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New Balance leather walking shoes are popular because they combine durable leather with other unique shoe technologies that help provide important things like cushioning, support, and stability. If you prefer leather walking shoes, what are your options?
This is a list of New Balance leather walking shoes:
- New Balance 840v3 – Breathable leather with athletic design and padded collar (click here to view)
- New Balance 813v1 – A flexible leather walking shoe w/ ROLLBAR heel stability (click here to view)
- New Balance 877v1 – A breathable suede leather upper with cushioned midsole (click here to view)
- New Balance 928v3 – Leather, with extra cushioning and ROLLBAR heel stability (click here to view)
- New Balance 608v5 – A leather gym trainer that can also be used for walking (click here to view)
- New Balance 577v1 – Leather upper with cushioning in midsole to reduce stress (click here to view)
- New Balance 624v2 – A leather gym trainer that can also be used for walking (click here to view)
- New Balance 990v5 – An athletic shoe w/ breathable suede upper made in USA (click here to view)
- New Balance 857v3 – A leather gym trainer shoe with ROLLBAR heel stability (click here to view)
- New Balance 1300v1 – A leather outdoor hiker shoe w/ waterproof membrane (click here to view)
- New Balance 1400v1 – A high top version of the 1300. Durable outdoor hiker (click here to view)
New Balance is always updating and offering new options. Although this list is updated periodically, you can always check for new arrivals. This is where you can view the new arrivals available at NewBalance.com (paid affiliate link takes you to NewBalance.com).
New Balance does offer leather walking shoes with hook and loop closures (no-tie). The 813v1, 928v3, and 577v1 listed above are also offered with hook and loop closures.
I recently put my hands on over 30 different types of New Balance shoes to compare them on many things, including weight, comfort, and design. In this article let’s take a closer look at some of my favorite New Balance leather walking shoes.
New Balance Leather Walking Shoes
New Balance W840v3
The New Balance W840v3 is a leather walking/casual shoe built with breathable leather and I found it to be more flexible than many other New Balance leather walking shoes. The thing that jumps out the most about this shoe is how comfortable it is around the collar. There is noticeably more padding in this collar than many other types of walking shoes.
Here’s mine:
As you can see, the leather upper is also made to be breathable, which is something that differentiates it from many other leather walking shoes.
To give you an idea how they respond on a foot, here I am wearing mine:
The New Balance W840v3 is also much more flexible than many other types of New Balance leather walking shoes (the 813 is also very flexible). In the videos below I tried to capture how flexible these shoes are:
The one drawback with this shoe is it doesn’t have the New Balance ROLLBAR technology for heel stability. If that is something you need, the 813 we discuss next will be the better option.
Regarding sizing, New Balance W840v3 shoes fit true to size. They have a fit that is very comparable to other types of athletic casual shoes. I ordered my normal sizing and they fit comfortably.
This shoe is built using the SL-2 last, which is designed to create a wider forefoot area and a deeper toe box (learn more about W840v3 width). However, the SL-2 will *most likely* not be wide enough in standard form to overcome the need for wide sizing. In most cases, even on a wider last like the SL-2, you should still order wide sizing if you normally order wide sizing in shoes.
For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance W840v3 (right) compared to Adidas 2k Boost and Skechers Afterburn (version MW840v3):
To get a better idea of how wide these shoes are, below is the width of my New Balance W840v3 shoes (standard) compared to the Nike Air Monarch 4E (which is a popular extra wide shoe):
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the W840v3 Sizing comparison photos that I took which compare the MW840 side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
The main takeaway is think of the 840v3 as a sort of hybrid between an athletic shoe and a walking shoe. It provides flexible comfort, and is also quite breathable for a walking shoe. The drawback? If you prioritize heel stability, there will be better options (like the 813).
New Balance 813v1
The New Balance 813v1 is another New Balance leather walking shoe that I found to be very flexible. The flexibility surprised me a little bit because this shoe has New Balance’s ROLLBAR heel stability for extra support, so I was expecting a stiffer design. But as you will see in the videos below, it is actually quite flexible and responsive.
Here’s mine:
To give you an idea how the 813 responds on a foot, here I am wearing mine:
As you can see, it does have the Rollbar technology along the heel, which helps prevent rearfoot movement for better balance control.
Again, what surprised me about these shoes were how flexible they were despite having the Rollbar technology and being made with leather. In the videos below I tried to capture how flexible these shoes are:
As you can see above, the shoe bends and twists very easily.
Regarding sizing, New Balance 813v1 shoes fit true to size for most people. However, some people find that the 813 fits just a little bit smaller than their normal shoe size regarding length. If you are in-between sizes, it may be best to size up.
