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I was born in Boston.
We have pursued fit
History of New Balance
Since our founding, New Balance has responded to the need for well-fitting footwear around the world. Our innovative technology and values have been passed down through the years and are driven by the challenges that the future holds. Learn more about some of the pivotal moments in our history below.
Founded as arch support specialistsNew Balance
The birth of the arch
New Balance was originally founded in Boston as an orthopedic shoe company by a 33-year-old English immigrant named William J. Riley to provide arch supports and footwear for those with flat feet and foot-related injuries. Inspired by the three-toed yet perfectly balanced feet of chickens, he developed high-quality arch supports. The company’s name is based on the insoles’ ability to give customers the ultimate level of “new balance.”
We begin making arch supports and orthopedic shoes
based on the three-clawed feet of chickens
New Balance Arch
Benefits brochure
New Balance’s firstRoad Running
shoes
We made our first running shoes after receiving a request from the Boston Brown Bag Harriers, a local running club. These custom shoes were lightweight, durable, and featured a crepe sole and a black kangaroo leather upper. This is also when we begin to gain attention for our shoes’ fit.
By 1941, we have an extensive lineup of custom footwear.
New Balance’s fame spreads and by 1941, we have begun creating custom running, baseball, basketball, tennis, and boxing shoes.
Passed from William Riley
to Arthur Hall.
William Riley retired in 1949 at the age of 78, and Arthur Hall took over management and sales. In 1953, the company was handed over to Hall’s daughter Eleanor and her husband Paul Kidd. (When Paul was around 20 years old, his shoes were too narrow and caused ingrown toenails, and in 1929, Arthur gifted him with a pair of New Balance shoes. He has been wearing our shoes ever since.)
The company name changes to New Balance Orthopedic Laboratory.
William Riley passed away in 1956, after which the Kidds changed the company’s name to New Balance Orthopedic Laboratory. This change was to further emphasize New Balance’s belief in scientific research and our desire to offer a wide range of footwear options.
Dr. Cooper is the first person to finish the Boston Marathon in New Balance shoes.
Dr. Kenneth Cooper, who is also known as a fitness book author with numerous bestsellers, saw New Balance as “the first company to make shoes especially for running.”
New Balance moves to 176 Belmont Street in Massachusetts.
Huge demands were fast outgrowing supply, which led to New Balance moving its headquarters to 176 Belmont Street in Massachusetts. This wonderful new location was spacious and full of familiar faces.
New Balance's first
General Shoes
Trackster, its first line of footwear for the general public
Our first running shoe option for the public is born. They featured a ripple sole and were the first ever running shoes to offer multiple width options. They adopted the same ripple sole used in the metal-spiked sprinting shoes of the time and became the first ever high-performance running shoes with custom width fittings. This development was gladly received by the sports footwear industry.
The company name changes to New Balance Athletic Shoes.
On January 1, 1970, the company changed its name from New Balance Orthopedic Laboratory to New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc.
Jim Davis becomes the new owner.
New Balance is purchased by Jim Davis, who is the current chairman. He kept the focus on the brand’s unique custom width options while continuing to develop our shoemaking process.
The ‘N’ logo and a numbering
system are adopted.
Designer Terry Heckler came up with the ‘N’ logo design and the idea of using a number system for each shoe model. This way, all the shoe models would be seen as equal and the emphasis would instead be on valuing the brand as a whole.
Winning the New York City Marathon
Tom Fleming wins the New York City Marathon while wearing our newly released 320 model.
TRAIL355
This model was developed in the 70s, as not all runners ran on well-maintained roads. These shoes were a pioneer in the option of running shoes made for trails and cross country.
SUPER COMP
This model was created specifically for racing on roads and tracks and featured a slim design with unique soles, making it both functionally and visually appealing. These flats were known for being lightweight and for their traction.
We released our first clothing line.
Our first clothing products, which were nylon mesh singlets and nylon tricot shorts and shirts, used Gore-Tex®.
NYC Marathon
Worn by the winner
“M320”
Our 320 model was named the best running shoe by Runner’s World magazine. The magazine also gave the model a five-star rating in 1979.
New Balance gains global awareness as an innovative and technologically-advanced running shoes manufacturer.
The early 1980s was a time of diversification and expansion.
We acquired an office and factory at 61 and 65 North Beacon Street in Briton, MA.
M730
This model of running shoes from the 1980s featured a suede upper by Tsuki Hoshi Kasei. Popular for its exceptional cost performance and cushioning, it made fans of all ages. The model was later rereleased as part of our “Made in USA” collection.
We acquired a factory in Skowhegan.
Our factory in Skowhegan, Maine was previously owned by Norwalk Shoe Company and this new location gave us more space and manpower capabilities.
Rainier
These were the first hiking boots released by New Balance. They were developed together with Rainier Mountaineering’s Lou Whittaker, who led the first American expedition up the north face of Mt. Everest.
