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.
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Great Shoes. The grey was the color that I liked the most and it was the cheapest. They are really comfortable. I already knew for NB size 10 fits me perfect so I bought that size but I normally wear 9.5. So, maybe you would want to get a half a size bigger for a better comfort. The support is also good. The only thing I did not like a lot is the design in the upper front part but not really a big deal. Especially for the price, I should not complaint at all! If you are interested and having doubts, I think you should give it a shot. You will not regret it.
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Bought as a present and the receiver couldn't be happier. Months later we have even washed the shoes and they look brand new again. Nice comfort and great look.
Honest reviews on New Balance Men's ML565 Lace-Up Fashion Sneaker
Really to much small for my large feet. That is the D version and I need 2E. However good for free-time. Not to wear every day.
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I hate writing bad reviews I particularly hate writing them on a product I have traditionally championed as my footwear of choice. No longer.
I ordered a pair of these shoes February 12, 2013 it is now May 6, 2013 and these shoes have already fallen apart. Less than three months of wearing these to work and to walk my dogs and they have already burst open at the front left toe. I don't use them for anything heavy simply walking about and daily activities. I am severely disappointed with this pair of shoes and how they have held up in comparison to the pairs I had worn as a child usually each pair would last me at least a year and I'd finally be forced to throw them out after two or three years of chaotic childhood play this current pair didn't even last three months of casual walking about.
On the bright side they are just as comfortable as they have always been the downside is that I paid ~$50 for a pair of shoes that didn't even last three months. I will be contacting New Balance customer support to see what they have to say as this is completely unacceptable to myself and presumably other potential buyers.
