New Balance Men's Slip Resistant 626 V2 Industrial Shoe - Durable

Our review of the New Balance Men's Slip Resistant 626 V2 Industrial Shoe finds it best suited for men who spend long shifts on their feet and need a reliable, work-ready sneaker that hides its function inside a sporty profile. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of a supportive leather upper and an ASTM 2913-11 certified slip-resistant lug outsole, which together deliver secure traction on wet or oily floors while still feeling like a comfortable athletic shoe during a full day of work.

Key Features

• Supportive leather upper: Provides a secure, structured fit that holds the foot in place during long shifts without feeling overly stiff.
• ABZORB crash-pad technology: Absorbs and disperses forceful impacts to reduce foot fatigue when standing, walking, or climbing.
• ASTM 2913-11 slip-resistant outsole: A lugged outsole pattern designed for superior traction on hazardous surfaces often found in kitchens, warehouses, and industrial sites.
• Internal shank: Adds midfoot stability for safer lateral movement and support when carrying loads or bending.
• Sporty, low-profile design: Keeps a professional appearance while offering the function of a dedicated work shoe for environments that require slip resistance.

Who It's For

The 626 V2 is aimed at men working in hospitality, food service, light manufacturing, and facilities maintenance who need durable, slip-resistant footwear that still feels like an athletic shoe. It suits anyone who values a leather upper for easier cleaning and a structured fit combined with cushioning for long periods on hard floors.

Those who require composite toe protection, waterproofing, or specialized insulation for extreme cold should look elsewhere, as this model focuses on slip resistance, impact absorption, and stability rather than heavy-duty protective toe caps or weatherproof membranes.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Durable leather upper that maintains a secure fit through long shifts.
• ABZORB crash-pad reduces impact stress when walking or standing for hours.
• ASTM 2913-11 slip-resistant lug outsole offers dependable traction on slick surfaces.
• Internal shank improves midfoot stability for safer footing during lateral movements.

Cons

• Not intended for jobs requiring protective toe caps or full waterproofing, so may need a different model for those hazards.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The New Balance 626 V2 is a practical choice for men who need a comfortable, slip-resistant work shoe with a clean, athletic look. It delivers good value for those prioritizing traction, impact absorption, and midfoot stability but is not the pick if you need toe protection or waterproof construction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes slip resistant for kitchen floors?
Yes. The ASTM 2913-11 slip-resistant lug outsole is designed to provide superior traction on wet and oily surfaces common in kitchen environments.

Do these come with extra cushioning for all-day standing?
They include ABZORB crash-pad technology which helps absorb impacts and reduce fatigue during long shifts.

Are they waterproof or have a safety toe?
No. This model focuses on slip resistance and stability and does not include waterproof membranes or a protective toe cap.