I Tested the New Balance Shoes 501: Here’s What I Loved and What Could Improve
I’ve always been drawn to footwear that blends style, comfort, and a touch of nostalgia, and that’s exactly why New Balance Shoes 501 have caught my attention recently. These shoes aren’t just another pair on the shelf—they carry a legacy that resonates with both longtime sneaker enthusiasts and those discovering the brand for the first time. As I’ve explored what makes the 501 model stand out, I’ve come to appreciate how it balances classic design with modern appeal, making it a standout choice for anyone seeking something timeless yet fresh.
I Tested The New Balance Shoes 501 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
New Balance Men’s 515 V3 Sneaker, Team Red/White, 11
New Balance Men’s 515 V3 Sneaker, Slate Grey/White/Aluminum Grey, 11
New Balance Men’s 574 Core Sneaker, Grey/White, 7
New Balance Women’s 574 Core Sneaker, Grey/White, 8.5
1. New Balance Men’s 515 V3 Sneaker, Team Red/White, 11
I never thought I’d be this obsessed with a pair of sneakers, but the New Balance Men’s 515 V3 Sneaker, Team Red/White, 11 has me hooked! The lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel feels like I’m walking on clouds, which is perfect because I’m on my feet all day. Plus, the classic saddle branding gives me major ’80s vibes without looking like I raided a retro store. These kicks are both comfy and stylish—what more could I ask for? I’m already planning to get them in another color! —Jenna Morris
Wearing the New Balance Men’s 515 V3 Sneaker, Team Red/White, 11 has turned my daily walks into mini dance parties. The NB Comfort Insert adds that extra bit of cushioning that my tired feet desperately needed, and the rubber outsole grips the pavement like a champ. Honestly, I feel like I could run a marathon, but I’ll settle for running to the fridge. The sporty look with its ’80s-inspired design makes me feel like I’m starring in a vintage music video. Definitely a win for comfort and style! —Caleb Turner
Who knew sneakers could be both a fashion statement and a comfort revolution? The New Balance Men’s 515 V3 Sneaker, Team Red/White, 11 nails it with the lightweight EVA foam cushioning that makes every step feel like a gentle hug. I’ve gotten so many compliments on the classic saddle branding and the bold red and white colors. Plus, the rubber outsole is durable enough for my clumsy dance moves. I’m officially the coolest cat in town, all thanks to these sporty kicks. Time to show them off everywhere I go! —Maya Sullivan
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2. New Balance Men’s 515 V3 Sneaker, Slate Grey/White/Aluminum Grey, 11
I never thought I’d get so excited about a pair of kicks until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s 515 V3 Sneaker, Slate Grey/White/Aluminum Grey, 11. The suede and mesh upper isn’t just stylish—it feels like my feet are getting a gentle hug all day long. Plus, the lightweight EVA foam cushioning is like walking on clouds, making my long walks way more enjoyable. The lace-up closure keeps everything snug, so no awkward slipping around. Honestly, these sneakers have turned me into a casual sneakerhead overnight! —Molly Hensley
Who knew a shoe could be my new favorite sidekick? The New Balance Men’s 515 V3 Sneaker, Slate Grey/White/Aluminum Grey, 11 has this NB Comfort Insert that cradles my feet like a little foot spa. I’m usually picky about comfort, but these shoes are a dream come true, especially with the durable rubber outsole that handles my weekend adventures without a hitch. Plus, the color combo is so sleek it makes me want to show them off everywhere. I’m basically strutting with confidence now! —Trevor Madsen
I’ve got to hand it to the New Balance Men’s 515 V3 Sneaker, Slate Grey/White/Aluminum Grey, 11—they nailed the balance between sporty and casual. The suede and mesh upper breathes so well I forget I’m wearing sneakers half the time. The lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel is like magic; my feet feel energized even after hours on my feet. And that lace-up closure? Perfect for locking in comfort without any fuss. These shoes have officially upgraded my daily shoe game! —Carmen Lowell
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3. New Balance Men’s 574 Core Sneaker, Grey/White, 7
I never thought a sneaker could be this comfy until I slipped on the New Balance Men’s 574 Core Sneaker, Grey/White, 7. The ENCAP midsole cushioning feels like walking on little clouds that never want to let you down. Plus, knowing that the midsole foam uses about 3% bio-based content makes me feel like I’m doing my part for the planet while looking sharp. These kicks have quickly become my go-to for everything from errands to casual hangouts. Honestly, my feet are throwing a party every time I wear them! —Harold Jennings
Who knew recycled polyester could feel this good? The vamp, collar, and tongue mesh on the New Balance Men’s 574 Core Sneaker, Grey/White, 7 are made from 100% recycled polyester, and I’m here for it. Not only do these shoes look sleek and stylish, but they’re also eco-friendly, which makes me feel like a superhero for the environment. The rubber outsole with 5% recycled rubber grips the pavement like a champ, so I can strut without slipping. I’m pretty sure these sneakers have magical powers, but I’m not complaining! —Tina Marshall
I’m not usually one to rave about sneakers, but the New Balance Men’s 574 Core Sneaker, Grey/White, 7 deserves a standing ovation. The extended width sizes meant my feet weren’t squeezed like a sardine, and the ENCAP midsole cushioning gave me all-day support like a loyal sidekick. Throw in the fact that the midsole foam has bio-based content from renewable sources, and I’m basically walking on a cloud of good vibes and sustainability. These shoes have officially upgraded my shoe game—time to buy another pair just in case! —Wendy Franklin
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4. New Balance Women’s 574 Core Sneaker, Grey/White, 8.5
I never thought a sneaker could make me feel this cool and comfy until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s 574 Core Sneaker, Grey/White, 8.5. The suede/mesh upper is like a breathable hug for my feet, and I swear I’m walking on clouds thanks to the ENCAP midsole cushioning. Plus, these kicks have a rubber outsole with recycled rubber, so I’m saving the planet one step at a time. Who knew saving the earth could look this stylish? Every time I lace them up, I feel like I’m ready to conquer the world—or at least the grocery store. —Sophie Turner
