Reviewer reviewernc
Puma's are nice shoes that always fit me great. They're also easy to find on sale, which makes them the price/performance king. They look quite nice, as well!
I purchased these to replace some Nike Sweet's that were a little too big for me. I think the Nike Sweet is a nicer shoe (more padding and softer, thicker leather, etc), but they also cost more. These Puma's are tagged the same size as the Nike's, but they run a little smaller (the footprint does appear a little wider, though). I own several pairs of Puma Suede's and these run about the same size as the Suede does.
Even though I think the Nike Sweet is a better made shoe, there's something about these that I just like better. For one, I think they look better and I'm just more comfortable in them. I wore the Sweet regularly as a kid, back when Nike originally released them, so that's why I purchased them first. When they didn't fit, I purchased the Match 74 to replace them and I couldn't be happier with them.
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 Phillytomster
real and soft.
Reviewer Erik J Fisher
Exact replacement of spouse's diabetic shoes from the orthotics clinic. Best way to replace your diabetic shoes since Medicare will only buy one pair a year.
Reviewer Empty Suit
good fitting- sturdy work shoe
Reviewer xpovos
If you're between an 8 and an 8.5, get the 6.5. If you're between an 8.5 and a 9 (like me), get the 7.
Reviewer Smokey Combs
Good quality, fit as expected, very comfortable, and I would definitely buy again!
Reviewer Byron Cole
These are my daughters favorite shoes. I highly recommend
Reviewer Kurt Frey
These are the best sneakers I have ever purchased. Well worth the price. The support is perfect, my feet have not felt this good in years.
Reviewer Dr Garrick Small
Perfect for gym use. Happy with the purchase. Great deal