EmRata and NYC Girls Will Never Give Up These Cult Sneakers (Now I Get the Hype)

Hot take: Comfortable shoes are the best shoes. While it may seem left field for a fashion editor to prefer orthopedic sandals over designer heels, the reality is that living in New York City means constant walking (and, in turn, constant pressure on your feet). Although I've been living in New York for three years and am a reformed Hot Girl Walk truther, my step count has never been higher thanks to the new child in my life—my 5-year-old rescue pug, Holly.

I knew that getting a dog (even one that's the definition of a couch potato) would make me get out of the house more and be even more active. A month into having her, my step count has nearly doubled week over week, with my average now being a staggering 15,000 steps a day. In between taking Holly to the park four times a day, heading to press dinners, and commuting into the office, my feet have basically been begging me to ditch the stylish flats and opt for comfortable, yet chic, sneakers. After hours of searching other stylish dog moms in the city, I landed on a pair that's approved by one of NYC's finest: the classic New Balance 574, worn by none other than EmRata.

I know you've seen the iconic photos of her holding her child, Sebastian, but have you seen the ones of her walking her German Shepherd in the West Village? Truly iconic, if you ask me. While EmRata is known for her red carpet style, I prefer her low-key, practical street style looks while running errands. The common denominator in almost all of them is easy-to-slip-on shoes, with the New Balance 574 being one of her favorites.

In the spirit of investigation, I decided to put them to the test by taking my dog on a 4-mile walk in Central Park over the weekend. I've only walked Holly in a pair of furry knee-length boots and my platform Simone Rocha Crocs, but I knew I was going to have to find a pair I loved to keep up with the constant outdoor activities now that warmer weather was around the corner. Spoiler alert: the New Balance 574 sneakers fully won me over.

The New Balance 574 is the perfect blend of comfort, durability, and style—exactly what I needed to tackle my daily hustle. The moment I slipped my feet into them, I could immediately feel the cushioned support my feet had been begging for. The EVA foam midsole provides exceptional comfort, making those 15,000-step days feel a lot less brutal. The premium suede and mesh upper allows for breathability, keeping my feet cool even after hours of walking. Not only do these sneakers provide top-tier comfort, but their timeless design also pairs seamlessly with everything in my wardrobe, from casual denim to activewear.

I was pleasantly surprised by how lightweight they are despite their sturdy structure, making them perfect for a full day of errands, dog walks, and everything in between. The cushioned collar and padded tongue add an extra layer of comfort, making each step feel softer. Plus, the rubber outsole offers excellent traction—a must when navigating the unpredictable New York streets. After putting them to the test during a rigorous spring walk in Central Park, I can confidently say they're the ultimate go-to for anyone seeking comfort without sacrificing style.

Shop EmRata's Favorite New Balance 574 Sneaker's

What colors does the New Balance 574 come in?

The New Balance 574 sneaker comes in gray, white, black, red, burgundy, green, and other colors. Occasionally, the brand will also collaborate on limited edition New Balance 574 styles—including the viral Miu Miu New Balance 574.

Is the New Balance 574 comfortable?

According to the website, the shoe was basically meant to feel like you're walking on air. Lightweight foam cushions the mid-sole of the shoe, making every step feel extra supported.

Where can I buy the New Balance 574 sneakers?

You can buy the New Balance 574 sneakers straight on New Balance's website. Given the style is also one of the brand's most popular, they're constantly in stock. If you're itching for a certain color that's not available on New Balance, the style is also sold on Nordstrom and Revolve.

How much are the New Balance 574s?

The New Balance 574 sneakers are currently $90.

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