Where Are New Balance Shoes Made? A Comprehensive Guide

New Balance is a well-known American brand that is famous for its high-quality athletic footwear. Since its founding in 1906, New Balance has grown into a global company with manufacturing locations in the United States, Vietnam, China, Indonesia, and the United Kingdom. Many people wonder where New Balance shoes are made. This article explores the origins and manufacturing locations of New Balance shoes, providing a comprehensive understanding of the brand’s production practices.

Manufacturing Locations

New Balance has a diverse manufacturing network that spans several countries. This global presence allows the brand to meet the demands of a worldwide market while maintaining a commitment to quality.

United States

New Balance operates five factories in the United States, primarily located in Massachusetts and Maine. These facilities are known for their skilled workforce and commitment to quality craftsmanship. The company produces around 4 million pairs of shoes annually in the USA, emphasizing its dedication to domestic manufacturing.

Vietnam

Vietnam has become a significant hub for New Balance’s production. The country offers skilled labor and modern manufacturing facilities, allowing New Balance to produce high-quality shoes efficiently. Vietnamese factories are known for their attention to detail and adherence to strict quality standards.

China

China plays a crucial role in New Balance’s manufacturing network. With its extensive infrastructure and experienced workforce, Chinese factories handle large production volumes, ensuring that New Balance meets global demand. However, many components, such as soles, are sourced from China.

Indonesia

Indonesia is an emerging manufacturing location for New Balance. The country’s growing expertise in shoe production and competitive labor costs make it an attractive option for the company. New Balance’s Indonesian factories are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, ensuring high-quality output.

United Kingdom

New Balance has a long history in the United Kingdom, operating a factory in Flimby, Cumbria. This facility produces a range of New Balance shoes, particularly focusing on the iconic “Made in UK” line. The Flimby factory is renowned for its craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Technical Features of New Balance Shoes

New Balance shoes are known for their innovative designs and technical features. Below is a comparison table highlighting some of the key technical features of popular New Balance models.

Feature	New Balance 990v5	New Balance 574	New Balance 997H
Upper Material	Mesh/Suede	Suede/Textile	Textile
Midsole Technology	ENCAP	EVA	Fresh Foam
Outsole Material	Rubber	Rubber	Rubber
Weight	10.5 oz	12 oz	10.2 oz
Arch Support	Moderate	Low	Moderate
Heel Drop	12 mm	12 mm	10 mm

Types of New Balance Shoes

New Balance offers a variety of shoe types designed for different activities and preferences. Below is a comparison table of some popular types of New Balance shoes.

Type	Description	Ideal For
Running Shoes	Lightweight and cushioned for optimal performance.	Runners and joggers
Walking Shoes	Designed for comfort and support during walks.	Casual walkers
Lifestyle Sneakers	Fashionable designs for everyday wear.	Casual outings
Training Shoes	Versatile shoes for various workouts.	Gym enthusiasts
Trail Shoes	Rugged shoes for off-road running and hiking.	Trail runners and hikers

New Balance’s Commitment to Quality

New Balance is committed to maintaining high-quality standards across its manufacturing processes. The company employs rigorous testing and inspection processes to ensure that every pair of shoes meets its high standards. From material selection to final assembly, New Balance’s commitment to quality is evident in every step of the production process.

Sustainability and Ethical Practices

New Balance is dedicated to sustainability and ethical manufacturing practices. The company strives to reduce its environmental impact and ensure fair treatment of workers across its global supply chain. This includes using sustainable materials and enforcing strict labor standards in all its factories.

Conclusion

In conclusion, New Balance shoes are made in a combination of domestic and international factories. The company’s commitment to American manufacturing sets it apart from many competitors, while its global production network ensures it can meet the demands of a worldwide market. Whether labelled “Made in USA,” “Made in UK,” or produced in Vietnam, China, or Indonesia, every pair of New Balance shoes reflects the brand’s dedication to quality, sustainability, and ethical practices.

FAQs

1. Are all New Balance shoes made in the USA?
No, not all New Balance shoes are made in the USA. While the company produces a significant number of shoes domestically, many are manufactured in countries like China, Vietnam, and Indonesia.

2. What percentage of New Balance shoes are made in the USA?
New Balance states that they produce over 4 million pairs of shoes in the USA each year, but this represents a limited portion of their total production.

3. Where can I find New Balance shoes made in the USA?
You can find New Balance shoes made in the USA on their official website, www.newbalance.com.cn, under the “Made in USA” section.

4. Does New Balance use sustainable materials?
Yes, New Balance incorporates sustainable materials into its shoe production whenever possible, including recycled materials and environmentally friendly dyes.

5. What is the difference between “Made in USA” and “Assembled in USA”?
“Made in USA” indicates that a product is made with at least 70% domestic value, while “Assembled in USA” means that the product may have components sourced from other countries.