New Balance has been a famous brand in the industry for over a century. They are popular for producing snug, modish, and durable, high-quality sneakers. Two of their most renowned models are the New Balance 574 and 550. Both shoes contain their versatile features and are adaptable for distinct activities.
The New Balance 574 has been an iconic sneaker in the market since the late 1980s. It is famous for its athletic design and signature “N” logo. The shoe offers a suede and netting upper, ENCAP midsole technology for cushioning and a hard-wearing rubber outsole. Conversely, the New Balance 550 is the latest model launched in 2020. It has a more constructed design with overlays and stitch descriptions, giving it a retro-motivated look. The shoe also offers an ENCAP midsole for padding and a long-lasting rubber outsole.
Some factors must be considered regarding selecting between the New Balance 574 and 550. These include the pattern, materials, price, weight, stack height, and sizing. In this article, we will offer a comparative analysis of the two designs and aid you in making an informed decision.
Comparison Table: New Balance 574 Vs New Balance 550
| Features | New Balance 574 | New Balance 550 |
| Design | Iconic athletic design, suede and mesh upper, classic “N” logo | Retro-inspired look, leather upper with stitch details, deep-cut silhouette |
| Comfort & Fit | Snug fit, cushioned midsole, padded collar and tongue | Comfortable and adaptive fit, cushioned collar and tongue, thinner midsole |
| Durability & Quality | Suede and mesh upper, hard-wearing rubber outsole, well-structured | Leather upper, rubber sole, reinforced stitching, durable construction |
| Material | Suede, mesh, and fabric upper, ENCAP midsole technology | Leather upper, lightweight EVA foam midsole |
| Weight | Approximately 12 ounces (men’s), 9.8 ounces (women’s) | Approximately 10.4 ounces (men’s), 8.5 ounces (women’s) |
| Price | Around $80 | Approximately $90 |
| Sizing | True to size (some users suggest going up half a size if you have broader feet) | True to size (some users suggest going down half a size for a tighter fit) |
| Best For | Versatile activities, daily wear, light exercise | Versatile activities, fashion-forward statement, daily wear |
Key Takeaways
- The New Balance 574 and 550 are famous models with versatile features.
- The 574 has a sporty pattern with a suede and mesh upper; on the contrary, the 550 has a retro-inspired appearance with overlays and stitch details.
- Factors to consider when selecting the two models include pattern, materials, price, weight, stack height, and sizing.
New Balance 574 Overview
The New Balance 574 has been a versatile sneaker in the industry since 1988. It has become dominant in the sneaker community because of its timeless pattern and comfortable fit. In this part, we will look deeper at the design and aesthetics, comfort and fit, and durability and quality of the New Balance 574.
Design and Aesthetics
The New Balance 574 has an iconic and enduring design that has remained unchanged since its introduction. It offers a deep-top silhouette with a suede and mesh upper and the classic “N” logo on the side.
The sneaker is accessible in various colorways, from classic black and white to striking and vibrant colors.
Comfort and Fit
The New Balance 574 is popular for its snug fit. It offers a cushioned midsole with adequate support and impact absorption, making it perfect for regular wear. The sneaker also has a cushioned collar and tongue, contributing to its comfort. The fit of the New Balance 574 is true to size, and it is obtainable in both men’s and women’s sizes.
Durability and Quality
The New Balance 574 is constructed with top-quality materials engineered to last. The suede and netting upper is hard-wearing and provides permeability; conversely, the rubber outsole is designed to feature grip and durability. The sneaker is also well-structured, focusing on detail and quality craftsmanship.
The New Balance 574 is an iconic sneaker with a timeless pattern, comfortable fit, and long-lasting construction. It is a classic sneaker that can be used for various activities, from regular wear to light exercise.
New Balance 550 Overview
The New Balance 550 has been a versatile sneaker in the industry for decades. It was first launched in 1989 as a basketball shoe and rapidly became famous among basketball players and sneaker fanatics. Today, the 550 is still a renowned option for those who desire a comfortable and modish sneaker.
