New Balance is a company that has been in the industry for over a century, and its shoes have always been popular for their quality and comfort. Two of their most renowned models are the New Balance 574 and the New Balance 996. While both shoes are regular sneakers, they have several dissimilarities that are worth noting.
The New Balance 574 is an iconic sneaker that has been on the market since 1988. It offers an ENCAP midsole that features support and longevity and a suede and mesh upper that is both modish and permeable. The New Balance 996, on the other side, is a more modish sneaker that was launched in the 1990s.
It offers a REVlite midsole that is feathery and reactive and a suede and cotton mesh upper that is mushy and comfortable.
Feature table for New Balance 574 Vs New Balance 996
| Feature | New Balance 574 | New Balance 996 |
| Release Year | 1988 | 1990s |
| Midsole | ENCAP technology with EVA foam | REVlite technology with polyurethane (PU) foam |
| Upper Material | Suede and mesh | Suede and cotton mesh |
| Comfort & Fit | Padded midsole, cushioned collar, | Padded midsole, tight toe box, |
| spacious toe box | may need adjustment for wider feet | |
| Durability | Suede and mesh upper, rubber | Suede and mesh upper, rubber outsole, |
| outsole | durable materials | |
| Insole | EVA foam | Polyurethane (PU) foam |
| Outsole | Rubber | Rubber |
| Weight | Approximately 11 ounces | Approximately 12 ounces |
| Price Range | $60 to $130 | $80 to $150 |
| Fit | Generally true to size, | Generally true to size, may run slightly larger, |
| spacious toe box | narrower toe box | |
| Best For | Regular wear, moderate activities | Running, active pursuits |
| Style | Retro, iconic design | Streamlined, sporty design |
Key Takeaways
- The New Balance 574 and 996 are both famous casual sneakers with some dissimilarities worth noting.
- The 574 provides an ENCAP midsole and a suede and netting upper; on the other hand, the 996 features a REVlite midsole and a suede and cotton netting upper.
- The 574 is an iconic sneaker that has been in the industry since 1988; on the contrary, the 996 is a more modern sneaker that was initiated in the 1990s.
New Balance 574 Overview
Design
The New Balance 574 is an iconic sneaker that has been around since the late 1980s. It contains a retro pattern that has resisted the test of time and has become dominant in the sneaker world. The 574 offers the signature “N” logo on the side and is accessible in a diversity of colors and materials. The pattern of the 574 is plain and clean, making it a classic shoe that can be used with a diversity of outfits.
Comfort and Fit
The New Balance 574 is popular for its comfortable fit. It offers a padded midsole that provides support and impact absorption. The shoe also has a cushioned collar and tongue that contributes to the overall comfort of the shoe. The 574 has a spacious toe box that permits natural foot movement and can cater to different foot shapes. It is obtainable in both regular and broad widths, making it accessible to an extensive range of foot sizes.
Durability
The New Balance 574 is a hard-wearing shoe that is constructed to last. It is designed with top-quality materials that can resist regular wear and tear. The shoe features a suede and netting upper that is both absorbent and durable. The rubber outsole gives remarkable traction and is resistant to erosion. The 574 is a dependable shoe that can resist daily use and is ideal for various activities, including walking and moderate jogging.
Overall, the New Balance 574 is an iconic and comfortable sneaker that is perfect for regular wear. Its simple yet classic design, combined with its longevity and comfort, makes it a famous choice among sneaker fanatics.
New Balance 996 Overview
Design
The New Balance 996 is a streamlined and stylish sneaker that offers a low-profile pattern. It is available in a diversity of color shades, including classic and classy options. The upper is constructed of a combination of suede and netting materials, which offers permeability and durability. The rubber outsole is structured to provide a good grip on different surfaces. The iconic “N” logo is accurately displayed on the edge of the shoe.
Comfort and Fit
The New Balance 996 is designed for daily wear and moderate activities. It offers a padded midsole and sock liner that features comfort and impact absorption. The shoe has a tight toe box, which may need to be more adaptable for people with broader feet. The sizing is typically true to size, but some individuals may need to go up or down a half size based on their foot shape.
Durability
The New Balance 996 is a hard-wearing sneaker that can withstand daily deterioration. The suede and mesh upper is resistant to erosions and scuffs. The rubber outsole is constructed to provide good grip and is resistant to wear and tear. The shoe is also delicate, which makes it comfy to wear for elongated periods without causing tiredness.
Overall, the New Balance 996 is a perfect choice for individuals who desire a stylish and snug sneaker that can be used for everyday activities. Its streamlined design, padded midsole, and durable materials make it a dependable choice for people who desire a shoe that can keep up with their active lifestyle.
