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Buyer's Guide

New Balance 1010 Review & Sizing Guide

Published Updated

The 1010 is worth it for Tiago Lemos' first New Balance Numeric signature, with 1990s skate-shoe proportions and visible ABZORB cushioning.

Key facts

Popularity
Niche following within NB Numeric and skate communities, minimal r/Sneakers traction
Comfort
FuelCell midsole praised after break-in, but narrow toe box frustrates many
Fit
Runs narrow, half size up or wide width recommended
Value
$110 retail, regularly found around $77 on sale
Use case
Skateboarding with crossover to casual daily wear

Full breakdown

The 1010 marked a milestone for New Balance Numeric, the brand's skate division: it is the first signature shoe for Brazilian pro Tiago Lemos, known for huge ledge tricks that demand a supportive board feel. The design draws on bulky late-90s skate silhouettes, the era Lemos grew up watching, and pairs that look with New Balance running cushioning rather than the flat vulc soles most skate brands default to.

FAQ

Is the New Balance 1010 good for skating?

Yes. The Numeric 1010 is built for skating, with more support and durability than a lifestyle New Balance. Buy it if you want a Tiago Lemos model with a bigger, more cushioned feel than thin vulc shoes and skate bigger gaps, stairs, and ledges. If you need close boardfeel for technical flatground, choose a slimmer cupsole or vulc skate shoe instead; skate-experience threads describe a supportive, impact-absorbing ride that favors impact over flick sensitivity.

How does the New Balance 1010 fit?

Start true to size, but check width expectations carefully. The padded upper and skate construction make it feel secure rather than loose, and wide-foot buyers should look for width options where available. Fit complaints can happen when people expect the usual roomy New Balance feel. Owner posts about bad fit show trying the exact model matters.

Is the New Balance 1010 comfortable?

It is comfortable for a skate shoe, especially if you want more padding and support than a stripped-down vulcanized model. It will still feel more structured than a casual runner, because board control and durability are part of the design. Product listings for the Tiago 1010 show the model is sold as a proper Numeric skate shoe.

Can you wear New Balance 1010 casually?

Yes. It works with denim, cargos, work pants, shorts, hoodies, tees, and relaxed skate-influenced outfits. It is chunkier than simpler Numeric models, so pair it with wider or stacked pants that balance the bulk rather than slim trousers. Treat it as a statement skate shoe in an outfit, and skate-shoe threads confirm owners run it as an everyday pair, not just a session shoe.