993 new balance shoes

You know that feeling, right? You’re standing in front of your closet, staring at a pile of sneakers that are either too beat up for a casual Friday, too flashy for a dinner date, or just plain uncomfortable after an hour of walking. You want a shoe that does it all—something that looks sharp enough for the office, feels plush enough for a weekend stroll, and holds up so well you forget you’re even wearing it. It’s the holy grail of footwear, and for decades, one model has quietly claimed that throne: the New Balance 993. But what makes this particular shoe so special, and why does it command a price tag that makes you pause? Let’s break it down, no jargon, just the real talk.

The 993’s Secret Sauce: It’s All About the Build

At first glance, the 993 looks like a classic dad sneaker from the early 2000s—and honestly, that’s part of its charm. But underneath that familiar silhouette is some seriously clever engineering. New Balance didn’t just slap together foam and rubber; they designed the 993 to solve a fundamental problem: how do you make a shoe that feels like a cloud, supports your foot like a brace, and doesn’t fall apart after six months?

The core concept here is what New Balance calls “ABZORB” cushioning. Think of it as a two-layer system. The top layer is a soft, spongy foam that absorbs the initial shock when your foot hits the ground. The bottom layer is a denser, more durable foam that prevents that squishy feeling from bottoming out. It’s like having a memory foam mattress on top of a firm support board. This combination means you get softness without instability—a rare balance that keeps your feet happy whether you’re standing at a concert or running errands.

Then there’s the stability piece. The 993 features a large plastic “shank” embedded in the midsole. Sounds technical, but it’s just a rigid plate that connects the heel to the forefoot. This prevents the shoe from twisting excessively, which is a lifesaver if you have flat feet or overpronate (when your ankle rolls inward). It’s like the stabilizer bar on a car—you don’t notice it until you hit a sharp turn, and then you’re grateful it’s there.

Finally, the upper is made from a mix of premium pigskin suede and mesh. The suede gives it that rich, classic look that ages beautifully, while the mesh keeps your feet from turning into sweaty sponges. It’s a thoughtful material choice: durable where you need it, breathable where you sweat.

Why It’s Worth the Price (Even When It Hurts a Little)

Let’s address the elephant in the room: the 993 isn’t cheap. You’re looking at around $180 to $200, depending on the colorway. That’s more than a lot of sneakers, and it’s definitely more than a basic pair of running shoes from a big-box store. But here’s the thing—you’re not paying for hype or a trendy logo. You’re paying for a shoe that was originally designed as a high-performance walking and running shoe for people who needed serious cushioning and support.

New Balance manufactures the 993 in the United States (at their factories in Maine and Massachusetts), which adds to the cost but also to the quality control. Every pair is built with a level of craftsmanship that’s hard to find in mass-produced, overseas-made footwear. The stitching is precise, the materials are hand-selected, and the fit is consistent. When you buy a 993, you’re getting a product that’s been refined over years of feedback from podiatrists, runners, and everyday wearers.

More importantly, the 993 is built to last. The outsole uses a carbon rubber compound that resists wear, so you won’t see bald spots after a few months of daily use. The suede upper can be cleaned and brushed back to life. I’ve seen pairs that are five years old that still look presentable. Compare that to a trendy sneaker that starts peeling or losing its shape after one season, and the 993 starts to look like a bargain.

Who Actually Needs a 993?

You might think this shoe is just for retirees or nurses, but that stereotype is outdated. The 993 has found a cult following among a surprisingly diverse crowd. Here’s who benefits most:

• The all-day stander: Teachers, retail workers, baristas—anyone who’s on their feet for eight-plus hours will appreciate the pressure relief. The 993’s wide base and generous cushioning reduce fatigue in your arches and lower back.
• The casual walker: If you enjoy long walks in the city, on trails, or just around your neighborhood, the 993 provides a smooth, rockered gait that encourages a natural stride. It’s not a performance runner, but it’s an excellent walking shoe.
• The style minimalist: The 993 has become a staple in the “normcore” and “gorpcore” fashion movements. It pairs effortlessly with jeans, chinos, shorts, and even some tailored trousers. The chunky silhouette is actually flattering because it balances out proportions.
• The person with foot issues: If you have plantar fasciitis, bunions, or wide feet, the 993 is a godsend. It comes in multiple widths (from narrow to extra wide), and the roomy toe box gives your toes space to splay naturally. No pinching, no rubbing.

Practical Tips for Buying Your First Pair

Ready to pull the trigger? Here’s how to make sure you get the right pair and keep them in top shape.

1. Size up by half a size. The 993 runs slightly snug, especially if you have a wider foot. I recommend going half a size up from your usual sneaker size. If you’re between sizes, definitely size up. The extra length gives your toes room, and you can always wear thicker socks to dial in the fit.

2. Pick the right width. This is non-negotiable. The 993 is available in D (standard), 2E (wide), and 4E (extra wide). If you have any doubt, go to a store and try on a wide width. The difference in comfort is night and day. Don’t assume you’re a standard width just because you wear other brands in that size.

3. Choose your colorway wisely. The classic grey (M993GL) is the most versatile and iconic—it goes with everything and hides dirt well. But if you want something a little bolder, consider the navy, black, or even the “cream” colorway. Avoid all-white unless you’re prepared to clean them constantly.

4. Break them in gradually. The 993 is comfortable out of the box, but the suede and foam will mold to your foot over a few wears. Wear them around the house for a couple of hours before taking them on a long walk. This helps prevent hot spots.

5. Care for them like a premium item. Use a suede brush to remove surface dirt, and treat the suede with a water-repellent spray before you wear them in wet conditions. The mesh can be cleaned with a mild soap and water solution. Avoid throwing them in the washing machine—it can damage the foam and the shape.

The Bottom Line

The New Balance 993 isn’t just a shoe; it’s a solution to a problem we all face: finding something that works hard, looks good, and doesn’t quit. It’s an investment in your daily comfort, and if you treat it right, it’ll pay dividends for years. Whether you’re a busy professional, a weekend explorer, or someone who simply refuses to sacrifice comfort for style, the 993 deserves a spot in your rotation. And once you slip them on, you’ll understand why people who own them rarely go back to anything else.