Reviewer juanita morris
Just a great walking shoe for this old man. Easy on and off, a cushioned sole, and plenty wide. As reviewers stated, they tend to pick up rocks off our driveway.
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 C Blanc
Second pair. Very nice shoes
Reviewer David Wickre
Never had vans before, thought I would give them a try. They are very well made and sturdy. The only reason I gave them 4 stars was the first day I wore them I got a blister on the back of my heel from them. Hopefully I can break them in with no more blisters! I really like the shoes so I hope they work out!
Reviewer C Carlile
Seems to be overpriced.
Fits Perfectly
Decent Material
Comfortable
Reviewer Stormtrooper49
These "classic" shoes comes in a variety of color combinations. But the main thing about them is how comfortable they are. Thick "cushy" sole. . . Nice padding both on the footbed and around the ankle. Nice non-skid tread. Nice pull-on tab in the back. There's lots to like about these shoes. . . . Especially if you can get them on the current lower-end of the price range.
Reviewer Juan C Gutierrez
-) But this is entirely a personal observation. I didn't lower my rating for it.
Reviewer Ben Wagner
Look Great and feel great!
Reviewer Joseph F Joyce
These were a Valentine's gift for my hubby. He was very happy with the style and the fit of the shoe.
Reviewer WarpedMrFoqer
Surprisingly well fitting sneakers. I take a womens 10/11 or a mens 9. I always need wide width (genetic bunions, yay), so I wasn't sure how these would fit. When they arrived, I thought no way would they fit. They looked super narrow and small. Optical illusion as they went on no problem, and fit my feet well. Somehow makes my feet look narrow, too.
They have a sock like opening & upper. Stretchy but secure feeling. I wouldn't call it a lace up sneaker as there is no tongue. There is really no need for the laces, but it does provide some ability to adjust how it fits along the top portion. Just know that you can't make it tighter at the top near opening.
They do look exactly like in the pictures.
They feel secure on the feet. The insert is cushiony, almost provides a bit of a bounce. Has a slight arch, so if you have high arches or walk more on your sides, then this may exacerbate that. I have high arches but it doesn't feel too off. I was able to wear them all day around the house doing chores and felt comfortable enough. At some point I thought it could use more cushion.
They are a light weight sneaker, yet the sole is sturdy. I haven't gone on a walk with these yet, so I am not sure how they do in that regard (but will update). They were comfortable and sturdy enough for around the house and basic errands.
A lot better than anticipated.