31.05.2021

What is the difference between new balance models. New Balance shoes: how not to get lost in a rich selection


How did you find out about new balance? Because you love suede sneakers or because you have a custom shoe size? This brand has existed since 1906 and during this time has become one of the most reliable and influential manufacturers. sports shoes. And it was not an accident or luck, the company stood against the flow of trends, technological changes and people's perceptions, and created the position in which it is now.







For decades, new models have appeared, regularly raising the bar for development, but New Balance has always remained true to its chosen philosophy - the desire to create shoes even better. If you have at least one pair of legendary sneakers on your shelf, then it’s still worth learning a little about the brand’s history, especially since the New Balance option is far from the standard success story.


About brand history


The first thing that may well surprise you is the fact that New Balance began its journey as a manufacturer not of shoes, but of arch support insoles. Hence the name of today's sneaker giant was New Balance Arch. The British roots of the brand exist thanks to the founder, William Riley, who moved from England to America in 1906. It was this man who came up with the name for his enterprise, and it came to his mind while he was watching the chickens in the yard - the structure of the paw inherent in them with three points of support became the very “new balance” for more effective body support .


At first, New Balance products were not sold in stores, the company had a special vacancy for a traveling salesman, who distributed the insoles, visiting the homes of potential customers - Arthur Hall became the first such person. This personal attitude was the hallmark of New Balance, which differentiated the firm from its competitors. The company earned its reputation by selling arch supports to firefighters and policemen, at the station, to the departments to which Hall traveled.


During the Great Depression, many enterprises were forced to cease their existence, however, thanks to first-class product quality and even despite rather high prices, New Balance managed to survive a difficult stage and come out even better than before.


Running shoes were not produced by the company until 1938, when special designs were made for runners: with a rubber sole and a kangaroo leather upper. Without betraying his beliefs, Riley decided to create sneakers because he wanted to make them "more comfortable and wearable" than other brands did. So, the focus on quality wasn't limited to insole work—he wanted to prove that he could make the best shoe. Three years later, New Balance makes shoes for baseball players, tennis players and boxers.


In order not to stand out from the ranks of those who were fond of and popularized science in America, in 1956 the company was renamed New Balance Orthopedic Laboratory: this name would not live long, but it was a reflection of post-war marketing.


In 1960, the first sneaker model aimed at the masses appeared - it was the "Trackster", which became the first recognizable model of sneakers from New Balance. Prior to this, the company had been producing sneakers for 22 years, but this case was special - the model became available with a choice of different widths. This is how this special niche in the market was built, the number of regular customers grew all the time.



The "N" logo was not used until the 70s, when the company launched the 320. Of course, without such an important brand attribute, it was difficult to talk about distribution worldwide, and it was the introduction of this logo that played a significant role in New Balance's position, which they currently occupy.






Artist Terry Heckler suggested naming sneakers with numbers because he wanted to make sure that every style of sneaker was treated equally so that shoppers could choose what they liked rather than relying on nicknames. “Numbers are universal. They speak louder than words." By the way, in 2016 there will be several "numbered" anniversaries - models 580, 999 will turn 20 years old, and 995 - 30 years old. The N logo will be 40 years old. And by the way, the company itself will celebrate 110 years of its super-successful existence. Numbers really are more verbose than words themselves, isn't it?


The head office of New Balance is located in Boston, and in general the company owns 5 factories in America (2 in Massachusetts and 3 in Maine). For comparison, in 1994, 70% of shoes were made in the United States, and in 2006 this figure dropped to 25%. Of course, now branded shoes are also produced outside the United States - for example, there are factories in Britain and Vietnam (just in Asia they produce most of the products). The first European factory opened in Tralee, Ireland, in 1979, and only three years later, in 1982, a factory in the city of Flimby arose, which provides today the production of sneakers in the English version.




Among the famous people who preferred these particular sneakers, we note Steve Jobs (992 model) and Bill Clinton, who wore the 1500 model for jogging.



The company also uses a 3-D printing system. For the first time in April 2016, a limited-edition shoe line will be released in Boston, which is designed with a 3-D printed midsole. According to the company, thanks to this, it will be possible to achieve the optimal balance between cushioning, flexibility, weight and durability. For this, a process called "selective laser sintering" (selective laser stintering) was used, during which the powder is turned into a solid material using a laser. The first experiments in this direction were made in 2013, when the company created spikes for athletes.




