The New Balance MT580 is an iconic silhouette for the brand, but it’s a model that has never really appealed to us, but rewind to last year when the folks at New Balance re-engineered the MT580 to create the MRT580.

They stripped back the upper, added a REVlite midsole, and totally transformed the model, which was a huge positive for us. We much prefer the sleek upper with the added REVlite midsole which makes the shoe lighter overall and even comfier.

For SS16, New Balance introduce three new colourways of the MRT580 and they nailed them!

All three colourways are treated to a total deconstructed upper, using premium nubuck, suede, or leather, with laser-etched panels, and big perforations on the toebox and side panels. As an addition to the 580, this particular version gets a neoprene sock liner providing a snug fit, and is finished off with the REVlite sole unit.

We’ve not decided which pair is our favourite, but anything in a tan colourway works for us, so let’s take  a look at the New Balance MRT580DT first, which features a tan nubuck upper with the perfect amount of teal to compliment.

Next up is the New Balance MRT580DK which features a mostly black leather upper, with black suede heel wrap, and a red heel pull to add some contrast.

Finally, the New Balance MRT580DR comes in a red suede upper with a blue heel pull and is the most striking of the three colourways.