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 Peter Schimpf
Lite weight, accurate size, not worn a lot yet though.
Reviewer Jack Prime
I bought these for my boyfriend on his birthday. He really likes Converse and thought it would be a good gift. He says that they fit fine and are comfortable to walk around in.
Reviewer Sloopydrew
What can you say. They are chucks. Now arch support. You can get a good Dr Scholls for about $15.00 and then you're set. Easy to clean and comfortable.
Reviewer Justin E Sheriff
Lovely sneaker.
Sizing runs a little bit big.
Reviewer S L Hunter
I love Keds Kickstart sneakers. This is my third pair. These run very true to size. I measure 5.5 and on the upper end of a medium width. I usually size up to a 6 in all my shoes, and I did this with my first two pairs. That was a mistake. Even though I wear no-show cotton socks with these, the 5.5 is perfect. If you wear your sneakers barefoot, definitely do not size up!
If the kickstart feels narrow to you, pull the laces out completely, gently stretch them open, put them on you feet, stand up in them, THEN loosely lace them. Within a week, they will start to stretch, and you’ll need to tighten the laces all the way down.
I really like the black slub satin. There’s a subtle sheen to the satin, and the plush velvet laces are just the right touch.
Reviewer Robert P Driscoll
Great looking and VERY comfortable! WOW!
Reviewer Richard R Halvorson
I love this sneakers. I just need to buy pair of shoe cushion. Difficult to walk in without them
Reviewer N L Nichelson
You know how I feel about these sneekers and you, both are great!
Reviewer Steven D Allen
OluKai shoes are my new go too. They are very well built and by far the most comfortable shoes I have ever owned.
English