Design and Aesthetics
The New Balance 550 has a nostalgic design reminiscent of the 80s and 90s. It offers a high-top silhouette containing a leather upper and a rubber sole. The shoe also has penetrated the toe box’s detailing, contributing to its overall aesthetic.
The 550 is obtainable in various colorways, including white, black, navy, and red. Some color shades also provide contrasting accents, just as the classic New Balance “N” logo in a distinct color.
Comfort and Fit
The New Balance 550 is structured to be comfy and adaptive. It offers a cushioned collar and tongue, padding around the ankle. The shoe also comprises a cushioned insole, contributing to its overall comfort.
The 550 contains a true-to-size fit, accessible in medium and broad widths. Some users have mentioned that the shoe runs moderately narrow, so it may be obligatory to size up if you have extensive feet.
Durability and Quality
The New Balance 550 is a top-quality sneaker that is constructed to last. It offers a durable leather upper and a rubber sole, which feature remarkable grip and durability. The shoe also has fortified stitching, which contributes to its overall durability.
Overall, the New Balance 550 is an iconic voguish and snug sneaker. Its retro pattern and top-quality construction make it a famous option among sneaker fanatics and fashion-forward people alike.
Material Comparison
Concerning the material used in forming the New Balance 574 and 550, several noteworthy differences could influence your decision on which one to purchase. This part will compare the materials utilized in both shoes’ insole, midsole, outsole, and upper.
Insole
The insole of the New Balance 574 and 550 is designed of a similar material – EVA foam. This material gives padding and aid for your feet. However, the insole of the 574 is demountable, which shows you can restore it with a traditional orthotic if you require additional support.
Midsole
The midsole is where the greatest difference between the two shoes lies. The New Balance 550 offers a lightweight EVA foam midsole, which gives padding and support while maintaining the shoe’s light. Conversely, the 574 has a midsole designed with ENCAP technology, an amalgamation of EVA foam and polyurethane. This offers more steadiness and support but also makes the shoe massive.
Outsole
The outsole of the New Balance 574 and 550 is structured of rubber, with good grip and durability. However, the outsole of the 574 is massive and sturdy, which makes it better suited for outdoor activities.
Upper
The greatest material difference lies in the upper of the New Balance 574 and 550. The 574 offers a fusion of suede, mesh, and fabricated materials, which gives permeability and flexibility. Conversely, the 550 is engineered with a leather upper, which offers longevity and a standard feel.
In summary, the New Balance 574 and 550 have some noteworthy dissimilarities in their materials. The 574 contains a more adaptive midsole and porous upper; on the contrary, the 550 has a more long-lasting upper and delicate midsole.
Comparative Analysis
Design Comparison
The New Balance 574 and 550 are iconic sneakers that have been famous for decades. The 550 boasts a more engineered design, having overlays and stitch details contributing a pinch of sophistication. Meanwhile, the 574 showcases an athletic design containing it’s signature “N” logo and contrasting color choices.
The 550 is popular for its retro-motivated look, reminiscent of iconic basketball sneakers; on the other hand, the 574 is a voguish take on the classic running shoe, with a streamlined profile and more upgraded materials.
Comfort and Fit Comparison
Concerning comfort and fit, both the 550 and 574 contain their advantages. The 550 is lightweight and stretchable, making it perfect for runners who desire to move rapidly, while the 574 is a bit more adaptive and provides more padding, making it a finer choice for those who require more support.
The 574 also has a broader toe box, which can benefit those with extensive feet. However, some wearers have stated that the 550 can be comfortable in the toe box. It is suggested to test both shoes on before making a final selection.
Durability and Quality Comparison
In the case of durability, both shoes are structured to last. The 550 has a suede and netting upper, prone to scrapping and staining, but the shoe is still hard-wearing overall. The 574 has a fabricated and mesh upper, which is more deterioration-resistant. Both shoes have a firm rubber outsole with remarkable grip and durability. However, some wearers have mentioned that the 550’s outsole can deteriorate swiftly with heavy use.
