Kobe 8 Protro Kobe 8 'Mambacita'

Reviewer N0011

Shoe is good but the fit is a little small compared to others in the same size...

Reviewer trevstonlongworth

I normally only wear 574's from New Balance, but I purchased these because they share the same shoe last and they're similar. I can't say that I like them as well, but they're alright.

I believe the mid-soles are different, and while I think I like the 574 mid-sole better, the 565 doesn't seem bad. One thing I definitely don't like as well is the lack of mesh in the all-suede upper. They probably don't breath as well, but that's not a huge factor for me in a suede shoe. I just like the looks of the mesh/suede combo better then the all-suede shoe.

I saved my final criticism for last, because it applies to both the 565 and 574 models of "Lifestyle and Retro" shoes. These are the ones with model numbers that start with "ml". I don't like them because they appear to be the hipster version of New Balance shoes, with laces that usually match the suede. Like any good hipster shoe, they seem to be more narrow, which is antithetical to the very thing that made the 574, and probably 565, popular shoes in the first place (i.e. spacious.) Even though these are supposedly made on the same shoe last as other models in the line, they definitely don't have the advertised toe depth of the SL-2 shoe last. I've also noticed that many New Balance shoes made on the SL-2 last don't seem to be as wide as they used to be, so that issue probably isn't for the lifestyle and retro shoes alone.

Seems strange that New Balance would ruin a popular line of shoes by changing the very things that made them popular, but that's what they seem to be doing. For customers that want a more narrow 574, it seems like New Balance would just suggest the 363 or one of their models made on narrow shoe lasts. Regardless, I wish they'd leave the SL-2 shoes alone, so that customer who appreciate them can continue to do so. I've worn them for 20 years and the only thing that will stop that is if New Balance changes the shoes so much that they're not the same.

Reviewer finnishwahine

I love them ,get compliments all the time!! You can wear them with anything.

Reviewer David Wickre

Never had vans before, thought I would give them a try. They are very well made and sturdy. The only reason I gave them 4 stars was the first day I wore them I got a blister on the back of my heel from them. Hopefully I can break them in with no more blisters! I really like the shoes so I hope they work out!

Reviewer COR

good fit, comfortable enough to wear all day

Reviewer Betty J Hanson

As of this review I don't know how much these shoes cost so I have to rate based on construction and comfort alone. I like to incorporate cost when I can but can't this time. These shoes are extremely light weight and seem to be very well constructed. I don't know how they will hold up when worn while running, but for basic comfort they feel good. They have a bit of a lower ridge in the inside where the toes go and I'm not sure if I like that yet or not. It does give my toes something to sort of grip. The laces allow me to tighten them up since I have a narrow foot. I like the colors and they have a nice, sleek look about them. They don't feel good when worn without socks because of some scratchiness so if you like go sockless you might not like these shoes. But when worn with socks they are very comfortable. I received a size 9 for review and they seem true to size. These seem to be true to size.

Reviewer shmickle

The styling is fine; the fit is as expected. The memory foam bedding is defintely comfortable and as a walking shoe in summer, this is a great option. Best suited for casual wear/walking around town/walking. Though lightweight, its utility as a primary shoe for running/jogging is limited, IMO, nostly due to concerns on how well the foam cushion and stitching can hold up for regular use. Overall, at this price point, a good value for walking/casual sneakers - the "performance sneaker" may still be true, but it will significantly reduce the life of the shoe.

Reviewer Clint Torgersen

Second pair purchased. My son works in landscaping and he says these are the best wearing he has had.

Reviewer hot buyer

Siiiick shoes

Reviewer pereirahelena

These shoes look like a cross between sneakers and loafers. The entire top is leather. The bottom is rubber for safety. The shoes look great and are still a tie up, but more like the loafer ties. The bottom and the red logo on the side gives them the sneaker look. They fit nicely and they are different. In a world of teens who want to be different but still the same (no wonder they are conflicted), these give them a look that works in either world.