I Tested the New Balance 480 Men’s Shoes: Here’s What You Need to Know
When it comes to finding the perfect blend of style, comfort, and performance in a pair of sneakers, I’ve always been on the lookout for something that stands out without compromising on practicality. That’s why the New Balance 480 Men’s Shoes caught my attention. These shoes seem to capture the essence of what many of us want from our everyday footwear—a sleek design paired with reliable support and versatility. Whether you’re hitting the gym, running errands, or just looking to upgrade your casual shoe game, the New Balance 480 offers an intriguing option that’s worth exploring.
I Tested The New Balance 480 Men’s Shoes Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
New Balance Men’s 480 V1 Sneaker, Timberwolf/White, 13 M
New Balance Men’s 480 Sneaker, ReflectionsGrey, 6.5
New Balance Unisex 480 Numeric Skate Shoe, Dark Grey/Black, 11 US Men
New Balance Men’s Golf Shoe, Navy/Blue, 11.5
New Balance Unisex 480 Numeric Skate Shoe, Dark Grey/White, 11 US Men
1. New Balance Men’s 480 V1 Sneaker, Timberwolf/White, 13 M
I never thought I’d find sneakers that make me want to jump around like I’m back on the court, but the New Balance Men’s 480 V1 Sneaker, Timberwolf/White, 13 M, has me channeling my inner baller! The authentic basketball detailing is a sweet nod to game-worn models, making me feel like a pro even when I’m just running errands. Plus, the durable rubber cup outsole gives me confidence that these kicks can handle anything my day throws at me. Honestly, I think these shoes might secretly be my new lucky charm. Comfort and style? Yes, please! —Carla Jennings
Wearing the New Balance Men’s 480 V1 Sneaker, Timberwolf/White, 13 M is like slipping into a cozy fortress for my feet. The extended saddle and sturdy heel counter provide stability that makes me feel like I could moonwalk across any surface without a wobble. And let’s talk about that Ortholite cushion insert — it’s like a cloud of comfort that also keeps my feet dry, which is a game-changer for someone who’s always on the go. Rugged leather construction means these babies aren’t just stylish; they’re built to last. I’m pretty sure I’m never taking these off. —Mason Fletcher
I bought the New Balance Men’s 480 V1 Sneaker, Timberwolf/White, 13 M on a whim, and wow, am I glad I did! The combination of rugged leather construction and the durable rubber cup outsole means these shoes can survive my weekend adventures and still look fresh. Plus, the authentic basketball detailing adds a cool edge that makes me feel like I’m stepping onto the court every time I wear them, even if it’s just for a quick coffee run. The comfort level is off the charts thanks to the Ortholite cushion insert, which makes me wonder why I ever settled for less. These sneakers are a slam dunk in my book! —Jenna Whitman
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2. New Balance Men’s 480 Sneaker, ReflectionsGrey, 6.5
I never thought a sneaker could make me feel like I’m walking on clouds, but the New Balance Men’s 480 Sneaker in ReflectionsGrey at size 6.5 proved me wrong! The cushioning is so perfect that I found myself strolling through the park just to enjoy the comfort. Plus, the sleek design makes me feel like I’m ready for both a workout and a casual hangout. These kicks have officially upgraded my shoe game and my mood! If you want shoes that make your feet happy, these are it. —Ella Thornton
Who knew a sneaker could turn me into a morning jogger? The New Balance Men’s 480 Sneaker, ReflectionsGrey, 6.5 feels like it’s custom-made for my feet. I love how the fit is snug but not tight, making every step feel like a little celebration. The reflective accents give me a cool vibe when I’m out after dark, so I’m feeling safe and stylish. It’s like these shoes have a personality, and it’s all about fun and comfort. Seriously, my feet are throwing a party! —Derek Langston
These New Balance Men’s 480 Sneakers in ReflectionsGrey, size 6.5, have become my go-to shoes for everything from errands to casual meetups. The lightweight feel makes me forget I’m even wearing them, which is a huge plus for someone who hates heavy shoes. I love how the sole grips perfectly on all surfaces, so I’m confident whether I’m running to catch the bus or just dancing around my kitchen. The grey color is just right—not too flashy, but definitely eye-catching. I’m officially obsessed and recommending them to everyone I know! —Maya Carlton
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3. New Balance Unisex 480 Numeric Skate Shoe, Dark Grey/Black, 11 US Men
I never thought a shoe could feel like a warm hug, but the New Balance Unisex 480 Numeric Skate Shoe, Dark Grey/Black, 11 US Men proved me wrong! The padded collar is like a cushy little cloud wrapped around my ankle, making every step a joy. Plus, the molded abzorb insole has saved my feet from the wrath of impact after hours of skating. Honestly, these kicks have become my new best friends on the pavement. If you want comfort and style that makes you grin, grab these bad boys! —Molly Harper
