
New Balance 9060 vs. 530 vs. 2002R vs. 1906R: Differences and Reviews 2025
If there’s one sneaker brand with enough options to make just about any picky shoe shopper happy, it’s New Balance. The brand is known for its retro-inspired sneakers and sleek running shoes that boast ample cushioning and style.Four models that have garnered attention in recent years are the New Balance 9060, New Balance 2002R, New Balance 1906, and New Balance 530.Each brings unique features, catering to different needs and styles.But which one should you choose?What's the difference between New Balance 530 and 9060?Which is better, 2002R or 1906R?What is the difference between New Balance 1906R and 2002R?In this article, I’ll dive into the details of both models and compare them head-to-head to determine which one deserves a spot in your sneaker collection.
New Balance 9060 vs. 530 vs. 2002R vs. 1906R: Comparison Table
New Balance 9060 | New Balance 530 | New Balance 2002R | New Balance 1906R | |
Upper Material | Soft suede and breathable mesh | Mixture of mesh and synthetic leather overlays | Premium suede and mesh upper | Mesh upper with synthetic overlays |
Midsole | Dual-density midsole with ABZORB and SBS cushioning | ABZORB midsole | ABZORB midsole | N-ergy midsole;ABZORB SBS heel cushioning |
Outsole | Rubber with diamond pattern | Rubber | N-ergy outsole;Stability Web outsole technology | Rubber |
Midsole Softness | Soft | Balanced | Firm | Firm |
Weight | 15.3 oz | 10.9 oz | 13.5 oz | 14.5 oz |
Design | Bulky, trendy design with a mix of classic and futuristic elements | Epitome of a dad shoe,90's retro and chunky vibe | Retro-modern style | Retro aesthetic;classic, bulky dad shoe look |
Breathability | High – Mesh upper provides ventilation | High – Airy mesh upper | Low – Suede upper limits airflow | High – Mesh upper provides ventilation |
Comfort | High | High | High | High |
Reflective Elements | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ |
Heel Tab | None | Finger loop | None | Extended heel collar |
Best For | Casual wear,light physical activity | Casual all-day wear,warm-weather friendly | All-day wear, versatile styling | All-day wear, daily running |
User Rating | 4.6/5 | 4.6/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 |
Price | $149.99 | $99.99 | $144.99 | $154.99-$159.99 |
New Balance 9060 Review
The New Balance 9060 released in 2022. The chunky silhouette was inspired by early 2000s retrofuturism.The 9060 is a new expression of the refined style and innovation-led design that have made the 99X series home to some of the most iconic models in New Balance history. The design expands the original 990’s sway bars to create the effect of visible movement on the upper, while the tongue badge is a nod to the 991’s jeweled forefoot ABZORB pod. Underfoot, the 9060 also uses ABZORB and SBS cushioning technologies on the sculpted Pod midsole, while its diamond-shaped outsole bears similarities to the 860.Its appeal comes from its bulky, trendy design with a mix of classic and futuristic elements but also from the excellent comfort it offers. It is a sneaker with strong influences from the Y2K era.
Handcrafted and maintaining the contrast between nubuck and mesh, it provides all the necessary elements to become the favorite of urbanites and athletes thanks to its casual sporty air combined with a versatile style. Thanks to their sporty, bold design, the shoes are also easy to dress up for a more unique street style look; you can take a page out of Bieber's style book and pair them with denim shorts, an oversize blazer, and a cool baseball cap for the ultimate everyday outfit.
Scores of reviewers are quite floored by the explosive comfort of the New Balance 9060. A vlogger among them says that "you should be cruising along in ultimate comfort with these." Another professional tester says, "these are like clouds."
New Balance 9060 Pros and Cons
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Where to Buy New Balance 9060?
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New Balance 530 Review
The sneaker was originally released in 1992 as a performance running shoe, featuring a lightweight construction and the ABZORB technology in the heel. It did not make a whole lot of a splash back then but around 2013 it started to make a comeback as a lifestyle sneaker given that its chunky looks aligned with the trends at the time.
