Shoppers Are Bypassing Hoka to Purchase $54 Sneakers from This Iconic 100-Year-Old Brand

By Mariana Best

Published on May 31, 2025 07:00AM EDT

As a marathon runner and avid walker who averages around 20,000 steps each day, I take my shoes pretty seriously. I’ve suffered through it all: blisters, heel spurs, bunions, plantar fasciitis, you name it, and after over a decade of trial and error, I always crawl back to New Balance sneakers for longer jaunts.  

New Balance, once playfully regarded as a “dad shoe” brand, now makes footwear popular among high-performance athletes and casual strollers alike. Its 608 V5 Cross Trainer is currently making a splash on Amazon, with customers even opting for the budget-friendly shoe as an alternative to fan-favorite Hokas and Nikes. Starting at $54, the 608 V5 has garnered praise for its supportive arch, durability and fashion-forward design—and it’s a fraction of a price as its competitors. Plus, the sneakers are available in standard, wide, and narrow sizes, so there are plenty of options to choose from.

New Balance 608 V5 Cross Trainer Sneakers

New Balance shoes have earned their place on my shoe rack thanks to their durable construction; each pair I’ve owned has held up for over a year. The 608 V5s feature a strong leather upper and rubber outsole to withstand regular use, and are designed for maximum shock absorption during activities with enhanced midfoot cushioning. They make a great go-to pair for walking, as well as cross training, tennis, and other high-intensity activities. 

The shoes are pretty slick, too: With options from all-black to all-white, the versatile 608 V5s pair well with athletic gear and casual fits. Throw them on with leggings or denim for a classic look.

More than 28,200 reviewers at Amazon gave the sneakers a perfect five-star rating. “One of the best pairs of shoes I’ve ever owned. They are so supportive of your arches and heels,” remarked one shopper. “Absolutely no need to break them in,” shared a second reviewer, adding, “Super comfortable and very cute.” A third shopper wrote, “Nice arch support, good quality and wear like steel. They are lightweight and easy to walk a distance in.”

Slip into a new comfy pair of New Balance 605 V5 Cross Trainer sneakers, or keep shopping below for even more shoes to wear for everyday comfort and workouts from Amazon.

Skechers Go Walk Flex Hands Free Slip-ins-Grand Entry Sneakers

Brooks Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoes

Asics Gel-Kayano 31 Running Shoes

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 Supportive Running Shoes

Hoka Clifton 9 Running Shoes