Overall, the New Balance 574 and 550 are outstanding sneakers with versatile advantages. The 550 is perfect for those who desire a retro-inspired appearance and a lightweight, stretchable shoe, while the 574 is a finer choice for those who require more support and padding.
Price Point Comparison
Regarding purchasing shoes, price is always a point to consider. Both the New Balance 574 and 550 are justly priced, but there is a moderate difference in their cost points.
The New Balance 574 is generally priced at around $80, making it a more economical option for those who desire a durable, snug sneaker without hitting the jackpot. Conversely, the New Balance 550 is priced at approximately $90, making it moderately more costly than the 574.
However, both shoes offer good value for their respective cost points. They both feature a comfortable fit, ideal padding, and good durability.
It is worth mentioning that prices may differ based on the retailer and any advertisements or discounts that may be accessible. Shopping around and contrasting prices before breaking the bank is always perfect.
Overall, the New Balance 574 and 550 are perfect for anyone searching for a dependable and modish sneaker at a fair price.
Weight Comparison
Regarding comparing the weight of the New Balance 574 and 550, there are several things to consider. The weight of a shoe can have a significant effect on the overall ease and performance of the shoe.
The New Balance 574 weighs approximately 12 ounces for men’s sizes and around 9.8 ounces for women’s. Conversely, the New Balance 550 is moderately lighter, weighing around 10.4 ounces for men and approximately 8.5 ounces for women. This dissimilarity in weight may not appear like much, but it can make a noteworthy difference in the overall feel of the shoe.
One factor that adds to the weight difference between the two shoes is the components used in their formation. The New Balance 574 offers a suede and netting upper, while the New Balance 550 has a fabricated and mesh upper. The use of various materials can influence the overall weight of the shoe.
Another point to consider is the level of padding in every shoe. The New Balance 574 has a massive midsole and more cushioning around the ankle, which can contribute to the shoe’s overall weight. The New Balance 550, on the other hand, comprises a thinner midsole and less padding around the ankle, which can add to its lighter weight.
Some athletes may prefer a lighter shoe for speed and legerity; on the other side, others may prefer a moderately heavier shoe for extraordinary padding and support.
Stack Height & Heel Drop
Concerning selecting between the New Balance 574 and 550, one of the factors to contemplate is the stack height and heel drop. These two attributes influence the overall feel of the shoe and can make an efficient difference in comfort and performance.
The stack height consults the thickness of the sole from the surface to the foot. The New Balance 574 contains a stack height of moderately under 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) near the heel; on the other side, the 550 has a slightly deeper stack height of around 1.25 inches (3.2 cm) near the heel. This shows that the 574 has a slightly greater profile and may feature more padding, particularly in the heel area.
The heel drop, on the other side, refers to the difference in height between the heel and the forefoot. A greater heel drop shows that the heel is efficiently higher than the forefoot; on the other hand, a lower heel drop means that the heel and forefoot are closer in height. The New Balance 574 comprises a heel drop of around 12 mm; on the contrary, the 550 has a heel drop of approximately 10 mm. This means that the 574 has a moderately higher heel and may offer more aid for the heel and ankle.
Regarding how these features influence the overall feel of the shoe, the New Balance 574 may feel more padded and stable, mainly for runners who strike the ground with their heels. The 550, on the other side, may feel more reactive and stretchable, particularly for runners who prioritize a more natural and unembellished feel.
Both shoes provide versatile features and advantages, and it’s obligatory to test them on and detect which is perfect for you.
Sizing Comparison
Regarding selecting between the New Balance 574 and the New Balance 550, one of the most efficient factors to consider is sizing. Both shoes are accessible in various sizes and widths, so it’s necessary to discover the perfect fit to verify maximum ease and performance.
