Are New Balance Shoes Made In China?

Michael Weinstein

Entrepreneur

Michael Weinstein is a seasoned writer and a dedicated expert in work safety, footwear, and popular shoe brands. With years of research and expertise, he's...Read more

Michael Weinstein

Entrepreneur

Michael Weinstein is a seasoned writer and a dedicated expert in work safety, footwear, and popular shoe brands. With years of research and expertise, he's...Read more

New Balance is one of the most popular shoe brands around the world, known for its high-quality and durable sneakers. However, many people have been questioning the origin of New Balance shoes, specifically if they are made in China. This topic has become a hot debate among consumers, and in this article, we will explore the truth behind New Balance shoe production.

With the rise of globalization, many shoe companies have moved their manufacturing to other countries to lower production costs. China has become a popular destination for shoe production due to its low labor costs and large manufacturing facilities. So, are New Balance shoes made in China? Let’s find out!

Are New Balance Shoes Made in China? A Comprehensive Guide

New Balance is one of the most popular shoe brands in the world, known for its high-quality and comfortable footwear. However, there has been a lot of confusion regarding the origin of the brand’s production. One of the most common questions asked is whether New Balance shoes are made in China. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on the manufacturing location of New Balance shoes.

New Balance is an American brand that was founded in Boston in 1906. The company has been producing footwear for more than a century and has gained a reputation for quality, performance, and comfort. The brand has expanded its operations globally, and today, New Balance shoes are sold in over 120 countries. With such a global presence, it’s not surprising that many people wonder where the shoes are made.

Domestic Manufacturing

New Balance has a long-standing commitment to domestic manufacturing. In fact, the brand is the only major athletic shoe manufacturer that still produces shoes in the United States. New Balance operates five factories in New England that produce more than 4 million pairs of shoes each year. These factories are located in Massachusetts and Maine and employ more than 1,600 workers.

The domestic production of New Balance shoes is a point of pride for the brand. The company believes that domestic manufacturing allows for better quality control and provides jobs for American workers. It’s also worth noting that some of the brand’s most popular models, such as the 990 and 993, are made in the United States.

International Manufacturing

While New Balance is committed to domestic manufacturing, the brand also produces shoes in other countries. One of the most significant production locations is China. New Balance has factories in China that produce shoes for the global market.

It’s important to note that not all New Balance shoes are made in China. The brand has factories in other countries, including Vietnam and Indonesia. These factories produce shoes for specific markets, such as Asia and Europe. New Balance also has a factory in the United Kingdom that produces shoes for the European market.

Benefits of Domestic Manufacturing

New Balance’s commitment to domestic manufacturing has several benefits. First and foremost, it allows the brand to have greater quality control over its products. The company can monitor the production process closely and ensure that each shoe meets its high standards.

Domestic manufacturing also provides jobs for American workers. The factories in New England employ more than 1,600 workers, providing a boost to the local economy. Additionally, domestic manufacturing can help reduce transportation costs and lead times, allowing the brand to get its products to market faster.

Benefits of International Manufacturing

While domestic manufacturing has its advantages, international manufacturing also has benefits. By producing shoes in countries such as China, New Balance can take advantage of lower labor costs. This can help keep the price of the shoes down, making them more accessible to a wider range of customers.

International manufacturing can also help the brand reach new markets. By producing shoes in different countries, New Balance can tailor its products to local tastes and preferences. This can help the brand gain a foothold in new markets and expand its global presence.

New Balance vs. Other Brands

Compared to other major shoe brands, New Balance has a unique approach to manufacturing. While many brands produce shoes in countries such as China and Vietnam to take advantage of lower labor costs, New Balance is committed to domestic manufacturing. This approach sets the brand apart from its competitors and has helped it build a loyal customer base.

However, other brands have also started to shift towards domestic manufacturing. For example, Adidas has opened a factory in Atlanta that produces shoes for the American market. Nike has also invested in domestic manufacturing, with a factory in Oregon that produces shoes for the American market.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about New Balance shoes:

Where are New Balance shoes made?

New Balance manufactures shoes in a variety of countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and China. Each shoe model may be made in a different country depending on the materials and production process used. However, New Balance is committed to ensuring fair labor practices and safe working conditions in all of its factories, regardless of location.

What materials are used in New Balance shoes?

New Balance uses a variety of materials in its shoes, including leather, synthetic fabrics, and rubber. The specific materials used in each shoe model depend on the intended use of the shoe. For example, running shoes may use lightweight, breathable fabrics, while walking shoes may use more durable leather materials.

Are New Balance shoes environmentally friendly?

New Balance is committed to sustainability and has implemented several initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. For example, the company uses recycled materials in some of its shoe models and has implemented energy-saving measures in its factories. Additionally, New Balance is a member of the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, which works to improve sustainability in the apparel and footwear industry.

Do New Balance shoes run true to size?

New Balance shoes are designed to fit true to size, but individual fit may vary depending on the shape of your foot. It is recommended that you try on shoes in person before purchasing to ensure the best fit. Additionally, New Balance offers a variety of width options for some shoe models to accommodate different foot shapes.

What is the warranty on New Balance shoes?

New Balance offers a limited warranty on its shoes, which covers manufacturing defects for up to one year from the purchase date. However, the warranty does not cover normal wear and tear or damage caused by misuse or improper care. If you believe your shoes are covered by the warranty, contact New Balance customer service for assistance.

How New Balance Sneakers Are Made | The Making Of

In conclusion, we can confirm that New Balance shoes are not solely made in China. While some of their shoes are manufactured in China, the company also has factories in the United States, the United Kingdom, and other countries. In fact, the brand prides itself on maintaining a diverse global supply chain to ensure quality and efficiency.

It’s important to note that the country of origin does not necessarily determine the quality of a product. New Balance has strict standards for the materials and production processes used in their shoes, regardless of where they are made. This dedication to quality has helped the brand build a loyal following among athletes and casual wearers alike.

Overall, if you’re considering purchasing New Balance shoes, don’t let concerns about manufacturing location hold you back. Instead, focus on the brand’s reputation for quality and comfort, and choose a style that fits your needs and preferences. With a commitment to excellence and a wide range of options to choose from, New Balance is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and stylish pair of shoes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, New Balance shoes are made in both the United States and other countries, including China, Vietnam, and Indonesia. The brand’s commitment to domestic manufacturing is a point of pride, and it has several advantages, including greater quality control and job creation. However, international manufacturing also has benefits, including lower labor costs and the ability to reach new markets. Ultimately, New Balance’s approach to manufacturing helps set it apart from other shoe brands and has contributed to its success over the years.