Summary
We spent 7.4 hours reading reviews from experts and users. In summary, this is what sneaker fanatics think:
9 reasons to buy
- The New Balance 580 shoe offers a wide variety of colorway options.
- Most reviewers agree that this classic is very comfortable when worn even after a long period.
- According to numerous users, this is one of the most stylish New Balance shoe models.
- The mesh material on the upper makes the shoe breathable, according to some reviewers.
- Many users are impressed with the overall quality of this classic New Balance shoe such that they will not hesitate to buy another pair.
- This shoe is surprisingly lightweight, according to some reviewers.
- It fits true to size in length, as commented by a large number of buyers.
- There are some reviews emphasizing that the materials of this shoe are incredibly nice.
- Several reviewers agree that the NB 580 is a great shoe for everyday use.
2 reasons not to buy
- One reviewer likes the overall appeal of the New Balance 580 but is disappointed that the color fades severely once the shoe gets wet.
- A few users comment that this classic NB shoe has very little heel or arch support.
Bottom line
The New Balance 580 is one of those sneakers that greatly appeal to consumers who love classics. Since its release two decades ago, it remains as one of the favorites and go-to pairs of many sneakerheads and ordinary consumers alike.
It provides comfort, style, and breathability, and it delivers regarding overall quality. It is generally a great pair of classic shoe from the New Balance 580 collection.
Facts
Expert Reviews
Experts are sneaker fanatics, who post reviews at youtube, directly at RunRepeat or at their own websites. Each expert is categorized from level 1 to level 5 based on expertise. See stats on expert reviews and how we calculate scores here.
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The classic 580 silhouette comes in both men’s and women’s sizing. It comes with a low-top construction that permits flexible ankle movement while allowing sufficient foot support and protection. Inspired by a running shoe, it is constructed with lightweight materials for unparalleled comfort. It also features a traditional lace closure that can be adjusted or customized depending on the wearer’s preference.
With the constant presence of the New Balance 580 Classic sneakers and their different versions in the market, the Boston-based footwear company only proves that classic sneakers, indeed, are always a hit regardless of changing market trends and different generations of consumers.
Despite modern sneaker technologies that continuously evolve, the New Balance 580 manages to stay true to the brand’s classic heritage. It may not be as technologically advanced or modernized as other running-inspired sneakers from brands like Nike or Adidas, but its overall timeless aesthetic and appeal is what makes it high-selling and a crowd favorite.
In addition to a low-top profile in a traditional lace-up closure system, the 580 shoe offers a wide selection of colorways that both men and women can choose from to find a pair that suits their style best. Its timeless facade gives out a sporty-meets-trendy kind of vibe that can easily dress up or down any outfit.
The New Balance 580 in black, for example, could be your best bet if you want a clean and versatile pair of kicks. There is also the New Balance 580 in grey, which gives similar muted, old-school, and stylish appeal. Another favorite color is the New Balance 580 in red - a unisex colorway that provides an instant pop of color to a monochromatic black outfit.
The New Balance 580 is known for its chunky midsole that provides superior stability. It also features a combination of suede and mesh on the upper that allows ventilation on foot. Recent releases feature innovative REVLite midsole for premium responsiveness and durability at a much lighter weight while the original version features the Rollbar midsole that gives unparalleled traction on rough or uneven surfaces.
The New Balance 580 has been one of the famous and highly-sought classic models from New Balance since it launched in 1996. It 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 silhouette. It was a successful move, making the 580 one of the most popular and most highly-sought 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.
New Balance 580 20th Anniversary
The iconic 580 running-turned-lifestyle model celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2016. In commemoration of such historical event, Boston brand New Balance yet again collaborated with Mita Sneakers on the MRT580 shoes. The special rendition launched at the New Balance 580 20th anniversary pop-up store at *Scape in Singapore from June 11 to July 17, 2016. It released in limited quantities of only 24 pairs for $229 each. Making the limited release even more extraordinary is a limited-edition 580-branded cap and lace locks that come with every purchase.
Also part of the 20th anniversary of the NB580 is an introduction of two new variations of the icon – the New Balance 580 Re-Engineered and the New Balance 580 Deconstructed models. The “Re-Engineered” model has a minimalist look while the “Deconstructed” model is a stripped down, modern, and more lightweight version.
- The New Balance 580 also features padded tongue and collar for added comfort and an extra lace strap on the tongue for a more secure fit.
- There are New Balance brandings on the inner and outer side panels, on the outer side of the toe box, on the tongue, on the heel, and the outsole.
