Why New Balance’s Made in UK Range is So Iconic

New Balance continues to dominate the streetwear scene with its premium range of sneakers, composed of collaborations and in-line releases. While we continue to enjoy the stream of colourways today, the silhouettes that pushed the Boston brand to the forefront of the busy footwear industry shouldn't be neglected.

Alongside New Balance's MADE in US range, now helmed by Aimé Leon Dore's Teddy Santis, is a wide selection of models made in the UK Flimby factory located in a coastal village in Cumbria, North West England.

New Balance's Made-in-England line dates back to the early '80s. Now 40 years and counting, many early designs continue to be modern-day favourites, such as the New Balance 991 that joined the Flimby family in 2001.

Seen in a fall-friendly tan palette with greyscale counterparts, the NB991 showcases breathable mesh and pigskin suede fabric much softer than the US-made renditions — differentiating itself to maintain its honourable British heritage.

Contemporary silhouettes and co-branded variants undeniably play a significant role in its ever-growing fame. However, the intense focus on maintaining the high quality of current designs is equally important. Take the New Balance 730, one of the first UK-bred trainers to return to the scene boasting the same high-grade profile and signature colours that even made them a favourite of the former New Balance CEO, Jim Davis.

There are also a few recent inventions which dived right under our noses and are now slowly but surely gaining the attention it deserves with the help of partnerships and commemorative themes, namely the New Balance 920 that debuted in 2020. Although it does come equipped with the US-made 990v3 ENCAP midsole, the upper pulls inspiration from the brand's legendary 900 and 1000 UK series, displaying the value of New Balance Flimby's quality and craftsmanship.

With all that said, look forward to more upcoming releases from New Balance's UK MADE in the UK division. Stay locked in The Sole Supplier so you don't miss out on the latest New Balance drop dates. In related news, atmos & BEAMS ready this upcoming New Balance collab.