A Detailed Look At the New Balance 997H "Retro Surf" [Unboxing]

Come take a closer look at the New Balance 997H “Retro Surf”. This is a retro-inspired lifestyle shoe from New Balance that celebrates retro surfing culture. Watch this exclusive unboxing video and get our first impressions below.

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A post shared by The Retro Insider | Sneakers (@theretroinsider) on Jan 22, 2020 at 5:36pm PST

Unboxing Video:

“I can’t believe this shoe is only $90. New Balance did a great job with both the color-blocking and the materials. This should could easily go for more $$$.”

— Jared w. | @jaredxwatson

Initial Impressions:

Here are a few of my initial thoughts after unboxing this New Balance 997H “Retro Surf”. A full written review of this shoe will be posted after I’ve had more time to analyze the shoe.

• I can’t believe this shoe is only $90. New Balance did a great job with both the color-blocking and the materials. This shoe could easily go for more $$$.

• I’m not sure exactly where the “retro surf” theme comes from, but I assume the special rope laces and wood-textured panels are supposed to be reminiscent of a surf-side landscape.

• The green suede on this toe-box is not the same premium pig-skin suede that you’d expect on a “USA Made” New Balance shoe, but it’s still has a great look and feel. A lot better than what you generally see on a shoe at this price-point.

• One of the first things I noticed about this shoe is how lightweight it is. It’s a lot lighter than the 990 and 998 models that I’m used to wearing, so if that’s what you appreciate about a shoe, definitely checkout the 997H model.

• The New Balance website said that this shoe was a “special edition” and I’m assuming that meant it was limited as well because they’re sold-out almost everywhere. Seems like the sneaker world is starting to catch onto the New Balance wave.

Where To Buy:

Because this shoe sold-out so quickly on NewBalance.com, I was fortunate enough to snag a pair on Walmart.com for retail.

Currently, they are no longer in-stock at Walmart.com, however, Road Runner Sports is doing pre-orders on this shoe and they’ll be shipping out on February 7th.

If you’re interested in a pair, this may be your best shot at copping a pair at retail.

More Images:

I Want Your Opinion:

What do you think about the New Balance 997H “Retro Surf” ?