New Balance
New Balance is an American shoe brand from Boston that has existed since 1906. The brand is known for comfortable running shoes, a love of grey and part of its production that still takes place in the United States and the United Kingdom. Today New Balance sneakers are firmly part of streetwear, for women and men.
The history of New Balance
William J. Riley founded the company in 1906 as the New Balance Arch Support Company. He made arch supports for people who were on their feet all day; according to the brand, he was inspired by the way chickens keep their balance on three toes. In 1938 New Balance made its first running shoes, for a local running club in Boston.
In 1972 Jim Davis bought the company, which was still small at the time. Under his leadership New Balance grew into an international brand. A key moment came in 1982, when the first 990 appeared: a technical running shoe that laid the foundation for the 99X series.
What is New Balance known for?
New Balance has its own style that is often called the ‘dad shoe’: solid runners with suede and mesh, in calm colours. Grey is the brand’s signature colour; New Balance even celebrates a Grey Day every year. Part of the collection is made in factories in the United States and England, recognisable by the Made in USA or Made in UK label.
Technically, it is all about cushioning and stability, with in-house technologies such as ENCAP and ABZORB. Also unusual: many models are available in several widths, something few sneaker brands do. That mix of comfort and understated design first made New Balance popular with people who did not want an eye-catching sneaker, and later with designers and the fashion world.
Popular New Balance models
- New Balance 990v4: the fourth version of the 990 from 2016, in suede and mesh, made in the United States and known as the archetypal dad shoe.
- New Balance 2002R: a luxury running shoe from 2010 that returned in 2020 as a lifestyle sneaker, best known for the Protection Pack with frayed suede edges.
- New Balance 9060: a new 2022 design with elements from the 99X series and a large, wavy sole, popular with anyone after a chunky Y2K look.
New Balance also has classics such as the 574 and the 550, and a long list of collaborations with designers and labels. Each model has its own character, from understated to bold.
How do New Balance sneakers fit?
Most New Balance sneakers fit true to size, so you can stick with your usual size. Because the brand makes many models in different widths, New Balance is a logical choice for people with wide feet. For models in the standard width, consider half a size up if you have wide feet. Check the fit section on each model page.
Buy New Balance at WOOVIN
On WOOVIN you will find New Balance sneakers for women and men, with a focus on the 2002R, the 9060 and the 990 line. Choose the 990v4 if you want a timeless classic, the 2002R for a soft retro runner and the 9060 if you are after a striking sole. Filter by model, colour and size to quickly find the right pair.
