New Balance Baby-Boys 574 New-b Hook-and-Loop (Style PFTN)

Our review of the New Balance Baby-Boys 574 NEW-B Hook-and-Loop finds this shoe best suited for infants and toddlers taking their first steps; its single biggest advantage is a combination of a flexible construction and a customizable hook-and-loop closure that makes putting shoes on and adjusting fit quick and reliable. Parents looking for a shoe that supports early walking with a generous toe box and protective rubber outsole pods will appreciate the thoughtful design, while the synthetic leather upper keeps the shoe easy to clean and maintain.

Key Features

• Flexible construction: The sole and midsole are designed to move with a child's foot, helping support natural foot motion during early standing and stepping.
• Customizable fit: The hook-and-loop closure allows caregivers to tighten or loosen the shoe to match a growing foot shape for a more secure fit.
• Synthetic leather upper: The upper material wipes clean easily and holds its shape while providing structure around the foot.
• Generous toe box and instep: Extra room up front accommodates wide feet and gives toes space to splay naturally as balance improves.
• Rubber outsole pods: Durable pods on the outsole provide traction and resistance to the scuffs and wear of daily toddler play.

Who It's For

Ideal users are caregivers of infants and toddlers who are standing, scooting, or taking first steps and need a supportive, easy-to-use shoe that adapts to changing foot shape. The generous toe box and supportive sole make it a practical choice for children who need extra room and stability.

Who should look elsewhere would be parents requiring a waterproof shoe or breathable knit materials for very warm climates, since the synthetic leather upper focuses on durability and cleanliness rather than maximum airflow.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Supportive, flexible construction helps toddlers move naturally while learning to walk.
• Hook-and-loop closure makes shoes fast to put on and easy to adjust for fit.
• Durable rubber outsole pods resist everyday wear and protect little feet.
• Generous toe box accommodates wider feet and improves comfort during early steps.

Cons

• Velcro durability receives mixed feedback, with some users reporting it can lose hold after heavy use.

Specifications

Brand	New Balance
Model	574 NEW-B Hook-and-Loop (Infant/Toddler)
Upper material	Synthetic leather
Closure	Hook-and-loop
Outsole	Rubber outsole with protective pods
Fit features	Generous toe box and adjustable fit

Our Verdict

The 574 NEW-B Hook-and-Loop is a well-rounded first-walker that balances support, ease of use, and durability, making it a smart buy for most toddlers learning to stand and walk. Caregivers who value a roomy front, adjustable fit, and a rugged outsole will find it good value, though those needing ultra-durable velcro or specialized seasonal materials should consider alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these true to size?
Yes, customers report a generally true-to-size fit that also accommodates wider feet due to the generous toe box.

Is the hook-and-loop closure adjustable?
Yes, the closure is designed to be tightened or loosened to match a child's growing foot and provide a secure fit.

How durable is the outsole?
The rubber outsole pods are built to withstand daily wear and provide good traction for early walkers.