New Balance is known for sporty sneakers, while ECCO focuses on comfortable dress and casual shoes. I’ll help you figure out which brand might work better for you based on what you need in a shoe.
Contents
New Balance vs ECCO Shoes
Whether you’re looking for something for school, sports, or just hanging out with friends, understanding the differences between these brands will help you make a smart choice. Let’s look at how New Balance and ECCO compare in all the important areas like comfort, style, and durability.
A Detailed Comparison Table: Finding the Best Choice for Your Comfort and Needs!
| Feature | New Balance | ECCO |
| Best For | Sports, running, casual wear | Walking, casual, dress occasions |
| Width Options | Multiple (narrow to extra-wide) | Limited (mostly standard fit) |
| Materials | Mesh, synthetic, some leather | High-quality leather, Gore-Tex |
| Durability | Good (8-12 months) | Excellent (12-24 months) |
| Water Resistance | Poor to fair | Very good to excellent |
| Weight | Lightweight | Medium to heavyweight |
| Cushioning | Soft, bouncy foam | Firmer, supportive |
| Price Range | $60-$150 | $100-$220 |
| Break-in Period | Minimal | Longer (especially leather models) |
| Style Options | Athletic, sporty, trendy | Classic, casual, dressy |
| Breathability | Excellent in athletic models | Good for leather shoes |
| Best Activities | Running, sports, school | Walking, school, rainy days, special events |
| Kid-friendly Features | Fun colors, lightweight | Extra durability, water resistance |
| Size Range | US sizes, many width options | European sizes, limited widths |
In summary: New Balance and ECCO shoes cater to different footwear needs but both prioritize comfort and quality. New Balance is renowned for its athletic shoes, providing excellent support, cushioning, and durability for sports and active lifestyles.
They offer a variety of styles, including running and walking shoes, suited for high-performance activities. ECCO, on the other hand, focuses on high-quality leather shoes, offering a stylish and sophisticated look.
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History of the Brands
New Balance: Athletic Roots
New Balance started way back in 1906 in Boston, Massachusetts. The company began by making arch supports to help people’s feet feel better. Later, they started making running shoes that came in different widths, which was pretty special at the time. Today, New Balance is super popular for both sports and everyday wear. They still make their shoes in different widths so everyone can find a comfortable fit.
ECCO: Scandinavian Comfort
ECCO was founded in Denmark in 1963 by Karl Toosbuy. He wanted to make shoes that were both stylish and super comfortable. ECCO is different from many shoe companies because they control the whole process of making their shoes. They own their own leather factories and shoe factories. ECCO is known for making comfortable walking shoes, dress shoes, and casual shoes that last a long time.
Comfort Features
Cushioning
When you’re walking around all day, good cushioning makes a huge difference in how your feet feel.
New Balance uses special cushioning technologies in their shoes. Many of their sneakers have foam cushioning called “Fresh Foam” or “ENCAP” that makes it feel like you’re walking on clouds. Their running shoes especially have lots of cushioning to protect your feet when they hit the ground.
ECCO uses something called “FLUIDFORM” technology that molds to your foot shape. Their shoes often have cushioned insoles that provide support right where your foot needs it. ECCO’s cushioning tends to be firmer than New Balance, giving more support rather than the bouncy feel of athletic shoes.
Shoe Fit
Finding shoes that fit right is super important for comfort!
New Balance is famous for offering shoes in different widths. You can find their shoes in narrow, standard, wide, and extra-wide sizes. This is great if you have wider or narrower feet than average. Many kids and teens love this because their feet are still growing and changing.
ECCO shoes usually have a roomier toe box (the front part of the shoe), which gives your toes space to spread out naturally. They typically come in standard width, but their design often works well for people with slightly wider feet. ECCO also uses something called “Freedom Fit” which is snug in the heel but gives your toes more space.
Stability
Stability means how well your shoes keep your feet in the right position without wobbling.
New Balance makes many shoes with good stability features, especially their running shoes. They often have firm midsoles and supportive designs that help keep your feet from rolling inward too much (which is called overpronation). This is really helpful if you play sports or have flat feet.
