How Does The New Balance 574 Fit And Is It True To Size?

Last Updated: 14/2/23

New Balance’s 574 model is probably one of the brand’s most recognisable silhouettes, having been around since the late 1980s. A blend of both the 577 and the 576, the shoe was designed by iconic sneaker designer Steven Smith, who’s known by many as the “Godfather of Dad Shoes.” Having played a part in some of NB’s most iconic styles, it’s no surprise that so many of them are still relevant today - Smith remarks that the sign of a timeless sneaker is not being able to pinpoint exactly what era it was made in.

The New Balance 574 was one of the Boston-based brand’s earliest forays into the lifestyle market, and one of the first few models to come fitted with an ENCAP midsole. Having started its journey as a runner, the style gained popularity in the early 90s, and quickly picked up the pace to become the iconic shoe we know today.

One of New Balance’s bestselling models, most sneakerheads would consider the 574 to be a rotation staple, but if you don’t yet have a pair, you might be wondering how they fit. Should you size up or down in the New Balance 574? Or do they fit true to size? Are they really as comfortable as everyone says? Read on to find out everything you need to know about this iconic silhouette.

Unlike some New Balance styles, you’ll generally find that the New Balance 574 fits true to size. They have a relatively wide footbed and a roomy toe box, which means that they won’t squish your feet, unlike some more narrow New Balance styles.

The style is available in full family sizing, right down to teeny-tiny baby versions, so no one needs to miss out on wearing some of the ‘most New Balance’ New Balances ever.

The NB 574 is a bestseller for a reason, and we promise that the style is just as comfortable as everyone is hyping them up to be. Made with soft suede and mesh uppers, the style is supple and breathable, and the shoe’s ENCAP midsole and foam outsole make for a comfy and cushioned ride. Though the sole packs in a fair bit of tech, these sneakers still have a pretty low-profile design, so don’t expect too much of a height difference when you slip them on - unless you opt for the platform 574+ of course.

Though the 574 does have a slightly retro look about it, it definitely doesn't look or feel out of place today, which makes it super easy to style all year round. We’d recommend channelling a ‘Normcore’-style look with a baggy sweat, straight-cut jeans or cuffed joggers, but if you really wanted to opt for some skinny jeans, they wouldn’t look too chunky either.

And of course, the 574 isn’t just made for the guys - it’s also a firm fave for off-duty models everywhere. Ladies can opt for more of a Scandi vibe with cropped straight jeans or a cute midi dress, or go all-out in athleisure with leggings and socks.

The 574 is known for having a whole host of famous fans. Back in the ‘90s, it was the pair of choice for Phife Dawg, Raekwon and Mos Def, but more recently the style has found its feet on the likes of Kendrick Lamar, Pete Davidson, Timotheé Chamelet and Pharrell Williams. It’s also a firm favourite for some of the world’s most stylish women: Sarah Jessica Parker, Emily Ratajowski and Rihanna have all been spotted in the style.

Over its 40-year history, the New Balance 574 has seen a fair few iconic iterations. During the past year alone, NB has showcased the model’s versatility by offering it up to collaborators like Miu Miu and Stone Island. Salahe Bembury also put his twist on the classic sneaker when he dropped his “Yurt” version of the shoe, and for anyone looking for anything a little smarter, we’d recommend checking out the Tokyo Design Studio collab. The style has also seen a couple of updates, including the 547 Legacy, which features a slightly more elevated look and feel, but runs half a size small.

That being said, you don’t need to own a fancy collab to enjoy the 574. The model is available in a plethora of colourways, which means there’s a pair to suit everyone. Opt for a classic grey and white pair to channel true NB style, or pick up a brighter pair if you’re looking to make a statement - the options are pretty much endless.

Find this helpful? Check out our other New Balance size guides...