Are you curious about the differences between New Balance and Golden Goose shoes? These two brands are pretty different, but both make popular sneakers that many people love.
I’ll explain everything you need to know about both brands in a way that’s easy to understand. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of what makes each brand special and which one might be better for you.
Contents
- 1 New Balance vs Golden Goose Shoes
- 2 The Story Behind Each Brand
- 3 Style: Looking Cool vs Being Practical
- 4 Comfort: How Do They Feel?
- 5 Durability: Which Shoes Last Longer?
- 6 Breathability: Keeping Feet Cool
- 7 Cushioning: Protection For Your Feet
- 8 Shoe Fit: Finding Your Size
- 9 Stability: Keeping You Balanced
- 10 Quality: How Well Are They Made?
- 11 Materials: What Are They Made Of?
- 12 Weight: Light or Heavy?
- 13 Flexibility: How They Bend
- 14 Water Resistance: Staying Dry
- 15 Sole: What’s On The Bottom?
- 16 User Reviews and Ratings
- 17 Price Comparison
- 18 Pros and Cons
- 19 Conclusion
- 20 Frequently Asked Questions
New Balance vs Golden Goose Shoes
The main difference between New Balance and Golden Goose shoes is their purpose and price. New Balance makes affordable athletic shoes designed for comfort and performance, while Golden Goose creates expensive luxury fashion sneakers that come pre-distressed (intentionally worn-looking) as their signature style.
A Detailed Comparison Table: Finding the Best Choice for Your Comfort and Needs!
| Feature | New Balance | Golden Goose |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range | $65-$180 | $400-$700 |
| Founded | 1906 in Boston, USA | 2000 in Venice, Italy |
| Main Purpose | Athletic performance | Fashion statement |
| Signature Look | Clean, sporty design | Pre-distressed, intentionally worn look |
| Manufacturing | Mass-produced (some USA-made) | Handmade in Italy |
| Comfort Level | High (cushioning technologies) | Moderate (fashion prioritized over comfort) |
| Width Options | Multiple widths available | Standard width only |
| Cushioning | Advanced (Fresh Foam, ENCAP, ABZORB) | Basic (minimal cushioning) |
| Durability for Sports | Excellent | Poor (not designed for athletics) |
| Breathability | Good (mesh materials) | Limited (mainly leather construction) |
| Water Resistance | Some models have water-resistant features | Poor (leather can be damaged by water) |
| Weight | Generally lightweight | Heavier than athletic shoes |
| Best For | Sports, everyday wear, casual style | Fashion statements, casual outings |
| Target Audience | Athletes, everyday people | Fashion-conscious luxury consumers |
| Size Recommendation | True to size or size up | Size down (runs large) |
| Materials | Mesh, suede, synthetic fabrics | Italian leather, suede, premium materials |
| Cultural Status | Recently trendy, practical | Luxury status symbol |
In summary: For 12 to 13 year old readers: New Balance shoes are much more practical for kids like you. They’re comfortable for school and sports, last longer with rough play, and cost way less (around $65-$180). Golden Goose shoes look cool with their special worn design, but they’re super expensive ($400-$700!), not good for sports, and might get ruined if you play hard in them. Most kids wear New Balance for everyday life.
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The Story Behind Each Brand
New Balance: American Sports Heritage
New Balance began in 1906 in Boston, Massachusetts. It started as a company making arch supports to help people with foot problems. Later, they expanded into making athletic shoes. Today, New Balance is known for their numbered shoes (like the 574 or 990) and for making shoes in different widths to fit all kinds of feet.
Golden Goose: Italian Fashion Statement
Golden Goose is much newer, starting in 2000 in Venice, Italy. Two Italian designers created the brand to make “perfectly imperfect” sneakers. Golden Goose shoes are famous for looking a bit worn or “distressed” right out of the box. Each pair is handmade in Italy, which is part of why they cost so much more than most other sneakers.