Material Comparison
Insole
Both the New Balance 574 and 996 provide a removable insole that features padding and support. The insole of the 574 is designed of EVA foam, which is feathery and flexible. The 996, on the other side, has a polyurethane (PU) insole, which is massive and more durable than EVA foam. The PU insole of the 996 gives better impact absorption and aid than the EVA foam insole of the 574.
Midsole
The midsole of the New Balance 574 and 996 is constructed of ENCAP technology, which is an amalgamation of EVA foam and polyurethane. However, the 996 offers a more upgraded version of ENCAP technology than the 574. The midsole of the 996 has a greater density polyurethane layer, which gives better steadiness and support than the midsole of the 574.
Outsole
The outsole of the New Balance 574 and 996 is structured of rubber, which provides ideal traction and longevity. However, the outsole of the 996 is more updated than the outsole of the 574. The 996 has a more complex tread design, which provides finer traction on a diversity of surfaces. Furthermore, the outsole of the 996 is made of a more hard-wearing rubber compound than the outsole of the 574, which makes it more resistant to deterioration.
Upper
The upper of the New Balance 574 and 996 is engineered with a combination of components, including suede, mesh, and nylon. However, there are several dissimilarities between the two models. The 996 has a more standard upper than the 574, with a fusion of suede and mesh that feels mushier and more luxurious. Furthermore, the 996 has a streamlined and more modern pattern than the 574, which has an iconic and enduring look. However, the 574 has a more long-lasting upper than the 996, with a plastic netting that is tougher than the cotton tracery of the 996.
Overall, the New Balance 996 has more upgraded materials than the 574, with a massive and more adaptive insole, a more advanced midsole, a more hard-wearing and grippy outsole, and a more standard and modern upper. However, the 574 has a more long-lasting insole and a tougher netting upper than the 996.
Comparative Analysis
Design Comparison
The New Balance 574 and 996 sneakers are both regular shoes that come in a diversity of colors and styles. However, some major differences in their pattern may be important to contemplate when selecting between them.
The 574 has an iconic, retro look with a suede and netting upper and the iconic “N” logo on the side. It offers an ENCAP midsole for additional support and padding and a rubber outsole for grip and durability. On the other side, the 996 has a more modish design containing a leather and mesh upper and a streamlined silhouette. It also comprises an ENCAP midsole but with a different padding system that features a smoother ride.
In the case of fit, the 574 has a broader toe box and may be more snug for people with extensive feet. The 996, on the other side, has a tight toe box and maybe a superior fit for people having narrower feet.
Durability Comparison
Both the New Balance 574 and 996 sneakers are popular for their durability, but several differences in the materials utilized may influence their longevity.
The 574 has a suede and netting upper, which may be more prone to scrapes and wear over time. However, the ENCAP midsole and rubber outsole feature good aid and grip that can help elongate the life of the shoe.
The 996, on the other side, contains a leather and mesh upper that is more resistant to deterioration. It also has an ENCAP midsole but with a distinct padding system that may offer a more snug ride. The rubber outsole is also long-lasting and provides perfect traction.
Overall, both the New Balance 574 and 996 sneakers are ideal choices for regular wear. The selection between them may incline on individual preference in the matter of design and fit.
Price Comparison
Regarding price, both the New Balance 574 and 996 are comparatively economical compared to other exclusive sneakers. However, there are still some dissimilarities in price between the two models.
The New Balance 574 generally ranges from $60 to $130, depending on the particular colorway and materials used. On the other side, the New Balance 996 basically costs between $80 and $150, again based on the color and materials.
While the cost difference could be more efficient, the New Balance 996 is generally more costly than the 574. This is likely because the 996 is structured for more top-intensity activities, such as running; on the contrary, the 574 is more adaptable for everyday regular wear.
It is also worth noting that both models often go on sale, particularly older colorways or styles that are being discontinued. This can be a perfect opportunity to snag a pair of New Balance sneakers at a lesser cost.
Overall, both the New Balance 574 and 996 feature perfect value for their cost points. It eventually inclines on individual preference and intended use when determining which model to buy.
Weight Comparison
Regarding selecting between the New Balance 574 and 996, weight is an efficient factor to consider. The weight of a shoe can impact comfort, performance, and overall wearability.
The New Balance 574 weighs approximately 11 ounces, which is comparatively delicate for a sneaker. This makes it a perfect choice for daily wear and moderate activities. The shoe comprises a slim profile and is easy to move around in, making it a famous option for regular users.
On the other side, the New Balance 996 weighs moderately more, at around 12 ounces. This extra weight is because of the extraordinary cushioning and aid features that the shoe gives. The 996 is structured for more active pursuits, just as running and other sports.
The weight difference between the two shoes could be more efficient, and both are relatively delicate compared to other sneakers in the industry.
