A New Balance concept store has finally landed in Queensland, and those who live near the Goldie can catch it IRL at Pacific Fair.
Fitted wall-to-wall with trainers, and complete with staff who live and breathe shoes (think the Carrie Bradshaws of athletic footwear), the arrival of a brick-and-mortar store is your sign to finally get the right size, shape and fit for your feet. The art of trying before buying should always stay alive in the shoe department.
To know exactly what shoe to hunt down once you’re through the flagship’s doors, we chatted to resident footwear and running expert Dan Walton ahead of the grand opening. You don’t have to be a runner to wear New Balance, but you should wear New Balance to run—according to Walton.
How To Pick Your Perfect Pair Of Kicks
When picking a running shoe, Walton says to think of them as tools in a runner’s toolkit. "You need certain tools for certain jobs, and that’s why a running shoe rotation is so vital to a runner’s performance and injury prevention," he says.
With a range that caters to anyone from elite Olympic athletes to first-time runners, the most important thing is getting the right fit. "Find the right size and model that’s best suited to your foot and gait pattern, as well as the type of running or training you intend on doing," he says.
"There's no such thing as ‘the best shoe'—this is going to be unique to the individual, based on their specific needs and requirements."
For Recovery Days
The New Balance 1080v13 is a super soft and plush neutral daily trainer that's built to eat up the miles.
Walton suggests going with the 1080v13 for easy days, when runners want something with a bit more comfort. The midsole cushioning is built for smooth transitions from landing to push-off, while the second skin-style mesh offers extra support and a super breathable fit.
"The Fresh Foam X midsole is incredibly cushioned underfoot, making it a go-to option for easy or recovery days," Walton says.
For Race Day
Arguably the fastest road shoe New Balance has ever made, the SC Elite v4 is built for race day. Best worn for a couple of pre-race sessions to wear in, these may just get you that elusive PB on the big day (no promises).
According to Walton, the FuelCell provides a super propulsive feeling, while the thin carbon plate makes it incredibly lightweight.
"Two layers of peba foam sandwiched between a curved full-length carbon plate make this shoe geared for PBs," he adds.
"In my opinion, it’s not only the fastest road shoe we've ever made with the greatest energy return, but one of the best underfoot experiences too. If I was racing an event, or wanted to attempt a PB, there's no other option for me."
For Everyday Use
The most versatile shoe within the Fuel Cell platform is the Rebelv4, coming in at less than 200 grams for a Men’s US 9.5.
The propulsive feel of FuelCell technology gives you a seriously responsive underfoot that can help you quickly adapt from long, steady runs to shorter and more spontaneous bursts.
Walton reckons these are perfect for the more experienced runner for uptempo or speed-based sessions, or on the second run of the day on tired legs.
"Or the more casual runner, looking for a sleek lightweight trainer to do all their workouts in," he adds.
For Long Runs
A favourite among runners for their Sunday long runs, these kicks were built for half and full-marathon training, delivering plenty of comfort for those extended distances.
The SC Trainer v3 is plush but responsive—and, according to Walton, versatile enough to vary the paces regardless of your session.
"New Balance was the first brand in the industry to introduce a carbon plate into training shoes, and continues to lead the way with the latest SC Trainer v3," he says.
So whether you've just caught wind of the running hype and want to get involved, or you're an Olympian training for the run of a lifetime, now's the time to hit the track or trail, join a run club or smash that PB—all right here from the Gold Coast.
Head in-store to Pacific Fair to explore New Balance’s full running portfolio and find your own perfect fit. While you're there, update your street style with the New Balance lifestyle range and MADE in USA collection.
Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by New Balance and proudly endorsed by The Urban List. To find out more about who we work with and why, read our editorial policy here.
Image: Supplied