Die Geschichte und Entwicklung von New Balance
Boston, Massachusetts
To alleviate the pain in a worker's foot, William J. Riley, an English immigrant, developed an insole that supports three points of the foot. Like a chicken that can maintain the perfect balance with three claws.
Im Jahr 1906 gründete Riley ein Unternehmen, das orthopädische Schuhe herstellte: New Balance Arch Support Company. Das Hauptprodukt waren Schuhe, die das Fußgewölbe stützen.
In 1934, when Riley joined the US Army, he met William Arthur Hall, who also traded in orthopedic shoes. He hired him as a sales representative.
By maintaining personal contact with the customer, the New Balance Arch Company was able to successfully set itself apart from other competitors.
1936
William Arthur Hall becomes business partner
NEW BALANCE ARCH brochure - Relieves Pain, Restores Foot Health
William Arthur Hall becomes a business partner.
Riley and Hall are able to acquire more customers, especially people who do a lot of their work standing up: police, firefighters and retailers.
In 1940, Dan McBride wore the very first New Balance running shoe in a road race in Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts.
This event marked an important milestone in New Balance's history, as it was the first time the brand's innovative footwear technology was used in competitive sports.
McBride, a passionate athlete, helped prove the performance and comfort of New Balance running shoes in real-world racing conditions. This early involvement in running laid the foundation for New Balance's long-standing tradition of developing high-quality, high-performance athletic footwear.
Dan McBride
First New Balance Spike running shoe
The first running shoes were made to order for a local Boston running team. The models were fitted with a crepe sole. The upper material was made from lightweight, durable black kangaroo leather.
.jpg)
William J. Riley and a runner
.jpg)
1906-1996 Heritage Series Print
Shoes for all seasons, all conditions, all terrains - whatever the year.
.jpg)
1906-1996 Heritage Series Print
We have been carrying the torch for running shoe innovation since 1906.
.jpg)
1906-1996 Heritage Series Print
In the running since 1906.
Special shoes for other sports are added to the range.
In addition to running, the product range now also includes tennis, baseball and boxing. All models are manufactured locally.
Predecessor of the Trackster model in production
More and more equipment was also manufactured for professional athletics clubs.
A prominent example at this time was the elite running team at MIT in Cambridge, a suburb of Boston.
.jpg)
MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) Running Team
The brand gained recognition thanks to its high-quality products and began to explore other sports such as baseball, tennis and boxing.
New Balance also produced cleats for the Major League Baseball team, the Boston Braves.
New Balance baseball shoe / Boston Braves
The couple Paul and Eleanor Kidd bought the up-and-coming business. They renamed the company New Balance Athletic Shoe Co.
It was at this time that jogging to “maintain health and fitness” became fashionable, and people from all over America were asking Paul and Eleanor for New Balance shoes.
.jpg)
Paul and Eleanor Kidd/New Balance Athletic Shoe Co.
Eleanor Kidd
Eleanor Kidd behind the counter at the New Balance store in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The shoes were made where they were sold.
1960
Release of the Trackster
In 1960, the company launched the Trackster model to arouse the interest of more buyers, especially those who enjoy jogging.
Thanks to the wide range of sizes, the comfortable grooved sole and the orthopaedic last, the new product became very popular.
New Balance Athletic Shoe Company / Trackster
The Trackster had a saddle shoe-like upper material. Even with this model, it was possible to buy different widths (from AA to EEEE) in order to find the perfect fit. This feature is still available from New Balance today and makes the brand unique.
New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc. / Trackster III advert
1967
First signs of the later logo
New Balance Athletic Shoe Co. / Trackster
From today's perspective, the two cut-outs on the saddle of the Trackster, which was further developed at the time, give an idea of the New Balance N that was introduced later.
1972
Jim Davis becomes owner
On April 17, 1972, the day of the Boston Marathon, Jim Davis, who is also the current CEO, becomes the owner of New Balance.
Boston Marathon / 17. April 1972
At the time, the company only employed six full-time workers, who had an output of 20 to 30 shoes per day.
A new sales channel was opened to meet the demand for the shoes, which had previously been sold largely by word of mouth and then by post: Retail.
.jpg)
Jim Davis
Terry Heckler, who is also responsible for other well-known brand logos such as Starbucks, K2 and Cinnabon, designed a new logo and supported Jim Davis in his decision to further shorten the name.
New Balance Athletic Shoes becomes New Balance.
1975
Competition and performance models
New Balance National Class advert
In the 1970s, there were some models that did not yet follow the numbering system introduced in 1976.
The National Class was re-released in 2019 in a Made in UK version.
New Balance Racing Shoes SPIKE & COMP advert
New Balance Racing Shoes SPIKE & COMP advert
The range of performance models usually had an addition such as COMP, SPIKE or CROSSCOUNTRY.
New Balance CrossCountry advert
1976
Numbering system for models is introduced
New Balance 320
New Balance 320
The N could now be seen on the sides of New Balance shoes. This was accompanied by the introduction of the numbering system for the individual models that still exists today.
