New Balance 288 Sport Black/Lime US Men's 11, Women's 12.5 Medium Review
The New Balance 288 Sport skate shoes fuse a vintage aesthetic with modern functionality, making them an ideal choice for skateboarders and casual wearers alike. These sneakers boast clean uppers crafted from durable suede and neoprene, ensuring they stand up to the rigors of skateboarding while maintaining a stylish appearance.
The design is based on classic '90s court models, now upgraded to tackle tough surfaces associated with skating. The shoe fits true to size, according to New Balance’s guidelines, allowing you to confidently choose your regular size without any worry about discomfort.
Related Products
Features
- Classic sneaker silhouette inspired by '90s court models
- Durable suede and neoprene uppers
- 4-way stretch mesh sock-like collar for a secure fit
- Clean one-piece toe to prevent blown-out stitching
- C-CAP midsole cushioning for all-day support
- Crating in the heel for optimized impact protection
Pros
- Stylish vintage-inspired design
- Exceptional durability suitable for skateboarding
- Comfortable fit with a sock-like collar
- Cushioned midsole provides great support
- Made either in the USA or imported
Cons
- Limited color options may not appeal to all
- Some users may find the fit snug
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Feature | New Balance 288 Sport | Adidas Skateboarding Busenitz | Nike SB Dunk Low |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upper Material | Suede/Neoprene | Leather | Leather/Synthetic |
| Cushioning | C-CAP Midsole | Lightweight EVA | Zoom Air Cushioning |
| Fit Type | True to Size | True to Size | True to Size |
| Skate-Specific Design | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Detailed Review
The New Balance 288 Sport skate shoes are designed not just for style but also for performance. The durable materials used, notably the suede and neoprene, provide excellent protection against wear and tear typically seen in skateboarding. Skaters will appreciate the reliable grip and impact protection offered by the crated outsole design, making every landing feel assured.
Furthermore, the 4-way stretch mesh collar adds to the comfort by providing a snug yet flexible fit around the ankle, which allows for ease of movement without compromising security. This feature stands out especially during intense skate sessions where foot stability is crucial.
However, it’s important to note that while most users find the fit to be true to size, those with wider feet might experience a tighter feeling. If you prefer more room in your footwear, considering going half a size up could be beneficial.
In conclusion, the New Balance 288 Sport skate shoes effectively balance vintage style with modern durability, making them a versatile option for both skaters and sneaker enthusiasts looking for dependable everyday wear.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Design | 4.5/5 | Classic style with a modern twist |
| Durability | 5/5 | Built to withstand the rigors of skateboarding |
| Comfort | 4/5 | Secure fit with cushioned midsole |
| Performance | 4.5/5 | Great grip and support for skateboarding |
| Value for Money | 4/5 | Good investment for quality skate shoes |
User Reviews
My husband loves them- he gets compliments often. They fit as expected and are wearing in well.
I have a wide foot and new balance was out of the 442 wide, I skated growing up and these are some of the most comfortable shoes I’ve worn in a long time. Will buy again!
Well, Amazon didn't like my 1st review,so I'll try to do another proper.These shoes looked normal onlineand out of the box. Except theydidn't have the shoe laces on,which I have never seen before.Upon trying them on, the 1stproblem was it doesn't have aregular detached tongue. It'sconnected like cheeks and makesthe shoe tight to get on.Too tight, actually.They felt more like 2 sizes smallerthan I ordered & it was labeled.The next problem is they are waytoo sloped forward, making aninternal high heel that hurts theankles and front of foot.So they hurt terribly in less thana minute I had to take them off.And have to waste time sendingthem back.
I love the look and the feel.
The N emblem on the sides of the shows is discolored - not pure white, there’s some type of gray smudges on them. Sending back. Paid full price what a rip