This New Balance 574 Rugged References a ‘Workwear’ Staple
The icons of the have long crossed over into the sneakersphere, cross-pollinating to create the best of both genres. Sometimes these unions are official collaborations, while other projects pay healthy homage to their blue-collar inspirations despite occasionally skirting authorisation. However, the eponymous ‘Workwear’ colourway of this Rugged is an iconic combo that is unlikely to be upsetting any legal departments.
Tan brown has long been a staple colour of American workwear, instantly evoking associations with heavyweight canvas chore coats and duck twill carpenter pants. These shades also work very well on the NB 574, which gains a new Rugged name because of its extra thick foam midsole and toothy outsole. Rugged indeed.
Elsewhere, find all the usual hallmarks of the 574. The ENCAP midsole insert remains for stability, joined to a durable suede and mesh upper, which uses a different grade of materials to the usual releases. A contrast orange N makes the workwear inspiration pretty clear to those in the know. Finishing touches include an alternative tongue logo and insole print, black lining, white heel tab, and flecked flat woven laces.
The 574 Rugged ‘Workwear’ is available now directly from New Balance.