New Balance focuses on comfort and support for various activities, while Jordan shoes (made by Nike) are designed with basketball and style in mind. I’ll help you understand what makes each brand special so you can decide which one might be better for you.
Contents
- 1 New Balance vs Jordan Shoes
- 2 Brand History: Where They Came From
- 3 Comfort: How Do They Feel?
- 4 Durability: How Long Will They Last?
- 5 Breathing: Keeping Feet Cool
- 6 Cushioning: Bounce in Your Step
- 7 Shoe Fit: Finding Your Perfect Size
- 8 Stability: Keeping Your Feet Balanced
- 9 Quality: What Makes These Shoes Special?
- 10 Style: Looking Cool on Your Feet
- 11 Size Range: Will They Fit You?
- 12 Material: What Are They Made Of?
- 13 Weight: How Heavy Are They?
- 14 Flexibility: How They Bend and Move
- 15 Water Resistance: Keeping Feet Dry
- 16 Sole: The Foundation of the Shoe
- 17 Price: What Do They Cost?
- 18 User Reviews: What Other Kids Think
- 19 Pros and Cons
- 20 Conclusion
- 21 Frequently Asked Questions
New Balance vs Jordan Shoes
The main difference between New Balance and Jordan shoes is their primary purpose and image. New Balance focuses on comfort, support, and practical features with multiple width options, while Jordan shoes emphasize style, basketball performance, and cultural status as fashionable sneakers connected to Michael Jordan’s legacy.
A Detailed Comparison Table: Finding the Best Choice for Your Comfort and Needs
| Feature | New Balance | Jordan |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Purpose | Everyday comfort, running, walking | Basketball performance, style statement |
| Price Range | $40-$120 (kids) | $80-$180 (kids) |
| Width Options | Multiple (narrow, regular, wide, extra-wide) | Limited (mostly regular width) |
| Brand Started | 1906 | 1984/1985 |
| Cushioning | Fresh Foam, FuelCell, balanced support | Air technology, visible air units |
| Best For | Everyday wear, running, people with wide feet | Basketball, fashion, sneaker collectors |
| Materials | Mesh, suede, practical materials | Premium leather, patent leather, fashion-forward |
| Style Factor | Practical with growing fashion appeal | High fashion status, collectible |
| Weight | Lighter on average (6-10 oz) | Slightly heavier (8-12 oz) |
| Durability | Built for everyday wear | Made for basketball and fashion |
| Celebrity Connection | Some recent fashion influence | Created with Michael Jordan, huge celebrity appeal |
| Availability | Widely available | Limited releases, some models hard to find |
In summary: New Balance and Jordan shoes are really different types of sneakers. New Balance makes super comfortable shoes that come in lots of widths and are great for everyday wear.
Jordan shoes are more about looking cool and playing basketball, connected to the famous player Michael Jordan. New Balance is usually cheaper, while Jordans cost more and are seen as more fashionable.
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Brand History: Where They Came From
New Balance: Over 100 Years of Comfort
New Balance started way back in 1906 in Boston, Massachusetts. That’s over 100 years ago! The founder, William Riley, got his inspiration by watching chickens walk in his yard.
He noticed how the chicken’s three-toed foot gave it perfect balance, and he wanted to create shoes that would help people balance better too.
New Balance began by making arch supports (special inserts that go inside shoes) and later moved to making full shoes. They became known for making shoes in different widths so that people with wide or narrow feet could find shoes that fit well.
Jordan: Born from Basketball Greatness
Jordan shoes have a much more recent history. They began in 1984 when Nike signed a contract with Michael Jordan, who was a rookie basketball player at the time. Of course, Michael Jordan would go on to become one of the greatest basketball players ever!
The first Air Jordan shoe was released in 1985, and people loved them immediately. The NBA actually banned the original red and black Air Jordans because they didn’t follow the uniform rules at that time. This only made them more popular! Since then, there have been many different models of Jordan shoes, and they’ve become super popular for both basketball and everyday fashion.
Comfort: How Do They Feel?
New Balance Comfort Features
New Balance designs their shoes with comfort as a top priority. Many of their shoes use special cushioning technologies like “Fresh Foam” and “FuelCell” that make you feel like you’re walking on clouds.
