The latest New Balance 991v1 draws on the aesthetics of classic luxury luggage, crafted from premium vegetable-tanned leathers.

Warm tones blend deep Chocolate Plum with lighter Caramel Cafe shades, echoing the patina of a well-travelled weekender.

Grained panels meet smooth leather overlays to add depth, resulting in a take on the 991v1 that feels timeless, elevated, and firmly rooted in its Made in UK heritage.

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First released in 2001, the 991 is closely linked to Flimby, the home of New Balance Made in UK in the north of the Lake District. The 991v1 leans into that heritage with a slimmer silhouette, a more upright and structured line, and a more formal, premium panel build.

In doing so, it clearly sets itself apart from the 991v2, the modern expression of the silhouette, which sits lower to the ground, looks more casual, and features updated comfort technologies.

Throughout 2026, the 991v1 will continue to be reimagined through premium materials and elevated executions, maintaining a clear distinction from the 991v2’s suede-and-mesh approach.

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This release takes inspiration from Italy, where the 991v1 was embraced early on as a lifestyle sneaker. Creatives in Milan, Bologna, and Florence paired its slim running profile with suits and more formal looks, opting for the 991v1 over traditional leather footwear.

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The vintage luggage concept builds on that styling heritage: dark Chocolate Plum and warm Caramel Cafe leathers nod to the patina of classic weekenders, while bringing the feel of a stylish weekend escape to the Italian coast into the look.

For those deeper in the New Balance archive, it also recalls Super Team 33 Drop 3 “Luggage” from 2007, with M998LLV Louis Vermillion, M998LVX Victory Black, and especially the M998LCR Crocodile.

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“One of the great advantages of manufacturing in Flimby is being able to utilise European material specialists,” says Samuel Pearce, Sr. Creative Design Manager.

“Some of the finest leather in the world is produced in Italy, and the result is a truly unique material which will age and patina with time - perfect for an elevated relaunch of a timeless classic.”

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The release is supported by the campaign The Return, tracing the 991v1’s journey from its Made in UK origins to its cultural adoption in Italy.

Set on a quiet train ride back to Flimby, the visuals follow the silhouette through unhurried travel moments, subtly nodding to craftsmanship, time-worn elegance, and the importance of the journey itself. The campaign video premieres on release day.

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The New Balance 991v1 “Luxe Vegetable Tanned Leather” Made in UK will be released on February 5 and will then be available at the following retailers: 43einhalb, AFEW, Asphaltgold, BSTN, HHV and SUPPA.

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Photos via New Balance