Style: Looking Cool vs Being Practical
New Balance Style
New Balance shoes have a sporty, classic look. They’ve become trendy in recent years, especially styles like the 990 and 574. They come in many colors and designs, from simple white or black to bright colors and patterns. New Balance shoes look athletic but can be styled with many different outfits.
Jake, age 13, says: “I like my New Balance 574s because they look cool with jeans but I can also wear them for PE class.”
Golden Goose Style
Golden Goose sneakers are all about fashion. They’re designed to look “pre-worn” with scuffs, marks, and a vintage appearance right from the start. Each shoe is slightly different because they’re made by hand. They often have a star logo on the side and special details like glitter, metallic leather, or unique laces.
Madison, age 12, shares: “My older sister has Golden Goose sneakers and they look really cool and different from everyone else’s shoes. They’re super expensive though!”
Comfort: How Do They Feel?
New Balance Comfort
New Balance puts a big focus on comfort. They use special cushioning technologies like “Fresh Foam” and “ENCAP” to make walking and running feel good. Many New Balance shoes have extra padding in the heel and under the ball of your foot.
New Balance also offers different widths, which helps people find a perfect fit regardless of foot shape.
Golden Goose Comfort
Golden Goose shoes aren’t designed with comfort as the main priority. They’re fashion shoes, made to look good rather than feel amazing. Many Golden Goose sneakers have a flat insole without much cushioning. They do typically have soft leather inside, which can be comfortable once broken in.
Some people find the higher price of Golden Goose makes them expect more comfort than the shoes actually provide.
Durability: Which Shoes Last Longer?
New Balance Durability
New Balance shoes are built to last. Their athletic shoes are designed to handle running, jumping, and lots of movement. The materials they use are strong, and the stitching is reinforced in areas that get the most wear.
Many New Balance shoes can handle a full school year of active use without falling apart.
Golden Goose Durability
Golden Goose shoes are made with high-quality materials like Italian leather, which can be very durable. However, since they’re already designed to look worn when new, it can be hard to tell how they’re holding up over time.
These shoes aren’t meant for sports or rough activities, so using them for those purposes might cause them to wear out faster than New Balance shoes would.
Breathability: Keeping Feet Cool
New Balance Breathability
Many New Balance shoes use mesh materials that let air flow through the shoe. This helps keep your feet cool and dry, especially when you’re active. The mesh is usually placed in areas where feet tend to get hottest.
New Balance designs their athletic shoes with breathability in mind because they know active feet need to stay cool.
Golden Goose Breathability
Golden Goose shoes are typically made of leather, which doesn’t breathe as well as mesh. Some models have small perforations (tiny holes) to help with airflow, but overall, they aren’t designed with breathability as a main feature.
Since they’re fashion shoes rather than athletic shoes, Golden Goose doesn’t focus as much on keeping feet cool during activity.
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Cushioning: Protection For Your Feet
New Balance Cushioning
New Balance is famous for their cushioning technologies. Different models use different types of cushioning:
- Fresh Foam gives a soft, bouncy feel
- ENCAP provides firmer support with some softness
- ABZORB helps absorb shock when your foot hits the ground
This cushioning helps protect your feet and joints when walking, running, or jumping.
Golden Goose Cushioning
Golden Goose shoes have basic cushioning. They usually include a simple insole without advanced cushioning technology. Some models have a hidden wedge inside that gives a slight height boost, but this isn’t the same as cushioning for comfort.
The lack of advanced cushioning in Golden Goose is another sign that they’re designed more for style than for athletic performance.
Shoe Fit: Finding Your Size
New Balance Fit
One big advantage of New Balance is that they offer different widths for many of their shoes. If you have narrow or wide feet, you can find shoes that fit just right. They come in sizes like “D” for regular width, “2E” for wide, and “4E” for extra wide feet.
New Balance shoes often run true to size or slightly large, so your regular shoe size usually works well.
Golden Goose Fit
Golden Goose shoes typically come in standard width only. Many people find that Golden Goose runs large, and the brand often recommends going down a size from your usual size.
The fit can vary between different Golden Goose models, which makes ordering online tricky unless you’ve tried the exact style before.
