Based in Japan, the @m.lab.official studio has been in charge of all the New Balance Made in Japan shoes, not putting a single foot wrong as far as quality and heritage is concerned. The current MiJ portfolio consists of the New Balance 996 JP, New balance 576 JP and the New Balance 1500 JP, with the next shoe on the docket being the NB 991.

Although it’s worth mentioning that there were also two New Balance 1700 JP and a New Balance 327, likely of which were constructed under the supervision of the MimLab.

Opting for the original 991v1 version of the silhouette, it makes sense considering the amount of New Balance purists that reside in Japan. I recall hearing how Japanese Balance-heads almost prefer seeing the British flag stitched onto the Made in UK editions. This stems from the idea around Made in England-quality, a factor which is held in high regard, especially in Japan.

UK and US New Balance collectors also pay over the mark for a chance to own the Made in Japan editions, so this romanticisation of quality works both ways. New Balance recently dropped a Made in UK NB 991v2 that is exclusively available in Japan, so this relationship isn't limited to the brand's Made range.

Based on this one image, this Made in Japan NB 991 is constructed from a typically “Core Grey” upper, with a white “made in Japan” stitching across the heel. We expect to see that update trace onto the back on the tongue label as well, swapping in the Japanese flag in the place of the Great British flag.

The New Balance 991 Made in Japan will likely become available at the New Balance Harajuku store before the end of the 2026, so if you’re planning on getting a pair then make sure you sort out a plane ticket or a proxy