New Balance Shoes where are they made in USA. By keeping their production in the US, they are able to carefully monitor the production process and ensure that their high standards are met.
New Balance Shoes: Where Are They Made in USA?
Are you a fan of New Balance shoes? We’ve all seen the iconic ‘N’ logo on the side of their sneakers, but do you know where they are made? As a popular brand among athletes and casual shoe-wearers alike, it’s important to know the origins of these beloved shoes. In this article, we will dive into the history and manufacture of New Balance shoes, specifically focusing on where they are made in the USA.
History of New Balance Shoes
Before we get into the production aspect, let’s briefly touch on the history of New Balance shoes. The brand was founded in 1906 by William J. Riley, who aimed to create arch supports for those who spent long hours on their feet. Over the years, the company shifted its focus to athletic footwear, and in 1938, they introduced the first running shoe with a ripple sole for added traction. Fast forward to the 1970s, and New Balance became known for their high-quality running shoes, gaining a loyal following among runners.
New Balance’s American Production
Despite being a global brand, New Balance maintains a strong presence in the United States. In fact, they have five manufacturing facilities located in Maine and Massachusetts. These facilities employ over 1,300 skilled workers and produce over four million pairs of shoes every year. This equates to about 25% of all New Balance shoes that are sold in the United States.
Why Does New Balance Produce Shoes in the USA?
You may be wondering why a company would choose to produce their shoes in the US when it’s often cheaper to outsource to other countries. According to New Balance, their commitment to domestic production stems from their belief in good jobs, fair labor practices, and the quality of their products.
The Importance of American Production for New Balance
While New Balance could save money by outsourcing production, they believe it’s important to keep the jobs in the US. Their facilities provide good-paying jobs with benefits to workers, contributing to the local economy. Additionally, the company values expert craftsmanship and believes that by keeping production in-house, they are able to maintain the high quality of their shoes.
Eco-Friendliness of American Production
In addition to supporting the economy and maintaining quality, producing shoes in the USA also has environmental benefits. New Balance’s domestic facilities reduce carbon emissions by not shipping materials and products overseas. They also use sustainable practices, such as sourcing materials locally, to reduce their carbon footprint.
How Are New Balance Shoes Made in the USA?
Now that we’ve established the importance of American production for New Balance shoes, let’s dive into the production process itself. New Balance shoes are made through a combination of handcrafted techniques and modern technology.
Cutting and Stitching
It all starts with cutting the different pieces of the shoe from the chosen materials. The pieces are then stitched together using a Goodyear welt machine, which secures the upper to the sole of the shoe. This results in a durable and long-lasting bond between the two pieces.
Making the Midsole
New Balance is known for its cushioned and supportive midsole, and this is made through a process called injection molding. The midsole material is heated and then injected into a mold, creating the desired shape and cushioning.
Lasting and Finishing
Once the midsole is in place, the shoe is then lasted – a process that shapes the upper around the midsole and outsole. Next comes the finishing touches, such as attaching the laces, adding the insole, and final quality checks.
The Future of American Production for New Balance
New Balance has remained committed to American production for over a century, and there are no signs of that changing. The company plans to continue investing in their domestic facilities and workforce, ensuring that their shoes maintain the highest standards of quality.
FAQs About New Balance Shoes Made in USA
Are all New Balance shoes made in the USA?
No, not all New Balance shoes are made in the USA. While the company produces about 25% of their shoes domestically, the rest are manufactured overseas.
Where are New Balance shoes made if not in the USA?
New Balance shoes are also made in the UK and China, among other countries.
Are all New Balance shoes the same quality, regardless of where they are made?
Yes, New Balance maintains strict quality standards for all of their shoes, regardless of where they are made.
Does buying American-made New Balance shoes benefit the local economy?
Yes, purchasing American-made New Balance shoes supports the local economy and provides jobs for skilled workers.
How can I find out if a pair of New Balance shoes is made in the USA?
You can check the label or product description for information about where the shoes were manufactured.
Does New Balance use sustainable practices in their domestic production?
Yes, New Balance implements sustainable practices in their domestic production, such as sourcing materials locally and reducing carbon emissions.
Does the production location affect the price of New Balance shoes?
No, the production location does not have a direct impact on the price of New Balance shoes. The cost is mainly determined by the materials and technology used in the manufacturing process.
In Conclusion
New Balance is proud to produce a significant portion of their shoes in the USA, and for good reason. Their commitment to domestic production not only results in high-quality shoes but also supports the economy and promotes sustainable practices. Next time you lace up your New Balance shoes, take a moment to appreciate the skilled craftsmanship and dedication that goes into making each pair, right here in the USA.
