While flashier New Balance models cycle through hype, the 574 just keeps going. It is arguably the brand’s most recognizable everyday silhouette — an unpretentious, comfortable sneaker that has been a wardrobe staple for decades.
A late-1980s workhorse
The 574 was introduced in the late 1980s as an off-road running shoe designed to be versatile and durable rather than specialized. That general-purpose brief is exactly why it aged so well: it was never tied to a single trend. Its blend of suede and mesh, the prominent “N” logo, and the chunky-but-not-extreme midsole became a template.
ENCAP cushioning
The 574 uses New Balance’s ENCAP midsole technology — a polyurethane ring around an EVA core — for support and durability. It is not a plush, maximalist ride; it is a firm, dependable one, which suits its everyday role.
Made in USA/UK versions
Most 574s sold globally are manufactured internationally, but New Balance has produced premium Made in USA and Made in UK versions of the silhouette over the years, which carry a price premium and a following among enthusiasts. If provenance matters to you, check the specific release.
Fit and sizing
The 574 is generally regarded as fitting close to true to size with a comfortable, medium-volume last, and — as with all New Balance — wide widths are available. It is one of the safer New Balance models to buy without trying on, though trying on is always best.
How to style it
The 574’s understated, slightly chunky profile is genuinely go-with-anything: jeans, chinos, joggers, or shorts. Grey is the archetypal New Balance colorway and the most versatile, but the 574 exists in a huge range of tones. It is the streetwear equivalent of a reliable default.
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