March 23, 2000
March 23, 2000 - As a leading manufacturer of performance athletic footwear and apparel, New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc. aims to make product for every stage of an outing. An extension of the company's Outback Sports line of shoes (shoes designed for light day hiking, scrambling, and bouldering), the all-new MO/WO550 closed-back clog has a down-time application; that is, it is perfect for after sport.
While this clog boasts elements of casual comfort, it also incorporates New Balance's trademark technologies, giving it a performance edge over most comfort-casual styles on the market. ABZORB® cushioning in the heel provides shock absorption, a pre-molded heel counter makes for a snug fit, a roomy toe box and plush interior give the shoe added comfort, and a velcro closure makes for easy on/easy off. In addition, the 550 has a rugged but trail-friendly tread pattern, a re-inforced rubberized toe bumper for long-wear, and a stylish and breathable pigskin suede upper.
For September, the 550 will be available in two color-ways, black and gray. Look for a third color-way (khaki) to join the line in January 2001.
"No matter what people are doing in the outdoors, we want to have a shoe for them. Until now, we've had a myriad of shoes for various outdoor activities, but we've never had a shoe intended for post-play. Merchandised as a high-end sport shoe, the 550 features the same fit and function components as other NB styles, but it also has a practical down-time application," said Deirdre McDonnell, Senior Product Manager, Walking and Outdoor.
In addition to the new clog, New Balance will further diversify its Outback Sports segment through the addition of the MO/WO850, a new mid-cut hiker. A very stable and lightweight boot, the 850 features a pre-molded heel counter for heel stability, midfoot support straps to keep the foot in place and improve fit, a rubberized rand (around the foot, above the midsole) for lateral support, and a Stability Web® in the midsole which provides torsional control while keeping the weight down.
The 850 also boasts a SYMPATEX® inner-bootie for water-proofing and a ThermaStat™ sock liner which regulates temperature. Therefore, if it's cold, you're feet will be warm, and if it's warm, you're feet will stay cool. A synthetic/mesh upper completes the comfort/function package.
