One of the world’s oldest sports brands is New Balance. For more than a century, it has maintained popularity in the market for sports shoes, clothing, and accessories. Its factories operate in the United Kingdom and the United States, delighting sports fans with high-quality products.
How New Balance started
In the early 20th century, an Irish immigrant named William Riley established a business producing insoles and arch supports for shoes under the name New Balance Rubber. Within 30 years, his products became widely used by professionals who spent long hours on their feet — policemen, waiters, firefighters, couriers, stewards, and others. In 1938, the company began producing shoes for professional baseball players. Over time, the product range expanded to include models for various sports disciplines.
By the 1950s, New Balance had become a well-known brand in America. It entered a new phase of growth by starting the production of trainers. In the 1970s, the company received a new impulse for development, creating shoes for athletics that gained widespread recognition. During this time, the product line expanded to include sportswear, and manufacturing sites were established in the UK. The company grew rapidly and attracted the attention of Steve Jobs, who contributed to the creation of the 99X series.
The best New Balance models
New Balance football boots are a relatively recent addition, as the brand initially specialized in footwear for athletics. However, in recent years, the company has launched several successful football boot series, endorsed by stars like Sadio Mané, Aaron Ramsey, and Marouane Fellaini.
New Balance boots are known for their comfort and moderate price, catering to players with various playing styles. Whether for forwards or goalkeepers, New Balance offers options tailored for gym use or different field surfaces. Some of the most successful lines include:
New Balance Tekela
Designed for elite players who emphasize speed, aggressiveness, and dynamism, Tekela boots offer reliable support. The Tekela v3 boots feature a laceless design with the Hypoknit system, providing a flexible upper that stabilizes the foot, enhances ball control, and ensures exceptional comfort. A lightweight nylon-based sole with polyurethane studs enables quick maneuvers, helping players outpace opponents. Reinforced heels add further advantages.
New Balance Furon
Created for high-speed play and intense action, Furon boots combine Hypoknit with Fit Weave technology, ensuring flexibility and foot stability. Hyper-lock lacing technology secures the shoe to the foot while protecting the ankle from injury. These features allow players to achieve maximum speed. The lightweight outsole, equipped with stability-enhancing spikes, further contributes to performance.
New Balance Visaro
A blend of Tekela and Furon’s strengths, Visaro boots are enhanced with Fresh Foam for improved cushioning and joint protection.
New Balance sports shoes are crafted from high-quality synthetic materials using modern technologies, though limited editions made from genuine leather are occasionally released.
A difficult choice for football stars
Several famous footballers have played in New Balance boots, including:
- Sadio Mané: The Senegalese striker, known for his performances with Liverpool and Bayern Munich, wore New Balance Furon boots.
Sadio Mané
- Raheem Sterling: The English midfielder, formerly of Manchester City and Chelsea, also favored the Furon line.
- Bukayo Saka: A young English midfielder for Arsenal and the England national team.
- Timothy Weah: An American forward and the son of legendary footballer George Weah.
Personalized contract with prodigy Endrick
In December 2023, Brazilian football prodigy Endrick signed a five-year contract with New Balance, running until 2028. Although the financial details remain undisclosed, it is known to be a multi-million-dollar deal.
Endrick, previously partnered with Nike, chose New Balance for the opportunity to have a more prominent role and develop a signature boot line. As part of this partnership, New Balance unveiled the special “Accolade” Tekela v4+ Low cleats to celebrate Endrick’s call-up to the Brazilian national team and his contribution to Palmeiras’ championship win.
In December 2024, New Balance released the “Irmão” Tekela Pro FG V4+, a boot dedicated to Endrick’s hometown, Valparaíso de Goiás.
Endrick
For professionals and amateurs
New Balance produces two categories of football boots:
- Professional Boots: Crafted from high-quality materials and incorporating the latest technologies, these boots offer superior performance and durability.
- Amateur Boots: Made with fewer innovations and lower-quality materials, these remain reliable, practical, and comfortable while being more affordable.
Both categories are known for their practicality and quality. Authentic New Balance shoes can always be identified by the model number stamped on the tongue.
The New Balance brand continues to hold its position in the sports goods market and is a great choice for football enthusiasts.
