New Balance 57/40 review

Who should buy the New Balance 57/40

You'd hardly say NO to this shoe if:

• you're an NB 574 devotee
• you prefer modern touches on a vintage shoe
• you want varsity-looking shoes in velvety suede
• you are looking for New Balance shoes that aren't above $100

Who should NOT buy it

• if you prefer the purely classic design, check out the 574 Classic, or the 574 Core
• if you want more shiny elements, try the NB 574 Reflective 
• if you prefer a more fashion-forward style, see the New Balance 327

New Balance 57/40: A tweaked, tuned up NB574

New Balance 57/40 happens when the classic New Balance 574 gets spun of vivid and robust ‘80s colors - the kind you’ll find on the ‘90s Apple logo - plus modern cosmetics and retooling. It inches away slightly from the shadow of the NB 574s and the traditional stitching and looks of the NB classics. Nonetheless, it still hits the core of the dad shoe crowd and seekers of classic-rooted kicks. 

Its underside isn't pillowy soft, or stiff

Wearers say its underfoot sensation is neither squishy nor “brick-like.” It doesn't offer the same cushy underfoot feel you'll get from React Element kicks, but it isn't too rigid that it will take all the fun of wearing it. 

Supple suede dominates the top

Those crazy for fine detailing say its suede finish feels smooth and velvety. 

That cover is a tough cookie

True to the inscription on the inner tongue (The Intelligent Choice), this shoe is wrapped in an interplay of suede, nubuck, tumbled leather, and mesh, all done in premium grade. New Balance patrons love how the nicely stitched layers make its cover sturdy. 

Its lugs don't smooth out fast

NB 5740 users value the enlarged tread pattern that doesn't wear out too soon, making it ready for grinding. The hard-wearing retooled lugs offer grip, reminiscent of the 574’s trail heritage shoes.

Splashy even in the dark

Style buffs say the silvery notes on the top make the shoe noticeable even at night. 

Breathability isn't an issue

This kick breathes well enough despite its layering, especially when worn sockless.

Ideal for whole-day use

Nothing's spectacular to expect about its EVA-made ENCAP cushioning. That said, it cradles the foot against shock, making it comfy all-day footwear.

Its rear side clasps the foot

Heel clip offers backend support. It securely grabs the heel without hampering natural foot movement.

Roomy around the toes 

Unlike the tight-fitting toe of the 574 Leather and NB Made in US 993, the forefoot section of this shoe feels roomy and “doesn't hug the foot.”

Clunkier than other NB shoes

It feels quite “bulkier'' and “loaded” than New Balance kicks with REVlite foam like the NB 1550. 

Must-have variations

Below are NB 57/40 colorways that serve well as collector's pieces. These come in much pricier tags than the standard 57/40.

Grey Day, named after a fictitious day in NB’s calendar, is more than the ordinary NB grey kick. Interestingly, the left and right feet come in mismatched suede and leather textures from smooth, long-haired to nappy suede and tumbled leather. 

Bricks & Wood is another collector’s piece dressed in forest green and a mix of premium leather. A soft and buttery suede runs around the forefoot, hairy suede on the forefoot and heel, nubuck tongue, and tumbled full-grain one below the ankle collar. Reflective hits are peppered all over, even on the laces.