It all started with the M320 model. The American magazine Runner's World awarded the M320 1st place.
New Balance thus had the distinction of producing the best running shoe on the market. Tom Fleming won the New York Marathon in the M320.
New Balance takes 1st and 3rd place with the 320 and 305 in Runner's World Magazine
New Balance Trail 355 and 320 advert
New Balance 320 advert
The Runner's World award led to a big sales boost and the awareness of New Balance continued to grow.
The W320 was launched at around the same time. A running shoe with an optimized shape that was perfectly tailored to the fit of women's feet.
New Balance W320 advert
New Balance W320 advert
In the same year, New Balance opens sales offices in England and a branch in Ireland.
1977
New Balance Trail 355
New Balance Trail 355 advert
In 1977, New Balance added another innovative model to its product line: the Trail 355. This running shoe was specially designed for outdoor activities and uneven terrain and was an important addition to the already established models.
Similar to the later 576 and its trail runner counterpart, the 575, the Trail 355 also had special features that set it apart from conventional running shoes.
The studded outsole of the Trail 355 was particularly striking, providing excellent traction and stability on uneven terrain. This sole was ideal for runners who wanted to get off the beaten track.
1978
New Balance COMP100
First clothing collection launched
The COMP100 was brought onto the market and represented a significant innovation in the field of running shoes. Weighing just 170 grams, this model set new standards as the lightest running shoe on the market.
Its exceptional lightness and performance were quickly recognized, and five of the top 10 runners in the Boston Marathon wore it.
The color scheme was called Wolf Gray. A retro version of the model was released in 2020 with the MLC100.
New Balance COMP100
New Balance COMP100 Prospekt
.jpg)
Competition Road Racing / New Balance COMP100 Prospekt
In the same year, New Balance also released its first clothing collection. In addition to running shorts and tops, there was already a collaboration with Gore-Tex for complete tracksuits.
New Balance Running Gear
New Balance Running Gear ft. Gore-Tex Fabrics
1979
New Balance CT300
New Balance CT600
New Balance CT 600
Shortly before the end of the 1970s, New Balance launched its first court model, the CT300. This was soon followed by a more advanced version, the CT600.
Later reissues of the CT300 appeared in two versions: A true-to-original retro version, produced in Flimby in 2014, and a lighter version with a REVlite sole, the CRT300, which was manufactured in Asia.
1980
New Balance 620
New Balance 730
With the M620, New Balance presented the lightest and most modern running shoe of its time.
Equipped with EVA midsoles and a Vibram outsole, this shoe set new standards in terms of lightness and technology.
It also broke through a new price barrier with a price of USD 50, thus redefining the market standard.
.jpg)
New Balance 620 advert
.jpg)
New Balance 620 advert
.jpg)
Lighter Than Air: New Balance 620 advert
The M730, a burgundy-colored model made of fine suede, was also introduced in the same year.
Originally produced by the Japanese licensee MoonStar, production later began in the USA.
It was most recently produced in the Made in UK 40th Anniversary Edition as the M730UKF at the British factory in Flimby.
New Balance 730 "Capsule Collection"
New Balance 730 ft. "Lunaris Pillow" advert
Andy Warhol, an icon of the art world, was one of the famous wearers of the New Balance M730.
Andy Warhol
He wore the burgundy 730 in his spare time and also made an appearance in the movie Tootsie in 1982.
In the movie, unsuccessful actor Michael Dorsey, played by Dustin Hoffman, disguises himself as a woman to land a role in a soap opera.
Andy Warhol and Dustin Hoffman
In Andy Warhol's memoire “The Philosophy of Andy Warhol”, a sneaker might actually be mentioned.
In chapter 4, “Beauty”, he writes:
“There are three things that always look very beautiful to me: my same good pair of shoes that don’t hurt, my own bedroom, and U.S. Customs on the way back home.”
The Philosophy of Andy Warhol (From A to B & Back Again)
Andy Warhol about "Beauty"
Alongside grey, burgundy is one of New Balance's legacy colors.
New Balance 730
1982
Factory opened in Lillyhall / England
New Balance 990
New Balance Rainier
Groundbreaking in Lillyhall, Workington, England
A great moment in the history of New Balance:
In 1982, the ground-breaking ceremony for a further production facility in Lillyhall, Workington, England takes place.
The first M990 was launched on the market in the same year that construction began in England. At 100 USD, the model cost twice as much as the M620, but quickly became one of the best and most durable runners in the world.
The M990 sold over 50,000 units in the first six months after its launch.
New Balance 990 advert
Lou Whittaker / New Balance Rainier
New Balance Rainier advert
In 1982, New Balance developed the Rainier in collaboration with the American mountaineer Lou Whittaker in search of alternatives to the clunky and heavy hiking boots that were previously available.
In 2018, a variant of the Rainier, the Rainier Moda, was relaunched for the fall/winter season. A faithful version of the Rainier appeared in 2023 in collaboration with Aimé Leon Dore, followed by further inline colorways.
