The New Balance Story

I was born in Boston.

The history of New Balance in pursuit of fit

Boston is where we began.

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.

Since its founding, New Balance has pursued shoe fit in a variety of areas.

The innovative technology and values that have been passed down through the ages continue unabated as we take on new challenges every day.

Check out the many milestone moments.

Since the company's founding,

New Balance has been pursuing shoe fit in a variety of areas.

The innovative technology and values that have been passed down through the ages

We continue to take on new challenges every day.

Check out the many milestone moments.

SINCE 1906

Founded as arch support specialists

New Balance Arch Support Company

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.”

Founded as arch support specialists

New Balance Arch Support Company

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.”

Modeled after the three claws on a chicken's foot

Started manufacturing arch supports and corrective shoes

The benefits of New Balance Arch

A pamphlet explaining

1938

New Balance’s first

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.

New Balance’s first

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.

1940 - 1969

1941 | By 1941, custom-made shoes in various categories were being offered.

New Balance’s fame spreads and by 1941, we have begun creating custom running, baseball, basketball, tennis, and boxing shoes.

1949 | William Riley to Arthur Hall

William Riley retired at the age of 78. Arthur Hall took over management and sales. In 1953, his daughter Eleanor and her husband Paul Kidd took over the company. (When Paul was 20 years old, his shoes were so narrow that his toenails were digging into his toes, so in 1929, Eleanor's father Arthur gave him a pair of New Balance. He has been wearing New Balance ever since.)

1956 | Company name changed to New Balance Orthopedic Laboratory

William Riley dies. The Kidds change the company name to "New Balance Balance Orthopedic Laboratory" to emphasize their reliance on scientific research and to promote New Balance 's policy of offering a wide range of footwear products.

1961 | Dr. Cooper becomes the first person to complete 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.”

1961 | New location at 176 Belmont Street, Washington

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.

1960

New Balance releases

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.

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.

1970 - 1979

1970 | Company name changed to New Balance Athletic Shoes

On January 1, 1970, the company changed its name from New Balance Orthopedic Laboratory to

1972 | Jim Davis becomes 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.

1974｜Numbering system and N logo 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.

1975 | NYC Marathon Winner

Tom Fleming wins the New York City Marathon while wearing our newly released 320 model.

1976

New York City Marathon winners

The "M320" worn

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.

New York City Marathon winners

The "M320" worn

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.

1977 | 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.

1977｜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.

1978 | Apparel is born

Our first clothing products, which were nylon mesh singlets and nylon tricot shorts and shirts, used Gore-Tex®.

1980 - 1989

1980

The first to adopt "gray"

Ultra-lightweight shoes

“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.

The first to adopt "gray"

Ultra-lightweight shoes "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.

1980 | The early 1980s was a time of diversification and expansion for New Balance

We acquired an office and factory at 61 and 65 North Beacon Street in Briton, MA.

1980｜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.

1981 | Acquisition of the Skohögen plant

Our factory in Skowhegan, Maine was previously owned by Norwalk Shoe Company and this new location gave us more space and manpower capabilities.

1982 | 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.

1983 ｜ 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.

1982

Traditional yet

A masterpiece that incorporates cutting-edge 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).

Traditional yet

A masterpiece that incorporates cutting-edge 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).

See the 990 series

1985｜SC814

These high-performance soccer shoes were developed together with Bryan Robson, the captain of England’s national team.

1985｜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.

1985｜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.

1988｜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.

1989｜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.

1990 - 2009

1991

Our production facilities in Europe are

To Flimby, UK

New Balance moved its production from the UK town of Workington to Flimby, which is our current factory location in Europe.

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.

1991｜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.

1993｜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.

1994 | 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.

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.

1996｜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.

1998

Equipped with the latest technology at the time

“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.

The latest technology at the time

Equipped with "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.

1996 | 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.

1998 | 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.

1998 ｜ 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.

1999｜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.

1999｜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.

2001

New midsole design

“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.

Midsole design

New“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.

1999｜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.

2001｜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.

2002 ｜ RC110

A runner from New Balance’s racing team set a new world record in the Chicago Marathon while wearing these lightweight racing shoes.

2003｜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.

2006

The brand’s 100th

Commemorative model "M992"

New Balance, founded in 1906, celebrates its 100th anniversary and releases the 992 anniversary model as part of the Made in USA series.

The brand’s 100th

Commemorative model "M992"

New Balance, founded in 1906, celebrates its 100th anniversary and releases the 992 anniversary model as part of the Made in USA series.

