Since its inception in 1906 as the New Balance Arch Support Company, New Balance has been synonymous with excellence in sports footwear and apparel. With a rich history rooted in innovation and a steadfast commitment to quality, New Balance has emerged as a global leader in the athletic footwear industry, serving athletes and enthusiasts alike with products that blend performance, comfort, and style.
A Legacy of Innovation
Founded by William J. Riley, an English immigrant with a vision for improving shoe fit through innovative arch support technology, New Balance began its journey with a singular focus on enhancing athletic performance and comfort. Riley’s first product, a flexible arch support designed with three support points for optimal balance, laid the foundation for the brand’s enduring legacy of innovation.
In 1960, Eleanor and Paul Kidd revolutionized the running shoe industry with the introduction of the “Trackster” – the first running shoe to offer varying widths, catering to the diverse needs of athletes. This groundbreaking innovation propelled New Balance into the forefront of athletic footwear, earning widespread acclaim and adoption among runners and sports enthusiasts.
A Commitment to Quality and Craftsmanship
Throughout its history, New Balance has remained steadfast in its commitment to quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. With manufacturing facilities in the United States and the United Kingdom, New Balance prides itself on producing a wide range of shoes and apparel with technical features such as blended gel inserts, heel counters, and a diverse selection of sizes – ensuring a perfect fit for athletes of all shapes and sizes.
Championing Athletes and Communities
Beyond its innovative products, New Balance is deeply committed to championing athletes and making a positive impact in communities around the world. Through sponsorships of sports teams, leagues, and individuals, New Balance fosters a culture of excellence and collaboration, supporting athletes in their pursuit of greatness on and off the field.
The New Balance Foundation, established in 1981, exemplifies the brand’s dedication to social responsibility and community engagement. Through donations to charitable organizations focused on health, nutrition, education, and physical activity, the foundation strives to create meaningful change and empower future generations to thrive.
Pioneering Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship
As a leader in the athletic footwear industry, New Balance recognizes the importance of sustainability and environmental stewardship. Committed to reducing its carbon footprint and mitigating climate change, New Balance has set ambitious goals through initiatives such as the Science Based Targets initiative and aims to achieve 100% renewable electricity for its operations by 2025.
In February 2024, New Balance introduced its resale program, ‘Reconsidered,’ which promotes circularity and reduces waste by offering pre-worn shoes for sale on its online store. This innovative initiative underscores New Balance’s commitment to driving positive change and advancing sustainability practices within the industry.
Empowering Athletes, One Step at a Time
At New Balance, the pursuit of excellence extends beyond the track or field – it encompasses a commitment to helping athletes achieve their goals and live healthier, more active lifestyles. With a diverse range of products designed to blend function and fashion, New Balance empowers athletes of all levels to push their limits and reach new heights of performance.
As New Balance continues to innovate and evolve, its dedication to quality, craftsmanship, and social responsibility remains unwavering. With a proud legacy of excellence and a vision for a brighter, more sustainable future, New Balance stands poised to lead the way in shaping the athletic footwear industry for generations to come.
