Choosing New Balance trainers: a practical guide to comfort, fit and everyday wear

A pair of New Balance trainers can look convincing online, but a good-looking photo tells you little about fit, materials or ease of use. Parents often focus mainly on colour and price, while adults sometimes choose a retro style without checking whether the sole suits their daily routine.

Three common pitfalls come up time and again:

• Focusing only on cushioning: a soft midsole doesn’t automatically mean the trainer will fit every foot or suit every activity.
• Choosing the same size without checking: sizing can feel different from one model or version to another. Children can also quickly outgrow a pair.
• Ignoring materials and care: suede and mesh need different care from fully synthetic materials. Not every model is machine washable.

With the right points to check, New Balance trainers are easier to compare. Below are the key specifications and some popular options for children and adults.

What to look for in New Balance trainers

1. Fit, fastening and size

First, check the available EU sizes. For children’s trainers, look at the space around the toes. The foot shouldn’t press against the front, but a trainer that’s too roomy may feel less stable when walking or playing.

For children, the fastening is important:

• Laces allow you to adjust the fit around the instep.
• Hook-and-loop straps are practical for school, childcare and children who put their shoes on by themselves.
• A low-top trainer can feel comfortable to move around in, but offers less ankle coverage than a higher style.

For adults, it’s worth considering the combination of the last, lacing and material. A mesh upper may feel more flexible, while suede and synthetic overlays add structure.

2. Midsole and cushioning

The midsole largely determines how a trainer feels underfoot. Product information for various New Balance models includes EVA foam, ENCAP and ABZORB.

• EVA foam is lightweight and often used to make a soft, lightweight sole.
• ENCAP is described in the product information as a combination of an EVA section and a firmer polyurethane rim.
• ABZORB is used for cushioning and shock absorption, according to the product information.

Think of these terms as technical indicators, not a guarantee of personal comfort. Fit, body weight, gait and surface also play a part. If you’re looking for trainers with good cushioning, it’s worth comparing the full sole construction rather than relying on a marketing name alone.

3. Upper, outsole and care

A combination of suede, mesh and synthetic materials is common in New Balance 574 trainers. According to the product information, mesh can help with ventilation, while suede and synthetic panels add structure and durability.

Also look out for:

• A rubber outsole with a tread pattern for grip on everyday surfaces.
• Care instructions: some models shouldn’t be machine washed.
• A note that the product may contain non-textile parts of animal origin.
• The statutory guarantee: according to the product information, the models listed are covered by a minimum two-year statutory guarantee within the EU. This is separate from normal wear and tear or damage caused by incorrect care.

Black New Balance trainers are practical for school and everyday wear because dirt is less noticeable. Navy New Balance trainers are also easy to pair with jeans, sportswear and casual outfits. White or light-coloured styles can be versatile, but usually need cleaning more often.

Our recommendations by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

New Balance U574LEB40.5

Why it suits this profile: This navy retro trainer is suitable for everyday wear and goes with a range of casual and sporty outfits.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The specifications list both an ENCAP midsole and a rubber outsole. This means you can compare cushioning and grip in practical terms instead of choosing on looks alone.

Key benefit & features

Suede and mesh upper, ENCAP midsole and rubber outsole with a tread pattern. The colour is deep navy with grey and white accents.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality

New Balance ML574EVN2E 41.5

Why it suits this profile: A versatile men’s trainer for anyone looking to pair the 574 silhouette with information about recycled materials.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information specifies 100% recycled materials in the upper and recycled rubber in the outsole. Be sure to check the size and current product details.

Key benefit & features

ENCAP midsole with EVA foam, navy colour and a rubber outsole. The model is designed to go with sporty and classic outfits, according to the product description.

Suitable for: Specific needs & intensive users

New Balance U1906WFC 37

Why it suits this profile: These New Balance 1906 trainers have a sporty look and can also be worn with casual clothes.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details list ABZORB cushioning, Stability Web and a combination of mesh and synthetic overlays. This makes the technical features clearer than they would be for a model described by colour alone.

Key benefit & features

Mesh and synthetic upper, ABZORB midsole, rubber outsole and lace fastening. The listed size is EU 37.

New Balance children’s trainers for school and play

The New Balance PC574EVB and PC574EVN are practical styles to compare for children. The black PC574EVB has laces, an EVA midsole and a rubber outsole with a tread pattern. The navy PC574EVN has hook-and-loop straps, which can be handy when a child needs to put their shoes on by themselves in a hurry.

The product description lists a combination of suede, synthetic materials and textile mesh for both versions. For the black model, also check the care instructions: cleaning with a damp cloth and mild soapy water is recommended, while machine washing is not. The product information for the navy version specifies a low-temperature wash cycle; always follow the label for the specific size and version you buy.

Frequently asked questions about New Balance trainers

Are New Balance trainers suitable for everyday wear?

That depends on the model and the fit. According to the product descriptions, the 574 models listed are designed for everyday, casual and sporty wear. Check that the size, fastening and sole suit your walking routine.

How long do New Balance trainers last?

Their lifespan varies depending on how they’re used, the surfaces they’re worn on, how they’re cared for and the wearer’s body weight. A rubber outsole can wear down with daily walking, while suede can be damaged by moisture or incorrect cleaning. Alternate between pairs and follow the care instructions to help keep the materials in good condition for longer.

Can New Balance trainers go in the washing machine?

Not every model can. Hand cleaning with a soft brush or damp cloth is recommended for several versions. Always check the care label for the specific pair before using water, detergent or a washing machine.