2006｜BASEBALL 1100

This model was the first to be available in all width options, for better performance even on the baseball field.

2009 | 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.

2010 - 2019

2010

Manufactured by "Super Team33"

“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.’

"MR2002" manufactured by "Super Team33"

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.’

2010 | M1300JP

オリジナルを完全再現。タンのNBロゴは14本バーに、Ⓡマークも右下に配置。ビブラム社製のアウトソールも復活。タン裏の文章も段落の付け方までオリジナルを再現。Nロゴのステッチもオリジナル通りに角度を丸めたステッチに。

2012 | 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.

2015 | 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.

2016 | 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.

2018 | 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.

2018

Contract signed with Hitoshi Mimura

New Balance Athletic, Inc. and MimLab enter into a global partnership.

Signed an exclusive advisor contract with Hitoshi Mimura.

Contract signed with Hitoshi Mimura

New Balance Athletic, Inc. and MimLab enter into a global partnership.

Signed an exclusive advisor contract with Hitoshi Mimura.

2019 | 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.

2019 | WAIST TO TOE Launches

Our Waist to Toe pants collection, created to further highlight the beauty of New Balance shoes, launches with five pieces.

2019 | 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.

2018

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.

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.

TOKYO DESIGN STUDIO New Balance

2020 - 2022

2020

Our FuelCell collection debuts

Developed together with athletes from 2017, we launched this collection of high-performance running shoes for training and racing with the 5280 model in 2019, followed by the FuelCell TC and FuelCell RC Elite. This combination of FuelCell foam with a carbon fiber plate gets turned into its own series.

Our FuelCell collection debuts

Developed together with athletes from 2017, we launched this collection of high-performance running shoes for training and racing with the 5280 model in 2019, followed by the FuelCell TC and FuelCell RC Elite. This combination of FuelCell foam with a carbon fiber plate gets turned into its own series.

See the FuelCell collection

2020｜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.

2020 | 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.

2020 | US factory closed due to COVID-19, to manufacture masks

Our factories in the US halted shoe production due to COVID-19 and begin to develop and produce facemasks instead.

2020 | 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.

2020 | New series MS327 is here

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.

2022

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.

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.

See the 990 series

2020 | M1300JPJ

This 1300 model was the first to be made in Japan, used domestic nubuck leather, and was crafted by M.Lab

2020 | M1300JPV

This made-in-Japan 1300 model used Nume leather and was crafted by M.Lab.

2021 | 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.

2021 | MET24

Waist to Toe continued to evolve, was renamed MET24, and added tailored and activewear lines.

2021 | U9060

The new shape of the 90/60 was inspired by past 900 series models and our 860 performance model from the Y2K era.

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The New Balance Story

The New Balance Story

Since its founding, New Balance has pursued shoe fit in a variety of areas.

The innovative technology and values that have been passed down through the ages continue unabated as we take on new challenges every day.

Check out the many milestone moments.

SINCE 1906

SINCE 1906

Founded as arch support specialists

New Balance Arch Support Company

Founded as arch support specialists

New Balance Arch Support Company

Modeled after the three claws on a chicken's foot

Started manufacturing arch supports and corrective shoes

The benefits of New Balance Arch

A pamphlet explaining

1938

1938

New Balance’s first

running shoes

New Balance’s first

running shoes

1940 - 1969

1960

1960

New Balance releases

Trackster, its first line of footwear for the general public

New Balance’s first

General Shoes

Trackster, its first line of footwear for the general public

1970 - 1979

1976

1976

New York City Marathon winners

The "M320" worn

New York City Marathon winners

​The "M320" worn

1980 - 1989

1980

1980

The first to adopt "gray"

Ultra-lightweight shoes

“M620”

The first to adopt "gray"

Ultra-lightweight shoes "M620"

1982

1982

Traditional yet

A masterpiece that incorporates cutting-edge technology

“M990”

Traditional yet

A masterpiece that incorporates cutting-edge technology

“M990”

1990 - 2009

1991

1991

Our production facilities in Europe are

To Flimby, UK

In Europe

The production facility is

To Flimby, UK

1998

1998

Equipped with the latest technology at the time

“M990v2”

The latest technology at the time

Equipped with "M990v2"

2001

2001

New midsole design

“M991”

Midsole design

﻿New“M991”

2006

2006

The brand’s 100th

Commemorative model "M992"

The brand’s 100th

Commemorative model "M992"

2010 - 2019

2010

The "M320" worn

New“M991”

"MR2002" manufactured by "Super Team33"