New Balance Mens 997H V1: Average

PRODUCT: New Balance Mens 997H V1

Rating: Average ⭐⭐⭐

The New Balance Men’s 997H V1 is a solid, stylish option, especially if you’re after a sneaker that blends retro aesthetics with everyday functionality. It’s an eye-catching design, with the Sandstone and Calcium colorway offering a fresh, neutral palette that pairs easily with casual outfits. The combination of suede and synthetic mesh materials gives it a modern yet vintage feel, which is something you might appreciate if you’re into sneakers with a bit of history behind their look.

When it comes to comfort, the 997H sits somewhere in the middle. It’s light on the feet, weighing just 12.8 oz, which makes it easy to wear for extended periods. However, if you’re looking for a shoe that provides a ton of arch support or a lot of structure, this may not be the best pick. Some users have found it lacking in this area, especially if they have specific support needs. For regular, everyday wear—running errands or casual strolls—it should be just fine. But if you’re on your feet for longer hours or need more underfoot stability, it might leave you wanting a bit more.

The fit of the 997H can be tricky, though. Many people have reported that the shoe runs slightly small, recommending you go up half a size, particularly if you tend to wear thicker socks. The toe box is also on the narrower side, which might be a bit uncomfortable if you have wider feet. That said, once you get the size right, the cushioning is soft enough for daily use, and it holds up fairly well for casual activities.

Durability seems average, with mixed reports from users. The materials used are reasonably sturdy, but some have pointed out that the outsole isn’t particularly long-lasting under heavy use. For a sneaker in this price range, the performance is decent, but if you plan to wear them intensively, you might notice wear faster than expected.

In conclusion, the New Balance 997H V1 is a good pick if you’re mainly after a stylish, lightweight sneaker for everyday wear. It might not hold up as well for more demanding use or for those needing extra support, but if you’re into the retro style and are mostly wearing it for casual purposes, it does the job well enough. Ready to grab a pair? You can check them out and see if they’re right for you!