
New Balance 515 Vs 574 – Check Which One Is Best & Why?
New Balance 515 & New Balance 574 share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the New Balance 574 rather than the New Balance 515.
Why Do I Recommend The New Balance 574?
- The New Balance 574 features ENCAP midsole technology, combining EVA cushioning with a polyurethane rim for superior support, stability, and long-term durability, compared to the EVA midsole of 515 V3.
- New Balance 574 Core has a premium suede and mesh upper that offers enhanced durability, structure, and a refined retro look, compared to the lighter synthetic and mesh upper of New Balance 515 V3.
- It has a more robust rubber outsole that delivers greater traction and wear resistance for long-term daily use than the New Balance 515’s rubber outsole.
- The New Balance 574 provides a roomier toe box for improved comfort and better fit, while the New Balance 515 V3 has a narrower fit that may feel more restrictive.
- New Balance 574 Core has reinforced heel and arch support for a more stable and secure feel during prolonged standing or walking than the New Balance 515 V3.
- It has a thicker padded tongue and collar for added ankle comfort and a more secure lockdown, compared to the flexible padding of New Balance 515 V3.
- The New Balance 574 has a more iconic and timeless silhouette with a vintage-inspired design that pairs well with a wide range of styles, whereas the 515 V3 leans toward a more casual look.
- It is crafted with higher-end materials and finishes for more premium and long-lasting, while the 515 V3 is focused on lightweight affordability with less emphasis on luxury detailing.
Maybe the New Balance 515 price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the New Balance 574. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.
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Side By Side Comparison
Feature | New Balance 574 | New Balance 515 |
Upper Material | Suede and mesh | Synthetic and mesh |
Midsole Technology | ENCAP | EVA |
Outsole Type | Durable solid rubber | Lightweight rubber outsole |
Heel Support | Structured with ENCAP | Cushioned |
Arch Support | Moderate arch support | Light arch support |
Toe Box | Roomier toe box | Narrower toe box |
Weight | Heavier | Lighter |
Tongue Padding | Thicker and structured | Flexible |
Heel Collar | Padded, reinforced | Padded |
Fit Type | Regular fit with stable base | Snug fit with flexible upper |
Cushioning Feel | Balanced and firm | Softer and plush |
Breathability | Moderate | Higher due to lighter materials |
Durability | Higher | Moderate |
Aesthetic Design | Classic retro style | Modern-retro casual style |
Intended Usage | Lifestyle and daily walking | Casual everyday wear |
Insole Type | Standard EVA | NB Comfort Insert |
Flexibility | High flexibility | Moderate flexibility |
Lining Material | Textile | Soft textile |
Color Variety | Broad vintage-inspired palette | Wider casual-modern options |
Price | Check 574 Price | Check 515 Price |
What Common Both Can Do?
- EVA Foam Cushioning: Both sneakers utilize EVA foam in the midsole, delivering lightweight cushioning that absorbs impact and enhances comfort for daily wear.
- Rubber Outsole: Each model features a rubber outsole, providing reliable traction and grip suitable for everyday surfaces like pavement, sidewalks, and indoor flooring.
- Mesh Upper with Overlays: Both shoes use breathable mesh uppers combined with supportive overlays, ensuring ventilation and structural integrity throughout the day.
- Lace-Up Closure: Each sneaker includes a traditional lace-up design, allowing users to adjust the fit securely and comfortably.
- Neutral Support Type: Both models are designed with neutral arch support, making them suitable for users without significant overpronation or supination issues.
- Removable Insole: Each sneaker comes with a removable insole, allowing users to replace it with custom orthotics for added support or comfort if desired.
- Soft Textile Lining: Both shoes include soft inner linings, helping to reduce irritation and improve in-shoe comfort for extended use.
- Low-Top Design: Each model features a low-cut heel collar, offering minimal ankle restriction and promoting natural movement and casual style.
- Retro-Inspired Aesthetic: Both sneakers showcase vintage styling, with bold New Balance branding and retro panel construction for a timeless look.
- Available in Wide Sizes: Both models offer wide width options, accommodating various foot shapes and providing better comfort for users with broader feet.
Common Features
Feature | New Balance 574 | New Balance 515 |
Brand | New Balance | New Balance |
Category | Lifestyle/Casual Sneakers | Lifestyle/Casual Sneakers |
Closure Type | Lace-up | Lace-up |
Upper Construction | Mesh + Overlays | Mesh + Overlays |
Outsole Material | Rubber | Rubber |
Midsole Material | EVA Foam-based | EVA Foam-based |
Toe Type | Round Toe | Round Toe |
Heel Type | Low-top heel | Low-top heel |
Support Type | Neutral | Neutral |
Cushioning | EVA Foam Cushioning | EVA Foam Cushioning |
Inner Lining | Soft textile lining | Soft textile lining |
Removable Insole | Yes | Yes |
Activity Type | Casual Wear / Everyday Use | Casual Wear / Everyday Use |
Brand Logo | Large “N” Logo on Side | Large “N” Logo on Side |
Fit Type | True to size | True to size |
Gender | Men’s | Men’s |
Seasonal Suitability | All-season wear | All-season wear |
Ankle Support | Minimal | Minimal |
Availability in Wide Sizes | Yes | Yes |
Retro Styling | Yes | Yes |
Color Options | Multiple colorways | Multiple colorways |
Price | Check 574 Price | Check 515 Price |
FAQ
Do both models come in wide width options? What is the main difference in cushioning between the 574 and 515 V3? Are these sneakers good for walking all day? Can the insoles be removed in both models? Do these sneakers offer good arch support? Which sneaker is lighter in weight? Are they breathable for warm weather use? Do these shoes have the same level of durability? Can you wear these sneakers for running? Are these shoes easy to clean? Which one has a more classic or vintage look? Do both sneakers have the New Balance “N” logo? Can you wear these with jeans or casual outfits? Are these models available in multiple colors? |