New Balance
Arctic Grey 574 Sneaker Men
The New Balance 574 is a low-top men's casual sneaker (model U574) in an Arctic Grey colorway, featuring a suede upper with leather overlays and mesh panels, a removable foam footbed, and a lightweight EVA foam ENCAP midsole with a PU rim for cushioning. The rubber lug outsole provides traction, and the design is commonly used for everyday casual wear. Reddit reviewers note that while the 574 is a versatile and classic model, comfort and build quality can vary; some recommend a break-in period and suggest considering wider widths or premium New Balance models for more support.
- Color
- Arctic Grey
- Material
- Suede upper with leather overlays and mesh panels; brushed terry lining; EVA foam midsole; rubber outsole
- Gender
- male
- Style
- casual, classic, streetwear
- Category
- Apparel & Accessories > Shoes
Color
Size
Specifications
Classic men's sneaker with suede upper, leather overlays, and cushioned ENCAP midsole.
Removable foam footbed, lightweight EVA foam ENCAP midsole, rubber lug outsole.
- Color
- Arctic Grey · gray
- Material
- Suede upper with leather overlays and mesh panels; brushed terry lining; EVA foam midsole; rubber outsole
- Style
- casual, classic, streetwear
- Occasion
- casual, everyday, travel
- Gender
- male
- Age Group
- adult
- Condition
- new
- Category
- Apparel & Accessories > Shoes
Additional Attributes
- Suede upper
- Leather overlays
- Mesh panels
- Brushed terry lining
- Comfortable padded collar
- Woven label on tongue
- Removable foam footbed
- Lightweight EVA foam ENCAP midsole with PU rim for cushioning and support
- Rubber lug outsole for extra grip
Product Insights
The New Balance 574 debuted in 1988 as a hybrid of the 576 and 577, becoming the iconic model kept in continuous production. Its design blends automotive-inspired stability features with a BMX-derived outsole for grip. The Arctic Grey colorway continues the core grey that defined the 574's look. Priced at 130 CAD, it's an affordable 500-series entry, but buyers note quality tradeoffs versus premium US-made versions. Comfort is decent for casual use, though aftermarket insoles are recommended; the ENCAP midsole is less plush than premium models and the EVA core packs out over time. Recent 574s have thinner materials and less support than older pairs. The removable foam footbed can be swapped for better comfort. Initial stiffness fades as suede loosens and midsole settles. Sizing is true to size for most, half size smaller than Air Force 1; only standard D width available. Outsole durability is rated Good in lab tests. The 2018 redesign reverted the toebox to sleeker 1988 proportions. The rubber lug outsole offers high traction. Styling pairs well with cuffed denim, chinos, and tonal layers. Suede care involves brushing and spraying; the upper stretches slightly with wear.
- Heritage
Debuted in 1988 as a hybrid of the 576 and 577, now the iconic New Balance model kept in continuous production.
Why this is supported
The 574 debuted in 1988 as a hybrid of the 576 and 577:
The upper was a stripped-down version of the 576, while the bottom was taken from the then-unreleased 577.
en.wikipedia.orgIt was New Balance's first lifestyle model.
The result was New Balance's first foray into the lifestyle sneaker market.
blog.finishline.comIn 2018,
New Balance decided to revisit the design of the 574 and reworked many aspects – notably the toebox shape.
blog.finishline.comThis enduring design has been called
. The 574's legacy is further cemented by high-fashion collaborations like Miu Miu in 2022.
- Functional design
Automotive-inspired stability features and BMX-derived outsole for grip.
Why this is supported
Functional design details borrow from automotive and BMX engineering:
The eyerow accent underlay was to act like a sway bar
blog.size.co.ukto control upper movement and collar lockdown. The outsole, originally a road-to-trail hybrid,
The non-marking rubber outsole includes a lugged tread pattern
brandadvis.com, ensuring traction beyond typical fashion sneakers.
- Colorway
Arctic Grey continues the core grey that has defined the 574's iconic look since 1988.
Why this is supported
The Arctic Grey model inherits its color from the iconic core grey that defines the 574:
. Enthusiasts consistently praise the grey colorway:
I have the core greys and love them!
u/sneakerscomicsgames in r/Newbalance- Manufacturing
Priced at 130 CAD, it's an affordable 500-series entry, but buyers note quality tradeoffs vs premium US-made versions.