New Balance shoes often have extra padding around the heel and ankle to prevent rubbing and blisters. They also tend to have a roomy toe box (the front part where your toes go) so your toes don’t feel squished together.
Jordan Comfort Approach
Jordan shoes were originally designed for basketball, which means they need to be comfortable during quick movements and jumps. Many Jordan models use Nike’s “Air” technology, which puts air cushions in the sole to absorb shock when you land.
Jordan shoes typically have good ankle support, especially in the higher-top models. However, some people find that Jordan shoes can feel stiff when they’re new and need a “break-in” period before they feel really comfortable.
Durability: How Long Will They Last?
New Balance Toughness
New Balance shoes are built to last through everyday wear and various activities. They use strong materials and good construction techniques with double stitching in areas that get the most stress.
The outsoles (bottom parts) are made with durable rubber that resists wearing down, even if you scuff your feet a lot. With proper care, most New Balance shoes will last a full school year or longer, even with regular use.
Jordan Durability
Jordan shoes are generally well-made with quality materials, but they’re designed more for style and basketball performance than for extreme durability. The premium materials and construction make them strong enough for basketball courts and everyday wear, but they might show wear faster if used for rough outdoor activities. One thing to note is that many people keep their Jordan shoes looking fresh by wearing them less frequently or being very careful about where they wear them.
Breathing: Keeping Feet Cool
New Balance Ventilation
Nobody likes sweaty, stinky feet! New Balance knows this and designs most of their shoes with breathable mesh uppers (the top parts of the shoe). This mesh has tiny holes that allow air to flow in and out of the shoe, keeping your feet cooler and drier. Some New Balance models have more ventilation than others, with their running shoes typically having the best airflow.
Jordan Breathability
Jordan shoes vary in breathability depending on the model. Basketball requires shoes that let your feet breathe during intense activity, so many Jordans do have features to help with this. Models like the Air Jordan XXXIV have specialized lightweight mesh areas for ventilation.
However, some of the more fashion-focused Jordans, especially those made with leather or synthetic leather, don’t breathe as well as shoes made primarily from mesh materials.
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Cushioning: Bounce in Your Step
| Feature | New Balance | Jordan |
|---|---|---|
| Cushioning Technology | Fresh Foam, FuelCell, ENCAP | Air, Zoom Air, Eclipse Plate |
| Focus Area | Full foot cushioning | Often heel and forefoot focus |
| Feel | Balanced, consistent cushioning | Responsive, court feel |
| Purpose | Comfort during extended wear | Impact protection for jumps |
| Special Features | Additional cushioning for wide feet | Visible Air units in some models |
New Balance Cushioning Technology
New Balance uses several types of cushioning in their shoes. “Fresh Foam” provides a soft, plush feel underfoot. “FuelCell” gives you more energy return and bounce with each step. “ENCAP” combines soft cushioning with a firmer edge for support. New Balance designs their cushioning to feel comfortable whether you’re standing, walking, or running, and it typically extends throughout the entire shoe.
Jordan Cushioning Systems
Jordan shoes are famous for their “Air” cushioning technology. This technology uses pressurized air inside flexible bags placed in the sole of the shoe. When you step down or land from a jump, the air bags compress and then spring back, providing both cushioning and energy return.
Different Jordan models use the Air technology in different ways, with some having visible Air units you can see from the outside of the shoe. More recent Jordan models might also use “Zoom Air” (for responsive cushioning) or the “Eclipse Plate” (for support and explosiveness).
Shoe Fit: Finding Your Perfect Size
New Balance Sizing Options
One of the biggest advantages of New Balance is that they offer multiple width options. Most shoe brands only make “regular” width shoes, but New Balance makes narrow (B), regular (D), wide (2E), and even extra-wide (4E) sizes. This is super helpful if your feet are wider or narrower than average! New Balance shoes generally run true to size, meaning you can usually buy your normal shoe size.