Variety of models


Men's shoes



Running shoes are presented by models for high-speed training, cross-country running. With the constant development of technology and the desire to create the perfect running shoe, new models are being created: for example, the new Prism sneaker has joined the Vazee special running series. There are special models with special cushioning for long-distance races (Fresh Foam Zante, 1340v2), for everyday running (990v3), and, of course, spikes (MD500v4 Spike).







Classic and casual sneakers


Men need stylish sneakers, too, from all sorts of reincarnations of the retro 574 model, to suede options (300 Suede) and stylish sports models (1500 Deconstructed).





Walking shoes


Specially designed shoes provide comfort and support while walking, preventing overpronation. Here are models for regular hiking (Leather & Mesh 928) and hiking (New Balance 1400v1). By the way, leather boots from the trail & hiking section are also suitable for bad weather, and there are special models with faux fur - ML 754.




Specialized sneakers


Among special footwear for classes different types There is a selection of shoes for football (Visaro Control FG), baseball, tennis (786), golf (Golf 574 LX), basketball (581).





Female sneakers



New Balance provide a wide range of running shoes. All functional features are observed, the design is also taken into account - after all, the female gender appearance clothing is important. There are also subcategories here: lightweight sneakers for running at speed, for long distance running, for daily running training, minimalist sneakers, spikes (in the photo - in order):









Classic and casual sneakers


Timeless classic style, modern features and eye-catching embellishments help create the most stylish look using the brand's retro models (620 NB Gray and 574 Winter Harbor).




Training shoes





Walking shoes




Specialized sports shoes


You can find great shoes for playing tennis on the court (1296), for playing softball with a specific sole (Low Cut 4040v1 Plastic Cleat), for playing golf (Pink Ribbon Minimus LX Golf).





Casual shoes


Under the leadership of New Balance, casual footwear brands were also created - Aravon (for women), Cobb Hill (appeared later, in 2012), Dunham (for men), in May 2011 they were all merged under the Drydock Footwear brand. Given the use of sports technology in the production of these casual shoes, the goal is to achieve the same performance and comfort as when wearing sneakers. In 2015, Adidas acquired (together with Berkshire Partners) Rockport, with which Drydock has now merged. An assortment of sandals, boots, boots is presented. All models, of course, are made using proprietary technologies, are made with the same quality as sneakers, and are no less comfortable.



Dunham REVdash and Dunham REVdusk:




Aravon Linda and Aravon REVsolace:




Cobb Hill Shayla and Cobb Hill Caroline




Running and walking shoes: the difference for your health


At first glance, walking and running shoes are exactly the same. But if we analyze these two types of activity, it becomes clear that their tasks are different, and the load on the legs is even more so. When walking, the weight of the body is distributed more evenly on the legs than when running.


Walking shoes are designed taking into account the peculiarities of the structure of the body and the pace of walking. They are more flexible at the ball of the foot and should also have arch support to reinforce the point where the force of gravity of the body weight is greatest to load the foot. But running shoes, on the contrary, absorb more on the heel (after all, it is with it that we push off the ground when running), and the protection on the pad is less. Also, mesh material is used in their production due to more sweating during running.


Choice the right shoes will save you from discomfort and injury, even encourage you to lead an active lifestyle. When you shop for sneakers, try on the socks that you normally wear to work out. As soon as you put on a pair of sneakers, you should immediately feel comfortable. The heel should sit firmly, not slip out of the shoe. Even if you pick up a stylish model, but it's a little tight, don't get fooled by the outer shell and don't expect to be able to tear it apart. Since the foot can swell a little during the day, you need to choose sneakers during the day or after a long walk. To avoid blisters, make sure your shoes have enough room above your toes, on the sides, and about half an inch between your big toe and the shoe itself.


When choosing shoes, consider the type of arch of your foot (pronation). This can be easily determined by getting your feet wet and standing on a piece of paper. What does the trail look like? If it's the first option, then you're fine.



If the footprint is not particularly visible, then you have a high arch of the foot. In this case, you need to look for shoes with a good shock-absorbing effect.



If the trail is wide, then you have a flat foot, it may not fully function as a "holder" of the torso, choose shoes with additional internal support.




