New Balance 574 V2 Sneaker - Classic Comfort with ENCAP Support

In this review of the New Balance 574 V2 Sneaker the bottom line is clear: this is a versatile everyday casual shoe for someone who wants classic styling with dependable cushioning. The biggest reason to buy is the ENCAP midsole, which pairs soft foam with a sturdy polyurethane rim to deliver stable, all-day support while maintaining a familiar 574 silhouette. The shoe also leans toward sustainability with small amounts of bio-based midsole content, recycled polyester in the upper and some recycled rubber in the outsole, making it a practical pick for shoppers who care about materials as well as comfort.

Key Features

• ENCAP midsole: Delivers cushioned comfort with a durable polyurethane rim for steady support during long days on your feet.
• Bio-based foam: The midsole foam contains roughly 3% bio-based content made from renewable sources, reducing the shoe's carbon footprint slightly compared with conventional foam.
• Recycled upper materials: The vamp, collar and tongue mesh use 100% recycled polyester to limit virgin material use without changing the classic look.
• Recycled rubber outsole: The outsole includes about 5% recycled rubber for added durability and a modest reduction in waste.
• Extended widths available: Offers options for customers who need a roomier fit, which helps given that many report a narrow feel in standard widths.

Who It's For

The New Balance 574 V2 is best for men seeking a timeless, casual sneaker that balances classic styling with practical cushioning for daily wear. It suits commuters, people in retail or light active jobs, and anyone who wants a shoe that looks right with jeans or casual athleisure without being overly sporty.

Shoppers who require a very precise fit should take note: many customers report a narrow fit in standard widths, so those with wider feet should try extended width options or try them on before purchasing. Serious runners or those wanting performance-specific footwear for long-distance training should look at dedicated running models instead.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable daily cushioning thanks to the ENCAP midsole that balances softness and stability.
• More sustainable materials in several areas, like recycled polyester mesh and some bio-based foam content.
• Classic 574 styling that pairs well with casual outfits and light sportswear.

Cons

• Standard widths run narrow for some customers, so extended widths may be necessary for a proper fit.
• The sustainability improvements are modest (single-digit percentages) and may not satisfy buyers seeking highly eco-focused footwear.

Specifications

Brand	New Balance
Model	574 V2
Midsole	ENCAP cushioning with soft foam and polyurethane rim
Bio-based content	Approx. 3% bio-based midsole foam
Upper materials	Vamp, collar and tongue mesh made from 100% recycled polyester
Outsole	Rubber with about 5% recycled rubber
Sizes	Includes extended width options

Our Verdict

The New Balance 574 V2 is a solid choice for anyone wanting a reliable, comfortable sneaker with a classic look and modest sustainability upgrades. It offers good daily support via the ENCAP midsole and useful material improvements, but shoppers with wide feet should pick extended widths. Overall it is good value for those who prioritize everyday comfort and heritage styling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do these run true to size?
Many customers report a narrow fit in standard widths, so if you have wider feet consider ordering an extended width or trying them on first.

How much recycled content is in the shoe?
The vamp, collar and tongue mesh are 100% recycled polyester and the outsole contains about 5% recycled rubber, while the midsole has roughly 3% bio-based foam content.

Are these suitable for running?
They work well for casual activity and daily wear, but runners seeking performance-specific cushioning and support should choose a dedicated running shoe instead.