Jordan Fit Features
Jordan shoes typically come in regular width only, which can be challenging if you have wide or narrow feet. They often run true to size, but some models might run a bit small or narrow. High-top Jordan models wrap around your ankle for extra support, while low-top models feel more like regular sneakers. One thing to note is that different Jordan models can fit differently, so it’s always best to try them on if possible.
Stability: Keeping Your Feet Balanced
New Balance Support Systems
Many New Balance shoes are designed with stability features to help control foot motion. Some people’s feet roll inward too much when they walk or run (called overpronation), and New Balance makes shoes with special support to help prevent this. These stability features often include a firmer piece of foam on the inner side of the shoe and a supportive heel counter that helps keep your foot aligned.
Jordan Stability Design
Jordan shoes were created for basketball, which involves quick direction changes, jumping, and landing. Because of this, they’re built with good lateral (side-to-side) support to keep your foot stable during these movements.
Many Jordan models have wide bases for stability and special support systems in the midfoot area. Higher-top Jordans also provide ankle stability, which can help prevent ankle rolls during basketball play.
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Quality: What Makes These Shoes Special?
New Balance Material Quality
New Balance is known for using quality materials and good construction techniques. Many of their higher-end shoes are still made in the USA or UK, which is rare for athletic shoes today. They use durable meshes, strong synthetic materials, and real suede or leather in some models. The stitching is usually well-done, and the glue connections are strong. New Balance focuses on making their shoes durable enough for regular use.
Jordan Premium Materials
Jordan shoes are often made with premium materials that look and feel high-quality. Depending on the model, you might find full-grain leather, synthetic materials designed to look like exotic skins, specialized performance fabrics, or patent leather.
The construction quality is generally excellent, with clean stitching and strong connections between parts. Jordan Brand focuses on both performance and having a luxury feel, which is part of why their shoes tend to be more expensive.
Style: Looking Cool on Your Feet
New Balance Fashion Appeal
New Balance started as purely practical athletic shoes, but in recent years they’ve become very fashionable too! Models like the 574 and 990 are now considered trendy and are often worn by celebrities and fashion influencers. New Balance offers shoes in many different colors, from bright and bold to simple and classic. Their “dad shoe” style has become surprisingly popular for everyday fashion, even among young people.
Jordan Street Style Dominance
Style is where Jordan shoes really shine! They were designed to look cool from the very beginning, and many people buy them primarily for their appearance rather than for playing basketball. Jordan shoes often use bold colors and distinctive designs that stand out. They’ve become a huge part of “sneaker culture,” with people collecting rare models and limited editions. Many celebrities and athletes wear Jordans as fashion statements, making them very popular among kids and teens who want to look stylish.
Size Range: Will They Fit You?
New Balance Size Availability
New Balance makes shoes in a huge range of sizes, from little kids to adults. Their kids’ shoes typically start around size 10.5 for little kids and go all the way up through adult sizes. As mentioned earlier, they also offer multiple width options, which is especially helpful for growing feet that might be wider or narrower than average.
Jordan Size Offerings
Jordan shoes come in most standard sizes for kids and adults. Kids’ Jordans typically start around size 11C for younger kids and include gradeschool sizes up to 7Y before moving into adult sizing. However, Jordan shoes generally only come in regular width, which can be limiting if you need narrow or wide sizes. Also, some limited-edition Jordan releases might not be available in kids’ sizes at all.
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Material: What Are They Made Of?
| Material Feature | New Balance | Jordan |
|---|---|---|
| Upper Materials | Mesh, suede, sometimes leather | Leather, synthetic leather, mesh, premium textiles |
| Midsole | EVA foam, Fresh Foam, FuelCell | Phylon, polyurethane, Air units |
| Outsole | Carbon rubber, blown rubber | Rubber with basketball-specific traction patterns |
| Lining | Soft textile | Premium textile, sometimes leather |
| Special Elements | Reflective details in some models | Patent leather, special print designs |
New Balance Materials
New Balance uses a variety of materials in their shoes. The upper parts are usually made from engineered mesh for breathability, often combined with suede or synthetic overlays for support and structure.
The midsoles are typically made from EVA foam or their proprietary cushioning foams. The outsoles use carbon rubber in high-wear areas for durability and sometimes softer blown rubber in other areas for comfort.
