March 23, 2000
March 23, 2000 - This fall, New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc. will introduce three updates (MW/WW810, WW700WT and WW670) to its Athletic Walking line to support its traditional customer and enhance its position in the walking shoe industry.
The MW/WW810 will feature an improved toebox that has more height than its predecessor (the MW/WW800) to increase roominess in the forefoot. The 810 will also offer a round lace instead of flat, which offers a more youthful look, and reflectivity was added to the external heel counter on the black and white color-ways. The 810 is built on the same midsole/outsole unit as its predecessor to provide a consistent fit to consumers. "We don't want to forget our heritage consumer, that's why we are emphasizing and expanding the family shoe store channel of distribution with improved traditional models such as the 810," said Joann Sacca, Associate Product Manager, Walking.
This fall, a full-grain all-leather WW700 in white will be added to the existing 700 series. Like its counterparts, this color update is a casual-comfort style with an athletic fit and feel.
The new WW670 offered in both white and black leather with velcro closure will be introduced in September as an update to the existing WW670 tie shoe. The velcro version will have the same midsole/outsole as the tie style, so the fit and feel will remain consistent. According to Joann Sacca, "We want to enhance our walking line and provide styles that our customers request. By providing retailers with a complete comfort/casual line including velcro options, we will be doing just that."
New Balance has become the only major driver in the walking industry. While the walking market has been experiencing a downward trend (-4.5%), New Balance posted a 19.1% growth to grab 10% market share in 1999.