ECCO focuses on natural stability. Their shoes have a low-to-the-ground design that helps you feel more connected to the surface you’re walking on. Many ECCO shoes have a cup in the heel area that keeps your heel in place and stops your foot from sliding around inside the shoe.
Overall Comfort
Both brands care a lot about comfort, but in different ways.
New Balance sneakers feel comfortable right away when you put them on. They’re soft, cushioned, and ready for action with almost no break-in time. They’re designed for movement and activity, so they flex with your foot.
ECCO shoes might take a little time to break in, especially their leather shoes. But once broken in, they mold to your feet and can be incredibly comfortable for all-day wear. Many people say ECCO makes some of the most comfortable walking and dress shoes you can buy.
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Quality and Materials
Durability
You want shoes that last, especially if you’re rough on them!
New Balance makes durable athletic shoes that can handle sports and active play. Their higher-end models are particularly tough, with reinforced stitching and materials in areas that get the most wear. Some New Balance shoes are even made in the USA or UK, which often means better quality control.
ECCO is known for making extremely durable shoes. They use high-quality leather that gets better with age and soles that are directly attached to the upper part of the shoe (called direct-injection technology). This makes their shoes less likely to come apart over time. Many ECCO owners report their shoes lasting for years, even with daily wear.
Materials Used
The materials affect how the shoes look, feel, and hold up over time.
New Balance uses a mix of materials in their shoes. Their athletic models often use breathable mesh, synthetic materials, and some leather or suede. The mix of materials helps make the shoes lightweight and flexible while still being supportive.
ECCO is known for their high-quality leather. They actually own their own tanneries (leather factories), which is unusual for shoe companies. This lets them control the quality of their leather from start to finish. ECCO uses a special process called “ECCO DriTan” to make leather that’s water-resistant and environmentally friendly. They also use Gore-Tex in many models for waterproofing.
Breathability
Nobody wants sweaty, stinky feet!
New Balance shoes, especially their running and athletic models, have excellent breathability. They use mesh panels that allow air to flow through the shoe, keeping your feet cool even during sports and exercise. This is great for active kids who are always on the move.
ECCO has good breathability for leather shoes. They use a special leather treatment that allows moisture to escape while keeping water out. Their casual shoes with textile uppers are more breathable than their dress shoes. Some ECCO models include Gore-Tex, which is waterproof but still allows sweat to escape.
Weight
Heavy shoes can make your feet tired faster.
New Balance sneakers are typically lightweight, especially their running shoes. This makes them great for sports and all-day wear without weighing you down. Even their chunkier “dad shoe” styles are designed to be lighter than they look.
ECCO shoes tend to be a bit heavier than athletic sneakers, particularly their leather models. The trade-off is durability and support. Their casual sneakers are lighter than their dress shoes, but still usually heavier than similar New Balance models.
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Performance Features
Flexibility
Your shoes need to bend with your feet as you move.
New Balance designs their shoes to flex at the same points where your foot naturally bends. Their running shoes are especially flexible in the forefoot, which helps you push off when walking or running. This makes them great for active kids who are always moving.
ECCO shoes have good flexibility for their style. Their casual shoes and sneakers are quite flexible, while their dress shoes are naturally stiffer due to the leather construction. ECCO uses special sole designs that allow natural foot movement while still providing support.
Water Resistance
Getting caught in the rain with non-waterproof shoes is no fun!
New Balance shoes generally aren’t very water-resistant unless specifically designed to be. Their mesh athletic shoes will get wet easily in rain. However, they do make some models with water-resistant features, often labeled as weather-resistant or winter models.
ECCO has excellent water resistance in many of their shoes. Their HYDROMAX and Gore-Tex models are designed to keep your feet dry in wet conditions. Even their regular leather shoes have decent water resistance thanks to their special leather treatment process. This is great if you live somewhere rainy or snowy.
Sole Design
The bottom of your shoe affects grip, comfort, and durability.
New Balance uses rubber outsoles with patterns designed for specific activities. Their running shoes have soles with good traction for pavement, while their trail running shoes have deeper grooves for grip on dirt and rocks. The rubber compounds they use provide a good balance of grip and durability.
