The 997 and 998: which New Balance should you go for?

[@hangtimedangjang]

This guy is the best ShoeTuber. He doesn't act like a dopey game show host(WHAT'S UP GUYS?!), he talks about NB a lot (really the only brand I'm interested in), and he goes into the detail I want to see. I've been looking for this exact video for a minute. Keep up the great work, man 👍

[@SeanStaMaria]

I bow humbly. Thanks I appreciate the kind words.

[@UberrimaFide5]

For comfort - 998 For style - 997 If you want the best of both worlds - go for the 997.5 :D

[@koolstuff25]

I’m starting to get a new balance addiction. Love the content.

[@SeanStaMaria]

Welcome to the club bro. No turning back now.

[@jommelanacay6489]

@@SeanStaMaria Also starting to get an NB addiction :D

[@Gillysaurxx]

Same man. Im finding im turning to New Balance more frequently than other brands

[@francisv3450]

I've been appreciating NB shoes more and more because of your content. I've got a 997H coz it's budget friendly but really hoping to get those Made in the USA pairs someday. Thanks again for sharing your knowledge and awesome sneakers!👌

[@ClassicalProtestant]

997 shape awesome but the 998....man they were "boost"before boost. Abzorb gets better and better over time.

[@jrdatrackstar]

100% agree. I do think you have to wear them though or the Abzorb will harden.

[@Shah1m]

I used the 998 OG grey as my go to shoe for a bit over a year until they were beat and then the next year I wore the 997GY for a bit over a year, I would say both are in my top 10 all time favourite sneakers I've ever purchased because they are so comfortable and match with pretty much everything. I would say go with the 998 if you will be moving around a lot and walking/running more because it is lighter than the 997, and if you will be more stationary go with the 997 because it has a harder midsole that takes pressure great while standing for extended periods of time and is a bit heavier. I found if I was standing for extended periods of time the heel of my 998 would hurt a bit but this wouldn't happen with the 997 however if I was moving a lot with the 997 the weight would make my leg a bit tired. Both made in USA 997 and 998 fit the same for me I'm a size 11 US in both, however I find for the 990 OG made in USA I'm a size 11.5 .

[@jrdatrackstar]

I've had 7 different 998 models (sold 2) and most of them I've had a great experience with the Abzorb. 3 of my pairs are softer than the other pairs for some reason and are noticeable. The other pairs I have are rock-like firm, kind of confused as to why they're like that. The 997, however, was elevated higher in the heel and rock hard (I was quite surprised). Idk if the 997 needs broken in but they were literally like standing on bricks with no give, while at the same time being slanted forward with a narrower toebox area. The 997S (Sport, not 997H) is way more comfy that the 997 to me (at least the 1 pair I tried on).

[@ronchietv9094]

I'll go for 997. It has a more classic look than 998, IMO. But both NB's are 🔥. More power Sir Sean!

[@larzman651]

Your knowledge on NB is amazing bro. Both fantastic shoes my 997 I got from you get abused and they are still holding up well. Thanks brother for the review and the shoes

[@SeanStaMaria]

So happy that u love them brother.

[@gianalchrisvillas6422]

in terms of comfort i prefer the 998s while in terms of looks id rather go with 997s. both pairs are hella good though no doubt about it

[@hangtimedangjang]

Same. I don't care much for the look of the "small N" silhouettes, but the flatter/softer ride of the 998 would by my number.

[@gianalchrisvillas6422]

its one of those "pillowy" nb silhouettes out there

[@bcruzin28]

998 and 997 of yesterday and of old were so great. These days Made in USA colorways are trash but thankfully I can save money for now!

[@Massproduce201]

What are the production cycles for these sneakers they are never available on the NB site especially the classic grey 997s. Can never find them

[@ElMachuYT]

It's hard to pick a side. I have both shoes in OG colorways (grey) and for me everything sums up to more comfort (998) or better looks (997). I think I prefer the 998, for me the 997 looks amazing on feet but the heel feels like a brick that needs a lot of break in process and the forefoot area is quite thin. Still both have top quality.

[@SeanStaMaria]

Spot on summary bro. In the end, we're the winners here.

[@jrdatrackstar]

@Armando Callejon Does the 997 ever break in? Your experience with the 997 has been my experience as well, whereas the Abzorb in the 998 (in MOST of my models, not all though) is noticeably soft and has give. The 997 I tried on in store was literally rock hard, 0 give, and pushed you forward toward the narrower toebox. I was shocked so many ppl liked the 997 (outside of the style of course) but people also rock AF1s as well (though I find those comfy too lol).