It is noteworthy that the company also has a special New Balance Sports Research Lab, which conducts research on pronation - orthopedic roots are not forgotten.


Choosing the right size

To navigate according to the sizing charts, you need to determine the length of the foot and the fullness of the leg. Keep in mind that unisex shoes are based on men's foot measurements. When buying athletic shoes, choose half a size larger than your regular shoes. As for the fullness of shoes, in the American scale the measurements of the fullness of NB range from X-Narrow (very narrow) to XX-Wide (very wide).






Technologies used

Before we understand how high-tech New Balance shoes create all possible conditions for your feet, let's remember the design of shoes in general. There are 4 main sections: the upper part, the main insole (substrate), the inner insole and the outsole. Next, we will get acquainted with some of the technologies with which all this countless sneakers are created.


Abzorb


The cushioning qualities and comfort of sneakers depend on this component. The insole provides support for the foot. Some New Balance shoes feature Abzorb technology. Together with Dupont, the company has created the perfect complement to the isoprene rubber and foam outsole. Due to its excellent cushioning properties, Abzorb is used both on the heel and in the front of the shoe. This technology is essentially similar to EVA (Ethyl Vinyl Acetate, also used in the manufacture of NB soles) but still retains its protective properties for a longer amount of time.




Roll bar


This technology will help anyone who overpronates to maximize control over the position of the foot in the shoe. Transverse plates made of urethane thermoplastic are located in the sole: if it is located only in the center, then the shoe is suitable for overpronator; if it is located both in the center and on the side, then also for the hyponator.




ENCAP


The connection of the EVA foam plate, bounded by a polyurethane shell, is located in the sole, providing additional stability and preventing the foot from hitting the ground.




Stability Web


With the help of this technology, fixation of the arch of the foot is provided, saving from muscle strain. A kind of instep support is made in the form of a cobweb, allowing the muscles to stretch as they should.




Acteva


The special foam material transforms into a very light, but resilient and comfortable sole. This piece is 12% lighter than the standard regular outsole. There are also Acteva Light and Acteva Ultralight, 24% and 32% lighter than the standard, respectively.




Fantom Fit


This technology is used to make the upper of the shoe with a mesh synthetic material and a denser synthetic layer. The result is a very light, seamless sneaker, shoes that you can’t say that you are wearing shoes, but the protective properties in this design are still present.




Fresh Foam


The latest midsole technology helps to reduce the weight of the sneaker and increase the flexibility of the sole during movement. Softer than other underlays developed by NB, which improves cushioning properties.



Understanding the numbers: the most popular models

Due to the fact that NB chose to name their shoes with numbers, it is sometimes difficult not to get lost in all the codes, many rely on the visual perception of individual models. The 574, 993 and 1500 have become the most recognizable of all time, and other models cannot always boast of such popularity.


The 574 has long been a staple of the company's various retro runners and everyday silhouettes. The low price has contributed to the mass distribution of sneakers, but premium versions are appearing thanks to various collaborations and the process of creating your own custom design in the USA. Plus - this model can be successfully used both on the treadmill and in your casual style. One of the drawbacks is that the model gets dirty easily, so before going out it is better to treat the shoes with special means.




There is also a 580 model, which was later eclipsed by the MT variant. It was the first model that helped the company break into the sports shoe market in the 90s, Rollbar and Encap technologies were involved in the manufacture, and the second received many attractive stylish options thanks to collaborations (below is one of them, with Fingercroxx).




The 587 Made in USA was made with more leather than fans of the brand are used to seeing, as well as mesh inserts, a sole featuring Rollbar and ABZORB technologies.




Released in 1982, the 990 was the first to sell for $100. In 2012, they were re-released in honor of the anniversary, with a Vibram sole.




The 999 also gained popularity among sneaker enthusiasts, and was one of the first to use 3-D printing technology to create a sole.




Incredibly comfortable 1300 model is in demand even now. Throughout its history, she has experienced many retro "reissues", but the original blue shades are still in use.




The original silhouettes of the 1600 and 1700 models also acquired new shades and decorative elements over time, but the initial "heavy" form is also easily recognizable.






The goal of a minimalist barefoot shoe is to allow your feet to land on the ground as if you were running barefoot, but at the same time, to perform a protective function. NB has a Minimus model, which, according to reviews, does its job well. You need to get used to jogging in such a model, move from ordinary sneakers gradually. One of the disadvantages is that it is difficult to run a long distance.




