New Balance

New Balance was founded in Boston, Massachusetts in 1906 by William J. Riley as the New Balance Arch Support Company. Inspired by the perfect balance of a chicken's three-clawed foot, Riley initially manufactured arch supports and orthopedic footwear designed to improve shoe fit for workers who spent long hours on their feet. The company remained a niche orthopedics business for decades before transitioning into athletic footwear in the 1960s, driven by rising interest in recreational running.

What truly sets New Balance apart is its enduring commitment to domestic manufacturing. Unlike virtually every other major athletic brand, New Balance still produces millions of shoes annually in its factories in Maine and Massachusetts in the US, and in Flimby, United Kingdom. The brand built its reputation on fit, offering more width options than any competitor, and on function over fashion — a philosophy that earned fierce loyalty from runners and podiatrists alike. The iconic 990 series, introduced in 1982, was the first running shoe to break the $100 price barrier and set a new standard for premium craftsmanship.

In recent years New Balance has become an unexpected powerhouse in streetwear and fashion. Its chunky 990v3, v4, v5, and v6 silhouettes — along with the 2002R, 550, and 1906R — have been embraced by fashion enthusiasts worldwide. Collaborations with Aimé Leon Dore's Teddy Santis (now Creative Director of the Made in USA line), Joe Freshgoods, Salehe Bembury, WTAPS, and JJJJound have transformed the brand from sensible running shoes into must-have fashion statements, all while maintaining its core commitment to quality and craft.