Reviewer Michael P VanBuren
My husband loves the style and fit of these shoes, He says they fit just as expected. Will order these shoes again.
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 Nefi Falabella
The shoes are quality made; however, they're tight across the top of my feet. Perhaps after they're broken in they will be more comfortable.
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 Patrick L Grady
Every time he puts them on comments about their comfort
Reviewer Aumer
The fit of these slip on sneakers is true to size. I got a pair in size 11, and my size 11 foot fits just fine. The fit is better with socks on but even without socks the sneaker has a decent fit (there's some lifting of the heel when not wearing socks but it's not excessive or troublesome).
They are surprisingly comfortable. There's padding that provides reasonable support. They are all plastic in construction which makes them perfect as a garden shoe since I can just hose them off when they get muddy. They are also great for around the house and running errands. I like that they are slip ons, which makes it quick and easy to put on/take off. However, these would not be my first choice for taking long walks -- I prefer lace up shoes for that to provide better support.
The only area that was somewhat disappointing is the sole. The manufacturer claims they are non-slip and that's true when walking on a rough surface, such as a sidewalk. Even in the rain these felt sure footed outside. However, on smooth surfaces, such as a wet tile floor, I didn't get that sure footed feeling. I didn't fall (at least not yet) but I have to be more mindful when walking compared with other shoes that have a softer, more grippy sole. The sole on these shoes is rather hard and unyielding. That's good for making the shoe last a long time without wearing out, but not so good for grip.
The sole drops my score to 4.5 stars but I'll round up to 5 since everything else about these sneakers hits the mark. They fit well and are comfortable, practical shoes. The styling is nothing to shout about, but as long as my feet are happy, I don't care what they look like!
Reviewer Dark Neko
I've been running with New Balance shoes for years and found them to be the best. What I didn't realize is that they make such comfortable shoes for everyday wear. I spend a lot of time standing and walking on my job; I also have plantar fasciitis due to high arch and physical stress on my feet. I've tried pretty much everything from running shoes to walking shoes, as well as hi-end Clark's, and different arch supports. NB 801 are by far the most comfortable. They provide outstanding cushioning and support; you can easily slip them off for few minutes, and they look well-made. For the first time in years my fasciitis is not aggravated after hours of standing. I will get a second pair for traveling.
Reviewer DivPubSafety
These are a hit with my 15 year old son and he received many compliments at school.
Reviewer Patricia J Walker
These are a great and inexpensive slip on shoes and you can feel good because it is made out of recycled products. I wear a size 13 and I have big fat flat feet and they fit just fine. I was scared reading the reviews people made the shoes seem really narrow and tight but these fit perfectly.
Just a note that I wear these without socks and they would probably fit tight if I wore socks but you typically don't wear socks with these types of shoes at least I don't. If you normally wear vans slip on shoe these are comparable but the fabric is uhh not the same.
Reviewer Da Jester
Great shoe, ideal for walking
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