New Balance has a long line of classic silhouettes. It's probably longer than the majority of sneaker labels out there. From the iconic 574 to the 990 family, what sets the New Balance collection apart from others is that these classics have, by and large, proven themselves over the space of 20 or more years.
But, while the silhouettes might have some years under their belts, they’re kept fresh by a constantly rotating palette of colorways, each better than the last. It’s one reason that these New Balance classics never go out of style.
Below, we’ve rounded up 10 New Balance classics in our favorite new-season colorways to prove our point. Resurrected silhouettes like the 550 and 1906R sit alongside consistent favorites in the 574, 991, and more.
Shop 10 new instant New Balance classics.
Made in USA 990v2
When the New Balance 990 first hit shelves in 1982, it came with an eye-popping three-figure price tag. This set the design on a path to becoming a top-of-the-range runner as well as a stylish status symbol. Since then, the silhouette has seen some changes, but the overarching concept remains the same: classic design with best-in-class colorways.
BB550
The New Balance 550 was originally released in 1989 as a basketball silhouette. It was successful but nowhere near as successful as when it was resurrected in 2020, going on to become one of New Balance's favored silhouettes within months. This colorway with clean white uppers and a retro-style gum outsole leans into everything that made the 550 such a modern classic.
Made in UK 991
The 991 is often overlooked in favor of other 990 family members, but we think this is unfair. The 991 is aesthetically one of the best designs from New Balance, period. With colorways like this Green Moss iteration on offer, there's little reason to look elsewhere for your fall footwear staple.
2002R
Those in the market for an affordable normcore runner should have the 2002R in their sights. With an RRP around half that of many other fan-favorite New Balance silhouettes, it's a tempting proposition. The above Steel colorway nods to the long history of iconic Grey New Balance classics. For those looking to keep things neutral and in line with the fall palette, there's no better option than the Adrift palette.
327
Like the 550, the 327 is a silhouette with retro acumen that caught on in the modern day. But, unlike the 550, the 327 never actually hit shelves in the past; instead, it's a modern design that takes inspiration from the golden age of runners. The lightweight, sleek silhouette is a versatile styler which quickly became a go-to for New Balance stans and collaborating brands alike.
1906R
Easily one of New Balance's best recent resurrections, the 1906R is set to be a major flagship for New Balance. This silhouette originally launched in 2010 but has only truly been appreciated for its technical style this time around. The rollout of new colorways for the silhouette has been astounding, with New Balance hitting new heights each time. Take this Sea Salt iteration with True Red flashes as your proof.
Made in UK 1500
We mentioned earlier that New Balance is famed for its Grey colorway. In fact, New Balance Grey is an actual thing. No other colorway in this roundup harks back to New Balance's archive like this one, which features both of the brand's signature hues in the Grey and Blue hits. Where better to house these signature hues than the timeless 1500?
Bodega 574 Legacy
Launching in 1988, the New Balance 574 is arguably New Balance's definitive silhouette. Designed to be fit for all purposes, it continues to be a versatile and favored design in the modern day. One mark of its enduring success is that it's still consistently chosen as the subject of collaborations like this recent drop with Bodega.
Made in UK 920
Combining elements of New Balance's runners, like a classic ENCAP midsole, with a substantial, everyday upper build, the 920 is a robust and comfortable design that's great for fall and winter. The 1982 release has maintained a quiet success over its lifespan, and with the uptick in popularity of chunky runners, it's primed for a good few years.
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