New Balance Hook and Loop 577 review

Who should buy the New Balance Hook and Loop 577 

The Hook and Loop 577 is an offering from New Balance for people who are always on their feet. This shoe is a solid choice if:

• Your day-to-day activities require you to change footwear every so often.
• You regularly walk in poorly lit environments and need a shoe with rear reflective detail to increase your visibility.
• You are looking for a shoe that accommodates orthotics.

Slip-resistant outsole

The New Balance Hook and Loop 577 employs a full-length solid rubber outsole. This material is designed to be durable, flexible and slip-resistant on most surfaces. It has flex grooves at the forefoot area to promote foot movement. The tread pattern on this model enhances the traction offered by the rubber.

At the center of the outsole is the Walking Strike Path. This feature guides the foot and promotes proper gait. It ensures the foot transitions smoothly from the heel to the forefoot and prevents wobbling with each step.

Extra durable cushioning

A full-length PU foam makes up the midsole of the Hook and Loop 577. This compound is dense and at the same time resilient which prevents it from compressing with use. Compared to other foam cushioning, it also lasts longers.

At the heel section is the ABZORB technology. This proprietary foam shares similar characteristics to ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam, but it is designed to be more durable and has a bouncy attribute. This component attenuates shock without flattening over time.

This model also features a removable sockliner. It allows users to put in their orthotic inserts which is crucial for people who need more support. It has perforations in the forefoot area to promote air circulation.

This model also features a removable sockliner. It allows users to put in their orthotic inserts which is crucial for people who need more support. It has perforations in the forefoot area to promote air circulation.

Ventilated upper

The New Balance Hook and Loop 577 utilizes a leather upper. This material is supportive, but not too rigid that it restricts movement. Leather can cause the interior of the shoe to get hot. To compensate for this, perforations are found on the vamp, the quarters and the back of the shoe to ventilate the foot chamber.

At the rear is a reflective detail which helps wearers to be visible in poorly lit environments. The material bounces the light back, making it noticeable to motorists.

Two-strap mechanism

The trainer features two straps with the hook and loop mechanism that keeps the foot securely in place. Using the straps, the fit in the instep area and the forefoot can be adjusted to a user’s preference. The lightly padded tongue evenly distributes the pressure made by the straps when they are tightened to keep the instep comfortable.

Snug ankle section

The collar is lightly padded to prevent irritation in the ankle area. It also prevents accidental shoe removal by locking the foot down.