Apple Founder Steve Jobs Also Wore Them! Exploring the History & Charm of the U.K.-Made Model '991'

The '991', which debuted in 2001 as the 8th installment of the '990 series', furthers the high-tech design by incorporating cutting-edge technology of the time. It is the only model produced mainly in the U.K. We asked Shigeyuki Kunii, the creative director of Mita Sneakers and a key figure in the sneaker scene, about how the '991', which astounds sneaker enthusiasts with its exceptional comfort and sophisticated design, was born and where it is positioned in New Balance.

The Trajectory of the '991', Beloved by Many Famous Figures

New Balance has a proprietary material called Visible ABZORB, which excels in shock absorption and resilience. The '991' debuted in 2001 as the 8th installment of the '990 series', featuring this cushion material in a visible form. Kunii elaborates on the birth of the '991'.
 
'In 1982, aiming for the ultimate running shoes with top-notch technology at the time, the first '990v1' was born after four years in the making. From there, rather than going to '990v2', it jumps straight to '995'. '995' arrived in 1986, followed by '996' in 1988.

"After that, it evolves with updates along with the product number up to '999', and in 1998, it comes full circle with the appearance of '990v2'. Then the count begins again, leading up to the introduction of the '991' we're highlighting today in 2001."
 
Although there were already models in the '1000 series' that featured Visible ABZORB during the 2000s, it was a notable feature that the '991' was the first in the '900 series' to incorporate Visible ABZORB. Kunii continues.

"It's well known that Steve Jobs fancied and wore the '992', but it's also true that he wore the '991' before that. As every U.S. president is known for wearing New Balance upon taking office, I suppose the '991' has not been an exception, too. It's widely adored by renowned artists and creators alike, which is one of the reasons why the '991' stands out."

The Transition from Made in U.S.A to Made in U.K.

The original '991' was Made in the U.S.A., but the model's 20th anniversary reissue in 2021 was released as part of New Balance's prestigious Made in U.K. line. Kunii also explains the transition in the country of production.

"Originally, the '991' itself was a model born as 'Made in U.S.A.', but when the project for the full reissue of the '991' started, it happened to be led by the U.K. team. They have faithfully reproduced the details and coloring of the time, and updated them to a more premium model, which is truly characteristic of the U.K. team."
 
Made in U.K. shoes are produced at the Flimby factory in the UK. This factory, located in Flimby, Cumbria, since 1982, stands out with the artisanship of its shoemaking, and the skill and experience in footwear manufacturing.

"Regarding the reissued model, not only has the mesh upper and high-quality pigskin suede been faithfully reproduced, but the sole technology has also been authentically re-created. The midsole visually manifests ABZORB, a cushion material that absorbs landing impact and returns its rebound to the feet.

"Also, the outsole features the rubber compound 'Ndurance', which greatly enhances durability. However, as my personal impression, since the U.K. SL-1 last was adopted, the shoes seem to have sharpened a bit as they switched to the U.K. production."