1983
The jogging boom continues
New Balance 1983 Running Catalog cover
The jogging boom in America, which began in the late 1960s, reached another peak in 1983. More and more people adopted jogging as part of their daily lifestyle.
The Intelligent Choice.
New Balance benefited greatly from the steady popularity of jogging, especially with the unwavering enthusiasm for the 990 launched the previous year.
The brand became synonymous with reliability and performance, making it a preferred choice for joggers and serious runners alike.
1984
More running apparel with Gore-Tex
New Balance 700
New Balance 770
New Balance Running Gear ft. Gore-Tex advert
The New Balance ads of the 1980s emphasized technical features that have largely been forgotten today (Cellogram Midsole, Nubalite Wedge, etc.).
These ads highlighted the innovative technologies and unique design elements that characterized New Balance running shoes at the time and made them a pioneer in the sports industry.
While many of these features are hardly mentioned today, they played a crucial role in establishing the brand and contributed significantly to the success and recognition of New Balance.
The above ad for the New Balance 700 Competitive Training Shoe features the rare red version (Japan Domestic Model) of the Seiko Pulsemeter (S229-5000) digital watch.
Trivia: The black version of this watch (S234-501A) is worn by Corporal Dwayne Hicks and Private William Hudson in the movie Aliens.Aliens movie.
Aliens (1986): Michael Biehn, Sigourney Weaver & Bill Paxton
New Balance 770
1985
New Balance 670
New Balance 1300
New Balance 460
New Balance 470
New Balance 660
Worthy Express
C-CAP Intro
The M670 made its debut in 1985 and was the first model to be released in New Balance's signature color Steel Blue, which was later adopted by the 1300. The sole was manufactured by MoonStar in Japan.
New Balance 670 advert
New Balance M670SGN Made in UK
New Balance M1300JP Made in USA
Not just any EVA: Recoil and Superflex, as well as the Lunaris Pillow footbed cushioned the feet of runners in the New Balance 460.
The song "Long Hard Road" by the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band (number 1 on the US Billboard Hot Country Singles 1984) was targeted in this 1985 ad.
“Less weight, more protection” is still the goal that most running shoe manufacturers can agree on today.
The New Balance 660 took the basic concept of the 620 and added features such as the My-T-Lite wedge in the heel and midsole and the Extended Saddle for increased forefoot stability.
On a wintry February day in 1985, Prince (now King) Charles visited the New Balance production facility in Workington.The brand continues to enjoy royal recognition and was awarded the prestigious Queen's Award for Enterprise in 2004. This honor underscores New Balance's ongoing commitment to excellence and innovation in the footwear and sportswear industry.
James Worthy was one of the first basketball players to be sponsored by New Balance. He wore models from the Worthy Express range during his career, which helped the brand to establish itself in basketball and increase its popularity.
Worthy was an outstanding basketball player who played for the Los Angeles Lakers. Born in 1961, he won the 1982 NCAA championship with the University of North Carolina and was selected as the first pick in the NBA draft that same year. He won three NBA championships with the Lakers (1985, 1987, 1988) and was named Finals MVP in 1988.
The New Balance C-CAP technology was also introduced in 1985. The 670 was the first model to be equipped with C-CAP.
C-CAP is a compression molded EVA that improves midsole cushioning and flexibility. The result is comfortable support without compromising overall responsiveness.
1986
New Balance 995
New Balance 995
The New Balance 995 was launched and was one of the first running shoes to combine both ENCAP and EVA.
The idea of offering running shoes in different widths, which was introduced in the early years of the New Balance Arch Company at the beginning of the 20th century, is still offered by very few shoe manufacturers today. The following advertisement was all about that.
New Balance "Foot Width" advert
1987
Product portfolio being expanded
New Balance Anzeige: Basketball, Running, Walking/Hiking, Tennis, Soccer, Aerobic
Running and tennis were just the beginning of New Balance's product range.
Over the years, the brand has continuously expanded its range and introduced innovative products in other categories. Shoes and equipment for aerobics, basketball, soccer, walking and hiking were also developed.
1988
New Balance Japan opens
New Balance 996
New Balance 576
New Balance 574
New Balance U996GR Made in USA
New Balance Japan opens. The M996 is also released in the same year.
A model that has established the long-lasting popularity of the New Balance 900 series. It came with a combination of ENCAP and C-CAP and therefore had excellent cushioning.
The New Balance 576 was introduced shortly before the 574 as a trail runner and was originally equipped with a C-CAP midsole that provided additional stability and cushioning.
New Balance 576 Trail
In the 2010s, the 576 was often produced as an all-leather sneaker in smooth or suede, which gave it a luxurious look.
The M574 celebrates its premiere as a technical running shoe.
New Balance ML574VN
No one can yet imagine that this model will later become THE ICON in the lifestyle segment of New Balance.
1989
New Balance 1500
New Balance 577
New Balance M1500UKF - Made in UK
The 1500 was launched, an iconic model designed as a premium running shoe.