This shoe is built using the SL-2 last, which is designed to create a wider forefoot area and a deeper toe box (learn more about 813 width). However, the SL-2 will *most likely* not be wide enough in standard form to overcome the need for wide sizing. In most cases, even on a wider last like the SL-2, you should still order wide sizing if you normally order wide sizing in shoes.
For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance 813 (right) compared to Reebok Classics and Nike Air Max Excee (version 813v1):
To get a better idea of how wide these shoes are, below is the width of my New Balance 813 shoes (standard) compared to the Nike Air Monarch 4E (which is a popular extra wide shoe):
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the 813v1 sizing comparison photos that I took which compare the 813 side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
The main takeaway is the 813v1 provides a durable leather upper that is surprisingly flexible while also providing rearfoot stability (the 813 is very similar to the 577). The one drawback is breathability. If you prefer a more breathable shoe, the W840v3 we discussed first may be best (or the 877 we discuss next).
New Balance 877v1
The New Balance 877v1 is a suede leather walking shoe that also incorporates mesh on the upper which not only helps improve breathability, it also helps reduce the weight of the shoe. Here’s a look at mine:
To give you an idea how the 877 responds on a foot, here I am wearing mine:
These shoes are very flexible and responsive, and do not feel stiff. In the videos below, I tried to capture how flexible these shoes are so that you can judge for yourself:
Regarding sizing, the New Balance 877 shoes fit true to size for most people. They have a fit that is very comparable to other types of casual sneakers. I ordered my normal sizing and they fit comfortably.
This shoe is built using the SL-2 last, which is designed to create a wider forefoot area and a deeper toe box (learn more about 877 width). However, the SL-2 will *most likely* not be wide enough in standard form to overcome the need for wide sizing. In most cases, even on a wider last like the SL-2, you should still order wide sizing if you normally order wide sizing in shoes.
For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance 877 (right) compared to Skechers Go Walk and Crocs sizing (version 877v1):
To get a better idea of how wide these shoes are, below is the width of my New Balance 877 shoes (standard) compared to the Nike Air Monarch 4E (which is a popular extra wide shoe):
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the 877v1 Sizing comparison photos that I took which compare the 877 side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
The main takeaway this 877 suede New Balance leather walking shoe offers a breathable design with premium flexibility. If you are looking for all-leather, this shoe obviously won’t be the right option for you. But if you prioritize breathability, this will be perhaps the best option.
New Balance 928v3
The New Balance 928v3 is another all-leather walking shoe, and like the 813 we discussed earlier, this 928 shoe has the New Balance ROLLBAR technology for heel stability (813 vs 928 compared). What separates this shoe is it also has extra cushioning in the midsole to help reduce impact stress.
Here’s mine:
To give you an idea how the 928 responds on a foot, here I am wearing mine:
As you can see, this 928 New Balance leather walking shoe has the Rollbar technology along the heel, which helps prevent rearfoot movement for better balance control.
This is a very comfortable shoe to wear, however, I did not find this shoe to be quite as flexible as the 813v1 we discussed earlier. In the video below I tried to capture how flexible these shoes are:
Regarding sizing, New Balance 928 shoes fit true to size for most people. They have a fit that is very comparable to other types of athletic casual shoes. I ordered my normal sizing and they fit comfortably.
This shoe is built using the SL-2 last, which is designed to create a wider forefoot area and a deeper toe box (learn more about 928 width). However, the SL-2 will *most likely* not be wide enough in standard form to overcome the need for wide sizing. In most cases, even on a wider last like the SL-2, you should still order wide sizing if you normally order wide sizing in shoes.
For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance 928 (right) compared to Skechers Afterburn and Nike Air Max Excee sizing (version 928v3):
To get a better idea of how wide these shoes are, below is the width of my New Balance 928 shoes (standard) compared to the Nike Air Monarch 4E (which is a popular extra wide shoe):
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the 928v3 Sizing comparison photos that I took for both men and women which compare the 928 side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
The main takeaway is the 928v3 is a durable leather walking shoe that not only has Rollbar stability but also offers extra impact absorption in the midsole. The one drawback is flexibility. If you prefer a more flexible leather shoe, the 813v1 or the W840v3 we discussed earlier may be the better option.
New Balance 624v2
The New Balance 624v2 is actually a leather gym training shoe, but can also be used for walking. This might make it a nice option if you are looking for a New Balance leather walking shoe that you can use for walking, but also use it at the gym.
Here’s mine:
In my experience, the New Balance 624 shoes have a comfortable fit. To give you an idea how the 624 responds on a foot, here I am wearing mine:
Because these are gym trainers, they are built to provide both support and flexibility. Don’t think of these as stiff leather shoes. They are quite flexible.
