New Balance 580 review

Who should buy the New Balance 580

In the midst of modern sneakers receiving new tech, the New Balance 580 manages to stay true to the brand’s classic heritage while pushing the envelope forward. Buy it if:

• You want to pull off a timeless yet sporty-meets-trendy kind of look.
• You've been on the hunt for shoes that work well on dress-down Fridays.
• Shoes devoid of excess glue and stitching issues are what you want.
• Breathable sneakers in mostly pastel colors make your jaws drop.

Who should not buy it

If you're even the slightest worried about the 580's colors not staying vibrant after getting wet, opt for the New Balance 574 instead. Also, you're better off with the New Balance 990 if extra support underfoot is what your feet need the most.

Comfort that spurs you to go further

Most reviewers agree that the New Balance 580 has enduring comfort, making it a fantastic choice for extended walks.

A major helping of style

According to numerous users, this is one of the most stylish New Balance shoe models.

New Balance 580 equals breezy rides

The mesh material on the upper makes the shoe quite breathable, according to reviewers.

Keep it dry or else

It has been reported that the New Balance 580's color fades severely once the shoe gets wet.

The NB 580's high-quality construction

Many sneakerheads are impressed with the shoe's top-notch materials and workmanship. As such, they did not hesitate to buy another pair.

Won't weigh you down

Reports say that this New Balance shoe is surprisingly lightweight. A few of the reviewers even said that sporting this sneaker feels like wearing nothing at all.

Consistent sizing

Sneakerheads in droves find the New Balance 580 true to size.

Requires a more supportive footbed

This classic New Balance shoe has very little heel and arch support.

The origin of the New Balance 580

The New Balance 580 has been one of the famous and highly sought classic models from New Balance since it launched in 1996. It was initially released as a Japan-exclusive sneaker based on another New Balance classic called the “Made in USA” M585.

It was designed to be more “muscular” than other NB models and featured three innovative technologies from the brand: the “Rollbar” midsole, which gives additional traction even on uneven surfaces; the “C-Cap” technology that provides cushioning without sacrificing flexibility; and the “ENCAP,” for added stability and shock absorption. These technologies collectively make the New Balance 580 suitable for running smoothly on dirt trails and paved roads.

Although initially intended as a trail running shoe, the New Balance 580 made its way into the street fashion scene. And even before collaborations were a thing, New Balance partnered up with Japan footwear brands Mita Sneakers, Undefeated, and Stüssy to work on the 580 silhouettes. It was a successful move, making the 580 one of the most popular and highly sought-after shoes from New Balance.

Fast forward to 2007, New Balance Japan noticed that the US street culture has begun to appreciate the Japanese-exclusive New Balance model. Eventually, it launched as the New Balance MT580 in the US sneaker market.

Throughout the years, several collaborations continued, which resulted in various NB 580 releases in different colorways and collections. In 2013, the classic model received an upgrade through the introduction of the REVLite midsole for added comfort. It was also that same year when this classic was finally made available for women, known as the WRT580.