Why this is supported
The 574 was originally conceived as a budget entry to the 500 series:
I think the marketing team has explained it as a value version of the 500 series.
blog.size.co.ukThis has led to a split in manufacturing, with users noting:
The US made 574 is great and pretty comfortable. The Asian one isn't as good.
u/Malaka_202 in r/NewbalanceRecent production quality is also questioned:
Some users report a noticeable decline in recent years, with thinner materials and less support compared to older pairs.
Has the quality of the 574 changed over time?The 574 was conceived as a cost-cutting hybrid—a 576 upper with a 577 sole—and positioned as a value entry to the 500 series, explaining its affordable price.
The shoe is actually a hybrid of elements from two of my other models.
blog.size.co.ukEven at the retail price of $130 CAD, members of r/Newbalance note that it often appears on clearance:
You pretty much can always find a nice colorway on clearance somewhere for dirt cheap.
u/storeboughtanxiety in r/NewbalanceIts iconic status and a 2018 toebox redesign further increase its perceived value, while true-to-size fit and wide-width availability (as a model, though not this listing) add functional value.
- Comfort
Buyers find the 574 decent for casual use but recommend aftermarket insoles for extended comfort.
Why this is supported
Owner reports on comfort are mixed. A common sentiment:
Comfort is decent enough for what it is.
u/storeboughtanxiety in r/NewbalanceMany specifically recommend
adding aftermarket insoles due to limited cushioning
Are New Balance 574s comfortable for all-day wear?The removable foam footbed makes this upgrade possible, allowing users to improve the comfort for longer wear.
- Build quality
Buyers report that recent 574s have thinner materials and less support than older pairs.
Why this is supported
A common theme among long-time 574 owners is that quality has slipped in recent years. A Q&A summary notes:
Some users report a noticeable decline in recent years, with thinner materials and less support compared to older pairs.
Has the quality of the 574 changed over time?This mostly applies to Asian-made pairs after the 2016 sourcing shift.
- Cushioning
ENCAP midsole is less plush than premium NB models and the EVA core packs out over time.
Why this is supported
The 574's ENCAP midsole uses a traditional EVA/polyurethane combination that prioritizes durability over plushness. As a Q&A source notes, it is
less plush and responsive than the ABZORB or FuelCell foams found in premium models like the 990 or 2002r.
How does the cushioning of the ENCAP midsole compare to New Balance's ABZORB or FuelCell cushioning used in premium models like the 990 or 2002r?Reddit buyers echo this, with one stating,
TBF they don't have much support or cushion, depending on her age and various health factors.
u/Robotman1001 in r/Newbalanceand another owner reports that the 574 is
comfy
u/sneakerscomicsgames in r/Newbalancebut that the premium models are
a notch above
u/sneakerscomicsgames in r/Newbalancein cushioning. The EVA core also tends to pack out with extended use, reducing comfort over time.
- Footbed
Owners report swapping the removable foam footbed for an aftermarket insole to improve comfort.
Why this is supported
The 574's stock foam footbed is removable and offers limited arch support. Community feedback indicates many owners recommend
adding aftermarket insoles due to limited cushioning
Are New Balance 574s comfortable for all-day wear?and report that swapping in a thicker orthotic or gel insole significantly improves all-day comfort.
- Break-in
Initial stiffness fades as the suede upper loosens and the midsole settles over several wears.
Why this is supported
Q&A feedback notes that the 574 has
a break-in period noted in community feedback
Does the suede upper stretch over time, potentially improving the fit after a break-in period?during which initial snugness and stiffness relax. The suede upper stretches slightly, and the midsole settles, leading to improved comfort after several wears.
- Width
Available only in standard D width.
Why this is supported
The only width option offered for this listing is standard D. A Q&A answer confirms:
The New Balance 574 model is available in wide widths (2E, 4E) from New Balance, but this specific listing only offers standard (D) width.
Does this sneaker come in wide (2E or 4E) width options?Thus, buyers needing wider fits should choose a different colorway or source from a seller that stocks wide widths.
