New Balance 933

933

Influential skater Andrew Reynolds has been responsible for many great skate shoes, and in 2025, he added his first New Balance signature shoe, the 933, to this list.

The 933’s upper features layered panelling inspired by running silhouettes such as the 993 and the Made in UK 991 but adapted for skaters. High-quality suede and leather overlays with dual lines of stitching give incredible durability, especially around the toe, which has an extra panel held in place by glue and three rows of stitches. Breathable mesh appears across the forefoot, around the collar and over the cushy tongue, with fused elements providing even more structure. Reflective materials illuminate the heel and N logos, while the uppermost eyelets lock the laces in place for a secure fit. This is enhanced by the well-padded collar, the cushioned insole and the stabilising Controlled Reaction Device heel clip – another running-inspired component.

Supporting the New Balance 933 is a technical cupsole filled with premium dual-density foam cushioning. Super-soft ABZORB attenuates impacts and a firmer compound offers outstanding lateral stability around the edge. This external foam is exposed around the heel, and the front is housed within a rubber casing, thus maintaining durability while dropping weight and providing the heel with a cushioned landing that protects the joints. The flat outsole is made from solid Ndurance rubber for longevity, its herringbone tread pattern and notched edges delivering classic traction and flexibility. A shank plate helps to control flex through the midfoot, creating a stable platform and protecting the skater when landing primo.

The New Balance 933 features a distinctive look that blends retro running aesthetics with skateboarding style. Its layered upper and ‘runner toe’ evoke classic sports silhouettes, while Numeric’s NB# branding appears on the primo plate and heel. Layered N logos adorn each flank, and the tongue displays an eye-catching ‘933 Reynolds’ badge. Cutting-edge technological elements are highlighted through contrasting colours, for example where the spongy ABZORB cushioning is visible at the heel and through the translucent outsole. Unique personal details tell the story of Reynolds’ life and career, from the puffy cloud drawn by his daughter stamped into the heel to the list of potential shoe names scribbled beneath the insole and the important dates embossed into the outsole notches.

For the 933’s April 2025 launch, Reynolds starred in campaign videos showing off the skating credentials and suave style of the Camel and Dark Brown release colourway. Within weeks, the 933 appeared in New Balance’s annual Grey Days celebration, and it was announced that the brand would be putting out a short documentary, Regarding Reynolds, about the design process behind the silhouette.

The New Balance 933 isn’t just an exceptional skate shoe, it’s a powerful ode to Reynolds and his profound impact on the skateboarding community. It also celebrates the heritage of New Balance’s 990 series, while Reynolds’ incredible attention to detail and depth of knowledge has made it comfortable, supportive and versatile enough to act as a stylish casual sneaker.