The New Balance Numeric Brandon Westgate 508 | Phantom Yellow is the kind of shoe that looks like it already sprinted through three spots before you even picked up your board. Built off a classic futsal sole, it blends the close, flexible feel of a vulcanised shoe with the impact protection of a cupsole – a sort of technical split personality that actually works brilliantly. The perforated suede upper breathes like it has its own agenda, while the one-piece reinforced toe treats contact with griptape as just another daily routine. A mesh collar with foam backing locks you in comfortably, and the exposed foam and mesh tongue give off that low-key retro energy. The reflective heel detail is there to catch the light when you’re still skating after everyone else has gone home.
Performance
The NM508 feels like it was tuned for fast, powerful skating without unnecessary drama. The C-CAP midsole delivers long-lasting cushioning with a firm, supportive feel so the sole doesn’t turn mushy when the drops get serious. Boardfeel stays lively, while the impact gets filtered before it reaches your joints. Lateral movement feels controlled, even when your speed decisions are slightly questionable. At around 418 g, it has enough substance to inspire confidence without feeling heavy. From quick transitions to big impacts and long street days, the 508 just gets on with the job.
Functional construction
The way the 508 is built has a very simple logic: if it doesn’t help you skate, it doesn’t need to be there. The perforated suede upper cuts weight and boosts breathability, and the one-piece toe cap reduces weak points in the high-wear zone. The padded mesh collar wraps the ankle in a secure, non-restrictive fit. The futsal-inspired sole unit creates a stable platform with precise surface contact. Every part has a purpose – protection, support or feel – nothing is decorative.
Technology for performance
C-CAP cushioning is designed for long-term impact support and consistency over repeated sessions. Reflective heel details add visibility in low light, ideal for city missions. The cupsole construction increases impact protection while keeping enough flex for technical skating. Overall, it’s a spec sheet that clearly nods to Brandon Westgate’s fast, powerful style.
Technical features
- C-CAP midsole for durable cushioning
- Reflective heel detail
- Signature model for Brandon Westgate
- Approx. weight: 418 g (14.7 oz)
- Perforated suede upper
- One-piece reinforced toe cap
- Foam-backed mesh collar
- Mesh tongue with retro feel
- Style code: NM508CAT
Style & use
The Phantom Yellow colourway combines a dark, understated base with sharp highlights – subtle from a distance, loud up close. Made for fast street skating, technical riding and everyday wear with a bit of edge.
Who is it for?
For skaters who push speed, impact and control in equal measure. Ideal if you want a tough, stable shoe that can keep up when the session escalates.
In summary
- Vulcanised-like feel with cupsole protection
- Durable, breathable perforated suede upper
- Long-lasting C-CAP impact cushioning
- Stable construction built for hard skating