Sizing Table For New Balance 574
The New Balance 574 has been an iconic sneaker in the industry for decades. It is popular for its retro style and snug fit. Concerning sizing, the 574 inclines to run true to size. However, some individuals discover it can be tight in the toe box, so if you have broader feet, consider going up half a size.
Following is a sizing table for the New Balance 574:
| US Men’s Size | US Women’s Size | UK Size | EU Size | Length (cm) |
| 4 | 5.5 | 3.5 | 36 | 22 |
| 4.5 | 6 | 4 | 37 | 22.5 |
| 5 | 6.5 | 4.5 | 37.5 | 23 |
| 5.5 | 7 | 5 | 38 | 23.5 |
| 6 | 7.5 | 5.5 | 38.5 | 24 |
| 6.5 | 8 | 6 | 39.5 | 24.5 |
| 7 | 8.5 | 6.5 | 40 | 25 |
| 7.5 | 9 | 7 | 40.5 | 25.5 |
| 8 | 9.5 | 7.5 | 41.5 | 26 |
| 8.5 | 10 | 8 | 42 | 26.5 |
| 9 | 10.5 | 8.5 | 42.5 | 27 |
| 9.5 | 11 | 9 | 43 | 27.5 |
| 10 | 11.5 | 9.5 | 44 | 28 |
| 10.5 | 12 | 10 | 44.5 | 28.5 |
| 11 | 12.5 | 10.5 | 45 | 29 |
| 11.5 | 13 | 11 | 45.5 | 29.5 |
| 12 | 13.5 | 11.5 | 46.5 | 30 |
| 13 | 14.5 | 12.5 | 48 | 31 |
| 14 | 15.5 | 13.5 | 49 | 32 |
Sizing Table For New Balance 550
The New Balance 550 is the latest model that has attained popularity in recent years. It is a feathery, stretchable sneaker perfect for runners who want to move rapidly. Regarding sizing, the 550 inclines to run true to size, but it is obligatory to mention that it has a moderately tighter fit than the 574.
Following is a sizing table for the New Balance 550:
| US Men’s Size | US Women’s Size | UK Size | EU Size | Length (cm) |
| 4 | 5.5 | 3.5 | 36 | 22 |
| 4.5 | 6 | 4 | 37 | 22.5 |
| 5 | 6.5 | 4.5 | 37.5 | 23 |
| 5.5 | 7 | 5 | 38 | 23.5 |
| 6 | 7.5 | 5.5 | 38.5 | 24 |
| 6.5 | 8 | 6 | 39.5 | 24.5 |
| 7 | 8.5 | 6.5 | 40 | 25 |
| 7.5 | 9 | 7 | 40.5 | 25.5 |
| 8 | 9.5 | 7.5 | 41.5 | 26 |
| 8.5 | 10 | 8 | 42 | 26.5 |
| 9 | 10.5 | 8.5 | 42.5 | 27 |
| 9.5 | 11 | 9 | 43 | 27.5 |
| 10 | 11.5 | 9.5 | 44 | 28 |
| 10.5 | 12 |
Pros & Cons
New Balance 574
The New Balance 574 is an iconic sneaker that has been famous for decades. It has many advantages and disadvantages that potential purchasers should consider before hitting the jackpot.
Pros
- It provides more padding and aid than the 550, making it a finer choice for those who require more support.
- Has a streamlined profile and more upgraded materials than the 550.
- It comes in various colors and styles, making it comfy to discover a pair that suits your style.
- It has a hard-wearing design that is constructed to last.
Cons
- Based on the particular model, it can be more costly than the 550.
- It may not be as feathery and stretchable as the 550, which could be a drawback for runners wanting to move rapidly.
New Balance 550
The New Balance 550 is a retro-motivated design with a deep-cut silhouette with a suede and netting upper. It also has advantages and disadvantages that should be considered before breaking the bank.
Pros
- It is lightweight and stretchable, making it perfect for runners who want to move rapidly.
- It has a retro-motivated design that is famous with fashion-forward individuals.
