The New Balance 480 is an authentic kids' basketball shoe built for young athletes, inspired by the classic BB680 worn by professional players. Designed to support active play both on and off the court, it offers a blend of heritage style and practical durability. While it provides excellent support for growing feet during various activities, users should note that as a kids' shoe, it's tailored for their developmental needs rather than highly specialized adult performance demands.
BB680 Inspiration: Draws design cues from the original, pro-worn BB680 for a classic, athletic look and feel.
On and Off-Court Versatility: Engineered to provide comfort and support during basketball play and for everyday wear.
Authentic Kids' Design: Specifically built to meet the needs of active children, offering appropriate fit and support.
Durable Construction: Designed to withstand the rigors of frequent use by energetic kids, ensuring longevity.
Unisex Appeal: Available in a black colorway suitable for all genders, making it a versatile choice for any young athlete.
Comfortable Fit: Provides adequate cushioning and support for developing feet during active periods.
Versatile Use: Excellent for both sports activities and casual daily wear.
Durable Build: Constructed to endure active play and regular use by children.
Supportive Design: Offers good foot and ankle support essential for young athletes.
Classic Aesthetic: Features a timeless design inspired by professional basketball footwear.
Easy to Maintain: Simple to clean and care for, ideal for kids' footwear.
Kid-Specific Design: May not include the highly specialized technical features found in adult performance basketball shoes.
Limited Color Options: Primarily available in black, which might not appeal to all preferences.
Sizing Specificity: Sized for children, ensuring accurate measurement is crucial for proper fit.
Versatile Use: Excellent for both sports activities and casual daily wear.
Durable Build: Constructed to endure active play and regular use by children.
Supportive Design: Offers good foot and ankle support essential for young athletes.
Classic Aesthetic: Features a timeless design inspired by professional basketball footwear.
Easy to Maintain: Simple to clean and care for, ideal for kids' footwear.
Kid-Specific Design: May not include the highly specialized technical features found in adult performance basketball shoes.
Limited Color Options: Primarily available in black, which might not appeal to all preferences.
Sizing Specificity: Sized for children, ensuring accurate measurement is crucial for proper fit.
The New Balance 480 is crafted to support the dynamic movements of active kids, whether they're on the basketball court or enjoying playground adventures. Its durable construction means it can withstand the bumps, scuffs, and rapid stops and starts typical of children's play. The shoe provides reliable traction, essential for quick pivots and changes in direction during sports, helping to minimize slips.
For basketball, the 480 offers foundational support, particularly for the ankle, which is crucial for jump shots and lateral movements. Its design, inspired by pro models, provides a secure fit that helps prevent excessive foot movement inside the shoe, contributing to stability. Off the court, the shoe's comfortable fit makes it suitable for school, walks, or casual outings, proving its versatility as an everyday sneaker. Parents can expect the 480 to hold up well to the demands of active childhood, offering a practical and stylish option for their young ones.
Proper Lacing: Ensure the laces are threaded through all eyelets. Start from the bottom eyelets and work your way up, pulling the laces snug but not overtight to secure the foot without restricting circulation.
Fit Check: Have your child stand up with the shoes on. There should be about a thumb's width of space between the longest toe and the end of the shoe. The heel should feel secure, with minimal slippage.
Break-In Period: Like most new athletic shoes, the New Balance 480 may benefit from a short break-in period. Encourage your child to wear them for short durations initially before extended use during sports.
Activities: Ideal for basketball, gym classes, active playground use, and general everyday wear.
Surfaces: Suitable for indoor courts (wood, synthetic) and outdoor hard surfaces (tarmac, concrete).
Apparel: Pairs well with athletic shorts, track pants, jeans, and other casual attire.
Cleaning: For general cleaning, wipe the shoes with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid harsh chemicals.
Stubborn Dirt: For more ingrained dirt, use a soft brush (like an old toothbrush) with soapy water to gently scrub affected areas.
Drying: Always air dry your shoes at room temperature. Do not use direct heat sources like radiators or tumble dryers, as this can damage materials and adhesives.
Odor Control: To help prevent odors, remove insoles after wear and allow shoes to air out. You can also use shoe deodorizers or baking soda sachets.
Storage: Store shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight when not in use.