I love exploring the differences between the famous New Balance 993 and 992 sneakers. This detailed guide dives into their history, tech, and standout features. Whether you’re into their “dad shoe” vibe for looks or activities, I’m here to help you choose the right pair.
Many people, from collectors to daily wearers, adore the 993 and 992 models. They stand out for their classic design, top-notch make, and ultra comfort. Both are perfect for daily wear, quick runs, or walks. By comparing them closely, you’ll discover which shoe fits your style and life the best.
Key Takeaways
- Detailed comparison of the New Balance 993 and 992 sneakers
- Exploration of the history, technology, and key features of both models
- In-depth analysis of factors like durability, comfort, style, and value
- Insights to help you determine the better fit for your needs and preferences
- Unbiased information to assist you in making an informed purchasing decision
New Balance 993 VS 992: Easy Comparison Guide
| Feature | New Balance 993 | New Balance 992 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2001 | 2006 |
| Cushioning | ABZORB technology for superior shock absorption | Basic foam midsole |
| Support | Dual-density midsole for enhanced stability | ENCAP technology for heel support |
| Upper Material | Suede and mesh for durability and ventilation | Leather and mesh for durability and breathability |
| Weight | 12 ounces | 13 ounces |
| Water Resistance | Water-resistant upper | Not designed for wet conditions |
| Outsole | Durable rubber with lug pattern for stability | Durable rubber for multi-surface traction |
| Comfort | Advanced ABZORB cushioning | Comfortable foam midsole |
| Fit | True to size, snug fit | May run slightly large |
| Style | Bulky, old-school design | Sleeker, modern “dad shoe” design |
| Color Options | Wide variety including bright colors | Classic and eye-catching options |
| Price Range | Approximately $174.99 | Between $149.99 – $174.99 depending on retailer |
| Customer Service | Excellent reputation for service | Strong customer support and return policies |
| Popularity | Popular among sneaker and fitness enthusiasts | Iconic in New Balance lineup |
| Warranty | 1-year warranty | 1-year warranty |
Overview of New Balance 993 VS 992
New Balance 993: History and Technology
In 2001, the New Balance 993 hit the scene. People quickly fell in love with its comfy feel. It uses the ABZORB cushioning for top-notch shock absorption.
As the years passed, the New Balance 993 got some upgrades. It kept its classic design but got better materials and construction. This made it a go-to shoe for both looks and performance.
New Balance 992: History and Technology
In 2006, the New Balance 992 made its debut. It won over fans with its mix of comfort and style. It’s known for being both sturdy and light, offering great stability.
Just like the 993, the 992 has seen some changes over time. Each new version brought updates in design and manufacturing. This kept it ahead in both classic style and performance.
The New Balance 993 and 992 are both classic choices. They have lasting appeal because of their quality and innovation. We’ll look closer at what makes each of these icons special for sneaker fans.
Durability: New Balance 993 VS 992
Durability is key when looking for good sneakers. The New Balance 993 and 992 are great for lasting a long time. They’re loved by people who work out a lot and those who wear them casually.
Durability Features of the New Balance 993
The New Balance 993 is tough and ready for everyday use. Its upper is made from strong suede and mesh. This mix keeps your feet cool. The midsole has special cushions to take the shock off your feet. The outsole, made of top rubber, gives solid grip and lasts long.
Durability Features of the New Balance 992
The New Balance 992 is just as durable. It has a mix of leather and mesh for its upper. It’s strong and lets air through. The midsole has ENCAP technology for extra heel support. And, the outsole is made for steady traction. This makes the 992 ready for all kinds of fun.
Weight Comparison
How heavy a sneaker is matters for durability, too. The 993 weighs 12 ounces, while the 992 is 13 ounces. The 993’s lighter weight helps with quick moves. But the 992’s bit more weight gives a firmer feel.
| Feature | New Balance 993 | New Balance 992 |
|---|---|---|
| Upper Materials | Premium suede and mesh | Leather and mesh |
| Midsole Technology | ABZORB cushioning | ENCAP technology |
| Outsole | High-quality rubber | High-quality rubber |
| Weight (per shoe) | 12 ounces (340 grams) | 13 ounces (368 grams) |
To wrap it up, the 993 and 992 from New Balance are both super durable. They use the best stuff to make them, so they last long. Your choice between them comes down to what you like, how active you are, and the features you care about most.
Comfort: New Balance 993 VS 992
Everyday sneakers should be extremely comfortable. The New Balance 993 and 992 are well-loved for their comfort. They cater to those who want lots of cushion, support, and a great fit.