As we have just figured out, the original models are very often subject to various changes due to the cooperation of NB with stores or certain dates (such as the anniversary of a certain style). Let's take a look at at least some examples of such collaborations.


For example, in 2014, the collaboration turned out to be fruitful - MITA x SBTG x NEW BALANCE MT580, this version of the model was released with camouflage inserts and special inscriptions on the tongues and sole.




There were also sneakers inspired by a can of ginger ale - BURN RUBBER x NEW BALANCE 572.




Continuing the theme of beer, and moreover British: in 2015, the “Real Ale” line was released, and, of course, the tongue says “Made in England” - the sneakers are made at the factory in Flimby.




And again, the good old model was re-released - RONNIE FIEG x NEW BALANCE 530. New color palette reminiscent of autumn colors, and the upper is made from a combination of pigskin and nubuck.




The latest collaboration in 2015 was the Concepts x New Balance 998 "Grand Tourer" sneaker, with a luxurious design inspired by car racing.




To complete the Canadian tuxedo look, Capsule and NB collaborated to create a denim version of the MT580 with a rubber sole and leather tongue.




From the nearest releases - on January 29, "ceremonial" strict sneakers, a joint brainchild of NB and British shoe brand Grenson, will appear in selected stores around the world. Italian leather and brogue-like design, these sneakers can replace your shoes with their understated design. It is noteworthy that this model was created in two factories.




As you can see, the possibilities at New Balance are almost limitless: excellent quality and cutting-edge engineering to ensure that each model is as comfortable as possible, and on top of that, there are many eye-catching designs. But now you will definitely not get lost when choosing shoes from this brand!


Because the sneakers of this model combine 4 important advantages at once:

  • They let air through. For leather sneakers, this is an important plus, which ensures that your feet do not sweat, even if you walk a lot or spend a lot of time indoors.
  • They last a long time. High-quality materials, a multilayer sole and a well-thought-out design are responsible for this.
  • They are universal. And they go with absolutely any outfit.
  • They are made using innovative technologies.. This means that in everyday life your comfort will be provided by technologies that work for professional athletes.

Soft lining

The interior of the New Balance ML574A is treated with a soft textile material. It absorbs moisture well and prevents bad smell and has optimal tactile properties.

Heel insert

The corrugated insert in the heel, as well as the insert in the toe area, protects the New Balance ML574A from deformation. Many leather sneakers wear out at these points first. Thanks to a well-thought-out design, this does not happen with this model.

Attention!!!

Black sneakers are a universal model. If you want to add brightness and create a multi-color look, just replace the black laces with colored ones.

If the model is available in our discount center, it is presented in absolutely all sizes. That is why you are sure to find a pair of sneakers that suits you.

If you do not know your exact size, the courier will bring you two sizes of the New Balance model you like to choose from.

For all questions, call - New Balance managers will help you decide on the size.

US size Size, US
4 35 – 35.5
4,5 36 – 36,5
5 37
5,5 37,5
6 38
6,5 39
7 40
7,5 40,5
US size Size, US
8 41
8,5 41,5
9 42-42,5
9,5 43
10 43,5
10,5 44-44,5
11 45
12 46

Delivery is carried out by courier at a convenient place and time for you.

Delivery is free for purchases over 8000 rubles.

Delivery is limited to three pairs,

But you can always increase the quantity by paying 100 r for each next pair.

Payment for the purchase is made after fitting.

You have the right to cancel the order at any time.

You can exchange unsuitable shoes within 1 year from the date of purchase.
- Only unworn shoes can be exchanged.
- You can only exchange shoes that have fully preserved their presentation, NOT USED, that have retained their consumer properties. It is also important that the packaging and factory labels, as well as a receipt confirming the purchase, are kept.
- The basis for the exchange of shoes may be that a pair of shoes turned out to be unsuitable in size, shape, color, dimensions, style or configuration.

Top 6 main models of the brand and their production technology.

What brand do we think of first when we need to buy sneakers? Of course, about New Balance! This American company has existed since 1906 and is popular with both professional athletes and ordinary people around the world. The long-term success of the company is not a coincidence at all. Why are New Balance sneakers good? Ultra-modern technologies, natural materials, and most importantly, the desire for continuous improvement - these are the three weapons in the hands of the founders of the company, with which they slay their customers.