- Sizing
True to size for most; half size smaller than Air Force 1.
Why this is supported
The 574 generally fits true to size. According to feetlot.com,
New Balance 574 fits true to size for most people, your usual Nike sneaker size, which is about half a size larger in number than your Air Force 1.
feetlot.comThe shoe is half a size smaller than the Air Force 1, which is a common reference. It shares the same numerical size as the Air Max 90. Compared to the Made-in-USA 990 series,
The Made-in-USA 990v series uses a different last and runs slightly snugger, same length numerically but a touch tighter at the midfoot.
feetlot.comAdditionally, it fits the same as many other popular models including Air Jordan 1, 3, 4, Yeezy 350 V2, and others. Buyers coming from Vans Old Skool or Adidas Stan Smith should note that those models run half a size larger, so they would need to size up by half in the 574.
- Durability
Outsole durability rated Good in RunRepeat lab tests.
Why this is supported
RunRepeat's lab test assessed the outsole durability:
Outsole durability | Good
runrepeat.com. This indicates the rubber compound resists abrasion and retains grip over time.
- Toebox shape
The 2018 redesign reverted the toebox to sleeker 1988 proportions.
Why this is supported
New Balance reworked the toebox in 2018:
In 2018 New Balance decided to revisit the design of the 574 and reworked many aspects – notably the toebox shape.
blog.finishline.comThis restored the slimmer original proportions from 1988, correcting the bulkier shape that had developed.
- Traction
Rubber lug outsole has high traction and good durability, derived from BMX treads.
Why this is supported
Independent lab tests rate the outsole:
Outsole durability | Good
runrepeat.comand
Traction | High
runrepeat.com. The tread pattern is inspired by BMX tires:
The outsole was derived from traction elements from BMX bike tires.
blog.size.co.uk- Styling
Pairs with cuffed denim, chinos, tonal layers, and accent colors.
Why this is supported
Styling guides recommend cuffing jeans to expose the sneaker's panels and pairing the 574 with chinos and a button-down for a smart-casual look. One source says
Works perfectly with cuffed chinos or straight-leg jeans.
eathealthy365.comA tonal layering approach uses a black base with a grey overshirt:
Use a simple black tee and pants base, then layer a grey overshirt for contrast.
stepwithshoes.comAccent colors like burgundy or sky blue add interest—
Color matches: grey, navy, cream, olive, and black are easy wins, with a pop like burgundy or sky blue for interest.
tacticsforwinners.comThe suede texture pops against contrasting fabrics, and buyers on Reddit call it a
One of my favorite beater shoes.
u/storeboughtanxiety in r/NewbalanceSuede care (brush, eraser, protective spray) is recommended to keep the clean look.
- Fit
Fits half a size smaller than Air Force 1 and Vans Old Skool.
Why this is supported
Feetlot.com reports that several models including the Nike Air Force 1 and Vans Old Skool
all run about half a size larger than NB 574
feetlot.com, so the 574 fits half a size smaller than those.
- Suede care
Brush, erase scuffs, and spray for moisture; do not machine wash or soak.
Why this is supported
The official Q&A details the care routine:
using a suede brush to gently remove surface dirt, a suede eraser for scuffs, and a protective spray to guard against moisture
What is the recommended method for cleaning and maintaining the suede upper?, and explicitly warns:
Avoid machine washing or soaking, as suede can be damaged by excess water.
What is the recommended method for cleaning and maintaining the suede upper?- Stretching
Suede upper stretches slightly with wear, improving fit.
Why this is supported
The Q&A confirms that
Suede does stretch slightly with wear, which may help improve fit over time.
Does the suede upper stretch over time, potentially improving the fit after a break-in period?
Image Analysis
3 images- 01
Product
Studio side view of a low-top sneaker showing the lateral (outer) side of the shoe with layered upper materials, an applied 'N' logo, textured heel counter, plastic heel clip, midsole with embossed text, and a gum rubber outsole.
- View and orientationLateral side profile of the left shoe, toe pointing right, full shoe visible from sole to collar.
