New Balance

About

Summing Up New Balance New Balance was founded in Boston in 1906 by William J. Riley as the New Balance Arch Support Company, making insoles to improve balance and comfort. That focus on function over hype, captured in the brand's "Endorsed by No One" ethos, still defines it today. The turning point came in 1982 with the 990, the first running shoe to retail at 100 dollars, which set the benchmark for premium performance footwear. From that lineage came the Made in UK and Made in USA programmes: the highest tiers of New Balance production, built with premium materials and hand assembly rather than mass manufacturing. The 991, released in 2001 and handmade in Flimby, Cumbria, is the British line's defining silhouette. For Urban Industry, these ranges represent New Balance at its best: genuine heritage, serious craft and understated design that has earned cult status from Steve Jobs to today's collectors. How Does New Balance Stack Up ABZORB cushioning: The 991 was the first 99X model to carry ABZORB in both the forefoot and heel. This compression-set foam absorbs impact and redistributes load underfoot, giving the shock protection of a performance runner with all-day comfort for walking and standing. ENCAP midsole technology: Across much of the Made in USA range (the 990 series, 992 and 1300), ENCAP pairs a soft EVA foam core with a tougher polyurethane rim. The result is a stable, supportive ride that resists pack-out and holds its shape over years of wear. Premium suede, nubuck and mesh uppers: Both lines use high-grade pigskin suede and nubuck panels over breathable mesh, with reflective 3M detailing on many models. The materials are chosen for durability and a tactile, broken-in feel rather than a synthetic finish. Hand assembly at Flimby and in New England: Made in UK pairs are handcrafted at the Flimby factory in Cumbria (sleeker British silhouettes such as the 991, 1500 and 920), while Made in USA pairs carry 70 percent or more domestic value and lean into chu