Lets dive deeper into one of the hottest sneakers of the year so far: the New Balance 550. If you've been keeping up with the latest sneaker releases, you've likely seen these shoes all over Instagram, Tiktok, and YouTube and for good reason!
This retro sneaker has made a major comeback in recent years and has become a must-have for sneaker enthusiasts. So, why exactly are these shoes so popular? Let's break it down.
Timeless Design Of The 550s
One of the main reasons that the New Balance 550 has become so popular is due to its timeless design. The 550 is a modern take on a classic basketball shoe from the 80s, and it's all about the retro vibe designed by legendary sneaker architect Steven Smith in 1989.
The 550s have a clean, minimalist look that has stood the test of time. The sneaker's retro design is versatile enough to be paired with a wide range of outfits, from more casual streetwear to even being paired with formal attire at a more dressy event.
The shoe's low-cut silhouette is sleek and simple, with clean lines and minimal branding. The colorways are on point too, with a range of options from bold primary colors to more subtle shades.
New Balance has done an excellent job of bringing back the 80s aesthetic in a fresh and modern way. This is why they are one of the most stylish and popular street sneakers in the 2020s.
Comfort, Fit And Quality
New Balance has been around for over a century, and the brand has a reputation for producing high-quality sneakers that are both comfortable and durable. The 550 is no exception, featuring a cushioned sole and supportive upper that make it an ideal choice for everyday wear.
As much as we all care about the look of our sneakers, comfort is just as important. And, of course the New Balance 550 does not disappoint in that department - adding to their popularity.
The shoe's cushioned midsole provides ample support, making it a great option for those who are on their feet all day. The tongue and collar are also padded for extra comfort, which is a nice touch.
Whether you're wearing them to the gym or just for a casual day out, the 550s will keep your feet happy. There's a reason why Tiktokers can dance in them all day long...
The fit of the New Balance 550 is also a big part of its appeal. Unlike some other popular sneakers, the 550s have a roomier fit that accommodates a variety of foot shapes and sizes. This makes them a comfortable choice for people with wider feet or those who struggle to find the right fit in other sneakers.
Fit is always a major concern when it comes to sneakers, and the New Balance 550 runs true to size - making them a very popular sneaker that's easy to buy.
However, it's worth noting that the shoe's low-cut silhouette may be more appealing to those who want more ankle mobility. If you're used to wearing high-tops like the Nike Dunk, the New Balance 550 may take a bit of getting used to.
But once you've broken them in, they're as comfortable as any other sneaker which is why they're so popular.
Limited Releases And Resell Value
Of course, the limited availability of certain colorways has also contributed to the New Balance 550's popularity. One thing that's impossible to ignore when it comes to the New Balance 550 is its resell value.
Some versions of the sneaker have sold out almost immediately upon release, driving up market prices on secondary sites like PUSHAS. While this may be frustrating for those who missed out on the initial release, it has only added to the hype surrounding the sneaker.
The shoe has been known to sell for well above its retail price, with some pairs fetching over $500.
This is partly due to the fact that the New Balance 550 was initially released in limited quantities, but as demand has grown, more pairs have become available.
It's always a good idea to keep an eye on release dates and set reminders for drops if you're looking to snag a pair.
And if you can't grab a pair at retail, PUSHAS is your next best bet with fair prices, premium service and being the most trusted in Australia for authentic sneakers.
New Balance 550s Compared to Nike Dunks
The New Balance 550 has often been compared to the Nike Dunk, another classic sneaker that's been re-released in recent years. Picking between the two are like picking your favourite children... it's impossible.
While both shoes have a similar retro aesthetic, the Nike Dunk Lows has a wider range of colorways to choose from. In terms of comfort, both shoes have their fans, but the New Balance 550's cushioned midsole gives it a slight edge in that department.
As for fit, both shoes run true to size, but the New Balance 550's low-cut silhouette may be more appealing to those who want more ankle mobility.
Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. The Nike Dunk has been around longer and has a more storied history, but the New Balance 550 is a fresh take on a classic silhouette that's worth checking out.
Sure, Nike Dunk Lows are more popular than New Balance 550s, but in terms of which sneaker is categorically better, it's a draw from us.
Are New Balance 550s Still Popular?
New Balance 550s were really popular for a minute in 2021 and many have argued that they're now gone out of style. At PUSHAS, we're definitely not seeing this happening.
New Balance has released several new colorways of the shoe in recent months, and pairs continue to sell out if they're limited release and not general release (i.e. ongoing supply at stores). In fact, New Balance 550 collaborations with high-end retailers like Aimé Leon Dore and JJJJound continue to fetch a high resale price on the secondary market with pretty decent sales volumes.
The New Balance 550 has also benefited from the resurgence of 90s and early 2000s fashion. Many trends from this era have made a comeback in recent years, from chunky sneakers to baggy jeans. The retro design of the 550 fits perfectly with this trend, making them a popular choice for those looking to add a touch of nostalgia to their outfits.
New Balance 550s are still one of the hottest sneakers right now. Similar to Nike Dunk Lows, this popular silhouette is not going away.
Will The New Balance 550 Continue To Be Popular?
So, what's next for the New Balance 550? While it's impossible to predict the future, it's clear that this shoe has become a fan favorite. New Balance has been releasing new colorways on a regular basis, and collaborations with other brands and designers are likely to continue.
As for the resell value, it's hard to say if the New Balance 550 will continue to sell for high prices.
It's possible that the hype will die down if other brands and silhouettes take over sneaker culture. However, it's safe to say that the hype surrounding the New Balance 550 doesn't show any signs of slowing down anytime soon.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're a fan of the retro design or just looking for a comfortable shoe to wear all day, the 550s are perfect - which is why they've seen a resurgence and have been so popular in Australia and around the world.
That's it for today's breakdown of the New Balance 550, sneakerheads. I hope this has given you a better understanding of why this retro sneaker has become such a must-have for sneaker enthusiasts.
If you don't have a pair yet, maybe you should test the waters and purchase a pair off the PUSHAS New Balance Collection.
Who knows, the New Balance 550 may just become your new go-to sneaker.
