Reviewer N0011
Shoe is good but the fit is a little small compared to others in the same size...
Reviewer Stephanie B Head
This is the first pair of Saucony shoes I've ever owned and I'm very pleased. I've typically worn the heavy, suede, New Balance 564 fora retro running shoe, but wanted something lighter. The low profile sole is more reminiscent of Onitsuka Tiger shoes, which are also a favorite of mine.
Unlike the Asics shoes, these have a more traditional running shoe style. As vegan shoes, I don't expect them to last long and I'm not expecting a great athletic shoe, because vegan shoes never are, imo. They're very comfortable shoes, although I'd still give the edge to Onitsuka Tigers in that regard. I am slightly worried that they don't breathe well, due to an inner sock lining that covers the entire inside, but that's not a huge factor for me.
The fit is just great for me, but I have somewhat narrow feet. These do run narrow, especially in comparison to the 564, which is wide even in standard widths. My most common athletic shoe sizes are 10.5-11 and I purchased these in a perfect 10.5. For the sake of comparison, I typically wear an 11 in Nike, 10.5 in Onitsuka Tiger and have recently had to size up to an 11.5 in New Balance.
In closing, I'll note that they come with 2 sets of laces in different colors, even though I saw no mention of this anywhere. I ordered them in Navy, and in addition to the Navy laces shown, they also included some in cream that match the stripe. I was actually hoping they would do that and will probably use the cream colored laces.
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 Douglas J Rodd
Over the years I've worn several styles of Sketchers while at work. Mostly the same basic type of shoe with a little different design and change of color/s. Overall these have been good, comfortable, shoes over the years. No complaints or issues.
Reviewer David Wickre
Never had vans before, thought I would give them a try. They are very well made and sturdy. The only reason I gave them 4 stars was the first day I wore them I got a blister on the back of my heel from them. Hopefully I can break them in with no more blisters! I really like the shoes so I hope they work out!
Reviewer R Pettijohn
My husband has to stand on his feet for twelve hours a work day and says they fit perfect and do not bother his feet at all.
Reviewer COR
good fit, comfortable enough to wear all day
Reviewer Aumer
The fit of these slip on sneakers is true to size. I got a pair in size 11, and my size 11 foot fits just fine. The fit is better with socks on but even without socks the sneaker has a decent fit (there's some lifting of the heel when not wearing socks but it's not excessive or troublesome).
They are surprisingly comfortable. There's padding that provides reasonable support. They are all plastic in construction which makes them perfect as a garden shoe since I can just hose them off when they get muddy. They are also great for around the house and running errands. I like that they are slip ons, which makes it quick and easy to put on/take off. However, these would not be my first choice for taking long walks -- I prefer lace up shoes for that to provide better support.
The only area that was somewhat disappointing is the sole. The manufacturer claims they are non-slip and that's true when walking on a rough surface, such as a sidewalk. Even in the rain these felt sure footed outside. However, on smooth surfaces, such as a wet tile floor, I didn't get that sure footed feeling. I didn't fall (at least not yet) but I have to be more mindful when walking compared with other shoes that have a softer, more grippy sole. The sole on these shoes is rather hard and unyielding. That's good for making the shoe last a long time without wearing out, but not so good for grip.
The sole drops my score to 4.5 stars but I'll round up to 5 since everything else about these sneakers hits the mark. They fit well and are comfortable, practical shoes. The styling is nothing to shout about, but as long as my feet are happy, I don't care what they look like!
Reviewer shmickle
The styling is fine; the fit is as expected. The memory foam bedding is defintely comfortable and as a walking shoe in summer, this is a great option. Best suited for casual wear/walking around town/walking. Though lightweight, its utility as a primary shoe for running/jogging is limited, IMO, nostly due to concerns on how well the foam cushion and stitching can hold up for regular use. Overall, at this price point, a good value for walking/casual sneakers - the "performance sneaker" may still be true, but it will significantly reduce the life of the shoe.
Reviewer Tiffany Mcgaughey
These remind me a lot of sneakers I had been wearing most of my life, except they have the added wall of rubber around the bottom. In this case, the tan goes very well with the green, so I don't mind it at all.
I usually wear a 13 in sneakers or sometimes a 12 in work or hiking boots, and the 13 fits me perfectly. I mean, these shoes feel just a little loose in general, but that's just how you wear them. And they're not a stiff sole, so they're comfortable, but definitely a far cry from some of the hiking shoe crossovers I sometimes wear. Also, the reason I wear a 13 is more because of foot width than anything, and although these look fairly thin, they are not nearly as thin as some sneakers AND the lack of rigidity really makes them comfortably conform to my foot from a width standpoint.
They're definitely more attractive if your size and color choice happens to be the low priced model they keep around for advertising reasons. They look nice, but they're not going to last (looking new) for too many months.