ASICS Gel-NYC Vs. New Balance 9060: Which Is The Best Athleisure Shoe On The Market Right Now?

The New Balance 9060 has had its moment. It’s been everywhere - on influencers, sneaker blogs, English PTs, and fashion-forward guys trying to make ‘chunky dad shoes’ happen for the tenth time.

But after wearing both the New Balance 9060 and the ASICS Gel-NYC (New York City) for a couple of months, we’ve come to a clear verdict. While the New Balance option is comfortable and on-trend, it’s also overhyped, overexposed, and - if we’re being honest - a bit confused about what it actually is. Meanwhile, the ASICS Gel-NYC quietly delivers everything you want in an athleisure sneaker without trying too hard.

The 9060: A Chunky Sneaker With an Identity Crisis New Balance 9060

The New Balance 9060 is, at its core, a women’s sneaker that’s been repackaged for guys. It’s got an exaggerated sole, an almost cartoonish silhouette, and a design that feels like a distant cousin of the Balenciaga Triple S—one of the most divisive shoes of the past decade. That’s fine if you’re into that aesthetic, but for those who want something that works effortlessly with casual wear, the 9060 feels a little out of place.

With shorts and a tee, it’s too chunky. With straight-leg cargos, it still leans too far into gym shoe territory. It’s the kind of sneaker that doesn’t quite know if it belongs on the pavement or the treadmill. And while New Balance has absolutely nailed the lifestyle sneaker game with models like the 990 series, the 9060 feels like an attempt to ride the dad-shoe wave without much substance behind it.

The Gel-NYC: Premium Feel, Effortless Style ASICS Gel-NYC

Enter the ASICS Gel-NYC, a sneaker that delivers everything the 9060 doesn’t. It’s got a more refined silhouette, premium construction, and a sportstyle aesthetic that works just as well with casual outfits as it does in the gym. Whether you’re rocking it with shorts, no socks, and a tee or pairing it with relaxed cargos, it just works—without looking like you’re trying too hard.

FYI: We scooped these Gel-NYCs

What sets the Gel-NYC apart is its versatility. It has that retro, running-inspired design but doesn’t feel like a gimmick. The materials feel more premium, the shape is more balanced, and it doesn’t suffer from the ‘hype fatigue’ that’s plagued the 9060.

While the New Balance option is starting to feel like the safe, predictable choice, the Gel-NYC is flying under the radar as a genuine contender for the best all-around athleisure sneaker.

The 9060 isn’t bad - it’s just a bit cooked. The ASICS Gel-NYC, on the other hand, is a low-key knockout. Maybe it’s time to jump ship?

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