Pride 480
As the name implies, these are basketball shoes that New Balance made with pride. With the same shock absorption as our running shoes, they captivated NBA players as well.
SC814
These high-performance soccer shoes were developed together with Bryan Robson, the captain of England’s national team.
M1300
The first model in the 1000 series and a milestone that changed the value of the sneaker. They were praised for their comfortable combination of excellent cushioning, the brand’s iconic gray colorway, design, and overall quality.
M576
Developed as off-road running shoes, this high-spec model features unique rounded midsoles with the stability of the SL-2 last. The materials and color options make it great for everyday use and turned it into a hit that continues to be a fan favorite.
M996
The third release from the 99X series, which launched in 1982 with the 990 model, and the first Made in USA model. The shoes’ comfortable fit and design have made it one of our longest-selling and most beloved models for running and everyday use.
M1500
The upper’s design reflects a change of the times and this model features our high-quality three-dimensional Encap midsole, combining the latest technologies to become a symbol of status among running shoes.
Our first ultra lightweight
shoes in gray“M620”
The 620 model, with its ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) midsole and Vibram outsole, came out as the lightest shoes on the running footwear market.
Most sports footwear of the time was quite colorful, yet New Balance decided to come out with its first gray colorway. Gray becomes an iconic color of the brand after this release.
An iconic model
that is traditional yet uses
the latest technology“M990”
The first model of the 900 series, born from our desire to develop the very best running shoes, featured a Motion Control Device and the best cushioning for better stability. The slogan used in ads of the time was, “On a scale of 1000, this shoe is a 990.” These hi-tech training shoes gained popularity for their many enhancements and high price point of $100 USD (at the time, $1 = 280 yen).
M997
In the past, midsoles were made separately for technical reasons, but this model featured the radical layered Encap midsoles. The innovated fusion of a thick upper with a great fit rocked the market when this monumental model was released in 1991.
M998
The 998 model was the fifth installment in the 990 series. This model was the first to feature our Abzorb technology, with unparalleled shock absorption and a comfortable fit, making them loved by many runners.
M1400
Originally meant to be released right after the 1300 model, the shoes’ revolutionary design meant that they couldn’t be mass produced due to technological limits at the time and so had a delayed release in 1994.
M1600
The first model in our 1000 series to feature Abzorb shock absorption and rebound came out in 1994. They are marked by their unique futuristic upper design.
M999
The 999 model was a reflection of fine craftsmanship, with its thick upper and hi-tech layered midsole. The shoes’ modern classic vibe was unique to the three-dimensional design trends of the mid-90s.
MT580
Our 580 model created a lot of buzz in 1996 for being at the forefront of trail running shoes. They inherited the unique wide sole DNA of the 500 series and demonstrated superb stability.
M801
These shoes for running on trails were advertised as being an “all terrain” model that could handle off-road treks. They were characterized by their amazing traction and cushioned Abzorb midsoles.
M990v2
Our 990 model came out in 1982, and the updated 990v2 version was released in 1998. The shoes used Abzorb, the latest in shock absorption technology at the time, and were our first model to visibly show part of the midsole, with great shock dispersion and rebound.
RC150
This model was developed to feel like it was an extension of the runner instead of simply a shoe. As the name implies, each shoe weighed a mere 150 grams, for a lightweight model made for speed.
M1700
Released in 1999, this was the last flagship model of our 1000 series. The outsole was fitted with our newly developed “N durance” rubber compound, for exceptional durability. These shoes were our last hi-tech model of the 90s, with superb quality that matched its high price tag.
M574
Like other models from the 500 series, these shoes were designed for off-road running. This series is now loved around the world because of how easily they can be incorporated into everyday looks.
COMP700
New Balance’s first racing shoes model to be made in Japan. The attention to detail classic of Japanese craftsmen stood out even among the many popular models of the Comp series.
M991
In 2001, the 991 came out as the eighth installment in our 99X series as the next-generation version of the 990v2. These shoes were the first in the series to feature Abzorb in the toe and heel areas and a new midsole design.
M2000
A prestigious look made by using a raised ‘N’ logo and synthetic leather set the 2000 model apart. This flagship model was a fitting way to kick off the 21st century.
RC110
A runner from New Balance’s racing team set a new world record in the Chicago Marathon while wearing these lightweight racing shoes.
M2001
This model was inspired by the M2000 and could even be called the perfected version of the M2000 thanks to its evolved level of performance.
BASEBALL 1100
This model was the first to be available in all width options, for better performance even on the baseball field.
M993
This lightweight model featured improved shock absorption and rebound. The smooth design of this flagship model along with its superior comfort and classic silhouette have made it a fan favorite.
In Europe
The production facility is
To Flimby, UK
New Balance moved its production from the UK town of Workington to Flimby, which is our current factory location in Europe.
