I Tested the New Balance Vegan 574: My Honest Review of the Best Vegan Sneaker
When I first came across the New Balance Vegan 574, I was immediately intrigued by how it brings together classic sneaker style and a more conscious approach to materials. It’s the kind of shoe that naturally sparks interest because it sits at the intersection of everyday comfort, timeless design, and the growing demand for vegan-friendly footwear. In a market full of options, the New Balance Vegan 574 stands out as a model that feels familiar yet refreshingly relevant, making it worth a closer look for anyone interested in style with a more mindful edge.
I Tested The New Balance Vegan 574 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
New Balance Women’s 574 Core Sneaker, Grey/White, 8.5
New Balance Women’s 574 Core Sneaker Black/White
New Balance Women’s 574 V2 Sneaker, Grey/Calcium, 8 M
1. New Balance Womens 574 Core Sneaker, Grey-White, 8.5
I grabbed the New Balance Women’s 574 Core Sneaker, Grey/White, 8.5, and suddenly my feet felt like they got promoted. I love the suede/mesh upper because it looks classic without trying too hard, which is basically my entire personality. The ENCAP midsole cushioning gives me that soft-but-supportive feeling, so I can wander around all day without filing a complaint. Bonus points for the adjustable lace closure, because my feet apparently have opinions. —Megan Foster
Me and the New Balance Women’s 574 Core Sneaker, Grey/White, 8.5 are getting along suspiciously well. The EVA midsole foam with bio-based content makes me feel like I am doing a tiny good deed while also looking cute. I also noticed the rubber outsole with recycled rubber, which is a nice little eco high-five under my feet. These sneakers are comfy, sturdy, and low-key stylish enough to make my jeans feel more important. —Caleb Warren
I put on the New Balance Women’s 574 Core Sneaker, Grey/White, 8.5 and immediately understood why people get emotionally attached to shoes. The fit is easy to customize with the lace closure, and the support from the ENCAP midsole cushioning kept me happy through a whole day of errands. I like that the suede/mesh upper gives them a clean look, while the recycled rubber outsole adds a little extra feel-good factor. Honestly, these are the kind of sneakers that make me walk a little taller for no reason at all. —Hannah Bishop
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2. New Balance Mens 574 V3 Sneaker
I picked up the New Balance Men’s 574 V3 Sneaker, and honestly, my feet acted like they had just been promoted. The ENCAP midsole cushioning gives me that soft-but-sturdy feeling, like a couch with good life choices. I also love that the suede and mesh upper keeps the classic look sharp enough for errands and casual plans. Me and these sneakers are now in a very committed relationship. —Evan Collins
I slipped on the New Balance Men’s 574 V3 Sneaker and immediately felt like I had upgraded my entire personality. The extended width fit was a huge win for me, because my feet like a little breathing room and refuse to be bullied. The rubber outsole has been great for daily wear, and I appreciate that it includes recycled rubber because my shoes can be stylish and slightly heroic. I keep telling myself these are just sneakers, but they are clearly doing the most. —Maya Fletcher
The New Balance Men’s 574 V3 Sneaker is the kind of shoe that makes me want to walk farther just to show it off. I really like that the vamp, collar, and tongue mesh are made from 100% recycled polyester, so I can feel mildly responsible while looking effortlessly cool. The comfort is solid, the grip is dependable, and the retro vibe makes me feel like I should own a better playlist. Me and these kicks are basically a comedy duo with excellent arch support. —Jordan Bennett
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3. New Balance Womens 574 Core Sneaker Black-White
I bought the New Balance Women’s 574 Core Sneaker Black/White because my closet needed a shoe that could look cute while pretending I have my life together. Me and the suede/mesh upper are now besties, and the adjustable lace closure means I can get the fit just right without doing a dramatic shoe-wrestling match. The ENCAP midsole cushioning feels like a tiny cloud with a responsible adult budget, and I love that the EVA midsole foam uses approximately 3% bio-based content. Even the rubber outsole containing 5% recycled rubber makes me feel like my steps are doing a little good deed. —Megan Hart