It stood out for its technical features and impressive design, making it popular with both serious runners and sneaker enthusiasts through numerous collabs in the early 2000s.
The M1500 market launch included basketball and tennis shoes named 1500, which did not share the Runner's design.
A prominent admirer of the 1500 was American President Bill Clinton, who sent a letter of thanks to New Balance HQ in 1993.
He often wore the M1500 during the 1992 presidential election phase.
One of the outstanding features of the 1500 was the modernized ENCAP midsole. This innovative technology combined soft EVA cushioning with a sturdy polyurethane border that provided additional stability and support.
This was complemented by C-CAP cushioning in the midfoot area, which ensured lightweight and long-lasting comfort. With the release of the 1500, a one-piece molded midsole was introduced for the first time.
Bill Clinton
The Made in UK classic 577 also made its appearance in 1989 and is still produced in Flimby today.
New Balance 577 Made in UK
The upper of the 577 was made from a premium combination of suede and mesh, which offered both durability and breathability.
The 577 was designed more for casual runners and those looking for a comfortable, durable shoe for everyday use. Its rugged construction makes it versatile for both light athletic activities and everyday wear.
New Balance M577NG
New Balance M577GNA
New Balance 840 advert
The 840 was released in the same year and the metallic upper heralded the look of the 90s runners.
In 2018, it was relaunched as the ML840 with a REVlite sole.
New Balance NBX840 Vintage
1990
New Balance ML577
The ML577 was introduced in 1990 as the successor to the 576. A very modern material by the standards of the time, called “Hytrel” from the manufacturer DuPont, was used. “Hytrel” was later also used on the upper of the M997.
1991
Moving to Flimby
New Balance 997
New Balance 677
The New Balance factory in England is moving about 7 miles north to the coast. Flimby is from now on “New Balance - Made in the UK.”
In the same year, the M997 was launched on the market. It is the first running shoe in the 900 series with an integrally molded midsole.
New Balance M997GY
New Balance 997 advert
An advertisement for the 677 elegantly alluded to the music television channel MTV and at the same time issued a charming challenge to Paula Abdul and Michael Jackson to go for a run.
New Balance W677 ENCAP
New Balance M677 ENCAP
1993
New Balance 998
ABZORB Intro
New Balance M998 Made in USA
In 1993, New Balance launched the 998, a milestone in the brand's history.
This model was not only a further development of the popular 990 series, but also the first shoe to be equipped with the innovative ABZORB cushioning technology.
The introduction of ABZORB cushioning, which offers excellent shock absorption and comfort, set new standards in the running shoe industry.
New Balance M998 advert
1994
New Balance 1400
New Balance 1600
The Made in USA M1500 gets a second color: Anthracite.
The 1400, which was previously excluded according to the previous numbering system, is being launched as the successor to the 1500 in Steel Blue.
New Balance M1400SB
The 1600 also celebrated its premiere in 1994.
It was the first New Balance of the 1xxx series with ABZORB cushioning which debuted the previous year.
New Balance M1600CM
The 1600 “Just for Feet” is considered the first New Balance collab ever:
This limited Made in USA edition of the 1600 model was created in collaboration with the retail chain Just for Feet Inc. from Alabama, USA (1977-2004).
The shoe with golden accents came with dustbags, extra laces and insoles.
In 2021, the CM1600LE Just for the Fit, a Japan-exclusive homage to the model, was released. This version was not manufactured in the USA.
.jpg)
New Balance CM1600LE "Just for the Fit"
.jpg)
.jpg)
New Balance x Just for Feet 1600LE
1996
New Balance 580
New Balance 850
New Balance 999
The MTX580 was introduced as a robust trail runner. Thanks to Gore-Tex, it had a functional upper material that ensured waterproofness and breathability, as well as a full-length ABZORB midsole.
An SL-2 last made it the ideal model for runners with wider feet.
The MT580 became the preferred choice for numerous collabs in the early 2000s.
Retro version of the New Balance 580: MT580 with REVlite
New Balance 851
In the same year, the ML850 was launched with a fresh new upper construction. The shoe came with ABZORB, C-CAP and ROLLBAR. There was no N logo on the side, instead an embroidered NB adorned the heel area.
New Balance M999 Made in USA
The 999 model was also released in 1996.
In 2017, the M999 was relaunched to meet the demands of modern sneaker culture. This reissue was presented in a variety of collaborations and theme packs that honored the original design while introducing fresh and innovative elements.
1998
New Balance 801AT
New Balance 990v2
The M801AT was a trail and hiking model with an ABZORB midsole and grippy outsole.
It triggered a veritable sales boom. The model sold 1.5 million units. The abbreviation AT stands for All Terrain.
New Balance 801
Stephon Marbury / Slam Magazine 1999
With the M990v2, a successor appeared 16 years after the release of the 990.
Retro version of the New Balance 990v2: M990GY2
The 576 experienced a sales boost in 1998 with a cover on the French ELLE magazine, which paved the way for it in the fashion and lifestyle world.
