New Balance Made in USA vs. UK vs. Other Countries: What Are The Differences?

• Made in USA

Born from an unwavering commitment to those who walk their own path, Made in USA represents the purest expression of New Balance's “fearlessly independent” ethos. Designed without compromise and constructed with authentic American craftsmanship for over 75 years, the Made in USA mark is the symbol of their very best, for those who would accept nothing less. 

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.

New Balance's Made in USA shoes contain at least 70% domestic materials and are made in a limited number of cases. 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. 

However, keep in mind that the Made in USA collection makes up a small portion of the actual sales in the US.

>>Shop Made in USA Collection

The Popular New Balance Made in US Shoes

New Balance has a collection of Made in USA shoes that will knock your socks off. Here are some popular products that they list in their Made in the USA section on their website:

1. New Balance 990

Price: $184.99-$219.99

Review: The New Balance 990 series has been the brand’s pinnacle product since its introduction in 1982.onceived as an uncompromising running shoe with absolutely no compromises, the line has gradually transformed into a street favourite thanks to its Made in USA quality and premium materials.They’re made with ENCAP midsole cushioning that’ll have you feeling like you’re walking on clouds. They’re also made with a durable leather and mesh upper, meaning they’re built to last, and last, and last. 

With version 6, the legendary shoe gets an update. The main difference between the New Balance 990v6 and previous versions is the chunky midsole that sits underfoot. Opting for a more contoured look, the sole unit boasts a curvier appearance, and appears to ditch the silhouette’s typical ENCAP branding for the brand’s FuelCell foam, which brings the pair more in-line with the imprint’s performance running range. With the V6, New Balance has seemingly addressed the market’s aesthetic adjustment accordingly.But the shoe’s new chunky look isn’t for everyone, and the pair has left 990 fans feeling divided on the bulkier aesthetic. 

2. New Balance 993

Price: $199.99-$219.99

Review: Originally introduced in 2008, the 993 combined elements of the two previous 99X series models, the 991 and 992, into one, streamlined design.A favorite from the legendary 990 series, the 993 features responsive cushioning and premium materials ready for a run or all-day wear.

The New Balance 993 approaches closer to crafted perfection with the incorporation of new technologies including an ACTEVA midsole for unbelievable comfort and DTS in the heel to provide a softer heel strike. The big addition was ABZORB DTS, or ‘Dynamic Transitioning System’, a new form of cushioning that utilised ABZORB foam together with the SBS elastomer to target different areas with support and stability. The upper underwent a few minor tweaks, including the addition of an elegant ‘993’ stamp on the heel.Despite its bulky appearance, the 993 is surprisingly lightweight, though not as light as, say, the average pair of running shoes. They're a sturdy, simple shoe fit for any situation—walks at the park, running errands, hangouts with friends—and they're soft enough to want to prioritize wearing. 

3. New Balance 998

Price: $184.99-$219.99

Review: A true embodiment of New Balance's timeless design and performance innovation returns to the Made in USA lineup. The original 998, released in 1993, was the first shoe to utilize ABZORB cushioning. This revolutionary step forward in shock absorption was matched visually with a sleek update to the classic 99X series look. The best part is that its style is pretty easy to rock, as it looks good with many different outfits. Nevertheless, its high standards of workmanship come with a high price!

Some NB fans and sneaker collectors in general aren’t feeling the slightly bulkier toebox shape on the 998. I for one enjoy it though even though I prefer the slope on the 997 and 1500. The toebox width gives a bit more comfort at a slight cost to style, but in my opinion it’s worth it.

• Made in UK

Since 1982, the technological innovation and meticulous craftsmanship synonymous with New Balance has been expressed at the highest levels by three simple words: "Made in England".New Balance's Made in UK shoes are made in a village on the Irish Sea called Flimby. The factory in the United Kingdom is quite large and produces about 30,000 pairs of shoes per week. Just like in the US, 70 to 75% of each shoe gets its components and gets assembled at the Flimby factory.

