I own New Balance 574's, 608's, 623v2's.  While I normally wear a size 11 in just about every other shoe brand, it takes a size 11.5 for me in New Balance,  and there is no extra room at the toe.  Why New Balance is different from Rockport, Bass, Dockers, Florsheim, Nunn Bush, and several other brands I own is beyond me.  But once I made the adjustment I have been very happy with the shoes.  They are comfortable for my 30 minute daily treadmill walk, or while walking in the Mall (I'm retired).  I have fairly narrow feet, but the medium size fits well anyway. The only criticism I have is the big N on the side.  My wife says she won't buy them because of the N.  She prefers the $100-$125 brands anyway.  I'm more value oriented, and I think New Balance shoes are a value.  The 623v2 is better made than the 574's or the 608.