I really like New Balance shoes, but they’re always so expensive that I never wind up getting a lot of pairs. In my opinion, the New Balance 997 is a model that gets slept on.
The 997 was designed by Steven Smith in 1990. It’s one of my all time favorite New Balance models due to its sleek profile shape and 90s aesthetic. Skip to the bottom of the article to find out where to get pairs for yourself!
How Are The Materials on the New Balance 997?
If you know anything about Made In USA New Balance models, they’re expensive for a reason. The materials and quality really reflect the craftsmanship that comes along with the high price tag.
The suede on these is super buttery and the 3M and mesh help tie the shoe together. I could spend several minutes just touching the suede!
Of course, not every pair is created equal. The 997 has other versions available such as the 997H which do not always have the same level of quality. Be sure to double check whether the 997s you’re getting are from the Made In USA line if you want a better chance of getting that legendary quality.
How Do New Balance 997 Fit?
The New Balance 997 Made In USA fit true to size and are very comfy. The narrower toebox gives these a closer fit; wide footers might consider going up a half size from their normal size.
They feature the same type of cushioning as other pairs of NBs and are a great shoe to wear for long periods of time. I almost feel like I could have gone a half size down, but these still fit really well. The shape of course is perfection and all in all I highly suggest getting a pair of 997s even if you don’t get this colorway. A must have for the collection in my opinion!
Where To Buy the New Balance 997
You can sometimes find pairs on the New Balance website. More often than not though, they sell out quickly and so online sneaker boutiques and aftermarket sites like eBay are helpful.
See below for links to different 997 colorways I personally own or have owned:
997 Connoisseur Retro Ski
Colorway: Red / Navy / Silver
Style Code: M997CSIY
Year of Release: 2015
MSRP: $210
Buy: eBay
997 Explore By Sea
Colorway: Grey / Orange
Style Code: M997CSEA
Year of Release: 2016
MSRP: $210
997 Coastal Pack
Colorway: Pink / Tan / Light Blue
Style Code: M997LBH
Year of Release: 2019
MSRP: $210
997 Less Is More Mint
Colorway: Green / Mint
Style Code: M997CSOB
Year of Release: 2020
MSRP: $220
Buy: eBay
997 Seasonal Colors
Colorway: Grey / Mint
Style Code: M997SOA
Year of Release: 2020
MSRP: $180
Buy: eBay
997 Yellow Toe
Colorway: Grey / Orange
Style Code: M997PT
Year of Release: 2020
MSRP: $170
Buy: eBay