Jordan Material Selection
Jordan shoes often use more premium materials than typical athletic shoes. Depending on the model, the uppers might be made from full-grain leather, synthetic leather, specialized performance mesh, or premium textiles.
Many Jordan models feature patent leather, which has a glossy, shiny finish. The midsoles contain Nike Air units combined with foam cushioning, and the outsoles use durable rubber with special traction patterns designed for basketball courts.
Weight: How Heavy Are They?
New Balance Lightness
New Balance shoes vary in weight depending on the model, but they generally aim for a good balance between cushioning and weight. Their running shoes tend to be fairly lightweight, while their more supportive walking or training shoes might be a bit heavier. For kids’ sizes, most New Balance shoes weigh between 6-10 ounces per shoe, which is light enough to not tire out your feet during a long day.
Jordan Weight Factors
Jordan basketball shoes are designed to provide support and cushioning during gameplay, which can make them a bit heavier than running shoes. The higher-top models especially can weigh more because of the extra material around the ankle. Kids’ Jordan shoes typically weigh between 8-12 ounces per shoe, depending on the model and size. However, newer Jordan models have focused on reducing weight while maintaining performance features.
Flexibility: How They Bend and Move
New Balance Flex Points
New Balance designs their shoes to bend where your foot naturally bends. Their running and walking shoes typically have flex grooves in the forefoot (front part) of the outsole that allow the shoe to bend with your foot as you push off. Different New Balance models offer different levels of flexibility, with their running shoes usually being more flexible than their stability or training shoes.
Jordan Flexibility Design
Jordan basketball shoes need to balance flexibility with support. They typically have strategic flex grooves that allow the forefoot to bend for quick movements and jumps. However, the midfoot area is often more rigid to provide stability during side-to-side movements. This means Jordan shoes might feel less flexible overall than running-specific shoes, but they still allow the natural foot movements needed for basketball.
Water Resistance: Keeping Feet Dry
New Balance Weather Protection
Most standard New Balance shoes aren’t specifically designed to be waterproof, though some models handle light rain better than others. New Balance does make some waterproof models using membranes like GORE-TEX, which are great for wet weather.
These waterproof models are clearly labeled and perfect for rainy days or wet conditions. Shoes with suede parts can be particularly vulnerable to water damage unless treated with a protective spray.
Jordan Weather Capabilities
Standard Jordan shoes aren’t waterproof, and many Jordan fans are very careful about keeping their shoes away from water and mud! Models made with leather or synthetic leather will repel light splashes better than canvas models, but none are designed for heavy rain or puddles.
There are very few waterproof Jordan models available. Many Jordan collectors use special sprays to help protect their shoes from water damage.
Sole: The Foundation of the Shoe
New Balance Sole Technology
New Balance designs different sole patterns for different activities. Their running shoes have soles with cushioning and flex grooves positioned for forward movement. Walking shoes have soles designed for a smooth heel-to-toe transition.
The outsoles use durable rubber with various tread patterns for good grip on different surfaces. New Balance puts a lot of thought into making soles that work well for the shoe’s intended activity.
Jordan Sole Innovation
Jordan soles are primarily designed for basketball performance, with some models now focusing more on casual wear. The outsoles typically feature circular traction patterns that help with quick direction changes on basketball courts.
Many Jordan soles have visible Air units that you can actually see from the outside of the shoe. The design of Jordan soles has evolved over time, with each new model introducing different technologies and traction patterns.
Price: What Do They Cost?
New Balance Price Range
New Balance offers shoes at a wide range of price points. Their basic models for kids might cost around $40-60, while their more advanced performance shoes or trendy lifestyle models could be $70-120. New Balance frequently has sales and discounts, making them accessible for many different budgets. They offer good value for the quality and durability you get.
Jordan Cost Considerations
Jordan shoes are definitely on the premium end of the price spectrum. Kids’ Jordan shoes typically start around $80 for simpler models and can go up to $140-180 for the latest releases. Limited edition or retro models can be even more expensive. Jordan shoes are generally considered more of a fashion investment than just everyday footwear, which is reflected in their higher price point.
