Nike and New Balance are two of the top sportswear manufacturers in the world, but you're probably which brand produces the best running shoes?
To help you come to a decision on which you should buy, we've compared some of the similarities and differences between the two, before coming to an overall verdict on which we think are best.
So, without further delay, let's dive in and figure out which out of Nike and New Balance produce the best running shoes around.
Nike vs New Balance Running Shoes - Price
One of the key factors to take into account when choosing between the two is the price.
To compare them, we've looked at two trainers that feature in our list of the best running shoes under 100.
By comparing these two budget picks, we can conclude that the New Balance Arishi V3's are slightly cheaper than comparable Nike Winflo 8's.
The same can be said at the upper end of the price scale, with these Nike Air Zoom Alphafly Next%'s costing slightly more than New Balances' FuelCell RC Elite v2's.
Nike vs New Balance Running Shoes - Performance
When it comes to performance, both Nike and New Balance running shoes seem equally matched.
Each brand's flagship running shoe models feature carbon fibre plates to deliver a snappy sensation with every stride, as well as rocker technology to increase forward momentum off the toe.
Furthermore, both are equipped with highly responsive, lightweight foam midsoles, with ZoomX and FuelCell foam both appearing extremely similar from a performance perspective on paper.
It is worth mentioning though that the Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next% 2's, which are similar to the Alphafly's, are slightly lighter than the aforementioned New Balance FuelCell RC Elite v2's.
The only thing is, although a 2016 study into the weight of shoes found that participants ran about 1% slower for every 3.5 ounces of lead added per shoe, the difference here is so minuscule that it's unlikely you'll even notice a difference.
It's also worth touching on the fact that this comparison is based on both Nike and New Balance's top running shoes.
This is because the difference between slightly cheaper alternatives and how they affect your performance will likely be less pronounced than with shoes that include the most advanced technology available.
Nike vs New Balance Running Shoes - Comfort
As mentioned above, both shoes have their own foam midsoles, so should be very comfortable to wear, especially under your feet, for longer workout sessions.
Not only that, but New Balance and Nike running shoes are both typically knitted, with Nike utilising its Flyknit technology, whilst New Balance opts for its Hypoknit fabric
With knitted fabrics, running shoes from either brand should provide excellent breathability, which is especially important during long runs.
The key difference between the two though is New Balance is one of the few running shoe manufacturers that offer wide widths, larger sizes, and even 2A, which is an extra narrow size type.
That means there's more likely a pair of New Balance running shoes that perfectly fit the shape of your feet compared to Nike's.
Which Should You Buy?
Choosing which manufacturer is best is difficult as both produce truly excellent running shoes, which is why Nike and New Balance are two of the leading sportswear brands on the market.
Although there are few differences in terms of performance, we'd say that, due to the additional sizes available and the generally lower price tags, New Balance running shoes are perhaps the better choice.
It's ultimately your decision though as the choice comes down to personal preference. If you're still unsure, we'd recommend seeing if you can try both Nike and New Balance shoes on to figure out which out of the two feels best on your feet.
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