New Balance has unveiled a new Made in UK 991v1, drawing inspiration from vintage luxury luggage and the patina of well-travelled leather goods.
Crafted from premium vegetable-tanned leathers, the latest sneaker blends deep chocolate browns with warm caramel tones, combining pebbled textures and smooth overlays for a refined, heritage-led update of the silhouette.
First introduced in 2001, the 991 is closely tied to Flimby, home of New Balance Made in UK, and this v1 iteration leans into its origins with a slimmer profile, upright stance and more formal construction. Distinct from the lower, more contemporary 991v2, the v1 will continue to be reworked through 2026 using elevated materials and luxury finishes.
The design also nods to Italy, where the 991v1 became a lifestyle staple, worn by creatives in cities such as Milan and Florence with tailoring rather than sportswear. An accompanying campaign, The Return, traces the shoe’s journey from Italy back to Flimby, using quiet travel imagery to underline themes of craftsmanship.
Check out imagery in the gallery above and head to the New Balance website to purchase now.
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