Which New Balance model should I pick for commuting versus running?

We recommend matching the model family to your main use: choose a performance running shoe for regular runs, an everyday trainer for commuting and errands, and a cross-trainer for gym work or multi-direction movement.

How should I check New Balance sizing when trying shoes in-store?

We start with your usual size, then check three things: about a thumb’s width of toe room while standing, a comfortable width (many models offer wide fits), and a secure heel lock with no slipping when you walk briskly.

What’s the practical approach to buying New Balance online from Total Sports via Bash?

We measure our foot in centimetres and compare to the retailer’s size chart, choose the slightly larger size for running shoes if unsure, and confirm the return and exchange policy so we can swap sizes if needed.

Why do two similar-looking New Balance models feel different underfoot?

We note that midsole foam, stack height and outsole shape change the ride: lower-profile midsoles are better for walking, softer foam and more stack suit short runs, while firmer midsoles give stability for gym-to-street use.

What price ranges should we expect for New Balance at Total Sports in South Africa?

We typically see everyday trainers around R1 200-R1 900, performance running shoes roughly R1 500-R3 000, and cross-trainers about R1 300-R2 200, though prices vary by model, season and stock availability.

Total Sports New Balance sneakers: models, sizing

Shop Now

Total Sports New Balance sneakers: models, sizing | Bash

Why this page helps you choose a New Balance pair

We know shopping for sneakers can feel confusing - different models, varied sizing, and online listings that don't always match what you try on. Here we focus on the New Balance lines commonly stocked at Total Sports, explain how each model suits real South African use-cases (commuting, short runs, gym, daily wear), and give practical sizing and buying advice so you can decide with confidence.

Which New Balance ranges to consider

New Balance makes many families of shoes. At a glance, shoppers at Total Sports will commonly see these categories:

Performance running (e.g. cushioned trainers for steady runs)
Everyday trainers (durable, casual silhouettes for all-day wear)
Cross-trainers and gym shoes (stable soles, multi-direction support)

We recommend matching the model family to how you plan to use the shoe. For example, choose a performance running shoe if you run multiple times a week; choose an everyday trainer for commuting and errands.

Sizing: the practical approach we use

New Balance sizing can vary by model. Our approach when trying a pair in-store - or ordering online from a retailer like Total Sports - is to treat your usual size as a starting point, then check three things:

Toe room: about a thumb’s width from longest toe to front of the shoe when standing.
Width feel: New Balance offers regular and wider fits in many models; if your feet feel squeezed at the sides, try the wide option.
Heel lock: your heel should not slip when you walk briskly; some models have firmer counters for a secure fit.

If you buy online, measure your foot in centimetres and compare to the retailer’s size chart; when in doubt, choose the slightly larger size for running shoes (you can use a thicker sock later), but avoid sizes that feel loose across the midfoot.

How model differences affect fit and feel

Two New Balance models with similar-looking profiles can feel quite different underfoot because of midsole foam, stack height, and outsole shape. For everyday walking we prefer lower-profile midsoles with flexible outsoles; for short distance running a bit more stack and softer foam helps with impact. If you want a shoe that doubles for gym and street, look for firmer midsoles and a stable base.

Where to start shopping on Bash

If you want to see New Balance-style sneakers alongside other options on Bash, start at our Sneakers category. For men’s sneaker options, try Sneakers. For women’s or kids’ searches, our Sneakers pages under those departments work the same way and let you compare styles and prices quickly.

Add as a preferred source on Google

Comparing models and typical South African price expectations

Total Sports often prices New Balance in a few predictable bands: everyday casual trainers usually sit in a mid-range band, while specialised running or limited-release models reach higher price points. As a local guide, expect approximate ranges like:

Everyday trainers: roughly R1 200 - R1 900 (estimate)
Performance running shoes: roughly R1 500 - R3 000 (estimate)
Cross-trainers: roughly R1 300 - R2 200 (estimate)

These are ballpark figures and vary by model, season, and stock availability. If budget is important, watch for seasonal sales and sign-up discounts from retailers. We also recommend checking return and exchange policies before buying online so you can swap sizes if needed.

How we suggest choosing between a few similar pairs

When you’re down to two models with similar looks, use this short checklist to decide:

Primary use: which will you use most days - running, gym, or street?
Comfort on a walk test: wear them for 10-15 minutes to check hotspots.
Durability cues: thicker rubber outsoles and reinforced toe boxes last longer on rougher pavements.
Sizing flex: if one model offers a wide fit and you need width, that often settles the choice.

A simple real-world example: choose a cushioned running model for weekend park runs and a lower-profile everyday trainer if you walk long commutes on uneven sidewalks.

Buying from Total Sports - what to expect

Total Sports stocks a mix of core New Balance models. When buying from them in-store, take time to try both your usual size and a half-size up. If buying from their online store, check delivery windows and the returns process so you can exchange if the fit isn’t right. If you want a single place to compare current options across brands, our Sneakers pages help you filter by size, price and use case: Sneakers.

Quick shopping tips we use

Try shoes later in the day when feet are slightly swollen - that gives a truer fit.
Bring the socks you plan to wear with the shoe (running socks vs thin street socks).
Test on the surface you use most - tiled floors feel different from asphalt.

