Reviewer H Mary Cork
I normally wouldn't consider a synthetic leather shoe, because I'd never seen any that weren't awful in nearly every way possible. The only reason I considered these is because I needed shoes that fit very particular criteria and one of them was that they're synthetic. So I ordered a pair to evaluate them and the verdict is very positive.
It's not real leather, but it's close. It actually reminds me of cheap leather shoes, but without all the creasing (like comfortable Reeboks, which used loose leather for comfort). The rubber sole seems comfortable and the synthetic lining looks like it'll be easy to keep clean. It has average arch support and the insole is stuck in place, but it does offer good cushioning.
I ordered my normal sneaker size and it fits great, so I'd say the sizing is perfect (I wear a a half size larger in New Balance and sometimes with Nike). The laces are a little long, but just a little and they're nice laces.
Overall, they're nice shoes. No, they're not real leather and I didn't judge them as if they were. But there are some advantages with synthetic leather shoes and these will work great for those who understand they're not leather.
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 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 SJT
Wasn’t sure about this brand of shoe. I ordered it for my daughter as she started her own business painting designs on shoes. Didn’t think it wouldn’t be comfortable but was wrong. It served its purpose and actually worked better than expected.
Reviewer Betty J Hanson
As of this review I don't know how much these shoes cost so I have to rate based on construction and comfort alone. I like to incorporate cost when I can but can't this time. These shoes are extremely light weight and seem to be very well constructed. I don't know how they will hold up when worn while running, but for basic comfort they feel good. They have a bit of a lower ridge in the inside where the toes go and I'm not sure if I like that yet or not. It does give my toes something to sort of grip. The laces allow me to tighten them up since I have a narrow foot. I like the colors and they have a nice, sleek look about them. They don't feel good when worn without socks because of some scratchiness so if you like go sockless you might not like these shoes. But when worn with socks they are very comfortable. I received a size 9 for review and they seem true to size. These seem to be true to size.
Reviewer Armineh Bezdikian
I'm very pleased with these shoes. They are put together well, and the material, while not actual leather, is pretty close to a leather look and feel. The sizing is accurate, which is a nice change. I'm so tired of getting shoes that claim to be size 11 but are so small I can't get my foot in them! These size 11 shoes are actually size 11.
They are very comfortable to wear. Normally it takes me at least a few hours (if not days) to break in a pair of shoes. These were comfortable from the get go. There is ample padding inside and the square end allows for comfort rather than squished together toes.
The sole is very grippy even on slick wet surfaces. They don't squeak when walking across a glossy floor. The shoes initially creaked a bit, with the creaking coming from the sides rather than the sole. The creaking went away after a few hours of wearing.
Zero complaints. They fit well, are well made, are very comfortable, and provide excellent grip. Five stars!
Reviewer Austin Taylor
Very cool, because if people don’t know I’m classy, I point to the picture of the polo trademark on my shoe, and I day “see that? You know what that is? That’s class!”
Reviewer joenmattsmom
The only complaint is there WAS a very small black mark on the foremost back left side about the size and shape of two pin heads.It is not worth the bother to return them. The shoes fit very well and I am overall happy with the purchase...minus that mark
Reviewer Lorne Sherman
Bought these for my best friends daughters first birthday. I got a size 5 (a little too big) so she would have some room to grow into them. They're ADORABLE.
Reviewer oj
All time favorite.., old school ...
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