Over the years, New Balance has launched dozens of sneaker lines, from pure running shoes to urban shoes that you can safely go to the office. But there are several New Balance models that have become real bestsellers and, without exaggeration, adorn the wardrobe of every second inhabitant of the planet. We have prepared for you a small guide on choosing top New Balance models, as well as a few useful tips on their bargain purchase in American stores.

To begin with, all New Balance sneakers can be conditionally divided into running, casual (classic), walking and specialized.

  • Running shoes are designed for training in the gym or on the street and races. The most popular models are Fresh Foam Zante, 1340v2, 990v3 and MD500v4 Spike.
  • Classic sneakers are more associated with style. This is the well-known model 574, as well as 300 Suede and 1500 Deconstructed.
    Walking models are designed specifically for travelers. Many sneakers in this line are insulated. The most famous models: 1400v1 and ML 754.
  • Specialized sneakers are designed for specific sports (football, basketball, golf, and so on).

And yet the main identification mark for people who choose New Balance shoes is the numbers written on the sneakers. Here is a list of the most popular models:


New Balance 410 and 420

One of the most popular everyday running shoes. The unequivocal pluses include a relatively low price and high wear. It is worth noting that this option is not suitable for training, since this model does not have a serious depreciation system and a heel fixation system.
On Amazon The 410th model costs from 2,000 rubles. In Russia, the same sneakers cost from 4,000 rubles.


New Balance 574

Brand business card. The advantage is that the 574 model can be used not only for walking, but also for sports training. Many athletes do not take them off even during the competition. It's all about the Encap cushioning system. The model was invented in the 1980s and over the past years a huge number of options have come out (there are models from suede, leather, combined, synthetics).
The average cost of 574 models on Amazon is around 3,000 rubles. In Russia, the cheapest basic models are from 4,500, but prices can reach up to 10,000 rubles.


New Balance 577

This casual shoe was designed specifically for people with wide feet. Distinctive feature 577 has long been considered the badge of the British flag, as the shoes were made in the UK. However, this is only a matter of performance. If there is no British flag on the 577 model, it does not mean at all that you have a fake in front of you. Shoes are suitable mainly for everyday wear around the city. And this model is often used when creating limited collections.
On Amazon, the cheapest options can be bought for 2,000-2,500 rubles. In Russia - from 4,000 rubles.


New Balance 988

This model is made only in American factories and is considered one of the most comfortable walking models. The sneakers have a softer Abzorb sole, which allows the feet to get less tired during long walks. By the way, one of the most expensive New Balance models in history is the luxury 988, made entirely of genuine leather.
Prices for 988 are slightly higher. On Amazon you can buy this option at a discount for 4,000 rubles. In Russia, this model usually costs around 8,000 rubles.


News Balance 991

Those Steve Jobs shoes! It's no secret that the creator of Apple was a devoted fan of the shoe brand. It is considered a suitable model for hiking and everyday jogging. Like the 988, it uses an Abzorb outsole. It is worth noting that the appearance of sneakers is unlikely to appeal to people who are chasing the latest trends fashion. Nevertheless, it's a classic.
The most simple model on Amazon costs around 8,000 rubles. Of course, prices depend on the specific model and may be higher. In Russia, the cost of 991 comes to 24,000 rubles.


New Balance 1500

If the 577 was designed for people with wide feet, then this model is for those with narrow feet and low insteps. Average

New Balance began its history in 1906. The founder of the plant, William Wrightley, once drew attention to the most ordinary chicken, or rather, to her legs, and how she keeps on them. After all, it is known that the most stable figures are those that have three points of support at their base. Based on these facts, W. Wrightley designed a model of shoes, in which arch supports were located, supporting the foot in the correct position, simulating the principle of a chicken paw in shoes. Thus, the first orthopedic model appeared, which is in demand to this day.

New Balance sneakers are very popular among people who prefer a combination of such important parameters as excellent quality, a high level of convenience and comfort. Innovative technologies, used by New Balance, will not let your feet get tired, even when wearing these shoes for a long time.