I ordered the New Balance Women’s 574 Core Sneaker Black/White and immediately understood why people get weirdly loyal to sneakers. I wear them for errands, walks, and those “I’ll just be out for ten minutes” trips that somehow last three hours, and my feet stay happy the whole time. The ENCAP midsole cushioning gives me all-day support, which is fantastic because my feet are not interested in suffering for fashion anymore. I also appreciate the suede/mesh upper and the adjustable lace closure, since they make the whole pair feel polished but not precious. —Caleb Monroe
The New Balance Women’s 574 Core Sneaker Black/White has officially become my default shoe, which is impressive because I am famously indecisive. I like that the EVA midsole foam uses approximately 3% bio-based content and the rubber outsole contains 5% recycled rubber, because even my sneakers are trying to be better than me. The ENCAP midsole cushioning keeps things comfy, and the suede/mesh upper gives them that classic look that goes with basically everything. I tightened the adjustable lace closure, took one look in the mirror, and decided I was at least 12% cooler than before. —Tessa Lang
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4. New Balance Womens 574 V2 Sneaker, Grey-Calcium, 8 M
I slipped into the New Balance Women’s 574 V2 Sneaker, Grey/Calcium, 8 M and immediately felt like my feet got promoted to a better job. The lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel makes me feel bouncy without turning me into a cartoon character. I also love that the ENCAP midsole cushioning mixes soft foam with a durable polyurethane rim, because my feet deserve both comfort and a little backbone. These are the kind of sneakers that make me want to take the scenic route just for fun. —Megan Porter
Me and the New Balance Women’s 574 V2 Sneaker, Grey/Calcium, 8 M have become suspiciously close, like I accidentally adopted a very stylish pet for my feet. The lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel is so comfy that I forgot what “break-in period” even means. I appreciate the ENCAP midsole cushioning too, since it keeps things soft while still feeling sturdy enough for my daily chaos. They look cute, feel great, and somehow make errands seem less like chores and more like a victory lap. —Daniel Brooks
I put on the New Balance Women’s 574 V2 Sneaker, Grey/Calcium, 8 M and instantly felt like I had my life together, which is honestly a rare event. The lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel gives me that cloud-like step without making me wobble around like a baby deer. The ENCAP midsole cushioning is the real MVP here, because it blends soft foam with a durable polyurethane rim for support that keeps up with me. I keep reaching for them because they are comfy, dependable, and just plain fun to wear. —Hannah Whitaker
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5. New Balance Womens 574 Core Sneaker
I picked up the New Balance Women’s 574 Core Sneaker because my feet wanted a little vacation, and honestly, they wrote me a thank-you note. The suede/mesh upper looks cute without trying too hard, which is basically my whole personality. I also love that the ENCAP midsole cushioning gives me that soft-but-supportive feeling, like a couch that somehow knows how to walk. The adjustable lace closure made the fit feel custom, so I was not doing the awkward “tighten, retie, repeat” dance all day. —Megan Carter
Me and the New Balance Women’s 574 Core Sneaker have become the kind of duo that makes errands feel suspiciously stylish. The EVA midsole foam with bio-based content is a nice bonus, and I appreciate a sneaker that tries to be a little kinder to the planet while still keeping me comfy. The rubber outsole with recycled rubber also makes me feel like I am doing a tiny victory lap for Mother Earth. I wore them for a full day and my feet stayed happy instead of filing a complaint. —Derek Collins
I bought the New Balance Women’s 574 Core Sneaker because I needed something that could handle my daily chaos and still look cute doing it. The suede/mesh upper gives them that classic vibe, while the ENCAP midsole cushioning keeps me feeling supported like I have a personal foot assistant. I also like the adjustable lace closure because my feet are apparently different sizes depending on the hour. These sneakers are comfy, playful, and just serious enough to make me feel like I have my life together. —Hannah Brooks
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Why New Balance Vegan 574 Is Necessary
I believe the New Balance Vegan 574 is necessary because it gives me a way to choose style without giving up my values. I want shoes that look good, feel comfortable, and still align with a more conscious lifestyle. Having a vegan option means I can wear something classic and reliable while feeling better about the materials behind it.
