New Balance Numeric 808 Lite Skate Shoes: What's the Difference?
How is the New Balance Numeric 808 Lite different from Tiago Lemos' original 808?
Background: The New Balance Numeric 808
After the great success of Tiago Lemos' first pro model shoe for New Balance Numeric, the 1010, New Balance gave Tiago his second pro shoe, a chunkier, heavier and more padded skate shoe... the New Balance Numeric 808.
The New Balance Numeric 808 combines retro basketball-inspired styling with modern skate features like a puffy tongue and reinforced suede/leather panneling. It features a reinforced upper, full-length ABZORB midsole for impact protection, and a durable cupsole construction for boardfeel and support. With its chunky silhouette and robust design, the New Balance Numeric 808 blends technical function with bold streetwear appeal.
The Feedback from Skateboarders
Although the New Balance Numeric 808 did not gather the same cult following that was seen in Tiago's 1010, it was still appreciated as a skate shoe that was chunky, with a retro 90's vibe, that also included a lot of tech with an intricate design.
However, many skaters were put off by the New Balance Numeric 808 due to the fit and weight of the shoe. The skate shoe is really heavy duty, with a noticeable weight that affects breathability and feel. As well as the weight, the padding and toe box caused fitting issues, with some of our customers going a whole size up in order to feel a comfortable fit. I have a wide foot and knew the second I tried them on that they would be cramped for me to buy a pair true-to-size.
So New Balance Listened, Releasing the Upgraded New Balance Numeric 808 Lite
What is the difference between the New Balance Numeric 808 and the New Balance Numeric 808 Lite?
Skaters asked, New Balance answered. After hearing the issues faced with the original 808, New Balance presented the solution with the 808 Lite—an evolved take on Tiago Lemos' 808. Designed to withstand Tiago’s high impact, fast skating, these upgrades take an already top-tier shoe to the next level, ironing out the features that caused complaints.
What did New Balance change in the 808 Lite?
New Balance went ahead and addressed the weight issue and fit issue by slightly reducing padding in areas and reconstructing the toe box. Not only did this improve the fit and weight issues, but it also improved the overall look of the shoe in my opinion.
Lighter, slimmer, and more breathable than the original, the New Balance 808 Lite trims the fat while arguably improving performance. This updated version sheds the bulk of the OG 808, making it more agile and flexy straight out the box. Tiago Lemos’ requires a bulky shoe and the 808 Lite stays true to his style—clean, bold, and still built for impact skating. You can still hit the big sets, but you'll have a better
"We’ve reduced the overall weight, increased the flexibility and improved the fit," NB# mentioned on Instagram. "Still the same durability and protection that Tiago loves, simplified and refined for his personal preference."
Overview: What's new in the New Balance Numerric 808 Lite
The original 808 was built to take a beating—durable, protective, and ready for anything—but it ran a bit bulky and needed some break-in time to feel comfortable. The new 808 Lite keeps that same rugged DNA, just with a leaner, lighter feel for better boardfeel straight out of the box. It’s streamlined where it counts, so you’re ready to rip from day one.
That said, the original was still a certified banger—and let’s be real, Tiago seemed to have no issue with the fit or making them look good. When someone of his level backs a shoe, you know it’s built for serious skateboarding. If it’s good enough for Tiago, it’s more than ready for the streets. That being said, the 808 Lite was a necessary move from New Balance, and I appreciate that they listened to their audience and made the improvements that were asked for.