Not unimportant is the fact that in terms of maintaining a high level of quality and using the most advanced technologies, New Balance conducts a competent financial policy, which allows it to be popular among both athletes and ordinary youth, as well as among retirees.

It is worth mentioning right away that New Balance manufactures its products not only in the USA, but also in countries such as England, Vietnam and China. Sneakers made in these countries also meet all the requirements and standards of New Balance.

New Balance - let's talk about the details

All original New Balance shoes are constructed with just two lasts, the SL-1 and SL-2. The first of these is characterized by a dense heel, a moderate instep and a standard toe, it suits people with a narrow or medium foot and squeezes the foot more tightly. The second has a more spacious forefoot, more instep, and a tighter heel, making it suitable for medium to wide feet. In addition, there are two types of soles made using Encap and Abzorb technology.

The difference between them is significant. So, Encap is designed for people with a wide foot. The outsole is elastic, springy and perfectly protects the foot from the unevenness of the road surface. This characteristic is suitable for off-road driving. In such shoes, the legs are not overloaded, and fatigue in them occurs much later.

The Encap sole in combination with a reinforced heel is recommended for people with orthopedic problems - valgus and varus, i.e. with a primary support on the outer or inner edge of the foot. Abzorb technology outsole is softer and more pliable, with a smooth ride. It is a great help for people with injuries of the arch of the foot and ankle. This is due to the increased soft-spring cushioning of the sole and damping the impact of the foot on the ground while running.

Features of original and fake New Balance sneakers

Overall build quality

New Balance has both high-tech "complex" models and relatively "easy" retro sneakers to produce. Some models may be made in the UK and USA, some in Asia. However, in no case are crooked seams, sloppy stitching or glue sticking out of the sole unacceptable for the original. The general negligence of execution, the obvious "cheapness" of materials make it clear to us that this is a very crude fake. All logo embroidery for all editions of New Balance is always done carefully. All labels are easy to read. The lines are straight. Approximately like this.

materials

The model is made strictly from those materials that are laid down by technology. First of all, this concerns the materials of the sole. So, having coveted a low price, for example, New Balance 998, you can get "sneakers" not on the technologically advanced elastic Abzorb sole, but on a completely nameless heavy piece of rubber or polyurethane. There can be no question of any convenience when wearing such sneakers. In addition, the name of the technology by which the sole is made is always written on its side (for example, for 998 it is Abzorb, for 577 it is Encap). Uneven sloppy embroidery, as mentioned above, clearly indicates the non-original goods. We also see cloth language, which is not used in original model new Balance 998.

Logos and embroideries

All logos indicating the manufacturer and model from New Balance are applied to the front side of the tongue. For example, if this is model 998, then it is written in the language - 998 new balance. All lettering is equal.

The model is never indicated on the back. If you see this, then you have a fake.

Also for English editions, the inscription "Made in UK" is embroidered in the language. Also in this case, the image of the flag of Great Britain can be applied to the tongue and back. However, if you see the English edition of New Balance without a flag, this does not mean that you have a fake in front of you. For example, in some editions of the 577 model, the flag is missing, while in front of you the sneakers are of the English assembly.

Also, the name of the model is duplicated on the back of the tongue on the label, along with the size in the American, English, European and sometimes Japanese size lines. The country of manufacture must be indicated on the label. The clearest evidence that we have “free creations” of Chinese shoemakers is the incorrect image of the logo, the addition of details that do not exist in the original products, and sometimes simply a distortion of the name of the original manufacturer.

Package

New Balance's packaging is standardized. As a rule, sports and inexpensive touring models are packaged in a blue and red box, while lifestile models are packaged in light-colored boxes made of unpainted cardboard with the words “achieve New Balance“.

For models made in the UK, the same box marked "made in England" can be used. At the moment, all lines can be packed in regular blue-red boxes. This is New Balance's most popular packaging. For some publications (for example, some models made in USA), this box can be used: On the side of the package, a sticker with a barcode is obligatory indicating the size in the US/UK/EUR grid, weight and model name. In addition, the barcode on the box must match the barcode on the label located on the back of the tongue.

Insole and tongue

The insole will help to distinguish the original New Balance from a fake. Most often, copies do not differ in special quality, they only have a shoe size. The original product is fundamentally different. There is no pair size on the insole, only the company logo should be printed on it. You can also distinguish the original New Balance from a fake by examining the inner “tongue” of the shoe. A small sticker should contain information about the size, the country in which the pair was made, the model number and the QR code. If you dedicate the label with ultraviolet light, the company logo will appear.

