New Balance 550 vs New Balance 530
Get the 530. Unless you want the 90s basketball look — then the 550.
New Balance 550
The clean 90s basketball look, well built and grippy. Firm, stiff, heavy and warm.
New Balance 530
Light, breathable and well cushioned for all-day wear. The toe area wears out first.
We earn a commission from these links.
The 530 is far lighter, better cushioned and breathable, and stays comfy through hours of walking. The 550 is the tougher leather shoe that wipes clean and grips well, but it's firm, stiff, heavy and warm.
- —You want the retro basketball look.
- —You want leather that wipes clean.
- —You want them to last.
- —You want one comfy pair for every day.
- —You walk a lot in warm weather.
- —You want a light shoe.
Key differences
Pros and cons
- +Clean, retro leather look
- +Grips on wet and dry streets
- +Durable and easy to clean
- −Stiff and firm underfoot, with a dull, flat ride.
- −452 g per shoe — heavier than most.
- −Runs warm; the leather barely breathes.
- −Runs true to size.
- +Comfortable for hours of walking
- +Light and breathable
- +A little toe wiggle room
- −The toe box wears through quickly.
- −Thin insole — swap in your own if you need support.
- −Runs true to size.
- Is the NB 550 worth it?
- Is the NB 530 worth it?
- Samba OG vs Gazelle
- NB 530 vs NB 9060
- Gel-1130 vs NB 530
- Gel-1130 vs NB 9060
- Best sneakers
How we reached this verdict
We compared independent expert reviews with the manufacturer's specifications, then checked it's sold at a major retailer where you live. We don't test products ourselves.
Sources: RunRepeat: ASICS Gel-1130, RunRepeat: adidas Samba OG, RunRepeat: adidas Gazelle, RunRepeat: New Balance 530, RunRepeat: New Balance 9060, RunRepeat: Nike Air Force 1 '07, RunRepeat: Reebok Club C 85, RunRepeat: Nike Dunk Low, RunRepeat: New Balance 550, manufacturer specifications.