Overview
The New Balance 9060 is one of the most popular sneakers in 2024 and recently I had the chance to get a closer look and review its features. This model was released in 2022 and it quickly became one of most sought after shoes on the market with special editions like the ones with Bricks & Wood , Mawalola and United Arrows being introduced not long after. 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, drawing inspiration mostly from the New Balance 990, 991 and the 860 models.
First Impressions
The pair I got for this review was a 2024 release, the one in gray, black and white that I got to try on a snowy day in Chicago. Out of the box they look very stylish, with a midsole that stands out with its exaggerated features. They feel comfortable out of the box but they carry a bit of weight, with size 11 weighing 16.5oz which is still ok for a lifestyle shoe.The sole adds some extra height than usual so if you’re looking to add some inches these are surely a good option.
How They Fit
The New Balance 9060 fits true to size, with a roomy toe box, much like most models from this brand. While there is no wide width option available they are quite accommodating even for those with wider feet like me. There is no need to break them in, however they become even more comfortable the more you wear them. If unsure about your size you can check out this size chart for New Balance.
Upper & Sole Design
The upper design of the New Balance 9060 is a classic setup with mesh and suede or leather overlays, some similar to the 990 series. The upper comfort is the usual you get from the brand, with moderate breathability and excellent cushioning around the heel and tongue area.
With its oversized looks, the sole unit is what makes this shoe different from any other New Balance sneakers. It surely has some Yeezy 550 vibes, given the large outsole lugs and the midsole elongations. The cushioning used is based on the same Abzorb foam that is distributed throughout the sole unit for maximum comfort. The bulk of the sole is made of a more dense foam that acts like a cupsole for the Abzorb cushion. The result is a shoe that is not only comfortable but very stable. The outsole is made of six pods that are reinforced with durable rubber but also leave the Abzorb foam on display in a diamond shape opening.
One downside of this sole and of this sneaker in general is that the traction is not great on neat, slippery surfaces.
Are New Balance 9060 Comfortable?
This is a very comfortable sneaker to wear all day providing excellent support for long hours.
The sole unit’s design ensures stable footing, while the Abzorb foam delivers just the right amount of cushioning for a smooth ride. I put them through the paces during a day out in Chicago, and they held up admirably, providing the support I needed. However, being on the taller side and favoring lower-profile sneakers, these didn’t quite make the cut for me to keep in my regular rotation.
How to wear them
The New Balance 9060 boasts a chunky profile, making it less compatible with skinny jeans or snug attire for most individuals. Opting for baggier clothing with a wider leg opening would complement these sneakers more effectively, enhancing their overall aesthetic appeal and ensuring a balanced ensemble.
Bottom Line
The New Balance 9060 is an exquisite lifestyle sneaker that is surely worth the hype. It’s not only a fashion statement but also a very comfortable shoe. You can wear them casually but you can also take them in the gym if you don’t mind the bulky sole. While I cannot recommend running on the treadmill with these, they are very stable for other activities. Every colorway has been selling out fast so at this time when I write this review in 2024 the shoe is still very hot. New Balance has been on the roll in the last several years with models like the 327, 550 or the 2002R among many others and this sneaker is surely another jewel in their lineup.