ELLE June 1998
The 1700 was equipped with the innovative N-DURANCE technology, which offers excellent wear resistance.
This special rubber compound increased the durability of the soles and made the shoe particularly long-lasting.
Some versions of the M1700 appeared in elegant white leather with fine golden stitching, which gave the model an additional touch of luxury.
New Balance M1700JP
2000
New Balance MT580
realMADHECTIC x mita
The MT580, which was already extremely popular as a performance shoe in Japan, experienced an unprecedented renaissance through a series of collaborations spanning over ten years.
New Balance x realMADHECTIC x mita sneakers MT580CMY (2008)
realMADHECTIC & mita released 37 versions of the model over 20 release waves.
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
But the unprecedented success story didn't end there: impressive quadruple collaborations by madHECTIC x mita with Stüssy and Undefeated followed.
These unique collabs demonstrated the creative energy and continued influence of the MT580 in the sneaker community.
2001
New Balance 2000
New Balance 991
New Balance acquires PF Flyers
New Balance 854
With the beginning of the 21st century, the further developments of the New Balance 1000 series were renamed the 2000 series.
The M2000 was launched in 2001 and was the first to be delivered with the N-ERGY feature for high damping potential.
The 9xx series was also developed further: The 991 largely adopts the design of the 990v2. The use of ABZORB in the front area of the midsole was visibly emphasized.
New Balance M2000
New Balance M991GL
In 2001, New Balance acquired the PF Flyers brand, an iconic American footwear brand known for its classic canvas sneakers, founded in 1937 by B.F. Goodrich.
Today, the PF Flyers company is owned by Kassia Davis, the daughter of Jim Davis.
With the fantastic slogan “The shortest distance between two points is not the point”, the New Balance M854 is released for the High Mileage Training category.
New Balance 854
2003
New Balance 2001
The M2001 continued the design of the M2000, but was enhanced with additional N-ERGY features in the front foot area.
New Balance M2001
2004
First European collab released
New Balance Fitness Equipment
Steve Jobs
New Balance's first European collaboration with an external partner took place in 2004, when the brand cooperated with the British retailer Offspring.
This collaboration led to the release of two special models: The OM577GBR and the OM576BBO, both made in the UK.
New Balance x Offspring OM576BBO & OM577GBR
New Balance Fitness Equipment: Ellipsentrainer
In the early 2000s, Fitness Quest Inc. offered a variety of home fitness equipment under license from New Balance, including elliptical trainers, rowing machines and treadmills.
Steve Jobs and Macintosh Computer, January 1984, by Bernard Gotfryd. The image on the screen is “A Woman Combing Her Hair” by Hashiguchi Goyo
Interlude
It is common knowledge that New Balance was Steve Jobs' preferred sneaker brand. What is less well known, however, is that his fondness for this brand did not just begin in the 2000s, at the time of the major Apple keynotes.
After Steve Jobs was forced out of the company in 1985, he founded NeXT, a company specializing in workstation computers.
The NeXT computer was presented at a lavish event in 1988. Tim Berners-Lee used this computer to develop the world's first web browser, the WorldWideWeb. The operating system of the NeXT computer, NeXTSTEP, was the origin of Darwin, which today forms the basis of most Apple products such as macOS and iOS.
Steve Jobs Office (1986) / Forrester Images Ltd.
The photo from 1986 shows Steve Jobs' office with the prototypes of the new NeXT computer, which are covered for reasons of secrecy - shortly before their official market launch.
Jobs' New Balance sneakers are under the desk, and a framed portrait by photographer Doug Menuez showing NeXT investor and board member Ross Perot together with CEO Jobs leans on the floor.
2005
New Balance 1450
ABZORB SBS 1xxx Intro
The 1450 was a further development of the 1400 that appeared 11 years earlier.
One of the outstanding features of the 1450 was the ABZORB SBS technology, which offered excellent shock absorption and elasticity.
This technology helps to minimize the impact on the joints while ensuring reactive energy return, making equipped models ideal for intense sports activities.
In addition, the 1450 featured a C-CAP midsole, known for its lightweight yet effective cushioning. Another important feature of the 1450 was the TS2 system (Torsional Stability System), which improved the stability of the foot and supported natural movement.
New Balance M1450SB Made in USA
2006
100th Anniversary
New Balance 992
ABZORB SBS 9xx Intro
ABZORB EX Intro
NBZip Intro
.jpg)
.jpg)
New Balance 100 Years Anniversary
New Balance M992GR
For the 100th anniversary in 2006, New Balance organized a series of celebrations and activities to commemorate the momentous occasion. In addition, a special website was launched: newbalance100.com
To mark the 100th anniversary, the 992 was also launched as the successor to the 991. The 992 is the first model in the 9xx series to feature the further development of ABZORB technology.
Compared to the 991, the grooves in the midsole of the 992 are now more prominently extended around the model.
