AL8 Womens Running Shoes (Summit White/Black/Beige)

Reviewer Tracey L Williams

I bought them for my girlfriend. She liked them although they did get dirty very quickly.

Reviewer Linwe

Perfect for high arch and Fred flintstone feet. Super pleased with these two pairs. Would buy a black pair but I never find a 12EEEE

Reviewer D K Billet

Great shoes love them ! Wish they had more in black !

Reviewer trevstonlongworth

I normally only wear 574's from New Balance, but I purchased these because they share the same shoe last and they're similar. I can't say that I like them as well, but they're alright.

I believe the mid-soles are different, and while I think I like the 574 mid-sole better, the 565 doesn't seem bad. One thing I definitely don't like as well is the lack of mesh in the all-suede upper. They probably don't breath as well, but that's not a huge factor for me in a suede shoe. I just like the looks of the mesh/suede combo better then the all-suede shoe.

I saved my final criticism for last, because it applies to both the 565 and 574 models of "Lifestyle and Retro" shoes. These are the ones with model numbers that start with "ml". I don't like them because they appear to be the hipster version of New Balance shoes, with laces that usually match the suede. Like any good hipster shoe, they seem to be more narrow, which is antithetical to the very thing that made the 574, and probably 565, popular shoes in the first place (i.e. spacious.) Even though these are supposedly made on the same shoe last as other models in the line, they definitely don't have the advertised toe depth of the SL-2 shoe last. I've also noticed that many New Balance shoes made on the SL-2 last don't seem to be as wide as they used to be, so that issue probably isn't for the lifestyle and retro shoes alone.

Seems strange that New Balance would ruin a popular line of shoes by changing the very things that made them popular, but that's what they seem to be doing. For customers that want a more narrow 574, it seems like New Balance would just suggest the 363 or one of their models made on narrow shoe lasts. Regardless, I wish they'd leave the SL-2 shoes alone, so that customer who appreciate them can continue to do so. I've worn them for 20 years and the only thing that will stop that is if New Balance changes the shoes so much that they're not the same.

Reviewer Deborah J Brassord

The fit is great as I have fat feet. I have tried custom sport shoes and Skechers is a better fit and has a much better price point. Already order a second pair.

Reviewer Suzanne Cookson

Super lightweight shoes with soft cushion soles. Literally the lightest lace up shoes I have ever worn. Very comfortable and airy. Woven upper lets feet breathe, but will let in dew to soak feet. Only real downside is the shoelaces that came with shoes are way too long and drape across the feet to touch the walking surface. Otherwise a great casual shoe

Reviewer Terry Beck

I like the shoes they fit comfortable

Reviewer Mathew K Higbee

better price here than at the mall. the gold logo they use on the tongue now is not durable at all. i can see it starting to wear off.

Reviewer jenny shimada

I got a great deal on these shoes that more than makes up for them being an off brand. They fit great, light weight and good for summer time as they're really breathable. Love the lacing system, just twist the knob to tighten and pull it out to loosen. Good shoes, even better deal!

Reviewer Mary Kutheis

Nice light weight good fit... but order early the delivery date was changed three times they were a gift and were about two weeks late!!!