[@ElMachuYT]

@@jrdatrackstar honestly I sold my 997GY after a few months of using them because of that. The heel kinda breaks in but nothing compared to your typical retro runner, still pretty hard unless you walk on your heels on purpose. I ended up buying a 990v5 and god I'm glad I did. Like I said on my previous comment, the walking motion is really really weird for me on 997s. I dont really "care" if the shoe feels hard, I mean, everyone has owned a pair of chucks, vans, or aj1s, but man the 997 feel so uncomfy because of the "pushing forward" motion...

[@jrdatrackstar]

@@ElMachuYT That makes sense and that's what I was experiencing from trying them on as well. In the 998s, even the firm ones at least are more "flat" and don't push you forward. Glad I passed on them, it's weird how the 997S is way more comfy but oh well, to each their own....

[@denkoi1475]

no hype, no shouting, lots of info. thanks for the vid

[@SeanStaMaria]

Appreciate it bro

[@Massproduce201]

Yup the 997 silhouette the greatest runner all time, the 998 the most comfortable.

[@stefanthegerman3575]

My favorits are 1500, 998 and then 997. But love all us and uk stuff from new balance.

[@johne0824]

993 and 996 are all I need

[@robertwilliams1286]

Just ordered my first 997

[@PSAYZ]

Solid yung 998, una kong bili na made in usa is 998 j.crew hilltop blues, Sunod yung 997 seasonal colors

[@LBG02394]

In the end they are both amazing shoe!!

[@josephpingol0720]

Great content man! For me I like the snug fit of the 997 on my ankles more than the 998. Keep it up👊

[@targusmacintosh7506]

Saw that Grey/Purple 998 in the New Balance store after looking for some 997s. Googled it later and found it for near 50% off. This the 3rd KZbin video I watched about the 998s.

[@SeanStaMaria]

Thanks for pulling up!

[@hgr.7857]

👀 Those gator 998s need to join my AJ1 'Bayou Boys'- also grey w/ prpl 'gator skin'- in my collection. I've been trying to make this very decision. I like the look of 997s, but you et. Al say they are lacking in comfort of other 99x's.🤷🏼 Outstanding content, btw, thanks for taking the time. Got my 👍 & sub.

[@sudiru]

Hi again Sean...i guess this answer my previous question. NB MIUSA/UK does come with non pig skin suade thou it kinda tough to cop those premium material ones since they are sold with premium price

[@SeanStaMaria]

You can check out the Elite Gent series. Theyre made out of smooth leather.

[@trotc123]

I would probably go for the 998...my main concern would be the midsole foam material. Abzorb foam is made of EVA while Encap makes use of PU on the exterior while having an EVA interior but the PU component can still be susceptible to hydrolysis/crumbling. Though I do know the 990v5 makes use of ENCAP as well and that model is known for its durability. But the 574 also does make use of ENCAP and I’ve had it crumble on me - though its implementation is different from that of the 990v5. Then again it’s a significantly more affordable model and I’ve abused my 574 for 4 years of daily use before it crumbled on me so i would say i got my moneys worth. @Sean Sta Maria whats your take on the different models, their materials and their lifespan?

[@SeanStaMaria]

My oldest nb is a 574 from way back. Foam intact. The outsoles though have gone slippery already. Still wearable. Truth be told, no sneaker stands a chance against moisture and heat.

[@trotc123]

​@@SeanStaMaria do you think there's a correlation between the cost of a model and its longevity? i haven't had enough different models and time to be able to tell if this holds true. though i did a basic search on different new balance models and which ones have crumbled and the 997 seems to come up with the most results - but most of these models were the vintage ones which were probably at least 20 years old.

[@SeanStaMaria]

@@trotc123 miu and miuk pairs last longer due to premium materials. Pigskin suede creases "better" than cowhide, just to name one difference. In the end, we all lose to crumbling. Its about who can make their sneakers last longer. You simply have to wear them with care. But wear them.

[@juliustan4048]

awesome comparison idol sean. for me i pick the 998. keep safe and god bless you always.

[@tedrobles3306]

It will depend on the collab. Nb 997 rose or nb998 cnote - I love both I also have the Nb998 mint and nb998 independence by j crew For the 997 I have the Hermès 997

[@SeanStaMaria]

I like your taste in NBs man

[@ericocasio2877]

Cant find the 998 j.crew anywhere lol

[@d63810728]

u gotta compare 1300 / 1400 / 996 / 997 / 998 / 990 and the made in England ones as well

[@SeanStaMaria]

In the works bro

[@ericocasio2877]

Sean Sta Maria Can’t wait!

