The Final New Balance Opinion

The five week branding experiment is over. Here's my final opinion on my New Balance experience...

I've enjoyed being an 'opinion former' - getting a free pair of NBs in return for some rambling blogs seems a fair deal! It was interesting to take a closer look at some of the brands mentioned and to consider how they interact with people to sell their wares. It's a fascinating subject matter and the arena in which I work so all the more interesting for it. It's also been a good introduction to the New Balance brand - they are not a brand I was really familiar with, and so far their advertising has completely passed me by, so without this experiment they'd still be off my radar.

As for the boots themselves, I've worn them nearly every day since they arrived and on close inspection there's been minimal wear to the soles, minor creasing on the leather upper and no damage or failure in the construction. They've received a few favourable comments, are a perfect fit, very comfortable, don't squeak even on shiny floors, have really good grip on rough terrain, and I can walk for miles in them without any discomfort.

Suffice it to say, I will continue wearing the NBs for the foreseeable future. A major test will be their longevity - I'd expect a pair of boots in this price bracket to last about a year. My last pair of Timberland Earthkeepers, in a higher price bracket (but waterproof), went through the sole in just under a year so if they match that I will be impressed. As for style, they're just right for me - rugged without looking too serious, not 'showy' and not too young to make me look a pillock (I hope). Will definitely choose them for next trip abroad - they seem perfect for travel as are also lightweight and breathe pretty well (ie they're not humming yet).

I will definitely consider New Balance in the future - although don't ever recall seeing them on sale in any local retailers, but having already got a pair I now know the right size for my feet so can buy online in confidence.

Have I disliked anything about the project.... nope.

Thanks to 'the team' and to New Balance.