October 30, 2001
BOSTON, October 30, 2001 - For Spring 2002, New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc. will look to reposition themselves within the Basketball segment with the introduction of a new high performance style and new progressive color-way.
The mid-cut men's BB740 will enter the Supportive Cushioning segment in February 2002, as an update to the existing 705. The 740 is upteched with Abzorb® cushioning in the forefoot and heel (exposed) for maximum shock absorption. The 740's Stability Web® provides exceptional midfoot support and enhanced torsional stability. With a solid rubber outsole and choice of a full grain leather or synthetic upper, this new shoe offers long-lasting comfort, durability, and superior breathability. Featuring a brand new design for 2002, the forefoot material of the 740 wraps over the midsole of the shoe to provide increased lateral support. Although the shoe was primarily developed for the 3-4 forward position, this innovative design also makes this shoe an option for guards who require increased ankle support. The 740 will be available in three color-ways for February 2002 - white full grain leather with navy, white synthetic upper with Carolina blue, and an all black synthetic model.
Also in the Supportive Cushioning segment, the BB890 launched in December 2001 will get a new color-way for February 2002. Reflective silver with royal blue pop, this mid-cut technical shoe features the "Suspension Bridge Support System" - molded EVA straps that provides increased ankle support. The 890 also offers a full bed of exposed Abzorb® cushioning in the forefoot and heel for exceptional shock absorption and a Stability Web® for lightweight midfoot support.
"2002 should prove to be an exciting time for the New Balance Basketball line," says Dan Smith, Associate Product Manager, Court at New Balance. "We have been working hard to redefine this segment and update the line to meet the high-performance needs of today's basketball players."
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.