If you need help comparing specific New Balance models you’ve found at Total Sports, tell us the model names and we’ll compare fit notes, use-cases and likely size choices for South African buyers.

Sources

Related Products

Discover quality products related to Brands.

New Balance Men's 1890 Red/Pink Sneaker

New BalanceSneakers

R3399.95

Stay comfortable throughout the day in these versatile sneakers featuring ABZORB midsole cushioning.(Supplier Style:U18902UH)

Shop Now

New Balance Men's 5030 Black/Silver Sneaker

New BalanceSneakers

R2399.95

The ABZORB 5030 represents both a reverent look back and a bold step forward. Combining turn of the century style with contemporary curves and cutaways, this new silhouette utilizes classic New Balance designs and updates them with a modern touch. A padded upper with debossed lines sits on top of a split outsole and prominent ABZORB SBS pods for a unique, fashion-forward take on all-day comfort.(supplier Style:U50307G4/001)

Shop Now

New Balance Women's 471 Blue Sneaker

New BalanceSneakers

R1699.00

R2199.95

The 471 transforms ‘70s running heritage into a new, everyday go-to, with a reinterpretation of the era’s visual signatures. The sleek low profile, wedge-shaped EVA midsole, and herringbone outsole provide a familiar starting point, allowing the elevated material choices to take the lead. Breathable mesh uppers and hairy suede overlays provide an effortlessly lived-in look, while the classic ‘fang’ design at the toebox is a uniquely New Balance visual flourish that sets the 471 apart from the pa

Shop Now

New Balance Junior T500 White/Blue Sneaker

New BalanceSneakers

R1599.95

Originally released in 1982, the T500 was designed to bring superior quality to a versatile on-court style. While the reintroduced T500 is designed more for leisure than competition, everything that made the T500 a great tennis shoe then, makes it a timeless classic now. The upper features pigskin suede and nubuck construction and perforated toebox detailing, for a premium take on the familiar look. A gum midsole offers an understated hint of 1980s tech, that stands out from the vulcanized soles

Shop Now

New Balance Men's 2010 White/Black Sneaker

New BalanceSneakers

R3199.95

The ABZORB 2010 combines the excitement of a progressive, all-new style with a sense of the familiar. The segmented ABZORB sole unit, a signature feature of several 2000s-era fan favorites, features more expansive proportions, becoming the centerpiece of this new design.(Supplier Style:U20106OK)

Shop Now

New Balance Men's Ur56 V1 Black/Red Sneaker

New BalanceSneakers

R3199.95

Introducing the UR56 v1 sneaker by New Balance. Made from synthetic fabric with a polyester material, this sneaker is perfect for everyday wear. With a stylish black/red design and comfortable fit, it's the perfect choice for anyone looking for a reliable and fashionable shoe. (Supplier Style:URC56FFC_ARC)

Shop Now

New Balance Men's 2000 Purple Sneaker

New BalanceSneakers

R3399.95

The ABZORB 2000 takes a distinctive feature of notable 2000s running-inspired classics and makes it the focal point of an all-new style. This progressive, experimental design features a full-length combination of ABZORB cushioning and ABZORB SBS pods. This thoroughly futuristic outlook is also reflected with a minimalist-influenced upper design. It’s a new way of looking at visible tech.(supplier Style:U20009BA)

Shop Now

New Balance Men's 9060 Khaki Sneaker

New BalanceSneakers

R3199.95

The 9060 is a new expression of the refined style and innovation-led design of the classic 99X series. The 9060 reinterprets familiar 99X elements with a warped sensibility inspired by the proudly futuristic, visible tech aesthetic of the Y2K era. Sway bars, taken from the 990, are expanded and utilized throughout the entire upper for a sense of visible motion, while wavy lines and scaled up proportions on a sculpted pod midsole place an exaggerated emphasis on the familiar cushioning platforms

Shop Now

Total Sports New Balance sneakers: models, sizing tips and where to buy

Match model to use

Why Choose Bash?

Free Delivery

30-Day Returns

Nationwide Support

Why Choose Bash?

Free Delivery

30-Day Returns

Nationwide Support

Try for fit

Compare prices locally

Why this page helps you choose a New Balance pair

Which New Balance ranges to consider

Sizing: the practical approach we use

How model differences affect fit and feel

Where to start shopping on Bash

Comparing models and typical South African price expectations

How we suggest choosing between a few similar pairs

Buying from Total Sports - what to expect

Quick shopping tips we use

Sources

Mmaphefo

Ukhona

Sambesiwe

Kamo

"Micayla"

Sabelo

Meagan

Bat

Anotha

Tshepiso

Elisa

Nqobile

Nicky

Melaney

Thina

Gwayimane

Phumelelo

Fenkie

Roxanne

Charlize

Refilwe

Dimane

Seth

Neil

Kirsti

Fatima

Nicolette

Ronel

Inge

Valerie

Adri

Chadley

Makhosonke

Mabel

Simo

Sharon

Nobuhle

Angelique Davis

Thabile

Arlene

Kgomotso

Kgosi

Steven

Kago

Reitumetse

Anina

Azwihangwisi

Marlene

Nkensane

Moreblessings

Palesa

Nonkasazana

Talifhani

Thandi

Vuyo

Elanie

Steady

Samokelisiwe