The search for the perfect everyday sneaker ended when I found these

The Fit

The RC42 sneakers are unisex and range from a woman’s size 6 to 14.5 and men’s size 4.5 to 13. Depending on the brand, I wear an 8.5 or 9, so I measured my foot with a tape measure and used New Balance’s sizing guide to get the best fit possible. Based on the brand’s recommendations and user reviews that said this style runs true to size, I ordered a 9. The fit was *chef’s kiss*.

The first time I wore these, I noticed how comfortable and supportive they were. I can feel a soft layer of foam under my feet, but it’s not so pillowy that I’m bouncing with each step. The sides and tops hugged my toes as I walked around my apartment.

During my first walk outside (the real test), I noticed that the shoes’ backs, which hit at my lower Achilles, were rubbing up against my ankles. I was glad to be wearing crew socks for my miles-long trek around NYC: When I got home, I didn’t have any blisters, but I think that without my socks’ added coverage, there’s a good chance my skin would have been rubbed raw. Luckily, the rubbing seemed to be a one-time thing; I didn’t feel any discomfort on future wears.

I’ve had my RC42s for a couple months now, and they fit just as well as the first day I put them on. Have you ever experienced a pair that started to creasing across the tops of your feet, digging into the joints of your toes at the bottom? There’s no such problem here.

Bottom Line

The RC42s are exactly what I was looking for: They’re comfortable for my NYC power walks and instantly elevate the look of my work, weekend, and gym outfits. I was worried at first that I wouldn’t love the New Balance sneakers the same way I loved my adidas. The following are some ideas to help you. Adidas Sambas. But now I can’t imagine my life—I mean, wardrobe—without them.