In the videos below, I tried to capture how flexible these shoes are:
Regarding sizing, New Balance 624 shoes fit true to size for most people. They have a fit that is very comparable to other types of casual sneakers. I ordered my normal sizing and they fit comfortably.
It is built using the MX-001 last, which is designed to create a standard fit in the forefoot and toe box. In my experience, New Balance 624 shoes do not fit too wide or too narrow.
For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance 624 (right) compared to Nike Air Max Excee and Adidas 2k Boost:
To get a better idea of how wide these shoes are, below is the width of my New Balance 624 shoes (standard) compared to the Nike Air Monarch 4E (which is a popular extra wide shoe):
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the 624v2 Sizing comparison photos that I took which compare the 624 side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
The main takeaway is the 624 is a gym shoe, that can also be used for light exercise like walking. This might be particularly useful for you if you are looking for a shoe to use for both. To read more, visit my article that discusses using the New Balance 624 as a walking and running shoe.
New Balance 1300v1
The New Balance 1300v1 is unique compared to other New Balance leather walking shoes because this shoe is designed to be a hiking shoe. If you will be walking on rugged outdoor terrain, this will likely be your best option (or the 1400, which is the high-top version). This shoe is made with a leather upper, and is also waterproof.
Here’s a look at mine:
To give you an idea how the 1300 responds on a foot, here I am wearing mine:
In the videos below, I tried to capture the flexibility of the 1300:
Because the 1300 is built with a durable upper and more rugged outsole, it isn’t as flexible as some of the other New Balance leather walking shoes on this list. Still, I found it to provide a comfortable fit.
Regarding sizing, New Balance 1300 shoes fit true to size for most people. They have a fit that is very comparable to other types of athletic hiking shoes. I ordered my normal sizing and they fit comfortably.
For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance 1300 (right) compared to Asics and Adidas sizing (version 1300v1):
In my experience, New Balance 1300 shoes have a regular width. For comparison, here is the width of my New Balance 1300 (medium) compared to the Nike Air Monarch 4E, a popular extra wide shoe:
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the 1300v1 Sizing comparison photos that I took which compare the 1300 side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
The main takeaway is the 1300v1 will be your best option if you are walking on rugged, outdoor terrain. It provides a durable outsole and is waterproof. It also has New Balance ROLLBAR technology for heel stability.
New Balance Leather Walking Shoes FAQ
Which New Balance Leather Walking Shoes Have Rollbar?
If you are searching for a New Balance leather shoe that has Rollbar technology, the 813, 928, 1300, 1400 and 857 all have the Rollbar technology. To read about other options, visit our article about New Balance shoes that have Rollbar support.
What are the Best Lightweight Options?
If you prefer a lightweight leather walking shoe, I found the W840v3 (which was my favorite option) to weigh much less than other options. This shoe is built like an athletic shoe and does not feel heavy on the foot. My size 12 men’s shoe weighs 0.89 pounds per shoe.
I recently tried over 30 different types of New Balance shoes. This is where you can see the comparison weight chart to compare weights.
Do New Balance Walking Shoes Fit True to Size?
Most New Balance shoes fit true to size regarding length. Out of the shoes on this list, I found the 813 to fit maybe just a tiny bit smaller than normal shoe sizing regarding length. If you want to do a deep dive on sizing, visit my article about New Balance sizing.
Which New Balance Walking Shoes are Best for Wide Feet?
Many types of New Balance walking shoes are built using the SL-2 last. A last, or last mold, is what helps form the fit and shape of a shoe.
If you prefer a wider forefoot area and a deeper, roomier toe box area, then a New Balance shoe using the SL-2 last will be a good option. The SL-2 last is a straight last commonly used for athletic and walking shoes that creates a narrower fit around the heel, but a wider forefoot area in combination with a deeper toe box.
On this list, the 813, 928, 877, 577, and the 840v3 use this wider last. To read more, visit my article about the width of New Balance shoes.
What is the Best New Balance Leather Walking Shoe?
As I mentioned earlier in the article, my favorite is the W840v3. It has a flexible design that feels like an athletic shoe, and the leather is very breathable. Click here to view the W840v3 available for both men and women at NewBalance.com (paid affiliate link takes you to NewBalance.com).
But if you need extra stability and support, a walking shoe with ROLLBAR technology will be best. The 813v1 has the ROLLBAR, and I found it to be surprisingly flexible despite being made with leather and prioritizing support. Click here to view the 813 shoes available at Amazon.com (paid affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com).
For breathability, I like either the W840v3 or the 877v1. The 877 actually uses suede leather and incorporates mesh paneling to help increase breathability and reduce weight. Click here to view the 877 shoes for both men and women at NewBalance.com (paid affiliate link takes you to NewBalance.com).