Sole

To distinguish the original New Balance from a fake, you must definitely inspect the sole. It should be of high quality, most often black. You should bend the sneakers, if they are soft and elastic, then most likely they are original products. When a pair does not bend, this indicates that a rough copy is in the hands. If you look at the heel, the original New Balance will have the label and NB badge sewn in. Most often, a fake is devoid of such trifles, or they are attached with glue, and the work itself is done carelessly.

Recently, we are increasingly confronted with fake New Balance shoes, some of which are quite difficult to "expose". Therefore, you probably wondered more than once: how to distinguish original New Balance sneakers from a fake?

The New Balance team has come up with a surefire way to identify the authenticity of our sneakers. You can even do this at home using an ultraviolet flashlight or lamp: You need to shine an ultraviolet light on the inside of the “tongue” and the New Balance logos should be highlighted.

Thus, you are now protected from fakes! Buy the original and you will be 100% satisfied with the purchase! 🙂

Attention: on sneakers made in England, the logo does not glow due to the peculiarities of production at the New Balance factory in Flimby - here the label is applied with paint. But in the near future, methods for determining "English originals" from fakes will definitely be developed.

Where to buy the original?

In order to 100% rid yourself of problems with fakes, it is best to purchase New Balance sneakers (and other brands too) in online stores specializing in such a product. In principle, all of the above recommendations relate to a situation where the buyer saw a product at a good price from a private seller and is tormented by doubts. In this case, it is worth considering in detail the photos of the product. Also, do not be shy to ask for real photos of the lot, because. the description may be standard, and the photographs may be from the manufacturer's website. In any case, if you are not sure about the product and the seller, it is better to refuse the purchase and purchase this product in a trusted store. Here are some of them.

  • http://www.newbalance.com Official website of the brand. The store only ships within the US. However, people successfully order there to the addresses of mailforwarders companies. In addition, only on the official website you can order customized New Balance for yourself, “painted” by you personally in the designer on the website. This option is currently available for models 574, 998 and 993.
  • www.pickyourshoes.com The largest online sneaker store in the USA. Largest selection of sizes and colors. If you are looking for new items, then you should look first of all just here. New Balance made in USA are placed in a separate category. The store has direct delivery by EMS. Although, in some cases, it may be cheaper to send an order to an intermediary.
  • www.size.co.uk One of the most famous British sneaker shops. There is direct (and very inexpensive) shipping. However, the store does not deduct VAT.
  • www.endclothing.co.uk Also the most popular British store with a great selection of New Balance. Very good prices during discounts, automatic VAT deduction and fast express delivery.

As for sellers on Ebay, you can find quite worthy New Balance sneakers there, and it is on this site that you should first of all look if the buyer is interested in some archival edition that is already difficult to buy in stores.

Nicholas Maxwell

I can add that the distance between the seams on the letter N of the originals can be measured with a ruler, it is the same. Fakes usually have everything crooked and askew.

Critical Strike

The main thing: glue smudges, the integrity of the coating (any, and especially suede), appearance (exactly stitched tongue) + technologies used: thick heel, soft sole, look under the insole so that there is no incomprehensible garbage there .. And 1 more point, don’t I know for sure whether that pair of 577FMN that I ordered was left-handed (and most likely yes), I did not take it, since this model should be produced at Flimby in England (by the way, according to all the documents it was, these stickers all types of relatives and passport things), but the barcode (from 6) was USA-Canada .. it was very annoying, in theory, it shouldn’t be like that. I also think that there should not be extra inscriptions on the box (especially hieroglyphs, if the intended item was made in England \ USA \ Canada. If I'm wrong about something, correct me, everyone will only get better from this.

Lipsmackers

Look at the price level in American online stores, and you will understand whether the original or not. Although even the original prices are very different, my husband has 2 or 3 pairs of this brand, one up to $ 100, the second almost 250.