1 region
x 0.07 · y 0.46 · w 0.86 · h 0.40 (high) - Upper constructionMulti-panel upper combining smooth nubuck or suede panels, a perforated or mesh toe box panel, and a textured suede heel overlay; panels are stitched together with visible topstitching.
1 region
x 0.18 · y 0.55 · w 0.66 · h 0.28 (high) - Applied 'N' logoRaised N-shaped logo patch on the midfoot composed of a textured inner fill with a contrasting stitched border.
1 region
x 0.45 · y 0.57 · w 0.20 · h 0.20 (high) - Heel clipMolded plastic heel clip at the rear midsole with horizontal ribbing and a recessed stylized 'NB' mark.
1 region
x 0.08 · y 0.66 · w 0.20 · h 0.15 (high) - Midsole profileLayered midsole with a slightly raised heel, smooth finish, and an embossed word on the lateral side near the heel.
1 region
x 0.12 · y 0.72 · w 0.68 · h 0.14 (high) - OutsoleGum-rubber lugged outsole with tooth-like tread visible along the bottom edge.
1 region
x 0.10 · y 0.82 · w 0.80 · h 0.12 (high) - Collar and liningPadded collar with a contrasting softer fabric lining in a darker taupe color and a mustard-yellow textile heel tab.
1 region
x 0.12 · y 0.53 · w 0.22 · h 0.14 (high) - Lacing and eyeletsFlat laces threaded through stitched eyelet panels with two metal-reinforced top eyelets near the collar.
1 region
x 0.56 · y 0.50 · w 0.24 · h 0.20 (high) - Embossed midsole text“ENCAP®”
1 region
x 0.15 · y 0.75 · w 0.18 · h 0.06 (high) - Plastic heel mark text“NB”
1 region
x 0.08 · y 0.68 · w 0.10 · h 0.07 (high)
Other
Studio product photograph on a light neutral background with soft shadow below the shoe; even diffuse lighting and no props.
- BackgroundUniform light gray backdrop filling the frame.
- ShadowSoft, narrow shadow directly beneath the shoe following the sole outline.
1 region
x 0.10 · y 0.84 · w 0.80 · h 0.06 (high) - Shot compositionShoe centered horizontally in frame with substantial empty space above; entire shoe sits near the lower half of the image.
Colors
light beige· upper main panels#D3C4B5cream suede· textured heel overlaymustard yellow· heel tab#CCA354taupe brown· heel clip and midfoot accent#7C624Clight warm beige· midsolegum brown· outsoletaupe· inner collar lining- View and orientationLateral side profile of the left shoe, toe pointing right, full shoe visible from sole to collar.
- 02
Product
Rear/side view of a pair of low-top sneakers showing the heel, midsole, outsole, and lateral side 'N' logo; materials visible include smooth upper, textured suede heel panel, woven heel tab, and rubber midsole/outsole components.
- Overall viewPair of low-top sneakers shown from a rear/three-quarter lateral angle with the right shoe in foreground and left shoe rotated to show outsole.
1 region
x 0.05 · y 0.45 · w 0.90 · h 0.50 (high) - Upper materialSmooth light cream/off-white upper panels visible on lateral side and heel collar.
1 region
x 0.40 · y 0.52 · w 0.45 · h 0.28 (high) - Suede heel panelTextured off-white suede panel wrapping the lower heel area with visible stitching along its top edge.
1 region
x 0.48 · y 0.56 · w 0.28 · h 0.20 (high) - Woven heel tabMustard/golden yellow woven heel tab at the collar with embroidered white text.
1 region
x 0.57 · y 0.49 · w 0.18 · h 0.12 (high) - Lateral 'N' logoRaised stitched 'N' logo patch on the lateral side in a light cream shade with a slightly darker stitched border.
1 region
x 0.76 · y 0.58 · w 0.14 · h 0.16 (high) - Heel counterReinforced horizontal ribbed heel counter in a taupe/brown rubber wrapping the back of the midsole with an embossed 'NB' mark.
1 region
x 0.57 · y 0.63 · w 0.20 · h 0.14 (high) - Midsole markingRaised marking 'ENCAP' visible on the lateral midsole area near the heel.
