Why the Heck Are New Balance Shoes So Pricey?! Ugh!

Thinking about getting a pair of New Balance shoes but shocked by the price?

Now you’re feeling a little salty and wondering why they are so expensive now. They used to be more affordable. It’s not like they’re made of gold now, right?

Well, hold up, Sharpy. I get it—it stings to see those prices climb. But, it’s not always the brand’s choice to raise up the prices. 

Yep! Brands aren’t just out there thinking about making profit 24/7. There are legit reasons why their prices have gone up. And I believe you should know about those reasons. 

Read on to know! 

Why Are New Balance Shoes So Expensive? Answered With Facts!!!

So, as I mentioned, it’s not always about profit when a brand raises its prices. There are often several other key factors as well that shape product pricing.

In the case of New Balance, a few that I found are: 

Brand Image

The first and foremost reason for their high prices is their brand image. 

Look! New Balance has been around for 118 years and is known for making some of the comfiest shoes in the market.

And it’s absolutely true! There’s no doubt about it—people love New Balance sneakers. I’ve seen tons of positive comments on Reddit, Facebook, and other platforms. People appreciate the style and comfort, especially for walking, jogging, and running.

And, it’s not just regular people who like them. Many podiatrists also recommend New Balance for walking and running. Their shoes help keep feet in a neutral position, which is great for overall foot health.

While some still refer to them as “Dad sneakers,” it is difficult to judge them solely based on that label. Their comfort and durability are self-explanatory. 

Thus, because of their strong reputation, New Balance raises their prices slightly to set their shoes apart from regular brands.

Usage of High-quality Material

The next, most anticipated reason that I can say is the top-grade material selection. And trust me, it really makes production costs shoot up.

And thinking about New Balance, they don’t cut corners—they go for the best materials available. 

A quick look at their official website shows they focus on three key materials: 

• Organic cotton
• Premium leather
• Recycled Polyester 
• Surplus material 

For their uppers, they use recycled polyester and source leather from LWG gold-rated tanneries. They’ve even incorporated Tencel, an eco-friendly cotton alternative that’s more sustainable since it requires significantly less energy and water.

For their soles, New Balance uses EVA foam and rubber. EVA foam is popular for its excellent cushioning, while rubber outsoles provide unbeatable durability. Together, these materials deliver both comfort and long-lasting wear.

I know, these materials seem pretty common. But finding these materials in their finest quality is a totally different story. 

US-Based Brand

If you’re eyeing a pair of New Balance sneakers and the price seems a bit high, it’s likely because New Balance still manufactures many of its shoes in the U.S.

As of now, about 1 in 4 pairs are made in the U.S., and production costs here are far higher than in other countries. For example, workers in the U.S. earn around $7.25 per hour, compared to roughly a dollar per hour in Asian countries like China. This huge wage gap drives up the overall cost of making shoes for U.S.-based brands.

To keep operations running smoothly and ensure fair wages for their workers, New Balance has to price their shoes a little higher. Without doing so, they could face serious financial challenges.

Related: Why Are Nike Shoes So Expensive?

Research and Innovative Technologies 

To genuinely bring ease to the feet, legs, and spine, New Balance spends a good chunk of money on advanced research. 

The whole point of this research is to develop new innovative tech that either boosts performance or adds extra support where you need it most. And New Balance does a great job of packing their shoes with cool innovations. Their focus on research and technology has helped them become a global sneaker sensation.

Here are a few of their standout features that they’ve invented so far:

• REVlite: Keeps shoes lightweight while still feeling stable.
• ABZORB: Absorbs shock, making running and walking easier on your feet.
• CUSH+: Adds extra softness and comfort.
• FuelCell: Gives you a little extra bounce and energy with every step.
• Ndurance: Makes the outsole tougher and longer-lasting.
• FantomFit: Creates a secure, snug fit without extra bulk.

Alongside that, you’ll get to see OrthoLite® insoles, which help with breathability, moisture control, and long-term cushioning.

With all the money and effort they put into making their shoes better, it makes sense that New Balance charges a bit more.

Staying Ahead of the Curve

New Balance is a century-old brand now, and over its journey, it’s definitely mastered the art of staying on trend and in tune with what buyers want.

They’ve nailed the balance of appealing to a wide range of preferences. Their modern designs grab the attention of younger generations, while their classic styles continue to connect with middle-aged customers.

Thanks to these clever strategies, New Balance proudly stands as the only major company producing over 4 million pairs of athletic footwear annually in the USA.

By staying ahead of trends and even setting them, New Balance has made its shoes highly desirable—which is one big reason why they come with a higher price tag.

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Working Under Sustainable Conditions

The cost of operating in a sustainable manner is quite high these days.

And if you take a closer look at how New Balance operates, it’s easy to see why their shoes are priced higher than some other brands.

They genuinely care about the environment and the people in it. That’s why they prioritize eco-friendly materials and sustainable practices in their production process.

For example, they use recycled polyester made from plastic waste, which not only makes their shoes eco-friendly but also helps reduce land pollution. Plus, by 2025, they’re going to achieve zero waste to landfill in their footwear factories.

Speaking of their respect for people, by 2027, 100,000 women workers in their supply chain will participate in training and education programs for personal and career development.

These efforts are embedded in the cost of creating their shoes, which increases the total cost.

Famous Collaborations

Collabs also have a good effect on the overall pricing. 

And New Balance knows this power and has been collaborating with different brands, celebrities, and fashion houses time and time again. 

Speaking of celebrities, the list is huge, but Gigi Hadid, Kourtney Kardashian, Naomi Watts, Emily Ratajkowski, J. Loare, and Jennifer Garner are just a few names.  

And for brands, notable partnerships include:

1. New Balance x Miu Miu Denim
2. New Balance x Reformation 
3. New Balance x Carhartt
4. New Balance x Stone Island
5. New Balance x Dover Street Market

Now, when people spot their favorite brands and celebrities endorsing New Balance, the desire to try their shoes becomes a trend. As more people join in, the demand for their shoes goes up, and naturally, so do the prices. 

Thus, this strategy brings up mutual fame and money. 

FAQ

Is New Balance a Premium Brand?

Yes! New Balance is a premium brand, especially in the athletic footwear industry. The use of high-quality materials, focus on manufacturing, and a reputation for comfort contribute to its premium status. Many athletes, including Sydney McLaughlin, Kawhi Leonard, and Coco Gauff, reportedly endorse New Balance.

So, yeah! It is definitely a premium brand. 

Why Is New Balance So Popular Now?

Well, there are many factors due to which New Balance is so popular right now. Firstly, they have successfully adapted to current fashion trends, shedding their previous “Dad Shoe” image and becoming more stylish. 

Then they did collaborations with influencers and fashion brands, which have also boosted their appeal. 

And lastly, the brand’s commitment to sustainability and the use of premium materials resonate with the growing consumer interest in ethical and high-quality products. So all of these have made New Balance a popular brand. 

Are New Balance Healthy for Feet?

Yes! They are good for our feet. New Balance is often recognized for designing shoes with an emphasis on comfort and support. Many of their models incorporate features like extra cushioning, stability, and ample arch support, making them suitable for individuals with different foot types. 

Final Word: Is It Worth It to Buy New Balance Shoes?

Definitely! If you’re looking for a solid pair of sneakers—whether for running, walking, or everyday style—I’d totally recommend New Balance. Their shoes are well-made and don’t compromise on foot health.

Yeah, the price tag is higher, but considering the comfort, quality, and style, they feel like a fair deal. And at the end of the day, it’s all about getting your money’s worth.

So, it might just be a worthwhile investment. But the choice is yours! 

That’s all for today.