As I find myself firmly embedded in my platform shoe era, I've been coveting a pair of New Balance 574+ sneakers for over a year. The combination of 2" platform and classic textural details make this shoe a must-have for my winter-to-spring transitional looks. It's the go-to lifestyle sneaker for an understated yet stylish look.
One rainy night, after a session of online shopping (ahem, browsing), I saw that a Journeys store near me had some new 574+ colorways in stock. Astral purple and chrome blue initially caught my eye, so I ventured into the store to try them on for size. The chrome blue is really gorgeous, and they look so much nicer in person.
Keep reading for my New Balance 574+ review, including thoughts on fit, sizing, and quality.
Since I go up a half size on the New Balance 574, I tried on a half size bigger with the 574 platforms, but I ended up buying my true size in the white colorway. What's great is that the insoles are easily removable, so you can insert orthotics, cozy UGG sheepskin insoles, or other insoles if you like. If you have wide feet, or you plan to wear thick socks, I'd go up a half size.
Pictured below is the white colorway, which is more of a cream or taupe in natural lighting. They fit snugly with thick winter socks, and I plan on wearing them without socks in warmer weather. I chose this colorway because it's the most versatile, although I'm hoping that New Balance releases these in a perfect shade of bubble gum pink.
They feel nice and lightweight on the feet, and the tapered outsole design helps to propel the foot into the next step, a little bit like my old Hoka sneakers with the meta-rocker design. I can always appreciate a platform that gives me two inches of height and is comfortable enough to wear all day. I've never had blisters or issues breaking in any of my New Balance sneakers. They are reliable straight out of the box, and the $100 price point is a good value when compared to other sneaker brands.
The insole and lining are comfortable and soft, and they have breathable panels which contrast nicely against the suede panels.
While I would not wear these for my HIIT workouts, I would wear them for long walks, errands, and other casual endeavors. They offer adequate cushioning and great comfort, but I wouldn't wear a platform for my workouts for fear of twisting an ankle, so these will be more of a lifestyle sneaker than a fitness sneaker for me.
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