The Legacy of New Balance Begins
Since its inception in 1906 as the New Balance Arch Support Company, the brand has been synonymous with innovation and quality in the footwear industry. The history of New Balance begins with founder William J. Riley, the company, initially focused on arch supports. Their orthopedic footwear catered to the individuals requiring specialized care.
In 1927, the brand took a significant step forward. They hired Arthur Hill as a traveling salesman. This strategic move helped New Balance stand out in the market, laying the groundwork for its future. The company’s focus shifted towards footwear.
New Balance Shift Focus
New Balance began their footwear journey focusing on individuals who spent long hours on their feet. From there they began to make their mark in the running world. The 1960’s the world experience the Trackster. The Trackster was the first running shoe available in different widths. This innovation set the stage for the brand’s future in athletic footwear.
A pivotal moment in New Balance’s history occurred in 1972 when Jim Davis purchased the company. Despite its modest beginnings. Davis remained committed to producing high-quality products and delivering exceptional customer service.
The New Balance Legacy is Born
Throughout the years, New Balance continued to innovate, introducing groundbreaking designs such as the lightweight 620 in 1980 and the iconic 574 in 1988, which transcended its running roots to become a staple in casual sneaker culture.
The brand’s commitment to excellence was further solidified with the release of models like the 1500, worn by notable figures like President Bill Clinton, and the M1400, which has remained a long-standing favorite among consumers.
The Legacy Grows
In 2001, New Balance expanded its portfolio by acquiring the training brand P.F. Flyers, diversifying its offerings while staying true to its core values of quality and performance.
Despite its initial stance of being “Endorsed By No One,” New Balance eventually embraced endorsements, with athletes like Miguel Cabrera and Curtis Granderson lending their support to the brand in 2009.
New Balance is more than a Running Shoe
In recent years, New Balance has continued to push boundaries with ventures like the New Balance Numeric, catering to the skateboarding community, and collaborations such as the Marvel x New Balance collection, or more recently the Joe Freshgoods 1000.
As of 2023, New Balance boasts an impressive annual revenue of $6.5 billion, reflecting a 23% increase from the previous year. With plans to open 90 additional stores and a significant growth trajectory in both Europe and the United States, New Balance remains a formidable force in the global footwear market, staying true to its legacy of innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. For more sneaker information check our this week’s sneaker drops.
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