The brand’s 100th
anniversary model
New Balance, founded in 1906, celebrates its 100th anniversary and releases the 992 anniversary model as part of the Made in USA series.
M1300JP
A rerelease that stayed true to the original model, from 14 stripes going through the ‘N’ logo and Ⓡ mark at the bottom right to an outsole by Vibram. The text formatting on the back of the tongue even matched that of the original, as well as the rounded stitching on the ‘N’ logo.
M2040
New Balance’s numbering system is updated, and the last two digits represent the primary focus of the model. Designs from this model on begin to reflect a high level of quality akin to leather shoes. They also feature lightweight midsoles made from our REVlite foam compound.
M1300JP2
This model stayed true to its predecessor released in 2010. The original model that came out in 1985 had two tongue designs, and this model incorporated a different label than the 2010 version but was made at just as high a standard.
M990v4
These shoes feature an Encap midsole made of PU and Acteva Lite for improved support and cushioning. With 360-degree reflective material used on the toe box, heel, and ‘N’ logo, they supported safer running and evolved into a more sporty design.
NB HANZO
These shoes feature a new last developed based on data collected by M. Lab over the years on countless runners’ foot shapes. The attention to detail, fit, support, and breathability of this model set it apart.
M990v5
A flagship model with reliable functionality and comfort thanks to its simple yet quality pigskin suede and mesh design, TPU collar strap for better ankle support, newly incorporated Ortholite insole for improved cushioning, Encap for stability and shock absorption, and Abzorb material for rebound and shock absorption.
Waist to Toe launches
Our Waist to Toe pants collection, created to further highlight the beauty of New Balance shoes, launches with five pieces.
FuelCell 5280
Our FuelCell 5280 is named after the fact that one mile equals 5,280 feet. A FuelCell midsole with excellent rebound was paired with a unidirectional carbon fiber plate and was designed with short-distance high-speed races in mind, making these shoes perfect for professional runners who need to move fast.
MR2002
This model was the first in the 1000 series to use natural leather again after the synthetic leather models starting from 1500. These shoes were developed by the technologically advanced Super Team 33 at our factory in Skowhegan, Maine. The shoes’ superior comfort and quality materials have earned them many fans. This model also marked the switch to naming performance running shoes with ‘MR’ instead of ‘M.’
Contract signed with Hitoshi Mimura
New Balance Athletics, Inc. began a global partnership with M. Lab and signed a contract with Hitoshi Mimura to be our exclusive advisor.
TOKYO DESIGN STUDIO
New Balance
We founded our Tokyo Design Studio (TDS) brand in 2012 to begin R&D on lifestyle wear. From the second half of 2014, products made by TDS were being added to our global offerings. TDS was rebranded as “TOKYO DESIGN STUDIO New Balance” in the autumn of 2018 and has continued to create products with innovative designs.
See the New Balance special page
2002R
The rich design of these shoes was inspired by the MR2002 model and paired with high-performance soles to become an option for everyday wear. This model also featured the same hi-tech N-ergy and Abzorb materials as the M860.
BB550
The Pride 550 competitive basketball shoes released in the 80s were revamped as the BB550. This low-cut model featured soles with superior cushioning and stability and the same fitted quality leather upper as the original.
COVID-19 turned our US factories
into mask-making factories.
Our factories in the US halted shoe production due to COVID-19 and begin to develop and produce facemasks instead.
M1300JP3
This model made an additional comeback after 2010 and 2015. These shoes pay homage to the original version with their attention to detail, from the Vibram sole to the stitching. Nubuck leather by Horween is newly incorporated for an even higher quality shoe.
Our new MS327 series launches
The vintage design of the running shoes that defined New Balance during the 70s were given a modern update and rereleased as the MS327. Even with the new line’s differences in design, they became a popular model that continued to represent the brand.
M1300JPJ
This 1300 model was the first to be made in Japan, used domestic nubuck leather, and was crafted by M.Lab
M1300JPV
This made-in-Japan 1300 model used Nume leather and was crafted by M.Lab.
M5740
Inspired by our 574 model from the 80s and the wave patterns of the 90s, the 5740 model was a next-generation sneaker that represented a change in the times.
MET24
Waist to Toe continued to evolve, was renamed MET24, and added tailored and activewear lines.
U9060
The new shape of the 90/60 was inspired by past 900 series models and our 860 performance model from the Y2K era.
FuelCell
Collection Launch
Development began with athletes in 2017, and the 5280 was released in 2019. The company has also released the FuelCell TC and FuelCell RC Elite running shoes, which are ideal for training and racing. The lineup that combines FuelCell and plates has been made into a series.
look
The 990v6 launches
The upper dispenses with the standard midfoot saddle, allowing the pigskin and synthetic overlays to flow from heel to toe across the mesh underlay, for a speedy, streamlined look. This next step in the 990’s evolution can be felt in the FuelCell midsole, which provides even better cushioning, rebound, and agility.