Grounded beginnings
Before New Balance became a streetwear icon and a global leader in sports footwear, its beginnings were much more humble. Founded in 1906 by British immigrant William J. Riley in Boston, the company initially specialized in the production of orthopedic inserts. Riley, reportedly inspired by chickens wandering around the yard, noticed that three points of support provide excellent balance – hence the name New Balance. His inserts were designed to improve the comfort and fit of footwear, which in time transformed into the brand's philosophy regarding sports shoes.
Despite its humble beginnings, New Balance quickly gained the reputation of a company that delivers high-quality products. In 1927, Riley handed over the company to his son-in-law, Arthur Hall, who expanded the company's range to include running shoes. This was the beginning of New Balance as a sports footwear manufacturer. Since then, the brand has incessantly developed its products to meet the expectations of increasingly demanding customers.
Evolution of design and technology
New Balance became a streetwear icon not only thanks to its innovative technological solutions but also due to the evolution of its design. In the 1970s, the brand introduced the 320 model, which won the title of "best running shoe" according to Runner's World magazine. In 1982, New Balance launched the 990 model, the first shoe in the world to cost $This model reflected the brand's core values, such as quality, comfort, and innovation.
In the 1990s, like many other sports footwear brands, New Balance turned towards street fashion. It was then that collections were created that today are icons of streetwear. New Balance designs began to draw inspiration from hip-hop culture, skaters, graffiti artists, and retro aesthetics. It was during these years that the distinctive design characteristic of New Balance was shaped, combining classic shapes with modern, expressive details.
Sneaker culture and New Balance
New Balance played a key role in shaping sneaker culture, becoming one of the most recognizable sports footwear manufacturers in the world. New Balance sneakers are not only comfortable and functional but also a fashionable wardrobe element that fits into current street fashion trends. In the 1990s, the brand became a symbol of youth subcultures, and today its shoes are worn by sports enthusiasts and fashion lovers alike.
New Balance has managed to build a strong position in the streetwear market thanks to its ability to combine classic and modern elements. The brand's shoes perfectly match casual styles as well as more formal outfits. As a result, New Balance has become a streetwear icon, appreciated for its products as well as its unique philosophy.
Partnerships and collaborations
One of the key elements of New Balance's success in the streetwear market is its ability to build strong partnerships and create striking collaborations. The brand often partners with top designers, artists, and other streetwear brands, allowing it to create unique and original designs.
One of New Balance's most famous partnerships is its collaboration with the brand Stussy. Together they created a limited edition of the 990v4 model, which quickly became one of the most coveted models among streetwear enthusiasts. Similarly, the collaboration with the brand Aime Leon Dore brought a fresh look to classic New Balance models. Such collaborations allow New Balance to continually refresh its range and maintain its position as a leader in streetwear.
The future of sports footwear
As a streetwear icon and global leader in sports footwear, New Balance is undoubtedly ready for the future. The brand continually invests in research and development to create products that meet the expectations of even the most demanding customers.
One of New Balance's latest achievements is the introduction of Fresh Foam technology, providing unprecedented cushioning and comfort. The brand also does not forget about ecology - more and more models are made from renewable resources and recycling.
In the era of digitization and increasing customer expectations, New Balance is ready to meet the challenges. The brand will continue to invest in new technologies and innovative solutions to maintain its position in the sports footwear and streetwear market.
In conclusion, New Balance is a streetwear icon that started from producing orthopedic inserts and is now a global leader in sports footwear. Thanks to its constant evolution, innovation, and ability to build strong partnerships, New Balance is ready for the future and will undoubtedly surprise its fans again and again. After all, as the brand's motto says - "Endorsed by no one, worn by everyone."
New Balance for men:
New Balance for women:
