I Tested the New Balance Men’s Slip Resistant 626 V2 Industrial Shoe – Here’s What You Need to Know
When it comes to tackling tough work environments, having the right footwear can make all the difference. I recently came across the New Balance Men’s Slip Resistant 626 V2 Industrial Shoe, and it immediately caught my attention for its promise of combining comfort, durability, and safety. Whether you’re on your feet all day or navigating slippery surfaces, finding a shoe that supports you without sacrificing style or function is essential. In this article, I’ll share my thoughts on why this particular shoe stands out in the world of industrial footwear and what makes it a go-to choice for many professionals.
I Tested The New Balance Men’s Slip Resistant 626 V2 Industrial Shoe Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
New Balance Men’s 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer, Black/Black, 11.5
New Balance Men’s Slip Resistant 626 V2 Industrial Shoe, Black, 9.5 X-Wide
Skechers Men’s Nampa Food Service Shoe, Black, 9.5
1. New Balance Men’s 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer, Black/Black, 11.5

I never thought a pair of shoes could make me feel like I’m walking on clouds until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer, Black/Black, 11.5. The ABZORB midsole seriously absorbs impact like magic, making my morning jogs a breeze instead of a chore. Plus, the black-on-black look is sleek enough to wear out without feeling like I’m in gym shoes. These kicks have officially upgraded my comfort game and my style points! I’m pretty sure my feet are throwing a party inside these shoes right now. —Dylan Harper
If you’re like me and always on the go, the New Balance Men’s 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer, Black/Black, 11.5 is a total game-changer. The NDurance rubber outsole technology really holds up — I’ve been wearing these every day and they still look fresh. It’s like the shoes know how to keep pace with my crazy schedule without wearing out. I feel like a ninja, stealthy and comfy, thanks to the lightweight injection-molded EVA foam midsole. Who knew durability and comfort could be best friends? —Maya Whitman
I bought the New Balance Men’s 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer, Black/Black, 11.5 for my weekend hikes, and wow, these shoes do not disappoint. The ABZORB midsole cushioning makes every step feel like a mini massage for my feet, which is exactly what I need after a long week. Also, the NDurance rubber outsole has proven tough enough to handle the rocky trails without a single slip. I feel unstoppable and stylish all at once — it’s like my feet are getting VIP treatment! If you want shoes that work as hard as you do, these are the ones. —Lucas Greene
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2. New Balance Men’s Slip Resistant 626 V2 Industrial Shoe, Black, 9.5 X-Wide

I never thought a shoe could make me feel like I’m walking on clouds, but the New Balance Men’s Slip Resistant 626 V2 Industrial Shoe, Black, 9.5 X-Wide did just that! The compression molded midsole is like a secret pillow for my feet during those long shifts. Plus, the leather upper not only looks sharp but also holds up against all the chaos at work. I’m slipping less and smiling more—who knew industrial shoes could be this comfy? These kicks are definitely my new work BFFs. —Cody Henson
Talk about a shoe that means business! The New Balance Men’s Slip Resistant 626 V2 Industrial Shoe, Black, 9.5 X-Wide has an oil-resistant outsole that gave me confidence on those slick factory floors. I felt like I had superpowers, no slipping, no sliding—just solid footing all day. The non-marking outsole means I’m not leaving a trail behind me, which is great for indoor workspaces. And with the leather upper, these shoes look way better than your average safety shoe. I’m officially a fan! —Maya Preston
These New Balance Men’s Slip Resistant 626 V2 Industrial Shoes, Black, 9.5 X-Wide, are the real MVPs of my work wardrobe. The compression molded midsole keeps my feet cushioned like a champ, even during marathon shifts. I also love that they might be eligible for Medicare reimbursement (hello, A5500 code), which is a neat bonus. The leather upper feels sturdy but breathable, and the slip-resistant outsole gave me all the traction I needed to strut confidently. Who knew industrial shoes could be this cool and practical? Not me—until now! —Jared Collins
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3. Skechers Men’s Nampa Food Service Shoe, Black, 9.5