New Balance 992
ABZORB SBS
ABZORB SBS is characterized by additional cushioning and stability with comparable flexibility and weight. This new version is made of a non-cellular elastomer that does not lose its resilience even after years of use.
NBZIP
In the same year, NBZip is also introduced, for which the sole is divided into 3 impact zones and a springy cushioning element is added to the zones with the greatest impact.
.jpg)
"Energy In - Energy Out" / New Balance NBZip Technology
.jpg)
New Balance NBZip Technology
ABZORB EX
ABZORB EX celebrated its premiere in the performance segment with the 975. It is a combination of the high-tech material ABZORB and air capsules made of durable thermoplastic with ABZORB foam inserts. It offers comfort, cushioning and stability during running activities.
But an older model was also produced in the same year with ABZORB EX : The M1500EX.
The upper remains true to the original 1500, while the heel of the midsole has been equipped with this latest cushioning technology.
Aber auch ein älteres Modell wurde im gleichen Jahr mit ABZORB EX produziert: Der M1500EX.Das Obermaterial bleibt dem Original 1500 treu, während die Ferse der Zwischensohle mit der neuesten Dämpfungstechnologie ausgestattet wurde.
.jpg)
New Balance M1500 mit ABZORB EX
.jpg)
New Balance M1500 mit ABZORB EX
New Balance 975 / ABZORB EX Intro
2007
New Balance Super Team 33
New Balance Super Team 33 Drop 2 "Fanzine" (2007): M1400FZ3 Red / M1400FZ1 White / M1400FZ2 Blue
New Balance Super Team 33 Drop 1 "Fish" (2007):
M1400STB "Butterfly Fish" Yellow/Black-White - M1400STC "Clown Fish" Orange/White - M1400STN "Neon Fish" White/Multi
Super Team 33 was an exclusive collection from New Balance that was launched in 2007.
This collection was characterized by limited editions and special designs that were manufactured in the New Balance factory in Skowhegan, Maine, USA.
The name “Super Team 33” referred to the team of 33 highly qualified craftspeople and designers who worked on these special models.
New Balance Super Team 33 Drop 3 "Luggage" (2007):
M998LLV Louis Vermillion / M998LVX Victory Black / M998LCR Crocodile
New Balance Super Team 33 Drop 5 "Suit" (2008): M998STSB Black / M998STSC Brown / M998STSG Grey
New Balance Super Team 33 Drop 4 "Stingray" (2008): M1400SR2 Navy / M1400SR1 Black
2008
New Balance 993
ABZORB DTS Intro
New Balance M993GL
With the 993, the sole height was lowered again slightly to reduce weight, while the characteristic groove structure on the midsole was retained.
These adjustments helped to make the shoe lighter yet stable, making it attractive for both performance and recreational athletes.
ABZORB DTS
The responsive ABZORB DTS was also introduced for the first time with the 993.
The “Dynamic Transitioning System” combines ABZORB foam with the SBS elastomer to provide support and stability in various areas.
New Balance launched a new campaign with the one-minute commercial “LOVE/hate. This is the new balance.”
The cornerstone of the campaign is the “Anthem” spot, which depicted the complex love-hate relationship with running and presented New Balance as the brand that is shifting the balance in favor of love.
The spot also introduces the brand's visual “Red World” - symbolic of the struggle of runners, filled with temptations and obstacles in the beginning, but with an end result of euphoric achievement and love for the sport.
The clips were created in collaboration with BBDO New York and The Mill.
2009
“Endorsed by No One”
“Endorsed by Someone”
Fortsetzung der LOVE/hate-Kampagne
The New Balance claim “Endorsed by No One”, introduced in 1984, emphasized the brand's philosophy that its products should speak for themselves and not rely on famous personalities or paid celebrities for recognition.
This campaign emphasized New Balance's commitment to authenticity and performance by highlighting the quality and innovation of their footwear. The approach emphasizes the focus on product quality, performance and customer centricity, which sets New Balance apart from other brands that rely heavily on celebrity endorsements.
This philosophy changed in 2009 when the brand began signing professional athletes. As part of this change, basketball player Matt Bonner and baseball players Curtis Granderson and Miguel Cabrera were named as brand ambassadors.
The LOVE/hate campaign was continued and expanded with a focus on the “Total Fit” feature.
“The New Balance Total Fit campaign captures our unique understanding of running and showcases that fit is who we are and what we do.” said Joe Preston, EVP at New Balance.
"We are proud of our reputation as the industry leader in fit. We were the first brand to offer running shoes in multiple widths, and this extreme commitment to fit and purposeful innovation in all of our footwear and apparel continues today."
2010
New Balance 1500 Made in UK
New Balance 2002
N-ERGY Intro
New Balance M1500UK Made in UK
With the M1500UK, the New Balance factory in Flimby released a retro version of the original 1500 for the first time, which corresponded exactly to the specifications of the original except for the colorway
New Balance MR2002
The MR2002, introduced in 2010, featured the innovative PL-1 last and an improved midsole with N-ERGY cushioning.