ECCO uses direct-injection technology to attach their soles, meaning the sole is fused directly to the upper part of the shoe without glue. This creates a very strong bond that won’t come apart. Their soles are often made of polyurethane (PU), which lasts longer than rubber but might not have quite as much grip on all surfaces.
Style and Design
Style Options
Your shoes are part of your personal style!
New Balance offers everything from classic running shoes to trendy “dad sneakers” that are super popular right now. They have retro-inspired models like the 574 and 990 series that many kids and teens love. Their color options range from simple white, black, and gray to bright, bold color combinations.
ECCO makes shoes that are more on the dressy and casual side. They have dress shoes for special occasions, comfortable casual shoes for everyday wear, and some athletic-inspired sneakers. Their designs tend to be more understated and classic rather than flashy. ECCO’s focus is on timeless styles rather than following trends.
Size Range
Finding your size is important!
New Balance offers a huge range of sizes, including kids’ sizes, adult sizes, and half sizes. As mentioned earlier, they also offer multiple width options (narrow, standard, wide, extra-wide), making them accessible to almost everyone regardless of foot shape.
ECCO offers a good range of sizes but generally doesn’t have as many width options as New Balance. They do have a “comfort fit” design that works well for many foot shapes. ECCO uses European sizing, which might be a little confusing if you’re used to US sizes, but conversion charts are easy to find.
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Price Comparison
| Shoe Type | New Balance Price Range | ECCO Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Athletic/Running | $65-$180 | $100-$200 |
| Casual Sneakers | $70-$150 | $100-$180 |
| Walking Shoes | $60-$135 | $120-$220 |
| Dress Shoes | Limited options | $150-$250 |
| Kids’ Shoes | $40-$80 | $60-$120 |
Prices may vary based on sales, specific models, and where you shop
User Reviews and Rating
| Activity | New Balance Rating | ECCO Rating | Best Choice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Running | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐☆☆☆ | New Balance |
| School Wear | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ | New Balance |
| All-day Walking | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ECCO |
| Rainy Weather | ⭐⭐☆☆☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ECCO |
| Dress Occasions | ⭐☆☆☆☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ECCO |
| Sports | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐☆☆☆ | New Balance |
| Casual Hangouts | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ | New Balance |
| Durability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ECCO |
New Balance Reviews
Active Kid Approved ★★★★★
“My 12-year-old son wears his New Balance shoes for everything – school, basketball, and just hanging out. They’ve lasted the whole school year, which is a miracle! He says they’re super comfortable, and I love that they come in wide sizes for his growing feet.”
Great for Sports ★★★★☆
“I got New Balance running shoes for my daughter’s track team. She loves how light they feel and says her feet don’t hurt even after practice. Only giving 4 stars because the white gets dirty so fast with kids.”
Comfortable but Could Be More Durable ★★★☆☆
“My kid likes how comfortable his New Balance shoes are, but the mesh tore after about 4 months of playground use. They’re good shoes but maybe not tough enough for really active kids who are hard on their shoes.”
ECCO Reviews
Best School Shoes Ever ★★★★★
“We tried ECCO shoes for my 13-year-old who has sensitive feet. These are the only shoes he doesn’t complain about, even after wearing them all day at school. They’ve lasted over a year and still look good. Worth every penny!”
Great for Growing Feet ★★★★☆
“My daughter needed shoes for a school trip with lots of walking. The ECCO shoes we got were perfect – no blisters even on the first wear. They’re not as ‘cool’ as some other brands, but she admits they’re the most comfortable shoes she owns.”
Durable But Pricey ★★★★☆
“My son’s ECCO shoes have lasted through an entire school year and still look almost new. The only downside is the price, but considering we usually go through 2-3 pairs of cheaper shoes in that time, they’re actually a good value.”
Which Is Right For You?
