December 29, 1999
BOSTON, MA, December 29, 1999 - Seeking to offer consumers an additional style at the elite level, New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc. has developed the M/W1000 for release in July 1999. The M/W1000, a versatility shoe, will be merchandised alongside the M/W1200 series as a high-end (+$100), progressively styled, technical running shoe.
"The M/W1000 features accentuated forefoot flex grooves with bridged pods, providing a more flexible forefoot," said Running Product Manager Craig Heisner. "A Stability Web® in the mid-sole and a dual density post in the heel offer pronation control and midfoot stability."
The M/W1000 offers a more flexible alternative to the highly technical M/W1200 stability trainer, while providing greater cushioning, through a full bed of Abzorb®, than the M/W852. The M/W1000 is ideal for the runner who does not need tremendous motion control.
In the trail running category, NB again offers a new shoe, the M/W702, which will complement and complete the line of trail running shoes begun in 1998. The M/W702 is a lower profile alternative to the M/W802 and M/W902, both of which have been updated with new color offerings for the fall. With Abzorb® in the rearfoot, a C-Cap® midsole and a lugged outsole, the M/W702 is the perfect choice for the runner who prefers a lighter all terrain shoe.
In the racing category, new offerings include the RC310, an update of to the RC220, as well as the RX215, which replaces the earlier RX210. Like its predecessor, the RX215 remains the only racing spike on the market that is offered in two widths. An improved feature of the RX215 is its water resistancy, ideal for the dedicated cross-country runner.
With the recent news that running surpassed basketball in athletic footwear sales this year, the outlook for further gains is very favorable.
"Our sales forecasts continue to be very positive," said Heisner. "We continue to forecast growth ahead of the market in every category. We plan to continue
attracting real runners to the brand by stressing performance first throughout our product line."
New Balance continues to improve upon all shoes, not only with the development of the Elite collection, like the M/W702 and M/W1200, but also with continued development of the Heritage line, such as the M/W990 and M/W1700.
New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc., headquartered in Boston, MA, is a leading manufacturer of technologically advanced, width-sized footwear and apparel for men, women and children. The range of product categories includes running, cross-training, walking, basketball, tennis, golf, kids and casuals. The company employs more than 1600 people around the globe, and in 1997 reported worldwide revenue of $550 million. For more information about New Balance products, visit http://www.newbalance.com