Overall, the weight of the shoe should be contemplated in conjunction with other factors, such as the intended use and individual preferences. While the 574 may be moderately lighter, the 996 features more support and padding, making it a better option for more active pursuits.
Stack Height & Heel Drop Comparison
Concerning selecting between New Balance 574 and 996, one of the points to consider is the stack height and heel drop. Stack height is the computation of the massiveness of the midsole, while heel drop is the dissimilarity between the height of the heel and the forefoot.
The New Balance 574 contains a stack height of 26mm in the heel and 18mm in the forefoot, resulting in an 8mm heel-to-toe drop. On the other side, the New Balance 996 comprises a stack height of 28mm in the heel and 18mm in the forefoot, evolving in a 10mm heel-to-toe drop.
In the matter of stack height and heel drop, the New Balance 996 has a moderately higher heel-to-toe drop than the 574. This shows that the 996 gives more padding and support in the heel; on the other side, the 574 provides a more innate ride.
It’s necessary to mention that stack height and heel drop are not the only points to consider when selecting between the 574 and 996. Other factors, such as fit, comfort, and style, should also be taken into consideration.
Following is a table summing up the stack height and heel drop of the New Balance 574 and 996:
| Model | Stack Height (Heel) | Stack Height (Forefoot) | Heel-to-Toe Drop |
| 574 | 26mm | 18mm | 8mm |
| 996 | 28mm | 18mm | 10mm |
Overall, the New Balance 574 and 996 are both ideal choices for runners and sneaker fanatics alike. The selection between the two eventually inclines on individual preference and particular needs.
Sizing Comparison
Regarding sizing, both the New Balance 574 and 996 are famous for being true to size. However, the 996 is popular to have a moderately tighter toe box compared to the 574. This shows that if you have extensive feet, the 574 might be a finer choice for you.
Sizing Table For New Balance 574
To aid you in discovering the perfect fit for the New Balance 574, here is a sizing chart that compares the shoe size to the foot length in inches:
| Shoe Size | Foot Length (in) |
| 6 | 9.33 |
| 6.5 | 9.5 |
| 7 | 9.66 |
| 7.5 | 9.83 |
| 8 | 10 |
| 8.5 | 10.16 |
| 9 | 10.33 |
| 9.5 | 10.5 |
| 10 | 10.66 |
| 10.5 | 10.83 |
| 11 | 11 |
| 11.5 | 11.16 |
| 12 | 11.33 |
| 12.5 | 11.5 |
| 13 | 11.66 |
| 14 | 12 |
| 15 | 12.33 |
Sizing Table For New Balance 996
Following is a sizing table that contrasts the shoe size to the foot length in inches for the New Balance 996:
| Shoe Size | Foot Length (in) |
| 6 | 9.33 |
| 6.5 | 9.5 |
| 7 | 9.66 |
| 7.5 | 9.83 |
| 8 | 10 |
| 8.5 | 10.16 |
| 9 | 10.33 |
| 9.5 | 10.5 |
| 10 | 10.66 |
| 10.5 | 10.83 |
| 11 | 11 |
| 11.5 | 11.16 |
| 12 | 11.33 |
| 12.5 | 11.5 |
| 13 | 11.66 |
| 14 | 12 |
| 15 | 12.33 |
It is obligatory to note that these tables are just an ordinary guide, and it is always suggested to test the shoes before buying to verify the perfect fit.
Pros & Cons
New Balance 574
The New Balance 574 is an iconic sneaker that has been in the industry since 1988. It is renowned for its retro style and snug fit. Following are several pros and cons of the New Balance 574:
Pros:
- Comfortable: The New Balance 574 is engineered to give a comfortable fit. It has a cushioned collar and tongue, a fortified heel counter, and a demountable foam sock liner for additional cushioning.
- Stylish: The 574 has a vintage style that is famous among sneaker enthusiasts. It is available in a diversity of colors and materials, so there is a 574 for everyone.
- Durable: New Balance is renowned for making top-quality sneakers, and the 574 is no exception. It is designed with standard materials and is constructed to last.
Cons:
- Narrow: Some people may discover the 574 to be too tight, particularly in the toe box. This can make it intolerable for people with broader feet.
- Price: The New Balance 574 is not the cheapest sneaker in the industry. It is priced greater than several other sneakers in its class.
New Balance 996
The New Balance 996 is a streamlined sneaker that was first launched in 1988. It is popular for its minimalist pattern and snug fit. Following are several pros and cons of the New Balance 996:
Pros:
- Comfortable: The New Balance 996 is constructed to have a comfortable fit and provide a snug ride. It has a cushioned collar and tongue, a fortified heel counter, and a removable foam sock liner for exceptional cushioning.
- Stylish: The 996 has an unembellished design that is famous among sneaker fanatics. It comes in a diversity of colors and materials, so there is a 996 for everyone.
