New Balance Men's 574 V2 Sneaker - Classic Daily Support

Our review of the New Balance Men's 574 V2 Sneaker finds it best suited for someone seeking a durable everyday shoe that balances heritage styling with modern, eco-minded updates. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of the time-tested ENCAP midsole, which offers reliable cushioning and stability for all-day wear, and visible sustainable touches like recycled mesh and bio-based midsole foam that reduce environmental impact without sacrificing comfort. This sneaker is a practical, low-key choice for commuters, casual walkers, and anyone who wants a dependable lifestyle shoe.

Key Features

• ENCAP midsole: delivers cushioned comfort with a durable polyurethane rim that supports long hours on your feet and keeps the shoe stable.
• Bio-based midsole foam: contains approximately 3% renewable content to lower the shoe's carbon footprint while retaining responsive underfoot feel.
• Recycled upper materials: the vamp, collar and tongue mesh are made from 100% recycled polyester for a lighter environmental impact.
• Rubber outsole: includes 5% recycled rubber to improve durability and traction on pavement and city surfaces.
• Extended widths available: accommodates a broader range of foot shapes for a more comfortable fit without stretching the upper.

Who It's For

The 574 V2 is ideal for men who want a versatile, everyday sneaker that reads classic but performs for daily routines like commuting, light walking, and casual office wear. Its combination of ENCAP cushioning and a sturdy upper makes it a dependable option for those who spend long periods on their feet but do not require high-performance running tech.

Shoppers who need specialized athletic footwear for intense training, trail running, or sport-specific support should look elsewhere, as this silhouette prioritizes lifestyle comfort and durability over sport-specific performance features.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable ENCAP midsole provides stable, cushioned support for all-day wear.
• Incorporation of recycled materials and bio-based foam reduces environmental impact compared with conventional builds.
• Available in extended widths, improving fit options for wider feet.
• Classic, versatile styling works well with casual and smart-casual outfits.

Cons

• The midsole foam includes only about 3% bio-based content, so sustainability gains are modest rather than transformative.
• Not intended as a high-performance running shoe, so athletes seeking advanced cushioning or responsiveness may prefer performance models.

Specifications

Model	574 V2
Midsole	ENCAP cushioning with soft foam and polyurethane rim
Bio-based content	Approximately 3% midsole foam from renewable sources
Upper materials	Vamp, collar and tongue mesh made from 100% recycled polyester
Outsole	Rubber outsole with 5% recycled rubber
Widths	Available in extended width sizes

Our Verdict

The New Balance Men's 574 V2 is a smart pick for anyone who wants a reliable daily sneaker that blends classic looks with modest sustainability upgrades. It offers solid value for men needing comfortable, stable shoes with wider fit options, though buyers seeking high-end performance running features should consider other models.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for walking all day?
The ENCAP midsole provides cushioned support suitable for extended walking and daily wear.

How eco-friendly is this version?
The shoe uses recycled mesh in the upper, around 3% bio-based midsole foam, and a rubber outsole with 5% recycled rubber, which reduces impact compared with conventional materials.

Do they come in wide sizes?
Yes, the 574 V2 is offered in extended width sizes to accommodate wider feet.