New Balance is pretty much recognized as "the" walking shoe company in the footwear industry. While other companies like Nike, Reebok and Adidas are huge when it comes to basketball shoes and football shoes, no one can touch New Balance in the walking shoe department. This company is really unique in the shoe industry as well. While other big corporations are quick to hire cheap offshore labor, New Balance proudly make all of their products in the USA. This is more than just a marketing ploy as well. It means that all of New Balance's shoes are of impeccable quality. The New Balance 925's are no exception.

So what makes the 925's so great? Well, there are a number of things that set this shoe apart from it's competitors. In the following text, we'll outline a few reasons why you may want to consider buying this shoe. Speaking of which... If you are looking for cheap shoes, some of the best places to check out are online stores. There are a ton of good deals to be had on the Internet. You can visit a bunch of sites, read a few reviews and then get a good price. What else can a shopper ask for?

As I mentioned, there is a few unique features that you'll find in this shoe. One of the coolest things about it is the fact that it's available in different widths. This means that regardless of how wide your foot is, chances are there is a 925 that fits you perfectly. There are 5 different widths in all, ranging from narrow to extra wide. People with foot health issues are very fond of shoes that have different widths. Another feature that I particularly like is the fact that this shoe comes standard with a leather upper. This means that the 925 isn't just an exercise or walking shoe. It can also be worn in casual situations. Why shouldn't you be comfortable all the time?

There is also a bunch of different technological features found on the 925's. A lot of these features are found on several New Balance shoes but they're worth going over here. First off, there is the ABSORB SBS system. This is basically an extra bit of padding that sits between the bottom of the foot and the shoe. It provides a very soft surface that makes each step feel soft and light. Over a long walk, this can really save you some pain! The New Balance 925 walking shoes also sport the C-CAP mid sole support system and the Walking Path Strike feature. Walking Path Strike is a feature that New Balance is particularly proud of. It's quite difficult to explain but basically helps to correct a person's walking posture. You see, the 925's are designed in such a way that encourages healthy walking strides and gait.

New Balance 925 - The Verdict

So are these shoes worth buying?  I sure think so!  They're not perfect but considering these shoes usually don't hit the $100 mark, the 925's are a pretty good investment.  Here's what's good about them.  First off, these shoes are extremely light.  This, along with the fact that they have the soft padding discussed above, make for a very easy walk.  The 925 is also a very comfortable shoe.  Apparently, there isn't really much of a breaking in period with this model.  This is a real treat as most shoes make you suffer through a couple weeks of blisters before they fit properly.  Another great thing about this shoe is that they are available in the extra wide width.  Most folks with wide feet have a tough time finding decent walking shoes.  It's nice to see New Balance step up to the plate with this one.  It's worth noting that the New Balance 925 is also recognized as a Medicare A5500 diabetic shoe.

These shoes aren't quite perfect though.  They don't come with air holes and this can be a bit of a problem if you live in a hot part of the world.  Some runners and walkers complain that the 925's get too hot in the summer.  Hopefully New Balance will hear these suggestions and add a few air holes to next year's model.  Another complaint registered by some is regarding the appearance of these shoes.  I'm more of a "function first" type guy so this didn't really bother me.  That said, the 925's do have a somewhat generic look about them.

Do you have a pair of 925's?  If so, I'd love to hear from you.  Post a comment if you wouldn't mind!  Thanks!