New Balance 550

First look

The 550 is a New Balance basketball shoe from 1989 that returned in limited releases in late 2020 and joined the regular line in 2021, according to New Balance. It has a low leather upper, a thick rubber sole and a retro look that sits between the Air Force 1 and a slimmer tennis shoe. The regular Canadian price is about CA$150: CA$149.99 at New Balance Canada and CA$150 at Sport Chek for men's and women's versions.

White stock was thin in October 2026. New Balance Canada's 550 collection was down to two products, the all-white BB550PB1 was out of stock there, and the remaining white-and-black pair was reduced to CA$119.99. JD Sports Canada had the White / White BB550PB1 on clearance at CA$75 in three sizes, plus a White / Green pair at the same price. Sport Chek still listed men's and women's 550s at the full CA$150. New Balance says it fits as expected for most people.

For winter, the leather upper and tall rubber sole handle wet sidewalks better than mesh or canvas, but the shoe isn't waterproof. Wipe off salt and slush the same day. Our picks are based on construction, materials, price and availability in Canada; hands-on Lab results are being added as each pair finishes testing.