In terms of construction, the New Balance 530 comes with renowned comfort thanks to the use of NB's ENCAP and ABZORB cushioning in the midsole. Designed for running, you get guaranteed support and lots of padding underfoot. The outsole features a durable rubber with a pattern that does not add a whole lot of traction.I recommend to wearing these in a more urban setting. The upper usually comes with a mixture of mesh and synthetic leather overlays, meaning that the pair are some of the most breathable kicks about.Unfortunately, having such a breathable mesh is a poor choice for rainy days, and your feet are guaranteed to get wet at the first sign of precipitation. Additionally, mesh inherently isn't as durable as other rugged materials such as leather or suede,so I cannot suggest going too hard on these as they may not last. You should wear them as everyday casual shoes and that’s about it.
It’s the ideal shoe for any occasion, whether you’re running errands or going for a casual stroll. And with its affordable price point, you can enjoy the perfect combination of style and comfort without breaking the bank.If you’re in the market for a versatile and stylish pair of shoes that also prioritizes your comfort, the 530 New Balance is a perfect choice.
New Balance 530 Pros and Cons
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Where to Buy New Balance 530?
New Balance official website (up to 2% super cash back)
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StockX (up to 2% super cash back)
New Balance 2002R Review
The New Balance 2002R is a re-imagined version of the original 2002 model, released as part of the brand's top-tier running line in 2010.Building on the success of the 990 line, the 2002R carries over the dad-shoe aesthetic with additional comfort granted by the N-ergy and ABZORB midsole. This has made it the choice sneaker for collaborators like thisisneverthat, Joe Freshgoods, Salehe Bembury, J.Crew and Bape.Made with premium materials and ample amount of cushioning, support, and shock absorption, these shoes keep you ready for anything. The ABZORB midsole absorbs impact through a smashing combo of cushioning and compression resistance for a smooth ride. The shoe offers a soft and responsive ride whether you’re hitting the streets or running errands.
One of the standout features of the 2002R is its clean, sleek design. It blends retro aesthetics with modern flair, making it a versatile choice for daily wear. With its breathable mesh upper and suede overlays, the 2002R provides both comfort and style. The suede and mesh upper, while comfortable, may not be the most breathable, particularly in warmer weather. Finish off your everyday look with the New Balance 2002R.If you like the look of the 990s yet want something less ubiquitous, consider the 2002R.
New Balance 2002R Pros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
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Where to Buy New Balance 2002R?
New Balance official website (up to 2% super cash back)
Joe's New Balance Outlet (up to 2% super cash back)
StockX (up to 2% super cash back)
New Balance 1906R Review
Originally debuting as the 1906 in 2009, the top-of-the-line performance model arrived in 2022 powered by the very same sleek Y2K visuals and tech that made the 2002R reboot so successful.
The 1906R, like its cousins the 2002R and the 860v2, is led by a sole unit featuring a combination of flexible ACTEVA LITE cushioning, shock absorbing N-ergy, and segmented ABZORB SBS pods at the heel. This hi-tech approach is also reflected in the 1906R’s upper design, which features open-holed mesh and a series of curvilinear synthetic overlays. This distinctive take on the era’s design conventions offers a refined execution of high-performance heritage.Though it isn't designed as a performance running shoe, it's ready to cushion your feet for daily hustles. Like most dad shoes with a blast-from-the-past appeal, this kick will grow on you if you have a big love for sneaks with a retro aesthetic and bang-up quality.
The NB 1906R offers all-day comfort with a focus on stability and a breathable build. Though slightly heavier than the 2002R, it’s perfect for those who prioritize a durable, stylish dad shoe with ample air circulation.
New Balance 1906R Pros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
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Where to Buy New Balance 1906R?
New Balance official website (up to 2% super cash back)
Joe's New Balance Outlet (up to 2% super cash back)
Conclusion: Which One Should You Choose?
