
The high-abrasion rubber outsole runs the entire length of the shoe. Lugs are placed strategically in a waffle-like pattern that flexes naturally while securing your foothold.
Along the edges, rippled rubber creates hundreds of tiny contact points that grip surfaces tenaciously. The unique texture almost acts like cleats for your shoes.
Between the strategic lugs and ripple traction pattern, New Balance 550 outsole ensures you remain steady on your feet whether dodging downtown crowds or playing pickup hoops.
Breathability
The mix of leather, nubuck, mesh, and suede results in decent breathability that keeps feet cool and dry. Perforations along the toe box promote airflow across the front of the foot.
Mesh tongue lining wicks away moisture while also improving ventilation. The OrthoLite insole has an open-cell PU foam construction to enhance air circulation and moisture control.
Leather and suede can trap heat, but the strategic use of breathable mesh prevents excess sweat buildup. For warmer climates or summer months, New Balance 550 may run slightly warm but remains adequate for casual use.
Support and Stability
With its low-profile build, New Balance 550 offers better flexibility than stability. The EVA foam midsole has a firmer density for improved support compared to standard EVA.
A sculpted, anatomical footbed allows the shoe to cradle the contours of the foot securely. The padded collar locks down the heel to prevent slippage.
Lace-up closure gives a customized, adjustable fit dialed in to your preferences. While best for straightforward walking and activities, New Balance 550 provides a moderate amount of support and security.
Those needing shoes for overpronation or athletic performance may benefit from extra stability features like medial posts or ankle straps. But for casual use, New Balance 550 gives adequate hold.
Value for Money
With an MSRP of $110 USD, New Balance 550 sits in the moderate price range for a leather sneaker (Check the price). The premium materials and quality construction make it a worthwhile investment built to last seasons.
At just over $100, New Balance 550 costs less than designer leather sneakers from brands like Common Projects, Koio, or Oliver Cabell, which can run over $200+. Yet it offers luxe leather and detailing on par with those pricier labels.
Sale prices around $80-$90 make New Balance 550 an even more compelling value. Compared to canvas sneakers in the $50-$70 range, you get superior durability, comfort, and styling for slightly higher cost.
Given New Balance 550's versatility as both a lifestyle sneaker and fashion staple, the value is difficult to beat. The vintage styling will remain relevant for years to come as well, making it a purchase you'll get plenty of cost per wear from.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Timeless, vintage basketball-inspired design
- Premium leather upper construction
- Strategic use of nubuck, suede, and mesh
- Padded tongue and collar for comfort
- EVA foam midsole provides cushioning
- Rubber outsole with ripple traction pattern
- Runs true to size for most feet
- Variety of stylish colorway options
- Pairs with any casual aesthetic
- Reasonable price point under $120
Cons
- Snug fit may not suit wide feet
- Leather can run warm in hot climates
- Creasing inevitable with wear
- Lacks stability features for overpronators
- Some colorways sell out quickly
Comparison to Similar Models
How does New Balance 550 stand up against other popular retro basketball-inspired sneakers on the market?
Here's a brief overview:
Nike Air Force 1
The Nike Air Force 1 (check the price)has more name recognition, but the 550 is less bulky. The premium leather on both is comparable, while the 550 has a better price point.
Adidas Forum Low
Similar vintage b-ball look, but the Adidas Forum Low uses more synthetic leather. New Balance 550 has a slight edge in comfort with its OrthoLite sockliner.
Converse Chuck 70
The Converse Chuck 70 costs less (check the price) but also lacks the premium details. New Balance 550 is more supportive and comfortable overall.
Puma Clyde OG
The Puma Clyde OG integrates modern tech like ProFoam and high abrasion rubber. New Balance 550 keeps things simple but executes the retro look better.
Reebok Classic Leather
Like the 550, the Reebok Classic Leather has a minimalist leather upper. But New Balance 550 just barely edges it out in comfort technologies.
Overall, New Balance 550 can hold its own against the core retro basketball models while offering distinctive styling and premium details.
User Experience
According to buyer reviews, New Balance 550 consistently impresses with its blend of retro style and modern comfort. The quality leather upper and ample cushioning make it ideal for all-day wear.
Most users praise the easy, out-of-the-box comfort. The OrthoLite insole and EVA midsole provide soft, responsive cushioning during extended wear. The fit and sizing also accommodate a variety of foot shapes.
Fans of the heritage New Balance aesthetic love the classic color blocking and branded side panel. The versatility pairs well with casual to business casual attire. Durability exceeds expectations for a primarily leather sneaker as well.
Some call New Balance 550 the most comfortable New Balance model they've tried yet. For those seeking premium materials, cushioning, and timeless vintage appeal, the 550 delivers on all fronts.
Conclusion
New Balance 550 is a winning blend of heritage styling, premium details, and modern comfort technologies. It achieves the elusive balance of feeling broken-in yet structured while remaining responsive underfoot.
For both sneakerheads and the style-conscious, New Balance 550 deserves a spot in the rotation. The considered design elements and quality construction promise seasons of enjoyment.
Whether you dress them up or down, these versatile retro sneakers make a lasting style statement that only gets better with age. Their integrity and craftsmanship reinforce why New Balance remains an footwear icon.
Rating
Current rate: 9/10
Nike Dunk Low Review
Nike Dunk Low is a low-top version of the classic Nike Dunk basketball shoe.
It was first released in 1985 and has since become a popular lifestyle sneaker. Dunk Low is known for its simple design, clean lines, and wide variety of colorways.
Since its debut on the hardwood in 1985, Dunk Low has transcended its performance roots to become a streetstyle icon, coveted by sneakerheads and fashionistas alike.
Boasting premium construction, endless colorways, and undeniable cultural clout, Nike Dunk Low has cemented its place in sneaker history.
Adidas Forum Low Review
Adidas Forum Low is a low-top sneaker that was originally introduced in 1984 as a basketball shoe. It quickly gained popularity on and off the court, and has become a streetwear staple.
The shoe is characterized by its chunky rubber outsole, bold 3-Stripes on the upper, and logos on the front and sides.
Both the low and high versions feature a hook-and-loop top strap over the laces, with low versions available without the strap.
Nike Air Force 1 Review
The Nike Air Force 1 is a classic basketball shoe designed by Bruce Kilgore and introduced in 1982.
It was the first basketball shoe to feature Nike Air technology, which revolutionized the game and sneaker culture forever.
The shoe is available in low-, mid-, and high-top styles and has become a cultural icon, worn by people of all ages and backgrounds.
Reebok Classic Leather Review
Reebok Classic Leather is a line of sneakers produced by the athletic shoe company Reebok.
These sneakers are known for their timeless design, featuring a sleek and simple leather upper with minimal branding.
The Classic Leather sneakers were first introduced in 1983 and have since become one of Reebok's most iconic and enduring styles.
They are popular for both casual wear and athletic activities, offering comfort, durability, and versatility.
Puma Clyde OG Review
Puma Clyde OG is a classic basketball sneaker that was first released in 1973. It was named after New York Knicks basketball player Walt Frazier, who was known for his stylish on-court persona.
Clyde OG is made with a full suede upper and features a rubber midsole and outsole. It is a timeless sneaker that has been popular for decades.
On the hunt for the perfect pair of everyday vintage sneakers? Lace up and experience why the New Balance 550 is becoming a fast favorite. Its unmatched blend of materials, styling, and comfort cement its status as a modern icon.
