New Balance Women's 574v2 Trainers - Supportive ENCAP Cushioning

Our review of the New Balance Women's 574v2 Trainers finds them best suited to someone seeking an everyday athletic shoe that balances classic styling with dependable support. The single biggest reason to buy is the ENCAP midsole cushioning, which combines soft foam with a durable polyurethane rim to deliver stable, all-day comfort for walking or light running. These 574v2s also include modest sustainability updates, such as a midsole foam with bio-based content and recycled polyester uppers, making them a sensible choice for a practical, style-conscious wearer.

Key Features

• ENCAP midsole cushioning: Delivers consistent arch support and stable, comfortable cushioning for long periods on your feet.
• Bio-based midsole foam: Uses approximately 3% renewable content to reduce carbon footprint without changing the shoe's ride.
• Recycled mesh upper: Vamp, collar and tongue mesh are 100% recycled polyester, offering breathable coverage while using recycled materials.
• Rubber outsole with recycled content: The outsole includes 5% recycled rubber for added durability and a smaller environmental impact.
• Extended width options: Available in extended width sizes, providing a better fit for a wider range of foot shapes.

Who It's For

The 574v2 is ideal for women who want a versatile sneaker for daily wear, commuting, and light exercise, especially if they value a classic aesthetic and reliable arch support. The shoe suits walkers and casual runners who prioritize a stable, cushioned ride and understated style over performance race features.

Those who need a very narrow fit or expect high-performance trail running should look elsewhere; some users report the fit can run narrow for certain foot shapes and opinions on long-term durability vary. If you need maximal cushioning for long runs or specialized running tech, a dedicated road or trail runner may be a better match.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable, stable cushioning from the ENCAP midsole that supports all-day wear.
• Breathable recycled polyester mesh uppers combine comfort with reduced waste.
• Available in extended widths, improving fit options for wider feet.
• Classic, understated style that works with many outfits and colors.

Cons

• Some customers find the fit narrow, so the feel may vary by foot shape.
• Durability feedback is mixed; a few users report wear sooner than expected under heavy use.

Specifications

Model	574v2 Trainers
Midsole	ENCAP cushioning with soft foam and polyurethane rim
Bio-based content	Midsole foam contains approx. 3% renewable content
Upper materials	Vamp, collar and tongue mesh in 100% recycled polyester
Outsole	Rubber with 5% recycled rubber
Fit options	Available in extended width sizes

Our Verdict

The New Balance Women's 574v2 is a practical, good-value everyday trainer for those who want classic styling with dependable ENCAP support and modest sustainability upgrades. It is recommended for walkers, commuters, and casual runners who appreciate comfort and archival design; however, buyers with narrow feet or those wanting high-mileage running performance should consider other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes true to size?
Many customers find the size fits well, but some report a narrow fit; consider trying extended widths if you need extra room.

Do they offer good arch support?
Yes, the ENCAP midsole cushioning provides solid arch support suited to all-day wear and walking.

How sustainable are these trainers?
The shoes include recycled polyester uppers, 5% recycled rubber in the outsole, and about 3% bio-based content in the midsole foam, reflecting modest sustainability improvements.