Reviewer KinCO
Fits better than any shoe i've had before, very comfortable and easy to slip on and off, but sturdy enough if you do a lot of walking.
Reviewer trevstonlongworth
I normally only wear 574's from New Balance, but I purchased these because they share the same shoe last and they're similar. I can't say that I like them as well, but they're alright.
I believe the mid-soles are different, and while I think I like the 574 mid-sole better, the 565 doesn't seem bad. One thing I definitely don't like as well is the lack of mesh in the all-suede upper. They probably don't breath as well, but that's not a huge factor for me in a suede shoe. I just like the looks of the mesh/suede combo better then the all-suede shoe.
I saved my final criticism for last, because it applies to both the 565 and 574 models of "Lifestyle and Retro" shoes. These are the ones with model numbers that start with "ml". I don't like them because they appear to be the hipster version of New Balance shoes, with laces that usually match the suede. Like any good hipster shoe, they seem to be more narrow, which is antithetical to the very thing that made the 574, and probably 565, popular shoes in the first place (i.e. spacious.) Even though these are supposedly made on the same shoe last as other models in the line, they definitely don't have the advertised toe depth of the SL-2 shoe last. I've also noticed that many New Balance shoes made on the SL-2 last don't seem to be as wide as they used to be, so that issue probably isn't for the lifestyle and retro shoes alone.
Seems strange that New Balance would ruin a popular line of shoes by changing the very things that made them popular, but that's what they seem to be doing. For customers that want a more narrow 574, it seems like New Balance would just suggest the 363 or one of their models made on narrow shoe lasts. Regardless, I wish they'd leave the SL-2 shoes alone, so that customer who appreciate them can continue to do so. I've worn them for 20 years and the only thing that will stop that is if New Balance changes the shoes so much that they're not the same.
Reviewer Marcy L Hoen
This is the only brand my husband can wear that are wide enough for his feet. He has bad bunions and they are easy to break in for his feet. He wears the 5E width.
Reviewer David Wickre
Never had vans before, thought I would give them a try. They are very well made and sturdy. The only reason I gave them 4 stars was the first day I wore them I got a blister on the back of my heel from them. Hopefully I can break them in with no more blisters! I really like the shoes so I hope they work out!
Reviewer Patrick L Grady
Every time he puts them on comments about their comfort
Reviewer Dark Neko
I've been running with New Balance shoes for years and found them to be the best. What I didn't realize is that they make such comfortable shoes for everyday wear. I spend a lot of time standing and walking on my job; I also have plantar fasciitis due to high arch and physical stress on my feet. I've tried pretty much everything from running shoes to walking shoes, as well as hi-end Clark's, and different arch supports. NB 801 are by far the most comfortable. They provide outstanding cushioning and support; you can easily slip them off for few minutes, and they look well-made. For the first time in years my fasciitis is not aggravated after hours of standing. I will get a second pair for traveling.
Reviewer Lin Ennis
Comfy and seem to be well made.they squeak loudly though. I can deal with it but I can't walk but a few steps at a time.
Reviewer DivPubSafety
These are a hit with my 15 year old son and he received many compliments at school.
Reviewer Da Jester
Great shoe, ideal for walking
Reviewer Kimberly Molstad
The slip on style is a bit uncomfortable.