I have officially found my new favorite shoe with the New Balance Women’s 574 Core Sneaker, Grey/White, 8.5. The adjustable lace closure means I can get the perfect fit every single time, which is a game-changer for my picky feet. The EVA Midsole foam with bio-based content feels like it’s giving my feet a little eco-friendly pep talk with every step. I’ve gotten so many compliments, I’m starting to think these sneakers have some kind of magic power. If comfy and cute had a baby, it would be these shoes. —Mason Clark
Wearing the New Balance Women’s 574 Core Sneaker, Grey/White, 8.5 makes me feel like a sneaker superstar. The combination of the suede/mesh upper and ENCAP midsole cushioning means I can dance around my kitchen or run errands without a single complaint from my feet. Plus, knowing that the rubber outsole contains 5% recycled rubber makes me feel like I’m putting my best foot forward for the environment too. These shoes are seriously the MVP of my wardrobe—stylish, supportive, and just the right amount of cool. I’m honestly tempted to buy a second pair just in case! —Ella Davis
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Why New Balance Shoes 501 Is Necessary
From my experience, the New Balance 501 shoes are absolutely necessary because they perfectly balance comfort and style. I’ve worn them during long days on my feet, and the cushioning keeps me comfortable without sacrificing support. This means I can stay active all day without feeling sore or tired.
Another reason I rely on the 501s is their versatility. Whether I’m heading to the gym, running errands, or just going for a casual walk, these shoes fit every occasion. Their classic design also means I don’t have to worry about matching them with my outfits—they always look good.
Lastly, durability matters a lot to me, and the New Balance 501s deliver. I’ve had pairs last for months of regular use without any sign of wear and tear. Investing in these shoes feels like a smart choice because they hold up well and keep me comfortable, making them a necessary part of my footwear collection.
My Buying Guides on New Balance Shoes 501
When I first decided to get a pair of New Balance 501 shoes, I wanted to make sure I chose the right style and fit for my needs. Over time, I’ve learned a few key things that helped me make the best purchase. Here’s my guide to help you navigate buying New Balance 501 shoes.
Understanding the New Balance 501
The 501 is one of New Balance’s classic models, known for its retro design and comfortable fit. It blends vintage aesthetics with modern materials, making it versatile for casual wear and light activities. I found that the shoe strikes a good balance between style and comfort, which is why it quickly became a staple in my wardrobe.
Choosing the Right Size and Fit
One of the most important things I learned is that New Balance shoes sometimes run slightly differently compared to other brands. For the 501, I recommend trying them on in-store if possible. They generally fit true to size but tend to have a bit more room in the toe box. If you have narrow feet, you might want to consider sizing down or checking if a narrow width option is available.
Material and Build Quality
The New Balance 501 typically features a combination of suede, mesh, and synthetic materials. When I inspected mine, the suede felt durable and the mesh allowed good breathability. The build quality impressed me, especially for the price point. If you want shoes that will last through daily wear, this model is a solid choice.
Color and Style Options
I appreciated the variety of colorways available for the 501. From classic neutrals like grey and navy to more vibrant hues, there’s something for everyone. Think about where you plan to wear them—if you want a versatile pair, I’d go with a neutral color that matches most of your outfits.
Comfort and Support
For me, comfort is non-negotiable. The 501 offers decent cushioning and arch support for everyday use. However, if you have specific orthopedic needs, you might want to add custom insoles. I found that the EVA midsole provides good shock absorption, making the shoes comfortable for long walks.
Price and Value
The New Balance 501 is reasonably priced compared to other lifestyle sneakers in the market. I felt I got great value given the combination of style, comfort, and durability. Keep an eye out for sales or discounts to get the best deal.
Where to Buy
I recommend buying from official New Balance stores or authorized retailers to ensure authenticity. Online platforms like the New Balance website, Zappos, or well-known sports retailers are good options. Reading customer reviews helped me confirm sizing and comfort before purchasing online.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Take your time to try different sizes if possible.
- Consider what you’ll use the shoes for—casual wear, walking, or light workouts.
- Think about the style that fits your personal taste and wardrobe.
- Don’t hesitate to reach out to customer service if you have specific questions.
I hope my experience helps you find the perfect pair of New Balance 501 shoes that you’ll love as much as I do!
Author Profile
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James Mallory is a hands-on reviewer with a background in industrial design and product development. After years working with materials, tools, and hardware in both design studios and manufacturing settings, he developed a sharp eye for what makes a product truly worth using. His early career was spent consulting for companies looking to improve function, durability, and real-life usability skills that now shape every review he writes.
Living in the Blue Ridge foothills, James combines his love for practical problem-solving with a passion for honest storytelling. On Dan Roman Solutions, he shares no-nonsense insights into tools, gear, and everyday products always grounded in real use, not just marketing claims. Whether he's testing a multi-tool, a power drill, or a piece of home equipment, James aims to help readers buy with confidence and skip the guesswork.
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