User Reviews: What Other Kids Think
| Model | Brand | Price Range | User Rating | Review Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 574 Core | New Balance | $50-$70 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | “So comfortable for school and they match with everything!” – Alex, 13 |
| Fresh Foam 880v12 | New Balance | $70-$100 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | “Great for PE class and running. The wide size fits my feet perfectly.” – Taylor, 12 |
| Jordan 1 Mid | Jordan | $100-$120 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | “The coolest shoes I own! Everyone asks where I got them.” – Jayden, 14 |
| Jordan Why Not .5 | Jordan | $90-$110 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | “Awesome for basketball games. Good ankle support but takes time to break in.” – Madison, 13 |
“I love my New Balance shoes because they don’t hurt my feet even after wearing them all day at school.” – Dylan, age 12
“My Jordan 1s are my favorite shoes ever! They look so cool with all my outfits.” – Sophia, age 13
“The New Balance wide shoes are the only ones that fit my feet comfortably.” – Ethan, age 12
“Playing basketball in my Jordans makes me feel like I can jump higher!” – Olivia, age 13
Pros and Cons
| Brand | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| New Balance | Comes in different widths for all foot types | Not as cool or trendy as Jordans |
| More affordable prices | Not as many exciting designs | |
| Very comfortable for all-day wear | Less connection to famous athletes | |
| Great for running and PE class | Not as collectible | |
| Lasts a long time with everyday use | Not made specifically for basketball | |
| Better for people with foot problems | Not as popular with celebrities | |
| Jordan | Super stylish and cool looking | More expensive |
| Connected to basketball legend Michael Jordan | Only comes in regular width usually | |
| Great for playing basketball | Can be uncomfortable at first | |
| Special limited editions can be collected | Harder to find some models | |
| Makes a fashion statement | Not as good for running or PE | |
| Many celebrities wear them | Need more care to keep clean |
New Balance vs Jordan Shoes: Pros and ConsBoth brands make great shoes but for totally different reasons! New Balance is better for comfort and everyday use, while Jordan shoes are better for style and basketball. Think about what matters most to you when choosing
Conclusion
After comparing New Balance and Jordan shoes, it’s clear that they serve different purposes and have different strengths.
Choose New Balance if:
- Comfort is your top priority
- You have wide or narrow feet that need special sizes
- You want shoes for running, walking, or all-day wear
- You need durable shoes for everyday activities
- You’re looking for a more affordable option
Choose Jordan if:
- Style and looking cool is very important to you
- You play basketball or want that sporty look
- You don’t mind spending more for premium materials
- You want shoes with a strong connection to sports history
- You’re interested in sneaker culture and collecting
Remember, the best shoes for you are the ones that fit well, feel comfortable on your feet, and work for the activities you do most often. Sometimes having both types in your closet is ideal – New Balance for comfort and everyday wear, and Jordans for when you want to look extra stylish or play basketball!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I play sports in Jordan shoes?
Jordan shoes are designed for basketball, so they work great for that sport. They can also work for casual sports and PE class. However, for specific sports like soccer, tennis, or track, it’s better to get shoes designed specially for those activities.
Why are Jordan shoes so expensive?
Jordan shoes cost more because they use premium materials, have special technologies like Air cushioning, and are associated with Michael Jordan, one of the most famous athletes ever. They’re also very popular and considered fashionable, which can make the price higher.
How do I know what size to get?
It’s best to try shoes on in a store if possible. If you’re shopping online, measure your feet according to the brand’s size guide. For New Balance, consider whether you need a special width. For Jordans, some models might run small, so reading reviews about sizing can help.
How do I keep my shoes looking clean and new?
For both brands, wipe dirt off with a damp cloth. For deeper cleaning, use mild soap and water with a soft brush or cloth. For Jordans, many kids use special sneaker cleaning kits and products designed specifically for keeping athletic shoes looking fresh. Avoid putting either brand in the washing machine.
Can girls wear Jordan shoes too?
Absolutely! Jordan shoes are for everyone, regardless of gender. While some colorways (color combinations) might be marketed more toward boys or girls, anyone can wear any color they like. There are plenty of girls and women who love and collect Jordan shoes!