35 years after the launch of the New Balance 1500, the brand has decided to celebrate the shoe with a limited edition Made in UK release. The story of this shoe begins in 1989, during a time of great popularity for running. At the time, the intention was to bring to market a shoe specifically designed for running. This goal was achieved with great success, making this sneaker one of the most beloved by runners and those who cannot do without New Balance’s comfort.

How the new New Balance 1500 was born

The silhouette of the 1500 was born through a design process done in collaboration with MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) in Boston. A research and experimentation operation that, according to the brand, gave birth to «the closest thing to the perfect running shoe». Specifically, the brand claims that the brand new acceleration cushion inserted in the front part of the midsole seems to be the key component of this sneaker.

The history of the 1500

The name 1500 was given to the shoe because of its price: the first running shoe to exceed the $150 mark in 1989. A seemingly normal price 35 years later that at the time was intended to demonstrate New Balance’s commitment to producing an innovative product like the 1500. Over time, this shoe has become one of the most popular silhouettes in the Made in UK series; the series signed by New Balance which, thanks to skilled artisans, focuses on the highest quality fit.

Some specifics

In the case of the new 1500, it’s not a reissue as we know them. We are faced with a shoe that brings with it many new features to discover. The inspiration draws from one of the early models of the 1500, and the origin of the materials respects the tradition of New Balance sneakers Made in UK. A premium grey nubuck is paired with tonal mesh and finishes with synthetic details, while the insole and the box graphics have a vintage look inspired by the marketing materials of the original model.