Within the 1000 and 2000 series, the MR2002 was the first running shoe in the Anthracite colorway.
For softer landings...
To highlight the soft cushioning properties of New Balance ABZORB technology, JWT Singapore designed minimalist artwork.
They depicted the little creatures that runners encounter every day. The client for the campaign was the running specialist RunningLab from Singapore.
.jpg)
New Balance ABZORB Artwork
.jpg)
.jpg)
N-ERGY
New Balance N-ERGY is made from a resilient polymer specifically designed to absorb impact while providing responsive energy return.
This significantly improves the comfort and stability of the shoe. N-ERGY provides soft yet supportive cushioning, which reduces the strain on joints and muscles and enables a pleasant running experience.
2012
New Balance 2040
New Balance 990v3
990v3 Made in USA "Obama"
New Balance M2040 - Made in USA
The New Balance M2040 was a premium flagship model introduced two years after the successful MR2002. This model was developed under the motto “back to basics” to provide the functionality required for a performance running shoe.
The M2040 combines luxurious nubuck and mesh in the upper, making the shoe breathable and lightweight.
The distinctive N logo on the sidewall plays a role in improving supportability and uses a classic design with an elongated font to extend the area of support.
Equipped with REVlite technology, the midsole offers high durability and cushioning while remaining lightweight.
The outsole is made of carbon fiber, which suppresses excessive bending of the foot while running and is light and stable at the same time.
The OrthoLite insole provides comfort, breathability and odor resistance, which further improves functionality.
New Balance M2040 - Made in USA
The M2040 was produced at the New Balance factory in Lawrence, Massachusetts, and crafted by Super Team 33, which ensures the highest standards of craftsmanship. This team added hand-stitched details to the shoe in various places to emphasize the quality and uniqueness of the model.
The first M2040 adopted the colorway of its predecessor, the MR2002. However, other exclusive colorways with monochrome navy and black uppers and embossed logo details were also released in the USA.
New Balance M990GY3
With the introduction of the third version of the 990, the silhouette was modernized and took a step towards lifestyle.
The suede and mesh upper featured more mesh inserts, giving the shoe a lighter and airier look.
The ribbed N logo and the diamond design on the tongue are striking and heralded a new generation of this silhouette.
The ENCAP midsole was revised and continued to offer excellent cushioning and stability.
In 2012, Barack Obama received a customized pair of New Balance 990s during his campaign as part of a special initiative by New Balance to both show support for the then-president and raise awareness of the brand.
.jpg)
New Balance M990v4 Made in USA "Obama"
.jpg)
2013
new balance numeric
Tiago Lemos / New Balance numeric NM808 (2022)
Numeric (NM) was the first complete skate line from New Balance to hit the market.
The first team rider was PJ Ladd. The model names were initially numerically in the 2xx to 4xx range from New Balance. Important models are the NM212 (2016), NM306 (signature model of Jamie Foy, 2019), NM379 (2019), AM425 (2020).
new balance numeric: Franky Villani, Tiago Lemos, Tom Knox, Andrew Reynolds, Jamie Foy & Brandon Westgate
During the “Let's Make Excellent Happen” phase at the end of the 2000s, New Balance began a collaboration with trail runner Anton Krupicks.
The resulting Minimus product line started with the MT100. In the documentary In the High Country, which was released in 2013, Krupicka wore the then current MT110.
New Balance / This is Runnovation / Anton Krupicka
2014
FRESH FOAM Intro
Another cushioning technology celebrates its premiere: Fresh Foam.
Fresh Foam was developed to offer runners a soft, comfortable and stable running experience. The Fresh Foam midsole is made from a special foam that provides maximum cushioning while remaining lightweight and durable.
The design of the midsole is based on extensive data analysis and biomechanical insights to ensure the ideal balance between shock absorption and energy return.
2015
World HQ Eröffnung in Boston
New Balance announces the opening of its 250,000-square-foot headquarters at 100 Guest Street in Boston's Allston/Brighton neighborhood.
2016
New Balance 990v4
Four years after the M990v3, the M990v4 followed.
It featured subtle design changes that resulted in a more elegant look. More mesh material was used to further improve breathability. The lines were sleeker and more modern, giving the shoe an updated and refined look.
Cushioning and durability were improved, and the N logo on the side was given a further functional benefit thanks to its high reflectivity. An OrthoLite insole provided additional comfort and improved breathability.
The release coincided exactly with the emerging “Dad Shoe Hype”.
New Balance M990VS4 "Version 4" Edition (2021)
2018
tokyo design studio (TDS)
From Tokyo to the World: Opening of the New Balance Tokyo Design Studio.
A Japanese expression (“Missing Flowers”) says that imagination expands the world more than reality itself.
The Tokyo Design Studio explores the future of New Balance. According to their own statements, they are guided by the following four basic principles of design: “Precision, Sports Craft, Protection, Nature Tech”.