1 region
x 0.62 · y 0.72 · w 0.18 · h 0.06 (high) - Outsole treadGum rubber outsole visible on the left shoe showing deep horizontal and block treads and an embossed 'NB' logo in the forefoot area.
1 region
x 0.08 · y 0.62 · w 0.44 · h 0.28 (high) - Heel embroidery text“new balance”
1 region
x 0.58 · y 0.50 · w 0.13 · h 0.07 (high) - Outsole logo text“NB”
1 region
x 0.18 · y 0.72 · w 0.12 · h 0.08 (high) - Midsole text“ENCAP”
1 region
x 0.65 · y 0.72 · w 0.12 · h 0.04 (high)
Other
Studio product shot on a light neutral background with soft even lighting; image is cropped to show lower portion containing the shoes.
- BackgroundUniform light grey studio background with no visible props.
- Shot compositionLow-angle close crop focusing on the shoe heels and outsoles; upper part of the frame is empty background.
1 region
x 0.00 · y 0.00 · w 1.00 · h 0.45 (high) - Lighting and shadowSoft diffuse lighting with mild shadow under shoes consistent with studio illumination.
Colors
cream· upper panelsoff-white suede· suede heel panelmustard yellow· heel tab#D2A453taupe brown· heel counter/midsole trim#957964gum brown· outsole#84522C- Overall viewPair of low-top sneakers shown from a rear/three-quarter lateral angle with the right shoe in foreground and left shoe rotated to show outsole.
- 03
Product
A top-down view of a pair of lace-up sneakers placed side-by-side showing the uppers, tongues, heel collars, insoles, and outsole edges.
- Overall orientationPair of sneakers viewed from directly above, both shoes aligned with toes at top and heels at bottom; tongues partially visible and laces tied flat.
1 region
x 0.05 · y 0.03 · w 0.90 · h 0.94 (high) - Toe box material and textureRounded toe boxes with a ribbed or corduroy-like textile panel framed by smooth suede overlays that follow the toe contour.
2 regions
x 0.12 · y 0.03 · w 0.36 · h 0.24 (high); x 0.52 · y 0.03 · w 0.36 · h 0.24 (high) - Lacing and tongue constructionFlat fabric laces threaded through five pairs of eyelets; padded tongues extend toward the ankle with a rectangular woven tongue tag showing printed text and a logo.
2 regions
x 0.18 · y 0.22 · w 0.28 · h 0.26 (high); x 0.54 · y 0.22 · w 0.28 · h 0.26 (high) - Side N-shaped accentContrasting N-shaped side accent in a lighter, slightly reflective material visible on the lateral side of each shoe, stitched onto the suede overlay.
2 regions
x 0.36 · y 0.32 · w 0.12 · h 0.18 (high); x 0.52 · y 0.32 · w 0.12 · h 0.18 (high) - Heel collar and liningPadded heel collars with a light brown/beige inner lining and an exterior heel tab in a mustard yellow fabric wrapping the back of each shoe.
2 regions
x 0.14 · y 0.68 · w 0.32 · h 0.24 (high); x 0.54 · y 0.68 · w 0.32 · h 0.24 (high) - Insole appearanceVisible insoles are a pale mint green color with a printed logo near the heel area of each insole.
2 regions
x 0.26 · y 0.56 · w 0.22 · h 0.22 (high); x 0.52 · y 0.56 · w 0.22 · h 0.22 (high) - Midsole and outsole edgeThin visible midsole edge in an off-white/cream tone with a gum-brown outsole visible around the toe and heel perimeters.
1 region
x 0.12 · y 0.00 · w 0.76 · h 1.00 (medium) - Tongue tag text blockRectangular tongue tags display stacked text and a logo; individual characters are legible in parts.Partial
2 regions
x 0.34 · y 0.34 · w 0.12 · h 0.12 (medium); x 0.54 · y 0.34 · w 0.12 · h 0.12 (medium) - Tongue tag transcription: upper line“new balance”Partial
2 regions
x 0.34 · y 0.34 · w 0.12 · h 0.12 (medium); x 0.54 · y 0.34 · w 0.12 · h 0.12 (medium) - Tongue tag transcription: numeric“574”Partial
2 regions
x 0.34 · y 0.36 · w 0.12 · h 0.12 (medium); x 0.54 · y 0.36 · w 0.12 · h 0.12 (medium) - Insole logo transcription“NB”
2 regions
x 0.28 · y 0.66 · w 0.12 · h 0.12 (high); x 0.56 · y 0.66 · w 0.12 · h 0.12 (high)
Other
Neutral light-gray background with soft top lighting and minor drop shadows; image is tightly cropped around the shoes showing full top views and both shoe outlines.