- It comes in various colors and styles, making it comfy to find a pair that suits your style.
- It has a durable pattern that is constructed to last.
Cons
- It may provide less padding and support than the 574, which could be a drawback for those who require more support.
- It may have a more streamlined profile than the 574, which could disadvantage those who desire a more modern-looking sneaker.
- It may not be as snug as other New Balance models as the 2002r.
What are the differences between New Balance 574 and 550?
New Balance is popular for producing top-quality sneakers focusing on ease and style. Two of their most renowned models are the 574 and the 550. While both shoes contain some similarities, some major differences separate them.
Design and Style
The New Balance 574 has an iconic design that has endured largely unchanged since its launch in 1988. It offers a suede and mesh upper containing a rubber outsole and the iconic “N” logo on the side. The shoe is accessible in various colors and patterns, making it an iconic option for any wardrobe.
The New Balance 550, on the other side, has a more retro-motivated design that draws motivation from the brand’s archives. It offers a leather upper with penetrated detailing and a chunky sole. The shoe is obtainable in striking and vibrant colors, making it a perfect option for those who desire to make a statement with their footwear.
Materials and Construction
The New Balance 574 contains a suede and mesh upper with a rubber outsole. The shoe is structured to be feathery and absorbent, making it a perfect choice for daily wear. It also offers a padded midsole for extraordinary comfort and support.
The New Balance 550, on the other side, has a leather upper with penetrated detailing and a bulky sole. The shoe is constructed to be hard-wearing and durable, with a rugged formation that can resist daily deterioration. It also offers a delicate EVA foam midsole for additional cushioning.
Performance and Functionality
The New Balance 574 and the 550 are engineered to be snug and adaptive, making them perfect choices for regular wear. The 574 is a more iconic option, with a pattern that is adaptable for a broad extent of activities. The 550, on the other side, is a more specialized shoe constructed for daily wear.
Regarding fit, the New Balance 574 has a more tight and comfortable fit, while the 550 has a broader and more relaxed fit. This shows that the 574 is a finer option for those with tight feet; however, the 550 is better for those with extensive feet.
Overall, the New Balance 574 and the 550 are remarkable options for those seeking comfy and vogue sneakers. While they contain some similarities, they also have several major dissimilarities that make them ideal for different kinds of users and activities.
Which is more comfortable, New Balance 574 or 550?
In terms of comfort, the New Balance 574 and 550 have their versatile features. The 574 is popular for its opulent cushioning and a mushy, padded collar and tongue that feature a comfortable fit. The shoe also offers a removable insole, permitting the user to customize the fit and feel of the shoe even further.
Conversely, the New Balance 550 has a more slender design, containing a slimmer profile and a deeper heel-to-toe drop. The shoe also offers a foam midsole with a reactive ride and good impact absorption. The 550 also has a porous mesh upper that aids in maintaining feet cool, fresh, and dry during activity.
Some people may prioritize the plush padding of the 574; on the contrary, others may prefer the more sleek pattern and reactive ride of the 550.
Following is a brief comparison of the comfort attributes of the two shoes:
| Feature | New Balance 574 | New Balance 550 |
| Cushioning | Plush | Responsive |
| Collar/Tongue | Soft and Padded | Slim |
| Insole | Removable | Non-removable |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 12 mm | 8 mm |
| Upper | Suede/Mesh | Mesh |
Which is true to size, New Balance 574 or 550?
While discussing regarding true-to-size fit, both the New Balance 574 and 550 have received mixed user reviews. Some discover the 574 runs true to size, while others suggest going up half a size for a more snug fit. The 550, on the other side, is typically said to run moderately large, with some wearers suggesting going down half a size.
Shoe sizes can differ slightly between models, so referring to the particular size guide for the New Balance 574 and 550 is obligatory. New Balance gives an extensive size and width guide on their website, which incorporates conversions for US, UK, and EU sizes and computations in centimeters.
