New Balance 550 Sea Salt Marsh Green BAD2338

Reviewer M Ruffini

The first time I saw the "Backpack" line of shoes from New Balance, I knew that I'd one day be adding a pair to my collections of 574's. Nylon uppers just seems like a fantastic idea, since nylon is so easy to clean and keep clean. I liked the idea of being able to get them dirty, knowing that they'll clean up better then other 574's. Because of this, I might even wear them when I normally wouldn't want to get my shoes dirty.

I haven't had them long enough to make that decision, or know exactly how well they'll clean up, but there is something else different about them that immediately caught my attention. Ever since New Balance changed the manufacturing process for the 574's, I think they've been smaller and less comfortable then versions before that time. I just purchased another pair of 574's a couple of weeks back and noticed this immediately when putting them on, as I always do with a new pair of 574's nowadays.

This pair, however, feels more like the older 574's, because they're so comfortable. My first thought was that maybe they made them like the old ones, but after comparing them to numerous other pairs I have, both old and new, I don't think that's it. The soles still match the newer version (i.e. they're more narrow), but still, I'm pretty sure they have more toe room in the uppers, because they both look and feel as if they do.

I've been a little disappointed with every pair I've purchased, since they changed the manufacturing process, because they're just not as comfortable as they used to be. For whatever reason, these, however, seem closer to what I remember a new pair feeling like and that has me really happy. They are very comfortable shoes.

Reviewer John R Gray

Highly recommend!!!!!

Reviewer Mike Gagnon

I'm very pleased with these shoes. They fit perfectly -- they are a true size 11 -- which is not a common situation these days. The medium width is also accurate.

The build quality is very good. It feels very well put together, with the edge and sole well attached, and good quality stitching throughout. The end of the tongue and the interior edge is lined with an man-made "leather" that looks and feels high quality. The canvas body is sturdy. Even the shoelaces are of good quality.

The overall look is nice. It's unusual, with a blue leaf-type pattern and a solid gray, but it works in terms of looks. It's not flashy, but it has more visual appeal than the usual monotone color scheme.

There's enough padding in the insole to make these comfortable for walking, but it could do with a bit more for extra comfort.

All in all, a mostly comfortable, nice looking, well-made pair of sneakers.

Reviewer hot buyer

Siiiick shoes

Reviewer D Bartlett

What an awesome looking shoe and well built!

Reviewer Bruce Shen

wear for pickleball.. had to order a half size above what i normally wear. So far, i loves these shoes. great support and comfortable.

Reviewer Misterdee

Converse rocks!

Reviewer Richard Gale

Extremely comfortable and nicely priced.

Reviewer Richard R Halvorson

I love this sneakers. I just need to buy pair of shoe cushion. Difficult to walk in without them

Reviewer Mary C Browning

I liked the Velcro fit