Choose New Balance If:
- You need shoes for sports and active play
- You have wide or narrow feet and need different width options
- You prefer lightweight, flexible shoes
- You like sporty, casual styles
- You want shoes that are comfortable right away with no break-in
Choose ECCO If:
- You need shoes that can handle rain and wet conditions
- You want extremely durable shoes that last a long time
- You need comfortable walking shoes for all-day wear
- You prefer leather shoes with a more dressed-up look
- You’re willing to spend more upfront for shoes that last longer
Pros and Cons
New Balance Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Come in many widths (narrow to extra-wide) | Not very water resistant |
| Lighter weight and easier to run in | Don’t last as long as ECCO shoes |
| Great for sports and active play | Not good for dressier occasions |
| Usually cheaper than ECCO | Mesh parts can tear if you’re rough on shoes |
| Comfy right away with no break-in time | Not as good in rain and snow |
| More color options and fun designs | Can look dirty quickly, especially white ones |
| Better for running and sports | Not as well-made as ECCO |
| Bouncy, soft feeling when walking | Less support for long walking days |
ECCO Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Super durable and last a long time | More expensive to buy |
| Excellent in rain and wet weather | Heavier than New Balance |
| Can be worn for dressy occasions | Take time to break in and feel comfortable |
| High-quality leather that looks nice | Fewer width options (mostly standard width) |
| Great for all-day walking comfort | Not good for running or sports |
| Keep looking good even when older | Not as many bright colors or fun designs |
| Special technology makes them waterproof | Can feel hot in summer weather |
| Better support for your feet | Not as popular with kids |
Conclusion
New Balance and ECCO both make great shoes, but they shine in different situations. New Balance is perfect for active kids who need athletic shoes for sports and everyday wear. They offer excellent comfort, good support, and come in lots of sizes and widths to fit almost any foot.
ECCO is ideal for those who prioritize durability and long-lasting comfort. Their shoes cost more upfront but often last twice as long as other brands. ECCO shoes are great for walking, school wear, and occasions when you need something a bit dressier than sneakers.
Think about what you’ll be doing in your shoes most often. If you’re into sports or prefer an athletic look, New Balance is probably your best bet. If you need comfortable shoes for walking or want something that can go from casual to slightly dressy, ECCO might be worth the investment.
Remember, the best shoe is the one that fits YOUR feet and YOUR lifestyle!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know my size in New Balance and ECCO?
For New Balance, you’ll usually wear your normal US size. If you have wide feet, look for letters like D (standard men’s width), 2E (wide), or 4E (extra wide). For women, B is standard and D is wide.
For ECCO, you might need to convert to European sizing. ECCO shoes often run a bit large, so some people go down half a size. It’s always best to try them on if possible or check the brand’s size chart.
Are New Balance or ECCO shoes better for kids with flat feet?
Both brands can work for flat feet. New Balance offers models with good arch support and stability features, plus they come in wider widths which can be helpful. ECCO shoes have good support built in and their firmer footbeds can provide structure for flat feet.
How do I clean my New Balance or ECCO shoes?
For New Balance sneakers with mesh, use a soft brush and mild soap with water. Remove the laces and insoles to clean separately. Let them air dry away from direct heat.
For ECCO leather shoes, wipe with a damp cloth and use leather cleaner if needed. ECCO sells special care products designed for their leather. For ECCO shoes with Gore-Tex, you can rinse them with water as this won’t damage the waterproofing.
Do New Balance and ECCO make shoes for kids?
Yes! New Balance makes lots of kids’ shoes in various sizes and widths. They offer everything from toddler sizes to big kids’ sizes, with styles similar to their adult shoes.
ECCO also makes kids’ shoes, though their selection isn’t as large as New Balance. ECCO kids’ shoes focus on durability and proper foot development with good support.
Are ECCO shoes worth the higher price?
Many people find that ECCO shoes are worth the investment because they last so much longer than cheaper shoes. If you divide the cost by how many months they last, ECCO often ends up being similar in cost to less expensive shoes that wear out faster.
However, if you’re still growing or tend to lose shoes before wearing them out, the higher upfront cost might not make sense.
Can you wash New Balance shoes in the washing machine?
Some New Balance shoes with textile/mesh uppers can be washed in a washing machine on a gentle cycle with mild detergent. Always remove laces and insoles first, and place the shoes in a washing bag or pillowcase. Let them air dry completely away from direct heat or sunlight.
Never machine wash leather New Balance shoes, and check the care instructions for your specific model first.