- Background and lightingEven neutral light-gray backdrop with soft, diffuse overhead lighting producing faint shadowing beneath the shoes.
- Shot compositionCenter-composed top-down studio shot with both shoes fully visible and some outer-edge cropping of the outermost outsole edges.
- Image qualityHigh-resolution, color-balanced photo with clear texture detail and no visible motion blur.
Colors
cream· upper textile panels (ribbed)#CCC4BBlight beige· suede overlays#CCC4BBmustard yellow· heel tab#BAA38Dpale mint green· insole#A2ABA5gum brown· outsole edge#7C7C7C- Overall orientationPair of sneakers viewed from directly above, both shoes aligned with toes at top and heels at bottom; tongues partially visible and laces tied flat.
Documents & Data
Reddit Insights
6 threads · r/Newbalance, r/mensfashionReddit views the New Balance 574 as a timeless, versatile sneaker, but comfort and quality are frequently debated, with many users recommending premium NB alternatives for superior cushioning.
The 574 receives praise for its classic design and everyday usability, but comfort complaints and reports of declining quality temper overall enthusiasm.
Themes
Use Cases
- Daily beater / casual wear
- Casual classic style outfit pairing
Watch Out For
Compared To
vs Premium New Balance models (990, 2002r, 9060, 920, 992, 1906R, 991v2)
These models offer superior cushioning and support, making them more comfortable for extended wear, but the 574 retains appeal for its iconic look and lower price.
Source Threads
Good beater shoe with many colorways and decent comfort
One of my favorite beater shoes. You pretty much can always find a nice colorway on clearance somewhere for dirt cheap. No shortage in variety. Comfort is decent enough for what it is.
u/storeboughtanxietyr/NewbalanceView thread →
Lack of support and cushion; prefers other NB models for comfort
TBF they don’t have much support or cushion, depending on her age and various health factors. And this is why I try to order a cheap new or used pair and do a long-term try—5 minutes in the store isn’t enough. I had 574’s for a sec and didn’t care for them. Now I’m rocking all kinds of comfy shit like 9060, 920, 992, 1906R, 2002R, 990V6.
u/Robotman1001r/NewbalanceView thread →
US-made 574 superior to Asian-made in quality and comfort
The US made 574 is great and pretty comfortable. The Asian one isn't as good. Asian made pairs don't use the same quality and are not hand made. They used to be terrible and have horrible shapes but recently years the Asian made pairs have been better so that's good. Most people reference Asian made pairs when speaking of the 574 as they haven't really been in production in the USA since the NB1 custome program left. I still have a few made in USA 574 and they are dope
u/Malaka_202r/NewbalanceView thread →
Grey 574s pair well with casual/classic style
I agree. I don't even get all of those colors, though I have been tempted by a few. I get grey, or cloud that's more white. I'm a 49 y/o female, who is active, with a casual/classic style. The 574s pair well with whatever I'm wearing.
u/abearz75r/mensfashionView thread →
574s are comfy considering; loves the core greys colorway
I agree, super comfy considering. I have plenty of 990s v2-6, 991v2 etc and yes they’re a notch above, but I still totally agree that they’re a comfy pair. I have the core greys and love them!
u/sneakerscomicsgamesr/NewbalanceView thread →
Quality declined in recent 574 models; older ones much better
I have bought multiple models of the 574 from about 2016 onward, I bought a pair in 2022 and the quality was noticeably cheaper. The tongue was thin, the heels felt thin and loose, the laces were skinny and thin, the overall shoe looked about the same but lacks the support of the older models. Am I alone on this? I was buying them off the website in the 2E model. The older one were the most comfortable shoes I have ever had, now they feel like cheap walmart shoes.
u/RobertRoyal82r/NewbalanceView thread →