[@mohamedyusoffyusoff762]

Thank you.

[@kirilldorohin2504]

Hi! It is interesting to know your point of view, which model, in your opinion, is more comfortable, 999 or 998? Naturally, if we compare both models, "Made in USA ". Both models are soled with Abzorb technology, but their design is completely different. Sincerely from Moscow!

[@siomairice1127]

If given a chance to own one, I'll go for the 998. The reason is because, I believe, there are few people who owns this model in the Philippines. Mas konti kapareho mo ng sapatos mas okay. Though I like the 997 as well. Basta pointy toe na runners I'll go for it. Na eexcite na tuloy ako sa 530 ko.

[@SeanStaMaria]

Good insight bro. Happy for your 530. Cheers.

[@nickfree955]

Where can I buy these??? I can only find the 997h🤦🏾‍♂️

[@wiggawieger5644]

Pleas help my out. I want to buy my first pair of New balance? What is your go to New balance sneaker ore all time favorite new balance if you only can own 1 pair (992 ore 997 ore 998 ore something els) ?

[@SeanStaMaria]

For a first pair I would recommend the 574. Classic look that wont cost you a lot.

[@CokeWithIceAndLemon]

996

[@KuyaJayTV12]

Naadik na ako kakanuod ng new balance reviews dahil sa'yo Sir Sean. 😆😍

[@SeanStaMaria]

Appreciate it bro

[@ronaldchristianantenor2189]

Hi sir, Love your passion for New Balance!! Thank you for the content! Just want to ask are there local stores for made in the us/uk that carries size US 6.5/7/7.5? NB stores usually have size US8 as their smallest size. 😢😢

[@SeanStaMaria]

Tough size brother. Sorry. Try StockX or Goat

[@knowellaguilus3927]

Ang ganda ng 998 sir panalo!

[@roddygarcia8909]

I copped a pair of 997's in tan suede for 90 bucks.

[@SeanStaMaria]

👌

[@jrish9034]

GOD BLESS YOU SIR SEAN!!

[@justinjesstamayo3456]

When your size 14 u.s and there isnt made in usa pairs that size but 990s

[@kesmangona19]

Another New Balance review. Makes me wanna cop one 🤣

[@jpcuenca8533]

Boss me idea ka san maka bibili ng NB rc_1300? Yung marble blue japan release?

[@retropenguin49]

Is an all smooth leather version more expensive than a suede 997/998 ?

[@mrchoptop5482]

Ok I wear a size 9 in Nike tailwinds 79 what size 997 should I get?

[@jrish9034]

I LOVE YOUR VIDEOS SIR!!

[@babybochog9983]

Hi. Where can i get that 997h grey here in Ph? Thanks

[@julnathtgs9895]

what size should i go for 997? i got air max 90 Sail 42 (my wide feet feel hurt later on) puma RS-0, RS-X and Thunder Spectra on 42, they fit perfect no issue

[@julnathtgs9895]

i guess they are a little bigger since made in usa..is 42 a good choice? i am about to go for the Horween leather colourway

[@retropenguin49]

What about the 999 ?

[@rkingx]

sakto yung video ito yung iniisip ko kung 997 o 998, inalis ko muna sa pag pipilian ang 990. mukang 998 muna :) alin sa dalawa ang mas makapal ang padding ng inner heel/ankle at likod ng tongue? curious lang ako.

[@josephpingol0720]

Based sa experience ko, medyo maluwag ang 998 sa ankle, at wider sa toe compare sa 997. Pero pwedeng magkaiba tayo ng foot structure for your reference wide foot ako . Either way they're both amazingly comfortable.

[@johnf168]

@@josephpingol0720 as a wide footer, which model do you prefer? Do you go true to size for both models?

[@SeanStaMaria]

Slightly thicker ang collar ng 997 but its minute. The 997 also has a higher heel tab. Tongue same.

[@josephpingol0720]

@@johnf168 to be honest hindi big deal sakin ang width kasi they are both comfortable no pressure sore. Gusto ko sa shoe yung snug fit lalo na sa heel part . So I prefer 997. Hope my answer was helpful.

