The 288s is a refined version of the 288. Inspired by indoor-soccer shoes that's been updated with the kind of burly tech you require in a skate shoe. To start off, New Balance added a seamless one piece toe to reduce stress points and increase durability. Then to improve on impact performance they added a cushy closed cell polyurethane insole. To cap it all off New Balance threw in a crated heel to provide both comfort and support by cupping your heel, something you'll appreciate when kick out on a bigger gap. The end result is a serious skate shoe wrapped in a low profile, casual package.