Reviewer Kim Schmitt
Nice knockoffs, same fit, much less money.
Reviewer Janel Fortier
Best running shoes I've ever owned. Exceptional cushioning.
Reviewer Robert C Lyons
Look good. A bit stiff at first but they’re broken in now and very comfortable.
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 Joseph J Kenny
I wear them all day at work. They work pretty good for me.
Reviewer Victoria De Alba
These are great for narrow feet. My husband has trouble getting shoes that aren’t too wide and puma and adidas fit him well.
Reviewer K Matthias
Work Shoes! Has the comfort and the support needed to get my everyday job done.
Reviewer Tara Luke
The soles are great for all terrains. The memory foam helps to keep my feet from hurting after a long walk. I'm very pleased!
Reviewer leola
Nothing sketcy about Sketcher. A few years ago I had some major foot trouble so since then I have been careful to protect my hoofies with ankle support and molded foot inserts. None of that matters if you have lousy shoes. I first bought a pair of Skechers Men's Afterburn Memory-Foam Lace-up Sneakers at a small box store after seeing them advertised. Best cheap shoe I ever wore. Liked them so much that I just bought a backup pair here...but I didn't have to. My older pair is still going strong. Lastability. So, if you're not some kind of shoe diva and are looking for a good ride...get yours. I like 'em!
Reviewer PP
Delivery must ask for signature to release package. The express is safe.