I have a bunch of new balance shoes and I have never had  a problem with them being too tight or a lack of cushioning in the bottom of the shoes. This is my first pair of 501 new balances. Based off reviews I ordered a wide since pretty much each review  talked about the shoe being narrow. It seems to be true. They fit perfectly not too loose or too tight. They are just as comfortable as the others. They look pretty good with a pair of light colored jeans.