[@rkingx]

maraming salamat sa input guys cant wait maka kuha ng 997/998/990 in near future. kung may ganito lang ang Air Max line na high quality materials at kahit premium price.

[@philinsigne4541]

Both looked really awesome! ganda pareho. Pero parang may connection kame nung 998 solid ehh. Not the most high end of the NBs but what do you think of the 615 ?

[@SeanStaMaria]

Dun ka sa may nafeel na connection siyempre! Hehe. 615 solid yan pero di ko trip ang lacing system masyado

[@philinsigne4541]

@@SeanStaMaria thanks Sean ! I always get a reply from you! More power sa channel mo.

[@macmanbryant6973]

998 the best

[@josvandongen7218]

Ik want to buy the 998's but how is the cushioning of the shoe? I also have adidas ultraboost and the are perfect for my feet. And how high is the toebox? Great video again. Keep up the good work👍!!

[@SeanStaMaria]

The 998 is tougher than the Ultrabost but it offers better stability. If you have very narrow feet you'll definitely feel the toebox height. The solution is to double up on socks or go a half size down.

[@josvandongen7218]

@@SeanStaMaria I have the 998's now but Just like the 990v5 the sole is like a brick. The 997H have more cushioning. Why al the fancy and expensive encap en absorb sole's if the don't have any cushioning. If you Walk on Them a couple of hours my feet hurt. It's a pitty because they do look good.

[@jameserni7078]

998 is 😎😎..

[@hjlagann9017]

san po meron 998 sa Pinas,?

[@jeromeduno6671]

Hi sir. I'm planning to cop a nb m997pt. May i ask if will i go true to size or downsize in half? Because this is my 1st time to buy a new balance and its really expensive for me. I dont want to get a wrong size. Pls help me. Btw my size on nike shoes is 9.5 and my feet is wide. Hehe. Pls help me sir. Thanks in advance and god bless you 😊🙏

[@SeanStaMaria]

No need to go half size down if you have wide feet. Good luck and enjoy!

[@sherwinjay631]

NB 997 Ozone Blue Glow 💙 #MrEverythinginBetween

[@christopherciolko2401]

Regarding Aesthetics, the 997 WINS all day

[@jrish9034]

NOTIFICATION GANG!!

[@alvinbelen359]

ive tried 997H i dont know whats the difference with 997. but tbh 997H is comfortable lol.

[@SeanStaMaria]

The 997H is like the watered down version and theyre made in asia. Cheaper and lighter. I have a white camo 997h and i absolutely love em.

[@alvinbelen359]

@@SeanStaMaria thank po sa sagot. Hehehe new knowledge 🔥

[@premium7182]

They are comfy for everyday wear but not as stylish as the regular 997...

[@michaeljabrica2863]

Ito yung hinihintay ko eh..

[@hacvid]

Nice vid !! Hi bro, I'm gonna to buy a pair of NB, which would you prefer 998 or 1500 ?? I owned 996, 999 Thanks bro !!

[@SeanStaMaria]

I love both so it depends on the mood. Right now id go for the 998

[@hacvid]

@@SeanStaMaria Got it, thanks bro !!

[@paonicxie]

What are your thoughts on the 997H?

[@SeanStaMaria]

I love them. Budget friendly and lightweight.

[@jasperdejesus9509]

Sir any tips for the proper sizing of the 998? I want to buy hehe

[@SeanStaMaria]

The 998 is roomy at the toe (height) so i go half size down. I have narrow feet.

[@phoyeepindong5935]

Nice boss

[@jf3319]

How about sizing between these two?

[@SeanStaMaria]

998 has a higher toe box. Narrow footers may half to go half down

[@ocniner_dodgerfan589]

998 most of the time are better quality

[@patricblack1]

That vase in your video scares me. Don't know why.

[@osmoncruz3616]

Boss may review knb ng 996?

[@SeanStaMaria]

Not a review per se but more of a stock check at some stores i visited in japan and ph. I have an old grey 996 and i love em to this day.

[@Oying76]

Would be interesting to know the sizing of these two sneakers...👍🙏

[@SeanStaMaria]

TTS mostly

[@randycruz7621]

Die hard new balance i never siut for basketball im an adidas fanatic i always wear adidas aparell and shoes.the. very expensive new balnce aparell to much cost

[@ogirdor05]

sir tts ba ang 998?

[@SeanStaMaria]

Sakin half size down

[@DonaldLovecraft]

997s are beautiful, 998s are the ugly cousin.

[@bryantong4338]

998