Series 574 is my favorite New Balance line of shoes. I tried a few of these in different colors and found them very comfortable and pretty enough to wear even in a semi-casual setting. I agree with some reviewers that the overall quality has deteriorated over the years, but so has the price. So I just change my shoes more often, not every two years, maybe once a year. Whoever designed this line of shoes is a genius! - there's a reason the 574 line has become a mega hit around the world. Highly recommended.