Reviewer M Ruffini
The first time I saw the "Backpack" line of shoes from New Balance, I knew that I'd one day be adding a pair to my collections of 574's. Nylon uppers just seems like a fantastic idea, since nylon is so easy to clean and keep clean. I liked the idea of being able to get them dirty, knowing that they'll clean up better then other 574's. Because of this, I might even wear them when I normally wouldn't want to get my shoes dirty.
I haven't had them long enough to make that decision, or know exactly how well they'll clean up, but there is something else different about them that immediately caught my attention. Ever since New Balance changed the manufacturing process for the 574's, I think they've been smaller and less comfortable then versions before that time. I just purchased another pair of 574's a couple of weeks back and noticed this immediately when putting them on, as I always do with a new pair of 574's nowadays.
This pair, however, feels more like the older 574's, because they're so comfortable. My first thought was that maybe they made them like the old ones, but after comparing them to numerous other pairs I have, both old and new, I don't think that's it. The soles still match the newer version (i.e. they're more narrow), but still, I'm pretty sure they have more toe room in the uppers, because they both look and feel as if they do.
I've been a little disappointed with every pair I've purchased, since they changed the manufacturing process, because they're just not as comfortable as they used to be. For whatever reason, these, however, seem closer to what I remember a new pair feeling like and that has me really happy. They are very comfortable shoes.
Reviewer Allen Draher
I always buy my shoes extra wide. I've bought many New Balance shoes in the 4E. These are marked and tagged 4E, however when I put them on, they are not as wide as any other wide shoe I've bought. I'm hoping that they'll break in a bit (likely) and I love the way they look. So I'll keep them.
Reviewer Stacey Both
Kind of tight in the toes
Reviewer Lerey Bishop
My husband loves these shoes. They are perfect for everyday wear, but they don't stand up real well. He gets anywhere from 6 months to a year of hard ranch wear out of them. He loves the memory foam insole.
Reviewer Kitty Moore
While I had never heard of this brand I decided to give them a shot and see what I thought. I have flat feet which leads to lower back pain so having shoes with adequate arch support is important to me.
I have used these shoes for several months when I go to the gym and I have found they fit well. The arch and side support is good and they are comfortable while wearing.
Aesthetically they are not my favorite but that is an individual taste preference. I’m not a big fan of the plastic piece behind the heel but it isn’t that big of a deal.
I am not a runner and honestly didn’t realize they had the reflective properties for a while until I happened to be out at night when headlights hit them and I saw them suddenly reflect the light. I can see how this is a great quality for those who run at night as it will greatly increase visibility.
These are a high quality, comfortable pair of gym shoes that provide excellent arch support. I do recommend ordering a size smaller than you normally would as they tend to run large.
Impressive shoes.
Reviewer D Ruekberg
I love the low cut slip on style.So comply.Just ordered the Teal tint color today for spring
Reviewer Timothy P Cleary
I've owned several pairs of these shoes and was happy to find them again. They fit me great and are very comfortable. They hold up well to daily wear.
Reviewer Emily Mathis
Great shoes would be much better with memory foam insoles.
Reviewer Edward F Bertalan
Love these shoes. I have at least 4 other pairs.
Reviewer Barbara R Doody
Best looking sneakers I ever had. Had to return for a half size down, but had no problems