October 3, 2001
BOSTON, October 3, 2001 - For Spring 2002 New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc. will add to its line of high performance running footwear with new models that incorporate the company's innovative technologies and new distinctive designs.
"Our primary focus in 2002 remains on performance and function for our real running consumers even as our line continues to grow and diversify. We have continued to utilize our technology and design expertise to provide the best stability, motion control and cushioning running shoes," says Louis Joseph, Associate Product Manager, Running at New Balance.
The M/W715 Supportive Cushioning versatile trainer updates the 714 in January 2002 with two color-ways available for each gender. The update offers a slightly faster and more aggressive synthetic/mesh upper design for increased breathability and a "speedy" look. The 715 maintains a comprehensive tech package that includes Abzorb® cushioning in the heel (exposed) and forefoot for maximum shock absorption, a dual density medial post for support, and a Stability Web® for torsional stability and reduced weight. The solid rubber outsole of the 715 is enhanced with an N-durance? heel pad, forefoot flex grooves, and a heel cleft. Developed for the mild to moderate overpronator, the 715 is designed to appeal to a broad base of runners.
A brand-new Cushioning segment shoe, the M/W655, will debut in February 2002 as a progressive trainer with innovative cosmetic elements including a laceless vamp for a unique, comfortable fit. The 655 features Abzorb® cushioning in the heel for maximum shock absorption, a lightweight injection molded EVA midsole for cushioning and flexibility, and a Stability Web® for midfoot support and lightweight torsional stability. The solid rubber outsole offers longwearing durability while the synthetic/mesh upper provides lightweight comfort and support. The 655 has a comp-like, racing profile with dramatic color-ways available for each gender, "The 655 spins the high-performance elements of New Balance technologies into a new area of design and creates a brand-new shoe using distinctive upper materials that appeal to our younger running consumer," says Joseph.
The M/W638 Cushioning segment shoe, which updated the M/W637 as a neutral entry-level trainer in December 2001, will also get a new color-way for each gender as well as a white leather version in February 2002. In addition to a Stability Web? and a C-Cap? midsole, the 638 features Abzorb? cushioning in the rear foot for exceptional shock absorption. The synthetic/mesh upper provides natural comfort and breathability, complimented by a padded collar and tongue, speed lace loops, and a mesh tongue.
In the Trail Running category, the M/W805 will update the 804 in January 2002 as a rugged All-Terrain trail series trainer. The 805 boasts a fresh style yet maintains the successful design momentum of the 800 series with D rings in the eyerow. The aggressive solid rubber outsole offers rugged outdoor styling, longwearing durability, and superior traction for off road performance. The 805 features a Stability Web® in the midfoot to reduce weight and provide torsional control, and a reinforced heel counter to cup the heel and provide additional stability when running on uneven terrain. The 805 midsole offers heel (exposed) and forefoot Abzorb® cushioning for maximum shock absorption while lightweight injection molded EVA provides increased flexibility. The water-resistant synthetic/mesh upper is designed to handle a variety of weather conditions, has reflective webbing and is available in two color-ways for each gender.
The all terrain M/W704 shoe in the Trail Running category also gets a new color-way in February 2002 - white with slate gray accents for women and light gray with copper accents for men. The 704 features Abzorb® cushioning in the heel and an aggressively lugged outsole for on and off road running.
As with all New Balance in-line styles, all running shoes will be available in multiple widths and sizes.
New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc., headquartered in Boston, MA, is a leading manufacturer of technologically innovative width-sized footwear and athletic apparel for women, men, and children. The range of product categories includes running, walking, cross training, basketball, tennis, adventure sports, and kids. Work and hiking boots, sandals, boat shoes, and rugged casuals are also available through the company's Dunham Bootmakers division. Dunham joined the New Balance family in Fall 1998. New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc. employs more than 2000 people around the globe, and in 2000 reported worldwide sales of $1.1 billion. For more information please visit http://www.newbalance.com.