Sneakers from the 'Made in UK' series distinguish themselves from the average New Balance sneakers by their good quality and premium materials. Often, the models from this collection are also a bit pricier.The shoes are made with premium materials and feature experienced footwear specialists. The shoes have suede and leather uppers, mesh panels, and C-CAP midsole technology. Moreover, the kicks that fall under the Made in UK banner are generally limited-edition.

>>Shop Made in UK Collection

The Popular New Balance Made in UK Shoes

1. New Balance 991

Price: $249.99-$259.99

Review: The 991 first released in 2001 and was popularized as the shoes Steve Jobs of Apple fame wore.Considered the most stylish in the 99X series, the New Balance 991 carries classic aesthetics making it a beautiful pair to be added to any sneaker collection.

As the first 99X model of the 21st century, the original 991 set the standard for modern running design. The MADE in UK 991v2 represents a new pinnacle, with an evolved take on this genuine icon. A streamlined take on a classic pigskin suede, mesh, and synthetic upper offers a sleeker overall profile, while retaining a familiar look. The most notable technological change is the addition of full-length FuelCell cushioning. This update mirrors the upper’s evolved yet familiar approach by pairing the updated construction with classic ABZORB SBS pods and ENCAP features.The 991 is widely accessible today, with lots of collabs and general release colourways available on the market. 

2. New Balance 1500

Price: $229.99-$239.99

Review: The original M1500, released in 1989, made an immediate impact with a combination of bold visual design and a serious technological pedigree. Today, the 1500 still stands out as a signature style from the MADE in UK range. The 1500's design is very popular and is often worn under casual outfits. The model has slim lines and the moulded midsole contains the well-known ENCAP technology. Furthermore, the well-known 'N' logo is a lot smaller than on most New Balance models.

• Made in Japan

Just like the US and UK, there is a Made in Japan line. From precision stitching to the integration of innovative cushioning systems, New Balance sneakers made in Japan embody the pursuit of perfection. Factories in Kobe and Tochigi exemplify the marriage of traditional craftsmanship and advanced manufacturing techniques.

The fusion of traditional shoemaking methods and modern innovations enables the creation of sneakers that excel in both performance and style. 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.

>>Shop Made in Japan Collection

The Popular New Balance Made in Japan Shoes

1. New Balance 996 Made in Japan

Price: 74,800 yen(official released price)

Review: New Balance Japan's new 996 isn't just a reissue of the retro sneaker but a true special edition. This shoe is produced it entirely in Japan, a top-tier rarity saved for only the most special Japanese New Balance shoes.

These 996 shoes boast a ton of thoughtful touches. Like, they retain the pigskin uppers typical of old-school New Balance sneakers but the leather is specifically sourced from Japanese tanneries. Meanwhile, their sockliner is made of Coolmax, a sweat-wicking fabric popular among Japanese fashion brands like nanamica and N.HOOLYWOOD.The shoe retains its classic structure which follows a greyscale color palette throughout. From the suede upper to the mudguard, midfoot and heel, where dark grey mesh can be seen highlighting the toe box and collar to give it a bit of contrast, the branding is also at a focus. The silver “N” logo is on the lateral and outlined in white to complement the white leather inner lining and lace. 

You can get yourself a pair of American-made New Balance 996 sneakers for under $200 as part of the ongoing Made in USA line but you cannot get these New Balance 996 sneakers  for lessthan $500. They're an ode to craft, to heritage, to history, and they're worth the price tag, especially because they're guaranteed to be so darn rare.

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. However, the bulk of production happens in Asian countries like Indonesia, China, and Vietnam. So if you’re picky about your sneaker’s country of origin, you might wanna do your research before.

Where to Buy New Balance Shoes for the Cheapest?

The New Balance sneakers are available in New Balance boutiques worldwide and online.  And you can also get a second-hand and New Balance shoee on some resale websites! Sign up at Extrabux.com, you can get up to 4% cash back on new and second-hand New Balance 550 purchase at these sites！

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