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New Balance just made their ugliest shoes ever, sparking debate in the sneaker community. Discover why these controversial sneakers may actually redefine design, comfort, and sneaker culture in 2025.
Introduction: When Ugly Becomes Iconic
In the ever-evolving world of sneakers, design is no longer just about sleek aesthetics and mainstream appeal. Today, “ugly” sneakers are not only accepted—they’re celebrated. From Balenciaga’s Triple S to Crocs collaborations, what was once dismissed as clunky or unattractive has become the very definition of trendsetting.
And now, New Balance—the sneaker brand that carved its reputation on dad shoes and practical comfort—has once again leaned into its identity. Their newest release is already being dubbed “New Balance’s ugliest shoes ever”, a title that might sound like an insult, but in reality, it’s the biggest compliment in today’s sneaker scene.
But are these sneakers truly a design disaster, or are they a stroke of marketing and cultural genius? Let’s break down the hype, the hate, and the hidden brilliance behind New Balance’s boldest creation yet.
The Sneaker That Sparked the Debate
New Balance has been on a hot streak over the past few years. Once known primarily for gray running shoes favored by suburban dads, the brand has rebranded itself into a streetwear staple, embraced by Gen Z trendsetters, high-fashion collaborations, and even professional athletes.
But this latest model? It’s a complete departure. Instead of the clean retro silhouettes of the 990s or 550s, New Balance has dropped something bizarre:
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Bulky, uneven midsoles that look like melted rubber.
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A chaotic mix of materials—suede, mesh, plastic overlays—that don’t appear to match.
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Colorways that clash more than they complement, almost daring wearers to question taste.
At first glance, sneakerheads are calling it unwearable. Social media comments range from “hideous” to “the end of New Balance’s hot streak.” And yet, just like the Balenciaga Triple S in 2017 or the Yeezy Foam Runners in 2020, this might be exactly what cements its cult status.
Why Do Ugly Sneakers Work?
To understand the genius behind the “ugliest New Balance ever,” you have to understand why ugly sneakers sell. Fashion is cyclical, and sneakers are no exception. Here’s why intentionally unattractive shoes often become icons:
1. They Break the Mold
People get tired of seeing the same minimal white sneakers. When a brand disrupts the norm, it catches attention. Ugly sneakers challenge conventional beauty, and in doing so, they stand out.
2. They Ride the Irony Wave
Fashion thrives on irony. The same “ugly dad shoes” mocked in the 2000s are now runway-ready in the 2020s. The uglier the sneaker, the more ironic and, oddly, the more stylish it becomes.
3. They Spark Conversation
If nobody is talking about your shoe, it dies quietly. But when people debate whether something is genius or garbage, it fuels hype. Ugly sneakers live in this tension.
4. They Redefine Coolness
Ugly sneakers test whether you wear shoes for yourself or for others’ approval. Owning a pair of so-called ugly New Balance sneakers is a statement: you’re confident enough not to care what people think.
A Closer Look at the Design
So, what makes this pair specifically stand out as New Balance’s ugliest sneaker ever? Let’s dissect the details:
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Exaggerated Soles – The midsole is not just thick; it’s aggressively uneven, resembling something half-melted, half-sculptural.
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Patchwork Uppers – Rather than a streamlined look, the shoe mixes suede, nylon, and mesh in a chaotic patchwork.
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Odd Color Combinations – Neon greens crash into dull grays, with random pops of pink and metallics. Instead of harmony, there’s intentional discord.
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Oversized Branding – The traditional “N” logo has been stretched, layered, or oddly placed, making it instantly noticeable but divisive.
In short, the sneaker looks less like a product from a factory and more like a Frankenstein experiment in a sneaker lab.
The Cultural Timing: Why Now?
The release timing couldn’t be better. Fashion in 2025 is all about hyper-expression and personal rebellion. Clean aesthetics (like Common Projects or minimal Stan Smiths) are still around, but the culture is leaning toward maximalism.
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TikTok fashion influencers thrive on showcasing outfits that clash intentionally.
