This New Balance Sneaker Is the Granddaddy of Dad Shoes

The brand’s surprise hit of 2025 feels like it’s been around the block. No surprise there.

Add Gear Patrol as a Preferred Source on Google

By Jack Seemer

Published January 2, 2026

·

If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Learn more

Comfort is king. But must every shoe look so technical?

Not if you’re New Balance.

GP100: Gear Patrol’s annual roundup of the most important releases collects key watches, cars, outdoor gear and more. Browse the full list or catch up on last year’s winners.

Named after the region where the brand crafts its “Made in UK” roster, the Allerdale is a modern-day walking shoe with geriatric charm. We mean that affectionately.

New Balance Drake's Allerdale shoes — New Balance teamed up with Drake’s earlier this year for a one-off rendition of the Allerdale.

The first variants featured dark-brown uppers in tumbled leather and suede, while a one-off collab Drake’s turned heads with its multimaterial makeup.

The outsole is designed for walking, with small lugs for light trails.

New Balance

Taking stock, the ortho look is divisive and certainly risky. But it’s also something else: a refreshing reminder that sometimes the best way to outrun the trends is to go your own pace.