New Balance is a renowned brand that has captivated sneakerheads worldwide with its commitment to quality and craftsmanship. One aspect unique to New Balance is its diverse manufacturing locations, each known for distinctive production techniques and traditions. Here we break down the factories behind New Balance sneakers — focusing on USA, UK, and Japan — and explore the characteristics that make each manufacturing hub exceptional.
Made in USA
New Balance's roots lie in the United States, where it all began in 1906. The brand has a strong commitment to domestic manufacturing, emphasizing quality and supporting local communities. The two U.S. factories are in Massachusetts and Maine, each showcasing a dedication to traditional craftsmanship and attention to detail.
These factories employ skilled workers who have mastered the art of sneaker manufacturing. Each pair of New Balance shoes produced under the Made In USA umbrella undergoes meticulous handcrafting, ensuring the highest level of quality. From cutting and stitching the upper materials to attaching the midsole and outsole components, every step is carefully executed to create sneakers that stand the test of time. On average, approximately 70 to 75 percent of the shoe, including principal components like the upper, is manufactured in New Balance's USA factories. This ensures that a substantial portion of the manufacturing process takes place within the country, meeting the criteria for the Made in USA label.
Made in UK
New Balance expanded its manufacturing operations to the United Kingdom in the 1980s by establishing factories in Cumbria and Flimby. The UK factories have become synonymous with quality production, capturing the essence of British craftsmanship.
What sets the UK factories apart is their expertise in creating limited-edition and premium sneakers. Skilled artisans meticulously assemble each pair, combining traditional techniques with modern technology. The focus on quality materials, fine craftsmanship, and attention to detail results in sneakers that exude a sense of luxury and exclusivity. The Made in UK line typically involves a similar production process as the Made in USA line, with a significant portion of the shoe manufactured in-house. Similarly, approximately 70 to 75 percent of each shoe, including crucial components, is crafted at the Flimby factory. This ensures that the shoes meet the standards to be labeled as Made in UK.
Made in Japan
New Balance's presence in Japan showcases the country's renowned precision and commitment to innovation. Factories in Kobe and Tochigi exemplify the marriage of traditional craftsmanship and advanced manufacturing techniques.
Japanese factories employ cutting-edge technologies alongside meticulous handwork. The fusion of traditional shoemaking methods and modern innovations enables the creation of sneakers that excel in both performance and style. From precision stitching to the integration of innovative cushioning systems, New Balance sneakers made in Japan embody the pursuit of perfection. The Made in Japan line showcases the highest level of attention to detail, with skilled artisans crafting each pair with precision. Approximately 100 percent of the production process, including all major components and assembly, takes place in the Fukui factory. This ensures that the shoes meet the stringent criteria for the coveted Made in Japan label.
New Balance's commitment to manufacturing excellence is reflected in its factories around the world. The USA, UK, and Japan each contribute unique strengths to the brand's diverse lineup of sneakers. Keep it locked to our Twitter andMobile App to stay up to date on all New Balance releases.
Steve Jaconetta is the Head of Content based out of Connecticut. An encyclopedia for sneaker releases, he's covered the industry for over fifteen years. His stops have included Sole Collector, Complex, and StockX, to name a few. He considers the Air Jordan 11 Concord the greatest sneaker of all time and has a strong affection for 80s pop culture. Email: steve@soleretriever.com