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Streetwear has merged with high fashion, and the line between ironic and serious design has blurred.
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Sneaker collaborations are wilder than ever—remember when Crocs became cool?
By dropping its ugliest shoe now, New Balance isn’t taking a risk—it’s cashing in on the moment.
Sneakerhead Reactions: Love, Hate, and Hype
The internet’s reaction to these sneakers has been predictably split:
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The Haters: Many longtime New Balance fans who love the simplicity of 990s and 574s feel betrayed. To them, this shoe doesn’t reflect the brand’s DNA.
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The Lovers: Fashion-forward sneakerheads are embracing the chaos, praising New Balance for not playing it safe. Some are already calling it a future grail.
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The Resellers: If history repeats, the uglier and more controversial the shoe, the higher the resale value. Expect StockX and GOAT prices to skyrocket if supply is limited.
The Marketing Genius Behind “Ugly”
Make no mistake—New Balance knows exactly what it’s doing. Brands don’t accidentally release sneakers this bold. Instead, they lean into the controversy as a marketing tool.
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Free Publicity – Every “these are ugly” tweet is still free advertising.
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Niche Appeal – Even if 70% of customers hate them, the 30% who love them will pay more.
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Cultural Longevity – Ugly sneakers often age well. What people laugh at today often becomes iconic tomorrow.
Think about it: Nike’s Air Monarchs were once the punchline of every dad joke. Today? They’re vintage cool.
Comparing to Past “Ugly Sneaker” Legends
This isn’t the first time a brand has leaned into ugly. New Balance is joining a long list of ugly-but-beloved sneaker icons:
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Balenciaga Triple S (2017): Once called clown shoes, now a fashion staple.
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Yeezy Foam Runners (2020): Mocked as “alien crocs,” now sell for hundreds above retail.
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Crocs x Salehe Bembury (2021): The weirdest Crocs collab became an instant sellout.
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New Balance 990 (Dad Shoes): Once ridiculed, now the most fashionable “ugly” sneaker.
By pushing boundaries with their ugliest release ever, New Balance is writing itself into this very same playbook.
Why You Might Want to Buy Them Anyway
If you’re on the fence, here are a few reasons why these sneakers might actually be worth copping:
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Comfort is King: New Balance rarely compromises on cushioning and support. Ugly or not, they’ll likely feel amazing.
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Future Collectible: Today’s meme might be tomorrow’s grail. Buying early could pay off.
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Conversation Starter: These aren’t shoes you wear to blend in—they’re shoes that demand attention.
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Street Cred: In fashion circles, rocking the ugliest sneaker signals boldness and authenticity.
Where to Get Them
The sneakers are being released in limited quantities through:
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New Balance’s official website
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Select retail partners in major cities
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Sneaker apps like SNKRS, StockX, and GOAT for resale
If history repeats, they’ll sell out instantly and flood resale markets at double the price.
Final Thoughts: Ugly or Brilliant?
So, did New Balance just create their ugliest shoe ever? Absolutely. But did they also create a future cultural icon? Very likely.
In 2025, “ugly” doesn’t mean failure—it means boldness, innovation, and sometimes even genius. By daring to embrace chaos in design, New Balance is not just releasing a sneaker—they’re making a statement about where fashion is headed.
And if sneaker history has taught us anything, it’s this: what looks ugly today might be the hottest flex tomorrow.
FAQs: New Balance’s Ugliest Shoes
Q1: Are these New Balance sneakers actually comfortable?
Yes! Despite the wild looks, New Balance has a reputation for unmatched cushioning and foot support.
Q2: Why do sneaker brands release ugly shoes?
Because controversy creates conversation. The more people debate, the more hype and sales follow.
Q3: Will these ugly New Balance sneakers sell out?
Most likely. Limited releases + high debate = guaranteed sellout.
Q4: Are they worth buying for resale?
Yes, history shows that “ugly” sneakers often become high-value collectibles.
Q5: What outfits can you wear them with?
Lean into the chaos—pair them with baggy pants, oversized fits, or contrasting streetwear styles.