New Balance 550 vs 574: which classic should you buy?
New Balance has become one of the most wanted sneaker brands in Pakistan, and two models account for most of the questions we get: the 550 and the 574. Both are classics, both sell at a similar price, and both look great with almost anything. But they are very different shoes, and the right one depends on how you will wear it.
Where they come from
The 550 started life in 1989 as a basketball shoe. It disappeared for decades, then came back in 2020 and quickly became one of the most popular sneakers in the world, loved for its clean, retro court look.
The 574 is a running shoe from the late 1980s that turned into an everyday icon. It has never really gone out of production, and it is probably the shoe most people picture when they think of New Balance.
The look
The 550 is sharp and minimal: a mostly leather upper, a slightly chunky toe, a low profile and the big “N” on the side. Colourways such as White Black are simple enough to wear with jeans, chinos, or even shalwar kameez on a casual day.
The 574 is softer and more relaxed. Its suede and mesh upper gives it texture, and it comes in many more colour combinations, from neutral greys to bold patterns like the Black Beige Leopard Print we stock. It looks more sporty and casual, and less dressy, than the 550.
Comfort
This is where the two differ most. The 574 uses ENCAP, a soft foam core wrapped in a firmer rim, which gives good cushioning and support for all-day walking. Out of the box, it is the more comfortable shoe.
The 550 has a firmer, flatter basketball sole. It feels sturdy and supportive, but it is not a cushioned shoe, and the leather upper takes a few days of wear to soften. Once broken in, it is comfortable for daily use, but it is not the pair for a full day of walking around a mall or a long trip.
Fit and sizing
Both run true to size. The 550 is a little narrower in the toe box, so if you have wide feet, consider going half a size up. The 574 is roomier and usually fits wide feet in the normal size. If you are unsure, our size guide and WhatsApp team can help you choose before you order.
Durability and care
The 550’s leather upper is easy to clean: wipe it with a damp cloth and it looks new again, which is a big advantage in dusty weather. The 574’s suede needs more care. Brush it dry, avoid getting it soaked in the rain, and use a suede eraser on marks. Both soles are hard-wearing rubber that will last years of normal use.
Price at Gulfbrand
The New Balance 550 White Black is Rs 19,500, usually Rs 31,070. The New Balance 574 Black Beige Leopard Print is Rs 18,500, usually Rs 45,800. Both are originals, delivered free anywhere in Pakistan with a 7-day return.
Our verdict
Choose the 550 if you want a clean, stylish sneaker that is easy to keep looking new and pairs with everything in your wardrobe. Choose the 574 if comfort matters most, you walk a lot, or you want a bolder, more casual colourway. Plenty of our customers end up owning both.