If you look at any photo of Steve Jobs from the last years of his career, he is usually dressed in his signature "uniform" consisting of a black turtleneck, blue jeans, and New Balance sneakers.ance. It is their history that we will take a closer look at in our article today.
New Ballance is a brand that has earned a reputation among athletes and fashion lovers alike. Originally considered a typical “dad shoe,” it has now become a favorite across generations. Its most famous wearers include co-founder Applu Steve Jobswho is without his favorite New Balance sneakers did not pass by. Let's take a look at the fascinating journey this brand has taken.
The origins of New Balance or hen inspiration
Brand New BalancIt was founded in 1906 when Irish immigrant William J. Riley founded the New Balance Arch Support Company. Its goal was to help people maintain better balance (hence the name “New Balance") using innovative shoe support inserts.
Riley found inspiration in nature—specifically, chickens. He observed how their three-toed feet provided perfect stability, and he incorporated this idea into the design of his products. For decades, the company focused solely on orthopedic insoles, which became popular not only among workers but also among athletes.
Breakthrough into the world of sports
Athletes were demanding not only supportive insoles, but also entire shoes with better support. This is how the first New Bal shoe was born.ance – Trackster (1961), which introduced a revolutionary corrugated sole for better traction. A key moment in the brand's history was in 1972, when Jim Davis bought it and transformed it into a globally recognized running shoe brand.
In 1976, the iconic New Bal model arrivedance 320, the first shoe to feature the now-famous "N" logo. This model immediately earned Runner's World magazine's title of best running shoe and solidified its position New Ballance in the sports footwear market.
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New Ballancand Steve Jobs: MiniMalism and comfort
Brand New BalancIt has begun to gain popularity not only in sports, but also in everyday fashion. Steve Jobs, co-founder Applu, became one of its most recognizable faces. His iconic outfit – a black turtleneck, Levi's 501 jeans and New Balance 992 – became a symbol of ease minimalism and functionality. Jobs got New Balance loved for their comfort and timeless design, which resonated with the philosophy Appyou.
New Ballance as a fashion icon
In 1982, the New Bal model arrivedance 990, one of the most expensive running models of its time. It quickly became a status symbol and began to build a cult status not only among athletes, but also in fashion circles. In the 90s and early 21s, the brand firmly established itself in pop culture. It was worn by hip-hop artists, skateboarders and businessmen. Collaborations with fashion brands such as J.Crew, Casablancand or Jaden Smith moved New Balancand even further into the world of high fashion.
The most famous New Bal modelsance
- New Ballance 574 – An iconic model from 1988 that combines elements of two older shoes. Its timeless design and comfort make it one of the brand's best-selling models.
- New Ballance 990 – One of Steve Jobs’ favorite models, it offers excellent support and a classic look that will never go out of style.
- New Ballance 327 – A modern model inspired by the retro style of the 70s. The combination of comfort and style makes it a hit among the younger generation.
After more than a hundred years, New Bal remainsance true to William J. Riley's original mission – to offer maximal support and comfort. Whether you're a runner, a fashion lover, or a tech visionary like Steve Jobs, New Balance will find its way into your life. Thanks to its combination of functionality and style, the brand is not only a symbol of quality, but also an essential part of modern culture.
New Bal shoesancYou can buy it for great prices here, for example.