Cushioning
The New Balance 993 uses top-notch ABZORB cushioning. It absorbs shock well and makes each step feel soft. This helps protect your joints and keeps your feet happy. In comparison, the 992 uses a more basic foam midsole. It’s comfy but not as advanced in cushioning.
Support
Both the 993 and 992 focus on great support. The 993 has a dual-density midsole for extra stability. The 992 has a design that suits different foot shapes well. No matter if you have high arches or flat feet, these shoes give the support you need.
Fit and Sizing Comparison
The fit and size differ between the 993 and 992. The 993 usually fits true to size, snug but not tight. The 992 might run a bit big, giving you room to size down for a better fit. Trying both on is key to finding your perfect match.
| Feature | New Balance 993 | New Balance 992 |
|---|---|---|
| Cushioning | Premium ABZORB cushioning | Traditional foam midsole |
| Support | Dual-density midsole for added stability | Versatile design adapts to various foot types |
| Fit and Sizing | True-to-size fit | Tends to run slightly larger |
Whether you like the high cushion of the 993 or the versatile support of the 992, they both bring great comfort. Thinking about what you need and trying them both will guide you to the best choice for your feet.
Style and Design: New Balance 993 VS 992
The New Balance 993 and 992 are loved for their great style and performance. They’re a hit with those who love fashion and fans of “dad shoes.”
New Balance 993
The New Balance 993 is a symbol of the brand’s long history. Its design mixes old-school looks with modern style, making it perfect for any outfit. This shoe’s bulky look is very on-trend, giving off a cool and vintage feel.
What sets the New Balance 993 apart is its many color choices. You can pick from gray, navy, or bright colors like neon green. It’s made of suede and mesh, giving it a unique texture. Plus, the big “N” on the side makes it stand out.
New Balance 992
The 992 keeps the retro vibe but comes in a sleeker shape. This makes it a good pick for those wanting a modern look. It fits right into the “dad shoe” trend but looks more polished.
Like the 993, the 992 comes in many colors, from classic to eye-catching. It uses quality materials like suede, mesh, and leather. Plus, the “N” logo is a key part of its design, mixing old and new style.
Choosing between the bold 993 or the sleek 992 gives you many style choices. They both combine great technology with lasting style. So, they’re perfect for any casual or trendy outfit you want to wear.
Waterproofing and Non-Slip Grip
Waterproofing
The New Balance 993 has a water-resistant upper. It protects your feet in rain or snow. This makes the shoe perfect for wet days, keeping your feet dry and happy.
The 992, however, doesn’t keep water out as well. It’s still well-made but not for really wet conditions. For rain or snow, go with the 993 for better dryness.
Non-Slip Grip
Both the 993 and 992 have top-quality rubber outsoles. The 993’s outsole has a special lug pattern for great stability on slippery ground. But, the 992 is also strong and reliable for different surfaces.
For wet streets or outdoor adventures, the grip of the 993 and 992 helps you stay steady. This is key for those who need their shoes to be safe and stable.
| Feature | New Balance 993 | New Balance 992 |
|---|---|---|
| Waterproofing | Water-resistant upper | No specialized waterproofing |
| Non-Slip Grip | Specialized lug pattern for enhanced traction | Reliable rubber outsole |
Overall, the New Balance 993 is better with water protection. Yet, both are good for staying steady. The best pick depends on how you’ll use your shoes and where you’ll walk in them.
Price Point and Value
Choosing new sneakers involves looking at their price and value. I’ll look at the prices of the New Balance 993 and 992. I’ll also talk about New Balance’s customer service, how popular its products are, and its return and warranty policies.
Price Range
The New Balance 993 and 992 are high-end sneakers with top-notch design and features. The New Balance 993 usually costs $174.99. The New Balance 992 is a bit cheaper, priced between $149.99 and $174.99, depending on where you buy them.
Customer Service
New Balance is famous for its great customer service. Their team is quick to help and always very friendly. They make it easy for customers to learn about their products, return items, or use the warranty.
Popularity
Both the New Balance 993 and 992 are loved by sneaker and fitness fans. They are icons in New Balance’s collection, liked for their timeless style and dependable performance. New Balance’s focus on quality and new ideas has kept these shoes in high demand.
Return Policy and Warranty
- New Balance lets you return shoes within 30 days for a full refund or an exchange if you’re not happy.
- The New Balance 993 and 992 come with a 1-year warranty. This means if there are any problems, New Balance will take care of them.
The New Balance 993 and 992 are both great choices if you want quality, long-lasting sneakers. Their prices, good service, popularity, and strong return and warranty policies make them stand out. They’re excellent options for people who care about what they buy.
Customer Reviews and Feedback
I’ve looked at what customers say about the New Balance 993 and 992 sneakers. We’ll talk about what people love and what they don’t like. This will help you understand how good these shoes really are.
