With the New Balance 530 trending these days we decided to check out its design and review its features. This 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. While all this happened mostly in Europe in 2022 some influencers started promoting it and it’s been trending ever since, especially among women, giving the 327 model a bit of competition. Around 2015 New Balance came up with the 530 ENCAP version that we reviewed a while ago.
Are New Balance 530 true to size?
The pair of the classic 530 we got was the one in white with purple accents and we have to say, you cannot find these on sale anywhere. While there is some scarcity at this time you can bet that New Balance is ready to drop some colorways soon and ride this wave.
The New Balance 530 feels very comfortable on feet as you first try them on. They fit true to size with a quite roomy toe box. Given their upper construction I would say that they are wide foot friendly, they mold nicely on your feet. They are quite lightweight, with size 8.5 for women weighing just shy of 10oz. If you’re not sure about your size you can check out the New Balance size chart here.
Upper
The upper of the New Balance 530 is made of a see thru mesh material with synthetic leather overlays. The way they are stitched up reminds us of the original ASICS runners from early 2000. For our New Balance 530 review we tried these in the summer and we can attest to how breathable they are. The mesh is built like a 2 layer material that is both strong and see thru. The synthetic overlays are what do not inspire much durability so we 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.
Sole Unit
The sole unit of the New Balance 530 features EVA foam and the ABZORB cushioning technology. The latter is made of a rubber material that strikes the right balance of cushioning and compression for a comfortable ride. This material can actually be seen thru the openings in the outsole in the heel which makes to amplify its effect. This way the heel to toe transition is smooth and the shock absorption attenuates the strain on your joints. The whole setup may have been performant 30 years ago but nowadays we cannot recommend these for running or gym for that matter. The outsole features a durable rubber with a pattern that does not add a whole lot of traction, hence our earlier recommendation for wearing these in a more urban setting.
Are New Balance 530 good for running?
The New Balance 530 is not a great choice for running or gym activities. While the sneaker was originally released in 1992 as a performance running shoe, it has since become more of a lifestyle sneaker. The sole unit features EVA foam and ABZORB cushioning technology, which may have been performant 30 years ago but is not considered suitable for running or intense physical activities by contemporary standards. The New Balance 530 is better suited as an everyday casual sneaker rather than a running shoe.
Are New Balance 530 comfortable?
The New Balance 530 feel very comfortable on feet. The upper, made of a see-through mesh material with synthetic leather overlays, is breathable, particularly suitable for warmer days. The EVA foam and ABZORB cushioning technology in the sole unit contribute to a comfortable ride, providing the right balance of cushioning and compression for everyday use.
Bottom Line
To conclude our New Balance 530 review, these can be a viable option for many when it comes to an everyday casual sneaker. Its breathable upper recommends it for the warmer days and the sole construction more for walking. While the hype around them may come and go these are expected to grow in popularity overall, following the brand upper trend from the past several years. Given the trend around the Y2K sneakers they continue to be popular, being a an excellent alternative to newer models like the V2K or the P-6000 from Nike.
