New Balance shoes are manufactured in multiple countries, with distinct production lines for different markets and quality levels:
- Made in the USA: New Balance has five manufacturing facilities in Maine and Massachusetts. Shoes labeled "Made in USA" must have at least 70% of their components sourced and assembled domestically. This line includes models like the 990 series (990v2, 990v3, 990v5 Core, 990v6, and 993). These shoes are handcrafted with a focus on American craftsmanship, though not all materials are 100% domestic, and the "Made in USA" label reflects the 70% domestic value rule rather than full domestic production
- Made in the UK: New Balance also produces shoes in factories located in Cumbria and Flimby, England. Similar to the US line, about 70-75% of the components and assembly occur in the UK. This line typically includes premium, limited-edition models such as the 991, 1500, 574, 576, 577, and R770, emphasizing British craftsmanship and quality
- Made in Japan: New Balance operates factories in Kobe, Tochigi, and Fukui, Japan. Japanese production is known for precision and innovation, with nearly 100% of the production process, including all major components and assembly, taking place domestically. This line is recognized for high attention to detail and advanced manufacturing techniques
- Other production: The majority of New Balance shoes are produced in Asian countries such as Indonesia, China, and Vietnam. These factories handle the bulk of the brand's production, especially for models outside the "Made in USA," "Made in UK," and "Made in Japan" lines
In summary, New Balance maintains a diverse manufacturing footprint with a commitment to domestic production in the US, UK, and Japan for select premium lines, while most of its shoes are made in Asia. The "Made in USA" and "Made in UK" labels indicate a significant but not total domestic content and assembly