Anonymous_1038

Less than 100 dollars is definitely not the original, but fakes are now no worse than the originals, they are pleasant to the touch, and they are also excellent in wear, the labels come with emblems that you can’t distinguish, often the manufacturer comes across Vietnamese.

conclusions

Distinctive features of New Balance

  • First, a model of this color must be presented on the official website of the manufacturer.
  • Secondly, the strip on the sole should be even and symmetrical. The inscription ENCAP - in capital letters, is clearly visible. The rubber on the back is dense, well glued. Gaps, crevices, etc. not allowed.
  • New Balance lettering on the heel is clear and lined. The letters should not be connected by threads to each other - each separately.
  • The sticker on the inside of the tongue must be present. And the serial number on it must match the barcode on the box.
  • The sticker must glow under ultraviolet light, with the exception of sneakers that were made in England.
  • New Balance sneakers are sewn in factories in Indonesia, Vietnam, China, USA, UK.
  • Real New Balance are distinguished by the presence of information about the size and place of production.
  • A low price and a dubious seller are a guarantee of acquiring a fake.
  • A sign of a fake is the presence of crooked seams, a drop of glue, all kinds of irregularities and damage.
  • Original New Balance products are odorless.
  • The New Balance brand features a tight, non-slip tread with rubber heel guards and a branded logo.
  • All labels on original products are applied in complex ways - embroidery, embossing, etc.

When inventing New Balance's stable sneakers, English immigrant William Riley didn't even think he'd created an iconic shoe. At the beginning of the twentieth century, professional athletes willingly wore his sneakers. In the 1990s, the highest quality of sneakers made them a fashion staple. The popularity of shoes has spawned a wave of counterfeit goods, so when buying, you need to know how to distinguish real New Balance sneakers from fake ones.

How to check the authenticity of the purchased New Balance sneakers?

Determining the authenticity of New Balance shoes is about the same as checking Nike or Puma sneakers: the accuracy of the seams, the absence of glue smudges, the reconciliation of the article numbers on the box and shoe tongue. However, the manufacturer has prepared several "traps" for manufacturers of counterfeit products.

1. UV glowing logo

Shine a UV flashlight on the tag located inside the tongue. The real New Balance will show the logo trademark. The exception is shoes from the UK.

2. Packing

The box should have a label with the following information:

  • model name,
  • barcode,
  • color code,
  • size (indicated by three grids: for US/UK/EUR).

Be sure to check that the barcode on the packaging is identical to the code on the inside of the tab.

Box color scheme

There are the following types of New Balance branded packaging:

  • blue-red boxes - the most common type of packaging for sports and inexpensive walking models;
  • from unpainted cardboard - for reissues of lifestyle models, as well as shoes made in the UK;
  • red and white boxes are for sneakers from the USA.

Execution quality

Crooked seams, threads that have come out and glue drips on the surface - in front of you is a fake New Balance sneaker. The coloration of the material should be uniform, without streaks and whitish spots. Color combinations are the same as on the manufacturer's website. For example, a photo: on the right - a fake, on the left - branded sneakers. You can compare what the original New Balance sneakers look like and the fake one.

Label on the tongue

WITH back side A label is always sewn on the tongue with the manufacturer's country code, size and model number.

Remember: original NB sneakers are made in five countries (Great Britain, USA, China, Vietnam, Indonesia). If you have shoes from another country in your hands, then this is definitely a fake New Balance sneaker.

The photo is a blatant fake. Even the brand logo on the label is missing.

Data embroidery

The model number is printed on the front of the tongue. There should not be such figures on the back.

For English shoes, the inscription “Made in UK” is embroidered on the tongue. Also, the British flag can be applied to the heel and tongue of the sneakers. However, if you have an English New Balance without a flag, do not think that this is a fake. On a number of models, for example, the 577th, the flag is not embroidered. However, they are made in the United Kingdom.

imprint on sole

An imprint of the New Balance logo is placed on the heel of the outsole.

sole material

The outsole is made of high-tech materials Abzord and Encap, whose names are indicated on the side of the sole.

The most optimal, but also the most time-consuming way to distinguish fake NB sneakers is to go to the manufacturer's website and find the right model. If it is not located or looks different, then you have a fake.

Download mobile app, which allows you to scan shoe barcodes and compare them with the data on the manufacturer's website. In this way, even a high-quality fake can be detected, when there are no visual differences between New Balance sneakers, and a flashlight with ultraviolet is not at hand. The application well determines the authenticity of branded products, with its help you can, Adidas and other famous brands.

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