Kobe 8 Protro Kobe 8 'College Navy'

Reviewer Jeanette G Powell

These shoes are very comfortable. They also look very sharp. I wear a size 10.5 and the shoe is true to size.

Reviewer M Ruffini

The first time I saw the "Backpack" line of shoes from New Balance, I knew that I'd one day be adding a pair to my collections of 574's. Nylon uppers just seems like a fantastic idea, since nylon is so easy to clean and keep clean. I liked the idea of being able to get them dirty, knowing that they'll clean up better then other 574's. Because of this, I might even wear them when I normally wouldn't want to get my shoes dirty.

I haven't had them long enough to make that decision, or know exactly how well they'll clean up, but there is something else different about them that immediately caught my attention. Ever since New Balance changed the manufacturing process for the 574's, I think they've been smaller and less comfortable then versions before that time. I just purchased another pair of 574's a couple of weeks back and noticed this immediately when putting them on, as I always do with a new pair of 574's nowadays.

This pair, however, feels more like the older 574's, because they're so comfortable. My first thought was that maybe they made them like the old ones, but after comparing them to numerous other pairs I have, both old and new, I don't think that's it. The soles still match the newer version (i.e. they're more narrow), but still, I'm pretty sure they have more toe room in the uppers, because they both look and feel as if they do.

I've been a little disappointed with every pair I've purchased, since they changed the manufacturing process, because they're just not as comfortable as they used to be. For whatever reason, these, however, seem closer to what I remember a new pair feeling like and that has me really happy. They are very comfortable shoes.

Reviewer K Cordon

They should never stop production of this shoe. It is the best for flatground freestyle. I wish the velcro straps were wider.

Reviewer Terry Beck

I like the shoes they fit comfortable

Reviewer Sarasvati Panciera

I've been wearing New Balance cross-trainers for years. They've always been great. These hiking shoes continue that experience.

I bought these hoping for some additional ankle support. Though concerned about the fit and not trying them on, I matched the size of my NB cross-trainers, and hoped for the best. No surprise, they fit just fine.

Looking at them you can tell these are not the typical/traditional heavy hiking boots. They're more of a slightly stiffer high-top sport shoe. Like a sport shoe, they are much lighter than a more traditional boot. They do provide good ankle support, and have a little bit more cushioning than a sport shoe in the sole and ankles. The soles, though Vibram, are also more like a sneaker sole, but seem to provide a very good grip.

All in all, I like 'em.

Reviewer Chip Mitchell

I hadn't worn a pair of Chuck Taylor's for over 40 years and bought them for old times sake. Wow! They handle an orthotic very well and are surprisingly comfortable. They've become my shoe of choice and I wear them most of the time now. It's also great to be able to throw them in the wash with the clothes.

Reviewer Claire R

I bought these for my son. He loves them. This is the only shoe he wears.

Reviewer P Elisabetta

Great walking at dusk along the road
High visibility.

Reviewer Nancy G Showers

While these shoes are quite a bit heavier(weight wise) than the athletic shoes I normally purchase they are very comfortable. They fit well and I like the styling of the shoe. The support of this shoe is great for walking.

Reviewer Lisa A Goddard

These are super comfy they fit great and have a lot of airflow. They seem durable as well