New Balance 993: Customer Insights
Customers really love the New Balance 993. They often talk about how comfy these shoes are. One person said, “These are the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever owned.” They also say the shoes last a long time.
But, some people find the 993 too bulky or hard to break in. Someone said, “The thick sole was hard to get used to.” Yet, they felt great once they were used to them.
New Balance 992: Customer Feedback
People like the New Balance 992 a lot too. They think it’s good for all sorts of things, from chilling to light workouts. They also say it looks cool and classic.
Yet, a few think it could use more support for high arches. One person said, “It’s comfy but not enough for my arches.“
| Customer Feedback Comparison | New Balance 993 | New Balance 992 |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | Consistently praised for exceptional comfort | Generally comfortable, but a few customers desire more arch support |
| Durability | Widely regarded as a durable and well-constructed shoe | No major durability concerns reported |
| Versatility | Some customers note the bulkier design may not suit all foot types | Praised for its versatility, suitable for various occasions |
| Aesthetic Appeal | Classic, timeless design appreciated by many customers | Retro styling identified as a key selling point |
Overall, lots of folks love both the New Balance 993 and 992. They talk about the comfort, toughness, and style. While some people prefer one over the other, both are great choices. They’re perfect if you’re looking for top-notch shoes you can trust.
Pros and Cons
New Balance 993: Pros and Cons
The New Balance 993 is known for being tough and comfy. Here’s why people love it:
- Highly durable construction that can withstand heavy use
- Generous cushioning for superior comfort during long periods of wear
- Versatile style that works well for both casual and athletic activities
Yet, the 993 might not be perfect for everyone. It has its downsides too:
- Heavier weight compared to some other athletic shoes
- May be less breathable than more modern mesh-based designs
- Slightly higher price point than the New Balance 992
New Balance 992: Pros and Cons
What about the New Balance 992, a favorite for many? It shines in several areas:
- Lightweight and flexible construction for enhanced mobility
- Breathable mesh upper that helps keep feet cool and dry
- Slightly lower price point compared to the 993 model
However, the 992 falls short in certain aspects, especially when compared to the 993:
- Less robust construction that may not withstand heavy use as well
- Slightly less cushioning, potentially leading to less comfort for prolonged wear
- Slightly less versatile style that may not work as well for formal or professional settings
So, which shoe is right for you? If you want long-lasting support and comfort, the 993 is a good pick. Yet, if lightweight and breathability matter more, go for the 992.
Conclusion
After looking closely at the New Balance 993 and 992, we see they are both top-notch. The 993 is known for being tough, cozy, and looking good. This makes it perfect for anyone wanting a shoe they can trust for any occasion.
The 992 is no slouch either. It offers great comfort and a style that never gets old. Many people love its simple, yet classic, look. Choosing between these shoes really comes down to what you like and need.
If you love new styles and the latest in tech, go for the 993. But if timeless looks are more your thing, the 992 could be just right. Both choices mean you get a shoe made with skill and care.
No matter which one you pick, a New Balance shoe means quality and lasting satisfaction. These shoes are great for runners, fashion fans, and everyone in the middle. The 993 and 992 promise top performance and style that stands out.
FAQ
What are the key differences between the New Balance 993 and 992 sneakers?
The New Balance 993 and 992 sneakers differ in looks and materials. The 993 is more premium with full-grain leather and strong support. The 992 offers a casual look with mesh and leather but is as comfy and durable.
How do the comfort and cushioning compare between the New Balance 993 and 992?
Both the 993 and 992 are praised for their comfort. The 993 has ENCAP tech for a firm feel, while the 992 uses foam for a softer touch. The 993 might have a bit more support, but the 992 is still great for being on your feet all day.
How do the New Balance 993 and 992 differ in terms of durability and weight?
The 993 is seen as sturdier with its full-grain leather. It’s meant to last through heavy use. The mix of materials on the 992, like mesh, may not be as tough over time. Also, the 993 is a bit heavier than the 992.
Which New Balance model has a better overall style and design?
The 993 and 992 offer different styles. The 993 looks classy and premium, fitting well with lifestyle clothes. The 992 has a more relaxed, dad-shoe style, favored for its trendy vibe.
How do the price points and overall value compare between the New Balance 993 and 992?
The 993 is priced higher due to its quality materials. Yet, both are seen as good buys. The 993 may last longer, making it a better value over time. Still, the 992 is a good choice for its affordability.
Which New Balance model do customers prefer overall?
Customers love both the 993 and 992 for different reasons. The 993 is appreciated for its quality, comfort, and style. The 992 is praised for its comfy, casual look and value. Choosing between them depends on personal tastes, as they’re both top picks from New Balance.