Stability: Keeping You Balanced
New Balance Stability
New Balance designs many of their shoes with stability features. These help prevent your feet from rolling inward or outward too much when you walk or run. Some models have special support systems built into the midsoles.
This stability is especially helpful if you have flat feet or if your ankles tend to roll when walking or running.
Golden Goose Stability
Golden Goose shoes don’t focus on stability features. They have a fairly flat sole design without special support structures. Since they’re not designed for running or sports, they don’t need the same level of stability that athletic shoes do.
Some Golden Goose models have a slightly higher heel, which can actually reduce stability compared to flat athletic shoes.
Quality: How Well Are They Made?
New Balance Quality
New Balance takes pride in their quality. Some of their premium shoes are even made in the USA or UK, which is rare for sneakers these days. They use durable materials and careful construction methods.
The stitching on New Balance shoes is usually very good, and the materials are chosen to last through lots of wear.
Golden Goose Quality
Golden Goose shoes are handmade in Italy using premium materials. The craftsmanship is part of what you’re paying for with the high price tag. Each pair is slightly unique because they’re handcrafted.
The quality of materials is high, with real leather used for most parts of the shoe. However, the “distressed” look means they’re intentionally scuffed and worn-looking when new.
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Materials: What Are They Made Of?
New Balance Materials
New Balance uses a variety of materials:
- Breathable mesh for airflow
- Suede and leather for style and support
- Synthetic materials that dry quickly
- Rubber outsoles for grip
- Special foam for cushioning
Different models use different combinations of these materials.
Golden Goose Materials
Golden Goose uses premium materials:
- Italian leather for most of the upper part
- Suede accents on many models
- Cotton laces
- Rubber soles
- Sometimes special materials like glitter, metallic leather, or star appliqués
The focus is on luxury materials rather than technical performance fabrics.
Weight: Light or Heavy?
New Balance Weight
The weight of New Balance shoes varies by model. Their running shoes are designed to be lightweight, while their classic lifestyle shoes (like the 574) are a bit heavier. Most New Balance shoes for kids and teens are made to be fairly light to make walking and running easier.
Golden Goose Weight
Golden Goose sneakers tend to be heavier than athletic shoes. The leather construction and thick soles add weight compared to mesh running shoes. This extra weight isn’t a problem for casual wear but would be noticeable if you tried to run or play sports in them.
Flexibility: How They Bend
New Balance Flexibility
New Balance designs their shoes to flex in the right places. This makes walking and running feel more natural. Their shoes bend where your foot naturally bends, usually right behind the ball of your foot.
Some New Balance models are more flexible than others, with running shoes typically being the most flexible.
Golden Goose Flexibility
Golden Goose shoes are less flexible than athletic shoes. The thicker leather doesn’t bend as easily as mesh, and the soles are often stiffer. This isn’t necessarily bad for casual walking, but it makes them less suitable for running or sports.
Water Resistance: Staying Dry
New Balance Water Resistance
Most regular New Balance shoes aren’t fully waterproof, but many models have water-resistant features that can handle light rain or wet grass. They also offer some specific waterproof models for hiking and outdoor activities.
The mesh materials in many New Balance shoes dry fairly quickly if they do get wet.
Golden Goose Water Resistance
Golden Goose shoes are not designed to be water-resistant. The leather can actually be damaged by water, and the distressed look might worsen if the shoes get wet repeatedly.
You’d definitely want to avoid puddles and heavy rain when wearing Golden Goose sneakers!
Sole: What’s On The Bottom?
New Balance Sole
New Balance uses different types of soles for different models:
- Running shoes have flexible soles with patterns for grip
- Walking shoes have firmer soles for stability
- Lifestyle shoes often have thicker, more cushioned soles
The soles are designed for specific activities, with tread patterns that provide good grip on various surfaces.
Golden Goose Sole
Golden Goose shoes typically have a flat rubber sole. The bottom is usually fairly smooth without deep tread patterns. This works fine for walking on regular surfaces but wouldn’t provide good grip for running or sports.