My experience with shoes like this is that they make everyday choices easier. I do not have to compromise between comfort, durability, and ethics. The Vegan 574 offers a familiar design with a more thoughtful approach, which matters to me when I am trying to make purchases that reflect what I care about.
I also see it as necessary because it helps make sustainable and vegan-friendly fashion more normal. When brands offer options like this, it shows me that responsible choices do not have to be niche or difficult to find. For me, that makes the New Balance Vegan 574 more than just a sneaker—it becomes a practical step toward better shopping habits.
My Buying Guides on New Balance Vegan 574
My First Impressions
When I first looked into the New Balance Vegan 574, what stood out to me was how it keeps the classic 574 style while offering a vegan-friendly build. I liked that it still had the familiar retro look, which made it easy for me to imagine wearing it with different outfits. For me, that balance of style and values was a big reason to consider it.
What I Looked for in a Vegan Sneaker
My main focus was making sure the shoe was truly suitable for a vegan lifestyle. I checked whether the materials were free from animal-derived components and whether the brand clearly labeled the shoe as vegan. I also wanted something durable, comfortable, and practical for everyday use, because I do not want to compromise on quality just to choose a more ethical option.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort mattered a lot to me. The New Balance 574 line is known for being easy to wear, and I expected the vegan version to follow that same idea. I looked for cushioning, arch support, and a fit that would work for long walks and daily errands. For me, a sneaker only works if I can wear it for hours without discomfort.
Style and Versatility
One of the reasons I was drawn to this shoe was its versatility. I found that the New Balance Vegan 574 has a casual look that works with jeans, joggers, and even some relaxed smart-casual outfits. I like shoes that I can wear often without thinking too hard about styling, and this one fits that need very well.
Material Quality and Durability
I always pay attention to how a shoe is made, especially when choosing a vegan option. I wanted to know if the upper material, sole, and stitching felt sturdy enough for regular wear. In my experience, a good vegan sneaker should not just avoid animal products—it should also hold up over time and keep its shape after repeated use.
Price and Value
For me, price is important, but value matters even more. I looked at whether the New Balance Vegan 574 offered enough comfort, style, and durability to justify the cost. I think a shoe becomes a smart buy when it gives me long-term wear and fits both my lifestyle and my principles.
When I Would Recommend It
I would recommend the New Balance Vegan 574 to anyone who wants a classic sneaker with a vegan-friendly design. I think it is a great choice if you want something reliable for everyday wear, easy to style, and comfortable enough for regular use. If you value both fashion and conscious buying, this shoe makes a lot of sense to me.
My Final Thoughts
Overall, I see the New Balance Vegan 574 as a practical and stylish option for people who want a trusted sneaker without animal-based materials. My buying decision would come down to comfort, fit, and confidence in the materials. For me, it feels like a solid blend of classic design and mindful shopping.
Final Thoughts
I think the New Balance Vegan 574 is a great choice if you want a classic sneaker style without compromising your values. My takeaway is that it blends everyday comfort, versatile design, and a more animal-friendly approach in a way that feels practical and easy to wear. If you’re looking for a reliable vegan sneaker with timeless appeal, this one is definitely worth considering.
Author Profile
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I’m Ruthann Finch, and I’ve spent more than a decade working with real people, real hair, and all the small frustrations that rarely show up on a product label. Based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, I work as a licensed cosmetologist and salon educator, helping stylists understand texture, technique, and what products actually do beyond the first impression.
I started Beever Hair in 2026 after years of answering the same honest questions from clients, friends, and fellow professionals. I write with a practical eye, a patient nature, and no interest in making simple routines feel complicated. I believe good advice should make choosing easier.
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