So, everyone tells you New Balance sneakers are the best on the market, however they are not vegan or mesh with the vegan lifestyle (they use animal glue). But you want to wear a sneaker which is the closest approximation to New Balance sneakers but that is also Vegan. So what are we looking for in a shoe that would be similar to a New Balance if it were vegan? Well you want a sneaker that is wide and/or fits to width. You want a shoe that is solid and stable and preferably uses an insole that molds to your foot with either EVA or an equivalent chemical. So the sneaker has to do that and still be Vegan. So below I have tried to find what I consider the closest sneakers that are vegan but similar to New Balance Sneakers:
Saucony Originals Jazz Low Pro Vegan– This Vegan shoe has padding and shock absorption in the sneaker that is equivalent to the material you find in many New Balance called ABZORB. If you are looking for a New Balance sneaker because you currently suffer from Plantar Fasciitis, this could be the sneaker for you with the superior shock absorption. This sneaker will also be very effective for running, athletic activities, and for people that need it for a job where they stand all day.
Five Ten Guide Tenie Canvas– Remember what I said about EVA above. This Vegan shoe offers EVA as the midsole. So what is so great about EVA? Well, EVA is a material used in orthotics and what EVA will do is mold and contour to the shape of your foot and provide arch support. If you have flat feet or low arches and are looking for a New Balance alternative, this could be the Vegan sneaker for you.
Merrell All out Blaze Aero Sport– If you are looking for an athletic sneaker that mirrors a New Balance but is Vegan consider this sneaker. It provides a material called Unifly which provides comfort and arch support from heel to toe.
Onitsuka Tiger by ASICS– This Vegan sneaker from ASICS hits all the bases. It features an EVA midsole in a two toned alignment as well as a cushioned heel bed similar to ABZORD used in New Balance sneakers.