- Durable: New Balance is popular for making top-quality sneakers, and the 996 is no exception. It is structured with standard materials and is built to last.
Cons:
- Narrow: Several individuals may discover the 996 to be too tight, mainly in the toe box. This can make it intolerable for people with broader feet.
- Price: The New Balance 996 is different from the inexpensive sneakers in the sneakers industry. It is priced greater than several other sneakers in its class.
Which is true to size? – New Balance 574 and 996
Concerning purchasing shoes, getting the perfect size is critical for comfort and performance. So, which one is true to size between the New Balance 574 and 996?
According to user reviews and experts’ opinions, both the New Balance 574 and 996 typically fit true to size. However, some wearers have stated that the 996 runs moderately larger than the 574. Therefore, it is suggested to test both models before hitting the jackpot, especially if you have broad or tight feet.
The New Balance 574 has a comparatively wide footbed and a spacious toe box, which shows that they won’t squish your feet, unlike several more narrow New Balance styles. On the other side, the New Balance 996 has a streamlined profile and a tighter toe box, which may need to be more adaptable for people with wider feet.
It’s worth mentioning that the fit of a shoe can also incline the individual’s foot appearance and preference. Several individuals may prefer a comfier fit, while others may like a bit of additional room. Therefore, it’s best to go with what feels snug for you.
In summary, both the New Balance 574 and 996 are typically true to size, but the 996 may run moderately larger than the 574. It’s suggested to test both models before breaking the bank, particularly if you have wide or tight feet. Eventually, the right fit inclines on your foot appearance and preference.
Which New Balance model is more comfortable, 574 or 996?
Regarding comfort, both the New Balance 574 and 996 models contain their advantages.
The New Balance 996 is structured to have a comfortable fit and provide a snug ride. It has a cushioned collar and tongue, a fortified heel counter, and a removable foam sock liner for additional cushioning. This makes it a perfect option for those who prioritize a more supportive and comfy fit.
On the other side, the New Balance 574 is structured for a more relaxed fit. It has a broader toe box and a mushier upper, which makes it a perfect option for those who prefer permeability and stretchability. The 574 also offers an ENCAP midsole, which gives remarkable impact absorption and padding.
Eventually, the selection between the 574 and 996 inclines on individual preference. If you prioritize a comfortable and supportive fit, the 996 may be the finer choice for you. If you prioritize permeability and stretchability, the 574 may be the way to go.
It’s worth considering that both models are available in different materials and styles, so it’s obligatory to consider the particular attributes of every pair before making a selection. Overall, both the New Balance 574 and 996 models feature remarkable ease and support, making them ideal options for regular wear or sporty activities.
Which is good for running & walking? – New Balance 996 Or 574
Concerning running and walking, both New Balance 996 and 574 are perfect options. However, there are several dissimilarities between the two that might make one better suited for your requirements than the other.
New Balance 996 for Running and Walking
The New Balance 996 is an ideal option for running and walking. It offers an ENCAP midsole that provides remarkable padding and support, making it perfect for those who require additional comfort while on their feet. The rubber outsole also features a good grip, which is necessary for those who desire to stay safe and sturdy while running or walking on various surfaces.
New Balance 574 for Running and Walking
The New Balance 574 is also a perfect option for running and walking. It offers a regular suede, leather, and netting upper that is porous and comfortable, permitting your feet to stay fresh, cool, and dry during your workout. The ENCAP midsole in the 574 also gives good padding and aid, but it has less cushioning overall than the 996.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both the New Balance 996 and 574 are perfect choices for running and walking. However, if you require additional cushioning and support, the 996 might be the finer choice for you. On the other side, if you prioritize a more delicate and breathable shoe, the 574 might be the superior option.
Eventually, the best way to detect which shoe is perfect for you is to test them both on and determine which one feels more snug and adaptive.
Conclusion
Both the New Balance 574 and 996 are famous sneakers that offer remarkable performance, comfort, and longevity. The selection between the two depends on individual preference and specific requirements.
The 574 is a perfect choice for regular wear and moderate activities. It has a normal suede, leather, and netting upper with ENCAP midsole technology that gives adequate padding. The rubber outsole features good grip, but the overall padding is less than the 996.
The 996, on the other side, is a better option for more active pursuits. It has a fabricated mesh upper with ENCAP midsole technology that offers finer cushioning and impact absorption. The rubber outsole provides remarkable traction, making it adaptable for running and other top-impact activities.
In the case of style, both sneakers have an iconic and enduring look that can easily match any outfit. The 574 has a more regular and laid-back vibe; on the contrary, the 996 has an athletic and more sporty look.
Overall, both the New Balance 574 and 996 are perfect choices for anyone searching for a comfortable and hard-wearing sneaker. It all depends on individual preferences and particular needs.
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