Some Golden Goose models have a slightly higher heel or platform sole for added height.
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User Reviews and Ratings
New Balance User Ratings
| Model | Comfort | Durability | Style | Overall |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 574 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| 990 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Fresh Foam 1080 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| 327 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
Golden Goose User Ratings
| Model | Comfort | Durability | Style | Overall |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Superstar | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| Mid Star | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| Ball Star | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| Dad-Star | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
Price Comparison
| Brand | Model | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| New Balance | Lifestyle (574, 997, etc.) | $80-150 |
| New Balance | Running Performance | $100-180 |
| New Balance | Made in USA/UK Premium | $180-250 |
| New Balance | Collaborations/Limited Editions | $150-300 |
| Golden Goose | Superstar Sneakers | $450-650 |
| Golden Goose | Mid Star Sneakers | $500-620 |
| Golden Goose | Ball Star Sneakers | $480-600 |
| Golden Goose | Limited Editions/Special Collections | $600-1,200 |
Pros and Cons
New Balance Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Much more affordable ($65-$180) | Not as unique or exclusive looking |
| Great for sports and PE class | Some people think they look too plain |
| Very comfortable for all-day wear | Not as trendy in fashion magazines |
| Comes in different widths for all foot types | Many people have the same shoes |
| Durable for running and playing | Some styles look too athletic for nice outfits |
| Lots of cushioning for your feet | Can get dirty and worn looking over time |
| Easy to find in many stores | Not handmade like luxury shoes |
| Good for growing feet | May not impress fashion-focused friends |
Golden Goose Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Super cool unique style | Extremely expensive ($400-$700) |
| Come pre-distressed so you don’t worry about scuffs | Not good for sports or running |
| Handmade in Italy | Only come in standard width |
| Stand out from what other kids wear | Parents might say no due to high price |
| Special details like glitter and stars | Can be damaged by rain or puddles |
| Look like shoes celebrities wear | Not very comfortable for all-day wear |
| Make a fashion statement | Might be outgrown before they wear out |
| Each pair is slightly different | Hard to keep clean (already look worn) |
Remember, shoes are meant to protect your feet and help you do the things you love to do. Think about how you’ll use your shoes before deciding which brand is right for you!
Conclusion
New Balance and Golden Goose serve different purposes in the shoe world. New Balance focuses on performance, comfort, and durability, with shoes for everyday wear and sports. Golden Goose is all about fashion, style, and standing out, with a unique distressed look that comes with a luxury price tag.
For most kids and teens, New Balance offers a much more practical option that can handle school, sports, and play while still looking cool. Golden Goose is more of a special fashion item that might not be practical for growing feet or active lifestyles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Golden Goose shoes so expensive?
Golden Goose shoes are handmade in Italy using premium materials. The craftsmanship, brand name, and luxury status all contribute to the high price. You’re paying for the unique style and the fact that they’re made in small batches rather than mass-produced.
Are New Balance shoes good for sports?
Yes! New Balance makes many shoes specifically designed for different sports and activities. Their running, training, and walking shoes have features that help with performance and reduce the risk of injury.
Why do Golden Goose shoes look dirty when new?
That’s part of their unique style! They’re intentionally distressed (made to look worn) by hand to give them a vintage, lived-in appearance. Some people love this look because the shoes are already “broken in” and you don’t have to worry about keeping them perfect.
Which brand is better for school?
New Balance is usually better for school because the shoes are more comfortable for all-day wear, can handle PE class and recess, and are much more affordable. Golden Goose shoes are fashion items that might not be practical for daily school use.
How do I clean these shoes?
For New Balance, follow the care instructions that come with your specific model. Many can be spot cleaned with mild soap and water. For Golden Goose, you should be very careful with cleaning as you might accidentally remove some of the intentional distressing. They usually recommend only using a dry, soft brush to remove dirt.
Do these brands make shoes for kids?
New Balance makes many styles specifically for kids in smaller sizes. Golden Goose does make some kids’ sizes, but they’re still very expensive (often $300+) and not very practical for most children’s active lifestyles.