In a sneaker world driven by hype and bold statements, the New Balance 574 stands apart by staying grounded. Launched in the late 1980s as a practical running shoe, the 574 has quietly grown into one of the most recognizable silhouettes in sneaker history.
It’s not just a shoe — it’s a mindset. The 574 doesn’t shout for attention. Instead, it wins you over with timeless style, all-day comfort, and a design that fits almost any lifestyle. Whether you’re heading to work, running errands, or building out a clean sneaker rotation, the 574 delivers.
Let’s take a deep dive into the history of the New Balance 574, explore how it evolved into a lifestyle icon, and show you where to shop the newest styles today.
How the 574 Got Its Start
The New Balance 574 first released in 1988, a time when running shoes were becoming more technical — and more expensive. New Balance took a different approach: it created a model that balanced performance, price, and versatility, making it a go-to for runners who wanted comfort and durability without overbuilt tech.
Built using a combination of the New Balance 575 and 576 models, the 574 included:
- ENCAP® midsole cushioning: A dual-density setup that combines soft foam with a firmer polyurethane rim for added stability.
- Suede and mesh upper: Designed to provide breathability and durability.
- Wider shape: Offered a roomier, more comfortable fit compared to narrower racing shoes.
It wasn’t flashy. It wasn’t loud. But it worked — and that’s why it stuck.
The Shift From Running Shoe to Style Staple
While the 574 was engineered for running, it didn’t take long for people to realize it was just as good for everyday wear. By the early 1990s, the shoe had become a common sight on city streets, college campuses, and in workplaces that welcomed casual style.
What helped the 574 evolve into a lifestyle sneaker:
- Neutral colorways: Early grey and navy models became versatile staples that matched any outfit.
- Affordable price point: Compared to other premium runners, the 574 was accessible — and stayed that way.
- Consistent comfort: People trusted it. You could walk in it all day without soreness or fatigue.
In short, it became the people’s sneaker — a pair you didn’t have to think twice about.
The Rise of the “Dad Shoe” — Before It Was Cool
In recent years, the rise of the dad shoe trend helped catapult New Balance models like the 574 back into the spotlight. Chunky, retro runners started showing up in high fashion and streetwear, and the 574 already had decades of street credibility.
The 574 wasn’t just riding the wave — it helped define it.
- Fashion-forward audiences embraced the 574’s vintage look.
- Celebrities and stylists began incorporating it into off-duty looks.
- Collabs with streetwear brands and boutiques brought fresh energy to the model.
Unlike flashier silhouettes that come and go with trends, the 574 stayed relevant because it never strayed too far from its roots.
Why the New Balance 574 Still Resonates in 2025
There are thousands of sneakers out there, but few strike the balance between heritage and versatility quite like the 574. It continues to stand out for what it doesn’t try to be.
Here’s why it still matters:
- Design consistency: New Balance has modernized materials and colorways, but the silhouette remains recognizable.
- Universal appeal: It looks good on anyone — and works for all genders, ages, and style types.
- Sustainable construction: Select pairs of 574s now feature environmentally conscious materials and manufacturing methods.
In a time where many sneaker lines rely on hype drops and collaborations, the 574 stays in rotation because people genuinely love wearing it.
The Latest New Balance 574 Styles at JD Sports
JD Sports stocks a curated selection of men’s, women’s, and kids’ New Balance 574s — including neutral tones, seasonal color updates, and limited-edition drops.
Here’s where to find them:
How to Style the 574
One of the best things about the New Balance 574 is how easy it is to wear. Here are a few ways people are styling them in 2025:
- With cargos and a hoodie for a laid-back, off-duty look
- With jeans and a bomber jacket for a retro streetwear vibe
- With joggers and a tee for running errands or hitting the airport
- With tailored trousers to add balance to a smart-casual outfit
Whether you like to keep it neutral or experiment with bolder colorways, there’s a 574 for you.
Final Word: A True Everyday Essential
The New Balance 574 wasn’t made to steal the spotlight — and that’s exactly why it keeps it. It’s the kind of sneaker you can trust year after year. With classic roots, modern updates, and comfort you can count on, the 574 continues to set the standard for what an everyday sneaker should be.
Explore more of what New Balance has to offer in our full New Balance sneaker collection at JD Sports.
