October 30, 2002
BOSTON, October 30, 2002 - For Spring 2003, New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc. will update its Walking line with both a new Athletic walking and a Country walking model that showcase the brand's comfort technologies and high performance features.
Athletic Walking:
In the Lightweight Performance segment, the WW/MW787 will debut in January 2003 as an update to the 786. The 787 includes Abzorb® cushioning in the heel and forefoot for maximum shock absorption, a Graphite Rollbar® for exceptional stability, and a Walking Strike Path Outsole to stabilize the foot through the walking gait cycle. The synthetic/mesh upper provides lightweight comfort and support, while the speed lacing provides a customized fit and easy on, easy off wear.
The MW/WW625 will feature a new colorway in February. This Supportive Cushioning fitness shoe made with soft suede leather and Abzorb® cushioning for maximum shock absorption will come in a sand color way for Spring 2003.
Country Walking:
The WW/MW745 updates the 744 in January 2003 as a lightweight, breathable shoe for athletic walking in more adventurous environments. The tech package maintains the key performance elements of the 744, with a Stability Web® for midfoot support and lightweight torsional stability, Abzorb® cushioning in the heel for exceptional shock absorption and a Walking Strike Path Outsole to stabilize the foot through the walking gait cycle. The soft lugged, aggressive outsole provides maximum traction. With a two-tone, shinier mesh the cosmetics of the 745 make more of a statement. Available in a dark brown with light brown colorway, this shoe is designed for day hikes and off road walking.
"In a struggling Walking market, New Balance has experienced a 25% increase in sales for 2002 compared to 2001," says Joann Sacca, Product Manager, Walking, at New Balance. "New Balance holds close to 19% of the Walking market share and these two high performance additions for Spring should further strengthen our position in the category."
As with all New Balance in-line styles, all walking shoes are 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 2400 people around the globe, and in 2001 reported worldwide sales of $1.16 billion. For more information please visit http://www.newbalance.com.
