New Balance shoes and apparel

New Balance is a globally recognized American footwear and apparel brand with a unique manufacturing strategy. Founded in 1906 by William J. Riley in Boston, Massachusetts, the company originally began as the New Balance Arch Support Company, specializing in orthopedic products inspired by the anatomical balance of a chicken's foot.

Today, New Balance is one of the few major athletic shoe manufacturers that maintains a significant domestic production presence. It operates five factories in the United States (located in Maine and Massachusetts) and one in Flimby, United Kingdom. While its premium 'Made in USA' and 'Made in UK' collections are produced in these facilities, the vast majority of its commercial footwear and apparel is manufactured in Asia, primarily in Vietnam, China, and Indonesia.

Ownership of the brand has remained remarkably stable since Jim Davis purchased the company in 1972 on the day of the Boston Marathon. New Balance remains a privately held, family-owned corporation, with Jim and Anne Davis controlling approximately 95% of the company. This private status allows New Balance to focus on long-term growth and quality without the typical pressures from public shareholders, distinguishing it from major competitors like Nike or Adidas.