2019
New Balance 990v5
New Balance 1530
New Balance x Jaden Smith Vision Racer
New Balance M990GL5
The M990v5 is released and impresses with its sleek heel area. It is characterized by a modern and clear design. The upper is still made from a combination of suede and mesh.
The N logo has been updated and some design elements have been simplified, giving the shoe a fresh and contemporary look.
TPU power straps provide additional support for the midfoot area and the tongue features a USA flag emblem.
New Balance M1530OGG Made in UK
To mark the 30th anniversary of the 1500, a special anniversary edition was released with a unique product number made up of the model number and the anniversary.
The M1530, manufactured in the UK, lacked ENCAP and was instead fitted with a REVlite midsole, making it lighter.
Word by supermodels in London and dads in Ohio: New Balance 990v5
For Father's Day 2019, New Zealand retailer Rebel Sport has once again taken up the Dad Shoe theme with the MX624v4.
New Balance MX624v4
New Balance Korea also launched a particularly well-made campaign in the context of the “Chunky Sneaker hype”.
This commercial offers a beautiful homage to the theme, elegantly capturing the aesthetic and charm of the classic, comfortable “Dad Shoe”.
It translates this style into the modern fashion world, celebrating both the functionality and timeless appeal of the shoes that connect fathers and their children and bring them together across the age gap.
In the same year, New Balance and Jaden Smith announce their partnership with the “Runs in the Family” campaign.
Jaden Smith / New Balance Vision Racer MSVRCJSE Wavy Baby Blue (2020)
One year later, the New Balance x Jaden Smith Vision Racer is released. The model combined stylistic aspects of the New Balance X-Racer and 1700 models and was characterized by its striking, chunky silhouette.
A sustainable version of the 574 followed. The New Balance x Jaden Smith was made from leftover materials, resulting in each pair being unique.
New Balance x Jaden Smith Vision Racer MSVRCJSD Grey/Silver/Grey (2021)
New Balance x Jaden Smith ML574JSA "Surplus Materials" (2021)
The Jaden 574 consists of 73% surplus materials, including 9% recycled and 18% new material.
2020
“We Got Now” Campaign
"We don't wait our turn. We create it. This is New Balance."
New Balance launches “We Got Now” as a global marketing initiative. The aim of the campaign is to inspire people to live in the moment and pursue their goals and dreams now. The campaign focuses on the determination, courage and authenticity that characterize both athletes and everyday people.
New Balance / Kawhi Leonard
“We Got Now” highlights various personalities, including prominent athletes, musicians and cultural icons, who all share their own stories and passions. One notable aspect of the campaign is the signing of NBA star Kawhi Leonard. In addition, other New Balance athletes such as Sadio Mané, Coco Gauff, Sydney McLaughlin and ambassador Jaden Smith are also part of the campaign.
2022
Teddy Santis becomes Creative Director
Following various joint collaborations such as the 997 and 990v5 (2019), the 827, the 1300 (2020) and the extremely successful re-release of the 550 in October 2020, Teddy Santis, founder and Creative Director of the New York brand Aimé Leon Dore, has been appointed Creative Director of Made in USA.
The first season was released in April 2022: New Balance Made in USA.
The New Balance. - Teddy Santis. Creative Director for Made in USA.
2024
New Balance 1906L Loafer
Junya Watanabe
Based on the 1906R, which was first introduced in 2022, we can look forward to the 1906 Loafer this year.
Junya Watanabe
Back in 2007, the renowned Japanese fashion designer Junya Watanabe, known for his avant-garde designs at Comme des Garçons, initiated a collaboration with New Balance.
This collaboration started with the 1500 and 576 models and resulted in an exclusive collection that combined Watanabe's design aesthetics with the functionality and quality of New Balance.
Another collaboration with him was recently announced:
The New Balance x Junya Watanabe 1906 Loafer.
To conclude our article on the history of New Balance, we would like to quote CEO Jim Davis from the late 2000s. It impressively summarizes the company's remarkable journey and continuous progress:
„We have come a long way. We’ve climbed higher than anyone ever thought possible and we are still climbing.“
Jim Davis, owner and chairman of New Balance, speaks at the groundbreaking ceremony of The Track at New Balance (2019)
This quote underlines the impressive development of New Balance, from its humble beginnings to becoming a global market leader.
It shows the continued ambition and vision that drives the company. With a clear commitment to quality, innovation and customer satisfaction, New Balance remains committed to exceeding expectations and reaching new heights.
Thank you to New Balance, F. Luyven, A. Schnatz, N. Friemelt
Photos © New Balance, IMAGO/Allstar, Mary Evans/AF Archive/20th Century Fox, Corbis Historical / Brownie Harris, Suede & Mesh (Ramos, Sekinger), Richie Roxas, The Deffest, Slam Magazine, Forrester Images Ltd./Getty Images/Contour, Jake Darwen, glaze73, James Wainscoat, Junji Hata, Yozo Yoshino
Intro sequence by STRAY London - excerpt from Grey Days 2024 Short Film
.jpg)
