New Balance: How an Orthopaedic Insole Maker Became a Cult

6 min read · Kiri Sneakers Outlet, Nha Trang

New Balance is that rare brand that became fashionable by spending decades not trying to be. The company started in Boston in 1906, and its first products weren't even shoes: immigrant William Riley made arch supports — orthopaedic insoles for people who spent all day on their feet.

A chicken's foot as inspiration

According to company legend, Riley explained his idea of balance using a chicken's foot: three points of contact give perfect stability. Hence the name — New Balance. He sold his arch supports to policemen, waiters and postmen — people whose feet get genuinely tired.

Betting on width

New Balance started making full sneakers later than its competitors, but with an idea the others ignored: feet differ not only in length but in width. The brand began producing models in multiple widths, from narrow to extra wide. For millions of people with non-standard feet this was salvation — and that loyalty feeds the brand to this day.

The 990 and quiet-classic status

In 1982 came the 990 — the first sneaker priced above a hundred dollars. Expensive, restrained, nothing flashy. The grey suede 990 became the uniform of people who could afford anything but choose comfort: from Boston professors to Steve Jobs.

A particular point of pride: factories in the USA and UK still produce the Made in USA and Made in UK lines — almost unique for mass-market athletic footwear.

The unexpected renaissance

In the 2020s “dad shoes” suddenly became the biggest trend: the 530, 550, 574 and 2002R are worn by students and stylists alike. The secret is simple — comfort that needs no explanation, and design that doesn't age because it never chased fashion in the first place.

Who New Balance is for

• If you have a wide foot or a high instep — start your fitting with NB.
• If you walk a lot — the brand's cushioning is among the most comfortable out there.
• If you want “one pair for everything” — the 574 or 2002R goes with anything.

Nha Trang's climate is hot, so we recommend mesh-upper models — see our separate post on choosing sneakers for the heat.