Best New Balance sneakers for kids' travel | Bash

Best New Balance sneakers for kids' travel | Bash

Choosing New Balance sneakers for kids who travel

When we help families pack for a trip, the shoes we reach for first are the ones that make moving through airports, taxi rides and new streets effortless. For travel, we prioritise a few clear things: low weight, reliable cushioning, simple fastenings, and good outsole grip so kids can keep up without sore feet. Those priorities shape which New Balance models we recommend and why.

What to look for in a travel sneaker

Lightweight midsoles and breathable uppers to reduce fatigue on long days.
Secure closures - Velcro or single-pull laces - for quick changes at security and during rest stops.
Soft yet responsive cushioning for walking between terminals or sightseeing.
Durable rubber soles with shallow tread that won’t pick up gravel or catch in cobbles.
Easy-clean materials for sandy beaches or rainy days.

New Balance offers several kid-specific versions of its classic silhouettes that align well with these needs. For a go-to, the 574 family for kids is a durable, everyday option with foam cushioning and a sturdy outsole that holds up on mixed surfaces.

Quick style notes we use when packing

For toddlers and younger children we lean toward slip-on or hook-and-loop styles that reduce time spent tying laces. For older kids who walk longer distances, moderate-cushion running-inspired styles (light midsole foam plus breathable mesh) give the best balance of comfort and weight. If you want to see a curated selection while you shop, check our Kids collection or browse the dedicated kids' sneakers on Bash for sizes and colours that suit your trip.

Price expectations in South Africa

In South Africa you can typically find kid-sized New Balance styles in a broad price range depending on model and tech. Entry to mid-range kids' styles often sit around R800-R1 100, while trendier or more technical junior models can be R1 600-R1 900 or higher. For example, some kids' New Balance styles retail for about R999 in mainstream stores, while performance-influenced juniors can be nearer to R1 899 in specialist shops - these figures are examples from local retailers and should be taken as guides rather than fixed prices.

Add as a preferred source on Google

Here are the New Balance families we choose most often for travel, and the practical reasons we like each one.

1. New Balance 574 (kids)

A versatile classic with reliable EVA-style cushioning and a resistant rubber outsole - a good all-rounder for mixed urban travel. Families tell us the 574’s balance of structure and comfort makes it a useful everyday travel shoe.

2. Fresh Foam Roav (kids)

If you want softer underfoot cushioning for longer walking days, Fresh Foam midsoles provide that responsive ride in a lightweight package. The Roav versions for kids use breathable uppers and noticeably cushioned soles - helpful when a day of sightseeing turns into an unexpected adventure. ([newbalance.ca](https://www.newbalance.ca/en_ca/pd/fresh-foam-roav/MROAVRB-D-115.html?bvstate=pg%3A4%2Fct%3Ar))

3. Lightweight lifestyle/running juniors

New Balance’s junior running-inspired silhouettes (the brand rotates names and seasonal models) often combine mesh uppers with practical midsole foam - they’re a solid pick if you expect lots of walking but still want a sleek look. Local stores frequently carry these designs for kids across the market.

How to fit and what to buy in-store or online

Fit matters more than a model name. We follow podiatric guidance: measure both feet, fit at the end of the day when feet are slightly larger, and leave about a thumb’s width (roughly 1-1.5 cm) of space at the toe for movement. If your child has foot concerns, consult a specialist before buying. These simple steps cut down returns and make travel days far smoother. ([apma.org](https://www.apma.org/document-server/?cfp=%2Fapmamain%2Fassets%2Ffile%2Fpublic%2Fpatients%2Fhelpful-kids-shoe-shopping-tips.pdf))

Packing tip: bring a lightweight spare pair (slip-on or sandals) and pack insoles for added day-of-use cushioning - you can swap them in for longer walks without changing the fit too much.

Shopping on Bash and next steps

We make it simple to compare sizes, closure types and price bands. Explore our kids sneakers collection and filter for Velcro, slip-on or cushioned midsoles to match your travel plans. If you want a quick look at brand ranges while you shop, our Brands area helps you see what’s in stock across suppliers.

Ready to pick a pair? Choose the one that matches your child’s typical day on holiday (short walks vs long sightseeing), take the measuring steps above, and check return options so sizing changes are stress-free.

Sources above give product specifics, local price examples, and practical fit guidance so you can pick the right New Balance sneaker for your child’s next trip.