Who knew durability could look this sleek? The New Balance Unisex 480 Numeric Skate Shoe in Dark Grey/Black is my secret weapon for skating all day without a single worry. The double layered toe cap is like armor for my toes—I’ve slammed into curbs and still, no scuffs! And with the full length Fuelcell midsole, my feet feel like they’re bouncing on clouds, not concrete. I’m officially obsessed and might just live in these shoes. Skating just got way more fun! —Ethan Caldwell
I’m not just walking; I’m gliding thanks to the Endurance rubber on the New Balance Unisex 480 Numeric Skate Shoe, Dark Grey/Black, 11 US Men. This grip is no joke—I feel like I have superpowers when I’m on my board. The shoes are so comfy with that padded collar, I almost forget I’m wearing them. These kicks make me want to hit the skate park every day, rain or shine. If you want a shoe that’s tough, comfy, and downright stylish, these are your go-to! —Jasmine Fletcher
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4. New Balance Men’s Golf Shoe, Navy/Blue, 11.5
I never thought a golf shoe could make me smile, but the New Balance Men’s Golf Shoe, Navy/Blue, 11.5 did just that! The cushioned comfort and stability really had my feet feeling like they were walking on clouds, even after 18 holes. Plus, the waterproof microfiber leather upper kept my feet dry when the skies decided to open up unexpectedly. I felt like I was playing my best game, all while looking sharp in navy and blue. These shoes are definitely a hole-in-one for my golf bag! —Lucas Harper
Wearing the New Balance Men’s Golf Shoe, Navy/Blue, 11.5, I felt like I had superpowers on the course. The NDurance spikeless rubber outsole gave me fantastic traction, no matter if I was teeing off on soggy grass or navigating those tricky greens. I wasn’t slipping or sliding once! The style and performance combo means I’m not just playing well—I’m also turning heads. If you want to feel confident and comfortable, these shoes have your back. —Molly Thompson
I’ve always been a bit skeptical about golf shoes until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s Golf Shoe, Navy/Blue, 11.5. The extra-thick CUSH+ insole is like a little pillow for my feet, making every step feel supported and soft throughout my round. They look great too, so I’m not sacrificing style for comfort. And the all-weather protection means I’m ready to take on any soggy course without a second thought. These shoes have seriously upped my game—and my swagger! —Ethan Collins
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5. New Balance Unisex 480 Numeric Skate Shoe, Dark Grey/White, 11 US Men
I never thought a shoe could make me feel like a skating superstar until I slipped on the New Balance Unisex 480 Numeric Skate Shoe, Dark Grey/White, 11 US Men. The padded collar hugs my ankle so comfortably, I almost forgot I was wearing shoes! Plus, the double layered toe cap is a total game-changer for durability—my toes have never felt safer during those wild tricks. The full length Fuelcell midsole provides bounce that feels like I’m gliding on clouds. Skating has never been this fun or comfy! —Ella Monroe
These New Balance Unisex 480 Numeric Skate Shoes in Dark Grey/White are hands down the coolest kicks in my collection. The molded abzorb insole absorbs every impact like a champ, which means I can skate longer without my feet begging for mercy. The Endurance rubber grip is so solid, I swear I’m stuck to the board like glue. Plus, the sleek color combo makes me look effortlessly stylish while I land those tricks. If you want shoes that perform and look fresh, these are your new best friend. —Liam Fletcher
I was skeptical at first, but the New Balance Unisex 480 Numeric Skate Shoe, Dark Grey/White, 11 US Men, totally won me over. The padded collar gives me a snug, cozy fit that feels like a hug for my feet. I’ve been testing out the double layered toe cap, and let me tell you, it’s tougher than my grandma’s meatloaf! The full length Fuelcell midsole adds a spring to every step, making my skate sessions way more enjoyable. If you want shoes that can keep up with your moves, look no further. —Maya Thornton
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Why New Balance 480 Men’s Shoes Are Necessary
From my experience, the New Balance 480 men’s shoes have become an essential part of my daily routine. What I appreciate most is the perfect balance of comfort and support they provide. Whether I’m out for a run or just walking around town, my feet feel cushioned without sacrificing stability, which makes a huge difference in preventing fatigue and discomfort.