Ultimately, the choice among them often boils down to personal preferences.Each model has their own unique features.If you want a comfortable and cheap sneaker, The New Balance 530 would be a solid option.If you're after a contemporary classic that combines sleek design with reliable comfort, the 2002R is the way to go. It’s stylish, comfortable, and versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. The 1906R has a more futuristic design compared to the 2002R. With its chunky silhouette and use of premium materials, the 1906R exudes a distinct “dad sneaker” vibe. If you want something bolder with a more noticeable retro flair, the 1906R might be your perfect match.The New Balance 9060 is not just a good-looking shoe, but it also delivers on functionality – a rare combination. Whether you're a sneakerhead or just someone looking for a reliable pair of everyday shoes, the New Balance 9060 ticks all the boxes.
FAQ- Frequently Asked Questions
Is the New Balance 9060 comfortable?
One of the standout features of the New Balance 9060 is its comfort. The shoe is designed with ABZORB and SBS cushioning technology, which provides exceptional softness and shock absorption.
Is New Balance 9060 good for flat feet?
The New Balance 9060 Black Cement combines style and comfort, making it an excellent choice for those with flat feet. Its cushioned midsole provides ample support, while the sleek design ensures you look good on the go.
Why are New Balance 2002R so popular?
This shoe offered a well-balanced mix of stiffness and cushioning. This shoe also had an unusually thick tongue that not only enhanced its fit but also delivered a lot of comfort.
Can the New Balance 2002R be used for hiking?
A classic lifestyle silhouette gets a functional update with these refreshed trainers from New Balance, featuring metal eyelets and hiking performance technology so you can take your favorite style on the trails.
Is 2002R good for running?
The New Balance 2002R is not a modern, high-performance running shoe, but it's comfortable enough for some running. While you can run in them, I suggest that you might prefer modern performance shoes with updated technology and a lighter feel for actual running.
Why are New Balance 530 so popular?
The New Balance 530's popularity stems from a combination of factors, including its retro-inspired design, comfortable fit, and versatility. The shoe's chunky silhouette and bold color blocking make it a stylish choice, while its Abzorb foam cushioning ensures comfort. Furthermore, its affordable price point and adaptability to various outfits contribute to its widespread appeal.
Are New Balance 530 good for everyday use?
Such a lightweight and comfortable shoe. It is absolutely perfect for everyday running.
Should I size up or down in New Balance 530?
The NB 530 fits true to size and there's no need to size up or down.
What is the difference between New Balance 1906R and 1906?
The New Balance 1906 stays true to its original style with Fresh Foam cushioning and durable materials for a classic look and feel. The 1906R, however, is a modernized version featuring elements from the 'Protection Pack' and a bold, reimagined design for a contemporary aesthetic.
What does the R stand for in New Balance 1906R?
R is for remastered. The most obvious modification is the sole which is borrowed from another New Balance silhouette: the 860v2.
Do New Balance 1906R run big or small?
The New Balance 1906R generally runs true to size, but may have a slightly narrower fit than some other New Balance models. It's recommended to stick with your usual New Balance size, but if you have wider feet, you may want to consider sizing up half a size.
The 1906R shares the same midsole and outsole as the 2002R, so the sizing and comfort are very similar. If you already wear 2002Rs, you can likely stick with the same size for the 1906R.
Is the New Balance 1906R worth it?
While it has a few drawbacks, such as the non-structured insole and synthetic overlays in some versions, these are minor compared to the overall performance and comfort it offers. Overall, the New Balance 1906R is worth considering for anyone looking for a reliable, stylish, and comfortable sneaker.
【Read More】
New Balance 530 vs. 550 vs. 9060 vs. 408: Differences and Reviews 2025
New Balance 530 vs. 2002R vs. 725 vs. 990: Differences and Reviews 2025
New Balance 9060 vs. 2002R vs. 990 vs. 550: Differences and Reviews 2025
New Balance 2002 vs. 2002R vs. 993 vs. 990v6: Differences and Reviews 2025
New Balance 2002R vs. 990 vs. 1906R vs. 992: Differences and Reviews 2025

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