The New Balance 574 is one of the most iconic shoes in New Balance’s history. It is a streamlined, die-cut eva runner with the encap cushioning technology. It is available in D and 9.5 D sizes. The 574 has been a top seller for years.
The company was able to manufacture top-of-the-line running shoes because it made sure to manufacture them in the U.S. and the U.K. Encap was their first technology. This technology helped EVA foam maintain its shape and bounce for longer. This made the shoe more springy, which was a major reason why so many people love them. Many models of the company, including the New Balance 990, featured the Encap technology.
The ENCAP midsole is made of EVA foam and a polyurethane edge to provide support and durability. This material helps mold to your foot over time and reduces the risk of blisters or calluses. It is also lighter than most shoes and comes in three widths. These shoes are great for running or long hikes.
The Encap’s energy-returning technology is another great feature. It has a higher energy return rate than the average running shoe, according to lab tests. It claims to be responsive and more energy-efficient than the average running shoe. This is due to the high-density foam and the redesigned mesh top. The mesh upper maximizes breathability and reduces weight.
Another breakthrough in cushioning is the ENCAP. In the mid-80s, New Balance began to develop a new sole technology called ENCAP, which encapsulates a specially formulated EVA wedge in a polyurethane shell. This combination gave the shoe stability and cushioning without sacrificing cushioning. The company refined their structures and combined different components through injection moulding and fusing. It also partnered with American chemical companies, DuPont, to develop a new type of rubber called isoprene.
The company’s roots go back to 1906 when William Riley founded New Balance Arch Company. The company sold shoe inserts and arch supports up until the mid-1960s. The company began to manufacture sneakers, and soon earned a reputation as a premium brand. The Trackster was its first sneaker. It featured a ripple sole. It was quickly adopted by cross-country and track teams.