In addition to referring to the size guide, it can also be helpful to consider the appearance and design of the shoe. The 574 has an iconic, retro-inspired pattern with a slightly broader toe box, which may cater more to those with wider feet. The 550, on the other side, has a streamlined, more voguish design with a tighter toe box.
Eventually, discovering the perfect fit for the New Balance 574 or 550 may require trial and error. It is suggested to test both models in-store if feasible or to order from a retailer with a stretchable return policy to verify a snug fit.
Which is Best for Skating, New Balance 574 or 550?
Several factors must be considered regarding selecting between New Balance 574 and 550 for skating. Both models contain versatile attributes that make them adaptable for different reasons. You need to know the following:
Design and Construction
The New Balance 574 has a more customary design focusing on iconic sneaker details. It offers a suede and netting upper with a cushioned collar and tongue for additional comfort. The shoe also comprises an ENCAP midsole technology that features aid and durability.
Conversely, the New Balance 550 has a more unembellished design with a streamlined and modern look. It offers a leather and netting upper with a padded collar and tongue for extraordinary comfort. The shoe also contains a REVlite midsole technology that gives padding and support.
Sole
The sole of a shoe is an efficient factor to consider when selecting a pair of sneakers for skating. The New Balance 574 comprises a rubber outsole with good grip and durability on the board. The shoe also contains a heel stabilizer that aids in minimizing impact and upgrading stability.
The New Balance 550, on the other side, has a gum rubber outsole that offers a remarkable grip on the board. The shoe also contains a pivot point that permits rapid and easy turns.
Comfort and Fit
Both the New Balance 574 and 550 are snug and feature a good fit. The New Balance 574 has a moderately wider fit, which may be more comfy for those with broader feet. The shoe also has a demountable insole that permits customization of the fit.
The New Balance 550 has a tighter fit, which may be more adaptable for those with narrow feet. The shoe also contains a cushioned collar and tongue for additional comfort.
Overall, the New Balance 574 and 550 are perfect options for skating. The New Balance 574 is ideal for those who prefer a customary design and extensive fit; however, the New Balance 550 is more suitable for those who prioritize an unembellished design and tighter fit.
Which is good for running & walking, New Balance 574 or 550?
Several factors must be considered when selecting between the New Balance 574 and 550 for running and walking. Both shoes are structured for regular wear and everyday use, but they have several dissimilarities that make one better suited for your requirements.
The New Balance 550 is a feathery, stretchable shoe perfect for runners wanting to move rapidly. Its streamlined design and permeable upper permit maximum airflow, keeping your feet cool, fresh, and snug during your workout. The shoe also contains a reactive midsole that gives excellent padding and support, making it an ideal choice for those requiring additional help with their stride.
Conversely, the New Balance 574 is more adaptive and provides more padding than the 550. This makes it a finer option for those who require more support, particularly if you have even feet or overpronate when you walk or run. The shoe has an iconic design and a hard-wearing construction constructed to last. It is a perfect investment for those who desire a shoe that will stand up to regular deterioration.
The 550 may be your finer choice if you value speed and stretchability. But if you require more support and padding, the 574 is the way to go.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the New Balance 574 and 550 are remarkable sneakers with versatile attributes and advantages. The 574 is an iconic running shoe with a streamlined profile and upgraded materials; on the contrary, the 550 has a retro-motivated look with a deep-cut silhouette and suede and netting upper.
Concerning pattern and aesthetics, the 550 boasts a more constructed design with overlays and stitch details contributing a pinch of sophistication. Conversely, the 574 showcases a sportier pattern with its signature “N” logo and compares color choices.
In the case of comfort, the 574 may be a finer choice for those searching for a more padded and supportive shoe, as it has a massive sole and cushioning around the ankle. However, the 550 is still a snug shoe that provides good aid, particularly for those with a broader foot.
Regarding durability, both shoes are designed with top-quality materials and are constructed to last. However, the 574 may be a finer option for those who use their sneakers for more acute activities such as running or hiking.
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