Transitions are a key part of life in 2017- whether you've a spontaneous spirit or just like to keep a full schedule, proper preparation in the morning can be a predicament when there's an array of activities on the agenda. New Balance's latest 247 silhouette was designed to cater to the endless days that often characterize the modern lifestyle.

My first experience in the new sneaker came on my trip to China for our special pop-up in Shanghai. Although I did bring (and cop) more sneakers, I found myself reaching for the New Balance 247 Luxe every day. Quite simply, they were easy to wear. The low-cut silhouette worked with whatever I was wearing and the comfort lasted me all day. Spending the entire trip in the 247 Luxe left such a good impression that I was looking forward to trying out the even more functional Sport edition of the New Balance 247.

The most prominent feature distinguishing the New Balance 247 Sport is the materials used. Engineered, multi-layer mesh replaces the leather we saw on the Luxe iteration, giving the shoe a much more active functionality. As expected, the upper flexes freely and offers plenty of ventilation without feeling unstable.

With any sort of mesh upper, it is important to have some structure to provide containment and support. I felt well locked in by the synthetic wrap around the midfoot and heel of the shoe, while reflective 3M accents made sure everyone could see me stunting through my evening run.

What impressed me the most about the New Balance 247 was the comfort. Aesthetically, the midsole borrows from the ever popular 998 silhouette, but the classic Abzorb cushioning is replaced with the REVLite technology featured in newer models. Step-in comfort is there, but not very overwhelming. Like a good pair of jeans, the sole breaks in with time and I found myself loving them more with each wear. When comparing a fresh pair of the 247 Sport to my worn-in Luxe, the difference was clear. While some might prefer the immediate comfort, I very much enjoyed the experience of breaking in the shoe- it effectively makes you want to wear the 247 more.

Sentimentality aside, the cushion is just great. Whether I was on a run or just walking around the city, the REVlite sole was comfortable enough for me to not worry about it, while it was also supportive enough under my arches to avoid any aches that might come with being on my feet all day.

It's also worth noting that the traction of the New Balance 247 is quite good. Many contemporary runners bear less aggressive grooves that look to wear rather quickly, but the 247 features a durable rubber in a hexagonal pattern that continues to keep me on my feet through the slick New York City winter.

The combination of featured technologies builds the New Balance 247 Sport to be a well rounded shoe. REVlite cushioning and engineered mesh make the sneaker a lightweight package that is easy to carry around but easier to wear. Although I liked the styling of the Luxe edition, its clear that the New Balance 247 Sport is going to become a regular in my rotation. The shoe is gym ready but fits right in with chinos or jeans.

All this functionality integrated into a contemporary low profile silhouette, the New Balance 247 Sport is a sneaker made to be lived in.