I love New Balance gym shoes and ever since I could afford them I have been buying them.  Yes they are more expensive than other brands, but you definitely don't want to skimp with your feet.  I mean for me I am on my feet all day plus I walk.  I have been trying to get into running and that is why I picked this shoes since they are specifically for running, but honestly I didn't like them.  Don't get me wrong they were comfortable on my soles but my toes felt a little tight.  Maybe its just this style as I got the right size and I have worn the same size in other New Balance shoes.  I also felt these shoes were a lot bulkier than the picture.  I like thinner shoes, and these felt like boxes on my feet.

So I'm torn with this review as they were comfortable to walk in, but running would definitely irritate my toes with its tightness.  So while I like other styles of New Balance, this style is not my favorite.  I too felt they were somewhat manly, not my style.