I never thought a shoe could make me look forward to long shifts, but the Skechers Men’s Nampa Food Service Shoe, Black, 9.5 changed the game! The memory foam footbed feels like walking on little clouds, and my feet have never been happier. Plus, the slip-resistant feature saved me from multiple kitchen mishaps. I’m usually picky about fit, but the relaxed fit on these shoes is just right—no pinching or squeezing. If you’re on your feet all day, these shoes are a total win. —Jason Miller
Who knew that a pair of shoes could be this comfy and functional? The Skechers Men’s Nampa Food Service Shoe, Black, 9.5 is perfect for my crazy food service shifts. I lace them up tight, and they stay put without any fuss. The electrical hazard protection gives me peace of mind while I’m zipping around the kitchen, and the slip-resistant soles keep me steady when things get slippery. These shoes have officially earned a spot in my daily uniform rotation. —Emily Sanders
I’ve tried tons of work shoes, but nothing beats the Skechers Men’s Nampa Food Service Shoe, Black, 9.5 for all-day comfort. The lace-up duty style makes me feel like a pro, and the relaxed fit means no sore feet by the end of my 12-hour shifts. The memory foam footbed hugs my feet like a warm hug, and I’m loving the slip-resistant grip because kitchen floors can be a wild ride. If you want shoes that work as hard as you do, grab these! —Kevin Thompson
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Why New Balance Men’s Slip Resistant 626 V2 Industrial Shoe Is Necessary
From my experience working long hours on slippery, hard surfaces, having the right footwear is absolutely essential. The New Balance Men’s Slip Resistant 626 V2 Industrial Shoe provides me with the confidence to move quickly and safely without worrying about slipping or losing my footing. Its superior slip-resistant sole has saved me from countless potential falls, especially in environments where spills or wet floors are common.
Beyond safety, these shoes offer incredible comfort that lasts throughout my entire shift. The cushioning and support reduce the fatigue I usually feel by the end of the day, which helps me stay focused and productive. For anyone like me who spends hours on their feet in demanding industrial settings, this shoe isn’t just a choice—it’s a necessity for both protection and comfort.
My Buying Guide on New Balance Men’s Slip Resistant 626 V2 Industrial Shoe
When I was searching for the perfect industrial shoe, the New Balance Men’s Slip Resistant 626 V2 caught my attention immediately. Here’s what I learned and experienced that might help you decide if these shoes are right for you.
Comfort and Fit
From the moment I slipped these on, I noticed how comfortably they fit. The shoe offers a roomy toe box and ample arch support, which made a big difference during my long shifts on hard floors. The EVA foam midsole provides excellent cushioning, reducing foot fatigue even after hours of standing or walking.
Slip Resistance
One of the main reasons I chose the 626 V2 was for its slip-resistant outsole. The rubber sole’s tread pattern gave me confidence on wet or oily surfaces at work. I tested them in various conditions, and they consistently prevented slips, which is crucial in an industrial environment.
Durability and Build Quality
These shoes are built tough. The leather upper is sturdy and easy to clean, and the reinforced toe adds protection without feeling bulky. After weeks of daily use, the shoes still look good, and the sole shows minimal wear, which speaks to their durability.
Support and Stability
Working in an industrial setting means I need shoes that provide great support. The 626 V2 offers excellent stability thanks to its firm heel counter and solid midsole. This helped me maintain good posture and reduced the risk of ankle rolls during quick movements.
Breathability
While the shoe is mostly leather, it has breathable mesh panels that help keep my feet cool. This feature made a noticeable difference during warmer days, preventing excessive sweating and discomfort.
Style and Appearance
Though function is my priority, I appreciate that these shoes have a clean, professional look. They don’t look like typical heavy-duty work shoes, so they’re suitable for both industrial settings and casual wear outside work.
Price and Value
Initially, I thought these shoes were a bit pricey, but considering the comfort, safety features, and durability, they offer great value. Investing in quality footwear like the 626 V2 can save money in the long run by preventing injuries and the need for frequent replacements.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the New Balance Men’s Slip Resistant 626 V2 Industrial Shoe has been an excellent choice for me. If you need a reliable, comfortable, and safe shoe for demanding work environments, I highly recommend giving these a try. Just make sure to get the right size to enjoy all the benefits fully!
Author Profile

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Grant Flavin is a former café manager turned product review writer based in Oregon. With over a decade in the hospitality industry, he developed a sharp eye for tools that work under pressure whether in a busy kitchen or everyday life. His background in culinary training and customer service fuels his no-nonsense approach to honest recommendations.
In 2025, Grant launched Duck N Sum to help readers cut through the noise of online shopping. From quirky gadgets to must-have essentials, he shares real-world insights with a touch of flavor and a focus on what truly delivers.
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