
New Balance has reduced a pair of stylish yet practical trainers by half price. The RC42 sneakers, usually priced at £90, are now available for just £45. However, the versatile shoes, which come in either grey or cream, or already starting to sell out in a number of sizes.
Whether you’re planning a weekend city break, heading out for brunch with friends, or just want a fresh pair of everyday kicks, fans of the RC42 say they will fit seamlessly into your wardrobe.
With a low-profile silhouette, they’re made from soft, lightweight suede with a smooth leather logo. On the New Balance website, the cream colourway is already starting to sell out, while the grey (granite) version currently has the most sizes available, ranging from size 4 (EU37) to size 7.5 (EU411).
Some reviewers said they found the fit can run narrow, so it may be worth sizing up if you have wider feet or prefer a little extra room. And if you’re after something brighter, Schuh has the RC42 in nine different colourways, including bold yellow, blue, red, and green, but they only have very limited sizing.
The RC42 are also available on ASOS in a range of sizes, but the grey ones are currently discounted to £63.
One happy shopper shared: “These are very comfortable with great cushion inside. I purchased my regular size and they fit great. The shoe is actually leather with suede embellishments – cute with everything. On-trend and easy to wear.”
Another person wrote: “I’ve worn these nonstop since they arrived. They’re comfortable, stylish and look just as good in person. I’ve already had multiple compliments from strangers!”
A third reviewer on New Balance’s site added: “The perfect everyday sneakers – they’re comfy, go with everything and feel high quality. I love how clean they look. No regrets!”
That said, the fit may not be perfect for everyone. A handful of shoppers reported discomfort after long wear, particularly around the ankle. “I love the way the shoe looks,” wrote one buyer, “but they gave me blisters on the back of my ankles. They probably need breaking in – or thicker socks.”
Another commented: “The arch and width are quite narrow. They look great, but I wouldn’t wear them for a full day on my feet unless I broke them in first.”
If you’re looking for a running shoe, the RC42 is not the right choice as it does not offer the kind of high-spec design needed to protect your feet from pounding the pavement. However, if you want comfort and an understated design suitable for a full day of sightseeing, going to work, or undertaking errands, these could be the perfect fit.
If you’re willing to pay a little bit more, Salomon has reduced the price of its ACS+ Climasalomon unisex trainers from £165 to £99. Not only are they waterproof, shoppers say they’re great for all different terrains (if you like to hike) and for wearing all day at work. They even feature light thermal insulation for winter, too. They only come in classic black but have sizes from 3.5 (EU36) to 12 (EU46).
Skechers also has a classic everyday trainer on sale: their men’s Slip-ins Ultra Flex 3.0 Smooth Step. Available in all black, black and white, navy, and burgundy, they’re available in sizes 6(EU39) to 12 (EU46) and offer medium and wide widths. In a review, shoppers have said they’re the “most comfortable shoe” they’ve ever worn, but others did comment that they don’t have much grip.