Reviewer trevstonlongworth
I normally only wear 574's from New Balance, but I purchased these because they share the same shoe last and they're similar. I can't say that I like them as well, but they're alright.
I believe the mid-soles are different, and while I think I like the 574 mid-sole better, the 565 doesn't seem bad. One thing I definitely don't like as well is the lack of mesh in the all-suede upper. They probably don't breath as well, but that's not a huge factor for me in a suede shoe. I just like the looks of the mesh/suede combo better then the all-suede shoe.
I saved my final criticism for last, because it applies to both the 565 and 574 models of "Lifestyle and Retro" shoes. These are the ones with model numbers that start with "ml". I don't like them because they appear to be the hipster version of New Balance shoes, with laces that usually match the suede. Like any good hipster shoe, they seem to be more narrow, which is antithetical to the very thing that made the 574, and probably 565, popular shoes in the first place (i.e. spacious.) Even though these are supposedly made on the same shoe last as other models in the line, they definitely don't have the advertised toe depth of the SL-2 shoe last. I've also noticed that many New Balance shoes made on the SL-2 last don't seem to be as wide as they used to be, so that issue probably isn't for the lifestyle and retro shoes alone.
Seems strange that New Balance would ruin a popular line of shoes by changing the very things that made them popular, but that's what they seem to be doing. For customers that want a more narrow 574, it seems like New Balance would just suggest the 363 or one of their models made on narrow shoe lasts. Regardless, I wish they'd leave the SL-2 shoes alone, so that customer who appreciate them can continue to do so. I've worn them for 20 years and the only thing that will stop that is if New Balance changes the shoes so much that they're not the same.
Reviewer Marcy L Hoen
This is the only brand my husband can wear that are wide enough for his feet. He has bad bunions and they are easy to break in for his feet. He wears the 5E width.
Reviewer C Maltese
These shoes are a little wider than normal, but if you have a shoe stretcher, you can also stretch them to fit. Very comfortable. I use them for running and really like them because they have no decorative straps on the side which can can cause pressure points around the ball of the foot. Highly recommend these to anyone.
Reviewer shmickle
The styling is fine; the fit is as expected. The memory foam bedding is defintely comfortable and as a walking shoe in summer, this is a great option. Best suited for casual wear/walking around town/walking. Though lightweight, its utility as a primary shoe for running/jogging is limited, IMO, nostly due to concerns on how well the foam cushion and stitching can hold up for regular use. Overall, at this price point, a good value for walking/casual sneakers - the "performance sneaker" may still be true, but it will significantly reduce the life of the shoe.
Reviewer M Isenberg
I have been wearing Vans for almost 40 years; I probably have a minimum of 30 pairs. My normal size is 6 1/2 in women’s and that’s the size I ordered. The fit is true to size & these are authentic Vans. The image of a Charlie Brown Christmas on the shoe is exactly as shown online; perfect.
Reviewer Mayline
Day 1 of a long 9 hour shift. Walking 3-4 miles a day and delivering boxes. Shoes are a bit clunky. My left knee is hurting tonight. I’ve been wearing crap tennis shoes for years, so I’m assuming there will need to be time to adjust. The shoes are also very tall. There’s a decent amount of memory phone, but it’s all just sold rubber and plastic underneath for a good inch. They are noisy and seem a bit slippery.
On the up side, my feet feel pretty good.
Update 2: it’s been two weeks now. Walking 3-4 miles a day. The soles still feel clunky and they are loud. They don’t feel very stable on wet floors. Both my knees are hurting more now. Please don’t ever ever hike in these. I’ve been hunching over more because the heels are so incredibly high, so my shoulders and neck are killing me. The back of the heels hit the back of steps sometimes because they stick out so much. I feel awkward and everyone looks at my shoes when I walk at work because you’d think I was wearing gigantic boots. The soles feel like a hard plastic-like rubber. The memory foam has lost its charm already. The shoe already feels bigger inside, which I wanted at first....but it’s m because the memory foam has lost all its padding depth/comfort. I’d send these back if I didn’t throw the box away. They fool you into thinking they are comfy at first, but then the trouble starts.
I went to a Skechers store and they told me about all the returns they had with this model. At least I only paid $27.
I’m giving them 2 Stars now because I did get such a good deal, but I’d advise you to be weary if your body has a hard time with high soles. If they last a good 6 months, I’ll up the stars.
Update: after a month of wearing them, I’ve started to fit into them nicely. They still squeak and are too loud when walking on concrete floors, but I’m used to it. Aches have gone away.....I’m assuming because my body has adjusted. Back up to 4 stars. Minus one because they are so loud and the soles are too bulky. Also the padding is “meh”. But, I’m glad I got them.
Reviewer Luetta Kidwell
Some what large, but great slipping on without to much hassle at all. I could get a smaller pair, but I don’t want to bother putting my finger in heel to slip on. Guess I’m just lazy. Love the shoe, especially the material. Lastly, it’s great in the snow. No slipping and sliding around like other shoes.
Reviewer Daniel Larson
I must say these are the most comfortable shoes I have ever (EVER) purchased. My god, they are like walking on air!!!!!!
Reviewer D James Nielsen
Definitely beautiful and look even better that the pictures real leather no plastic well made fiel solid
Reviewer Emily Mathis
Great shoes would be much better with memory foam insoles.
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