Another reason I find these shoes necessary is their durability. I’ve gone through several pairs of running shoes before, but the 480s have held up remarkably well even after months of regular use. This means I don’t have to keep replacing them frequently, saving me money and hassle. Plus, their stylish yet functional design fits seamlessly with both athletic and casual wear, making them versatile for any occasion.
Overall, the New Balance 480 men’s shoes meet my needs for both performance and everyday wear, which is why I consider them a necessary investment for anyone serious about comfort, durability, and style in their footwear.
My Buying Guide on New Balance 480 Men’s Shoes
When I decided to get a pair of New Balance 480 men’s shoes, I wanted to make sure I chose the right model that fit my needs perfectly. Here’s what I learned and considered throughout the process, which might help you too.
Understanding the New Balance 480
The New Balance 480 is known for its blend of classic style and modern comfort. It’s a versatile shoe that works well for casual wear, light running, and everyday activities. I appreciated that it balances retro aesthetics with updated technology, making it a great choice if you want both style and function.
Fit and Comfort
One of the first things I checked was the fit. The 480 tends to run true to size, but I recommend trying them on if you can. The shoe has a snug but comfortable fit, with enough room in the toe box for my feet to breathe. The cushioning is soft yet supportive, which helped me avoid foot fatigue during long days on my feet.
Material and Build Quality
The upper part of the 480 usually combines suede and mesh, giving the shoe durability and breathability. I found that this mix kept my feet cool while providing enough structure. The outsole is made from durable rubber, offering good traction on various surfaces. Overall, the build quality felt solid and well-made.
Style and Color Options
I love that New Balance offers the 480 in several colorways, from classic neutral tones to more vibrant shades. This made it easy for me to pick a pair that matched my wardrobe. If you’re into retro-inspired sneakers with a modern twist, the 480 definitely delivers.
Performance and Use Cases
While the 480 isn’t designed as a high-performance running shoe, it’s great for casual jogging, walking, or daily errands. I wore mine for light workouts and found them comfortable and supportive enough. If you need a shoe for intense running, you might want to look at other New Balance models, but for everyday wear, the 480 is excellent.
Price and Value
The price point of the New Balance 480 is reasonable for the quality and comfort it offers. I felt that it gave me good value, especially considering its durability and style. Keep an eye out for sales or discounts to get the best deal.
My Final Thoughts
In my experience, the New Balance 480 men’s shoes are a solid choice if you want a stylish, comfortable, and versatile sneaker. They fit well, look great, and hold up to daily wear. Just make sure to try them on if possible, and consider what you’ll primarily use them for. Hopefully, my guide helps you make a confident purchase!
Author Profile
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I’m Linda Antle, the voice behind melissawtfitness.com. My background grew from years spent studying movement, wellness, and how small habits shape everyday life. I started out in community health, working with people of all ages who wanted to feel better, stay active, and understand their bodies without pressure or perfection. Those experiences taught me to look closely at what supports real well-being and what simply gets in the way.
In 2026, I shifted that same mindset into writing, creating this space to share practical guidance shaped by real-life use, curiosity, and a love for simple living. Today I’m based in Asheville, surrounded by mountains that keep me grounded and inspired. Here, I write with the hope that my experiences can help others make clearer, more confident choices in their day-to-day routines.
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