The New Balance Men’s 574 Core Sneaker is more than just a shoe—it’s an icon that blends style, comfort, and sustainability. Known as “the most New Balance shoe ever,” the 574 has been a global favorite since 1988, offering unmatched versatility for everything from casual outings to light workouts. With eco-friendly materials and a design that never goes out of style, here’s why the 574 Core is a must-have for any man’s wardrobe.
Iconic Design with Modern Versatility
The 574 Core’s hybrid road/trail design sets it apart, built on a wider last than the narrow racing silhouettes of its time. Its suede and mesh upper delivers a timeless “dad shoe” aesthetic that’s both rugged and refined. Available in classic colors like Grey/White, Black/White, and Navy, it pairs effortlessly with jeans, shorts, or athleisure, making it a go-to for casual wear. I’ve worn my Grey/White pair to everything from coffee runs to weekend hikes, and they always look sharp.
Customers love the styling, with one Amazon reviewer noting, “The classic design pairs perfectly with almost any outfit, making them versatile enough for both casual outings and daily errands”. Another said, “Cutest tennis shoes, they match with everything!”. The 100% recycled polyester vamp, collar, and tongue mesh adds breathability, keeping feet cool and aligning with 2025’s sustainable fashion trends.
Check the New Balance Men’s 574 Core Sneaker on Amazon
Unmatched Comfort with ENCAP Cushioning
The 574 Core shines in comfort, thanks to its ENCAP midsole cushioning, which combines soft EVA foam with a durable polyurethane rim for all-day support. The midsole foam includes 3% bio-based content from renewable sources, reducing the carbon footprint while maintaining a firm yet cushioned feel. RunRepeat’s lab tests measured the primary foam at 44.0 HA (firm) and the top layer at 29.5 HA (49% softer), ensuring comfortable landings despite a rigid sole. I wore these for a 15,000-step day at a theme park, and my feet felt great, echoing a reviewer’s experience: “I spent three full days walking around theme parks… and didn’t have those familiar pains at all”.
The 4.7mm padded insole and foam-padded collar and tongue add extra comfort, especially for wide feet or conditions like plantar fasciitis. A podiatrist cited by TODAY recommends the 574 for its arch support and shock absorption, making it ideal for long hours of walking or standing.
Durable and Sustainable Build
The 574 Core meets New Balance’s Green Leaf Standard, with 50% or more recycled content in the upper and 5% recycled rubber in the rubber outsole, which offers reliable traction on pavement or trails. RunRepeat noted the outsole’s impressive 8.2mm thickness, one of the thickest tested, ensuring durability for daily wear. A dog groomer shared, “I wear them eight to ten hours a day, and my feet and legs love me for buying these sneakers”.
The suede/mesh upper is breathable, though not ideal for heavy rain, and the toe bumper protects against scrapes, keeping the shoes looking fresh. One user reported minimal wear after a year of extensive use, saying, “The quality of materials is impressive—they’ve held up beautifully”. To maintain them, treat with a protector like Crep Protect, as one parent did for their son’s pair.
Wide Fit Options for Every Foot
Available in extended width sizes (D, 2E, 4E, up to size 18), the 574 Core is a godsend for those with wide feet or needing orthotics. A customer with size 10 extra-wide feet said, “These are legit extra-wide and fit perfectly!”. However, sizing can be inconsistent—New Balance notes the model runs small, and reviews are mixed, with some finding them true to size and others needing a half-size up. I ordered a size 9.5 (my usual 9 was tight), and the fit was spot-on. If you’re unsure, use New Balance’s 3D fitting technology or size up based on reviews.
Things to Consider
While the 574 Core excels in comfort, its firm midsole (92 SA impact absorption) may feel too rigid for those who prefer plush sneakers like the PUMA RS-X. Some users reported lace pressure due to the 4.6mm tongue padding, especially when tightly cinched. Durability is strong, but heavy use may wear down the outsole in 6–12 months, with one user noting, “They need more outer soles; they wear down too fast”. Occasional quality issues, like scuffed shoes upon delivery, were mentioned, so inspect upon arrival.
Budget-Friendly Icon
Priced around $80–$90 (with discounts like 30% off via code NBLEARN at NewBalance.com), the 574 Core offers great value. Its 4.4/5-star rating on Amazon and popularity as a “Shop TODAY Sneaker Awards winner” for best overall walking shoe underscore its appeal. A reviewer called it “the ultimate gym and casual shoe to wear!”.
Why You’ll Love It
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Timeless Style: Iconic suede/mesh design pairs with any outfit.
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All-Day Comfort: ENCAP cushioning and padded insole for lasting support.
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Sustainable Materials: 100% recycled polyester upper and 5% recycled rubber outsole.
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Wide Fit Options: Extended sizes for wide feet or orthotics.
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Great Value: Affordable price with frequent discounts.
Final Thoughts
The New Balance Men’s 574 Core Sneaker is a versatile, sustainable, and comfortable classic that lives up to its iconic status. Whether you’re walking miles, running errands, or embracing the dad-shoe trend, these sneakers deliver style and support. Ready to add a timeless staple to your wardrobe?
See the latest price on Amazon and step into the 574 Core today!
ramziov