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New Balance 425 Review

Side view of New Balance 425 white leather skate shoes showing low-profile silhouette
New Balance 425 skate shoes in white leather with cushioned sole and reinforced stitching
Close-up of New Balance 425 white leather skate shoe rubber sole with grip pattern
Side view of New Balance 425 white leather skate shoes showing low-profile silhouette and reinforced stitching
Rear view of New Balance 425 white leather skate shoes showing heel support and stitching

Quick Take: ⭐ ~ 3.8/5 – A lightweight, responsive cup-sole with good board feel, but it sacrifices cushioning and long-term durability in spots.

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Check out similar options on Amazon!
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Overview:

Version: NM425 V1

Price Range: Mid-tier skate shoe (price varies by retailer)

Fit: Relatively true to size; slightly snug.

Style: Low-top / Cup sole design

Best For: Street & park skating where board feel and responsiveness are valued!
Design & Aesthetics:

Materials: Suede & synthetic overlays + durable stitching (typical of NB skate offerings

Colorways: Multiple Core Colors (white, black, etc.) retailers show a “White II” version, etc.

Look & Feel: Clean, relatively minimal silhouette. Narrow shoe but still gives good board-feel.
Performance:

Board Feel: Incredible tight board feel, you can sense the board really well.

Grip: Decent given the design. Some pedal grip reduction is felt from time to time.

Durability: The upper and stitching look solid for moderate use, but the shoe is not a tank. The flat sole wears a bit fast under use by aggressive skaters

Duration: 2-3 months under heavy skating. (daily use)
3-4 months under moderate skating (few times per week)
New Balance 425 white leather skate shoe showing creased leather, worn edges, and used footbed
Close-up of aged sole of New Balance 425 white leather skate shoe showing wear pattern and tread fading
Close-up of worn New Balance 425 white leather skate shoe showing creases, sole wear, and scuffs
Cross-section of New Balance 425 white leather skate shoe showing internal cushioning and padding layers
Cut-away view of New Balance 425 white leather skate shoe exposing footbed and internal support
Inside view of New Balance 425 white leather shoe showing cushioning layers and structural reinforcement
Impact Protection:

Due to it’s lighter, lower profile design, impact cushioning is modest.
(HIGHLY RECOMMEND CHANGING INSOLES!)

Big drops or heavy landings feel harsh compared to more padded models.

The stock insoles in the New Balance 425 provide very little impact protection, so I strongly recommend upgrading to Footprint Insoles but make sure to choose the thinnest version possible, as the shoe runs small.

Check out various in-sole options on Amazon!
Comfort & Fit:

Break-in: Minimal, instantly adjusts to feet & perform well.

Arch support: Very flat, no support.

Heel & padding: Weak Support.

Breathability: Lightweight & comfortable.
Pros ✅Cons ❌
Strong board feel and responsivenessVery flat, weak arch support
Lightweight for a cup-sole designNot much cushioning for big impacts
Clean, minimal aestheticsHard to keep clean
Decent durability for its classLacks Heel Support
Affordable Price PointDurability under very heavy use is limited
Final Verdict

The New Balance 425 is a solid choice for skaters who prioritize board feel, responsiveness, and a sleek look in a lightweight package. It won’t be the best pick if you often do big drops or want maximal cushioning and arch support. Use it for street, tech skating, daily use, but don’t expect it to be indestructible under heavy abuse.

Check out the NB 425 on Amazon!