New Balance Men's 574 V2 Sneaker - Retro Comfort for Men

In this review of the New Balance Men's 574 V2 Sneaker the bottom line is straightforward: these are a retro-styled daily sneaker best for someone who wants dependable comfort and classic looks without breaking the bank. The review finds the 574 V2 most appealing for commuters and casual wearers who value a cushioned feel and clean silhouette, while noting mixed fit and support feedback that may matter to those with precise sizing or high arch needs. Overall, the shoe balances style and practical cushioning with a few sustainable material updates.

Key Features

• ENCAP midsole cushioning: combines soft foam with a durable polyurethane rim to deliver steady all-day support and impact protection for walking and standing.
• Bio-based midsole content: the midsole foam uses about 3% bio-based content made from renewable sources, reducing carbon footprint without changing the familiar ride.
• Recycled upper fabrics: vamp, collar and tongue mesh are 100% recycled polyester, which keeps the shoe breathable while lowering material waste.
• Rubber outsole with recycled content: the outsole includes 5% recycled rubber to improve grip and durability while incorporating reclaimed material.
• Extended width options: available in extended width sizes so customers who need extra room can get a better fit and more comfort.

Who It's For

The 574 V2 is best for men who want a versatile, retro sneaker for everyday use: commuting, casual weekends, or light travel. Its ENCAP midsole and classic upper make it a good match for those who prioritize steady cushioning and a timeless look rather than performance running features.

Shoppers who require precision fitting or extra arch support should try them on or consider specialty footwear first, since customer feedback on fit and arch support is mixed and some users find them a little small or not supportive enough for long-term orthotic needs.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Well-made classic styling that pairs easily with many outfits.
• Comfortable ENCAP cushioning provides reliable daily support.
• Sustainable material updates like recycled mesh and recycled rubber add environmental value.

Cons

• Fit runs mixed for some customers; some report the shoe feels a little small and recommend trying before buying.
• Arch support is inconsistent across users, so those needing strong support may prefer a more specialized model.

Specifications

Brand	New Balance
Model	574 V2
Midsole	ENCAP cushioning with soft foam and polyurethane rim
Bio-based content	Midsole foam contains approximately 3% bio-based material
Upper materials	Vamp, collar and tongue mesh made from 100% recycled polyester
Outsole	Rubber with 5% recycled rubber
Sizing	Available in extended width sizes

Our Verdict

The New Balance Men's 574 V2 Sneaker is a solid choice for men seeking a classic, comfortable everyday shoe with modest sustainability improvements. Try them on if you have narrow feet or strong arch needs, but for most casual wearers the ENCAP midsole and durable construction deliver good value and timeless style.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these true to size?
Fit is mixed among customers; many find their usual size fine but some report the shoe runs a little small so trying on is recommended.

Do they offer good arch support?
Arch support is variable: some wearers appreciate it for everyday use, while others find it insufficient for high-arch or orthotic needs.

What environmental features do they have?
The shoe uses about 3% bio-based foam in the midsole, 100% recycled polyester mesh on key upper panels, and 5% recycled rubber in the outsole.