When it comes to 80s fashion, there were countless sneakers available throughout the decade, but there was nothing like the New Balance 990.
New Balance 990 was one of the most iconic pieces of footwear during the 80s. In a decade that was known for bold fashion statements and technological advancements, the New Balance 990 became a symbol of innovation, quality, and American craftsmanship. The early 80s were all about thickness, and New Balance sought to cash in on this trend. Their running shoe, which was released in 1982, reflected that cultural shift towards fitness, individuality, and serious sportswear.
The Rise of New Balance 990 in 80s Fashion Without question, the 80s were a transformative period. The decade was marked by rapid cultural, social, and economic changes. As the economy began to rebound from the ’70s oil crisis, consumerism surged and people had more disposable income to spend on higher-quality products. And, health and fitness became central to the lifestyles of many across the country. Jogging and aerobics became popular forms of exercise, and the concept of athleisure grew in popularity.
New Balance cashed in on this growing trend and opted to introduce the world to a luxurious, high-quality running shoe that reflected a higher social standing. People were willing to invest more money in higher quality items, such as the New Balance 990. When the shoe was first released, it sold for a whopping $100, which was a very bold statement in its own right.
How 80s Fashion Created New Balance 990 There were several major trends and innovations during the early 80s that helped to spawn innovation and creativity which led to the development of the New Balance 990.
Performance-Oriented Footwear in 80s Fashion There is a growing trend during the early 80s for performance-oriented footwear. People wanted to purchase shoes that were specifically designed to improve performance and various sports. It was a time when people were looking for basketball shoes, skating shoes, and of course, running shoes. Companies were willing to spend more money on cutting-edge materials and technology to make their shoes lighter-weight and more durable. New Balance designed its ENCAP technology which provided a cushioned core and supportive outer rim and led to unparalleled comfort and stability. As a result, it quickly became a popular option among serious runners.
The shoe also paved the way for a new era of performance-oriented footwear. Up until the 80s, sneakers were designed to be functional and not necessarily practical. That is, they weren’t created to improve the performance of an athlete. However, the 80s changed all that as manufacturers began to develop shoes that were designed to enhance the performance of an athlete. There were the Reebok Pump , Nike Air Force 1s, and even Vans Style 36.
The 80s Fashion Shift Towards Athleisure There was a huge shift in the 80s which blurred the lines between athletic and casual wear. This created a whole new Trenton known as athleisure. And, the New Balance 990 played a key role in this shift. Not only were their shoes designed to enhance the performance of runners across the country, but they also featured a sleek design and a neutral color palette that made them a versatile option for everyday wear. In no time, people began to wear running shoes as streetwear. Celebrities, fashion-forward individuals, and just about everyone were pairing up athletic sneakers with blazers, jeans, and other casual staples of the decade.
Athleisure revolutionized the way that people viewed sneakers. Shoes were no longer confined to the gym or track, rather people began to collect shoes. The New Balance 990 became a staple for every wardrobe. This movement continued to grow throughout the 80s, and into the 90s, and ultimately influenced 80s fashion .
A Focus on Quality and Craftsmanship There was also an increased focus on high-quality craftsmanship in 80s fashion. People wanted to purchase things that were designed to last throughout the ages. And, the New Balance 990 exemplified this trend. The shoe was produced entirely within the United States, and built with meticulous attention to detail. The manufacturing process itself emphasized comfort, durability, and of course, precision. Each pair underwent a rigorous quality control check before it was ever boxed and sent to the shelves.
This heavy emphasis on quality set the 990 apart from all of the other competitors in the industry at the time. And, it also resonated with consumers who were beginning to prioritize high-quality craftsmanship over mass-produced products. The sneaker exists as a testament to the growing demand for high-quality products that were built to last. This focus on quality continues to define New Balance’s brand even today.
The People Who Brought You the New Balance 990 We wouldn’t have the new balance 990 if it weren’t for Jim Davis. Davis played a significant role in guiding the brand’s vision throughout the 80s, and he led the initiative to create superior running shoes. He focused on innovation and craftsmanship throughout the manufacturing process which helped the 990 to become a symbol of the brand’s commitment to product excellence.
Then of course there was the company’s ability to market the shoes to the general population . While Nike and Reebok focused on using athletes to promote their products, New Balance turned to Steve Jobs. Jobs was often seen wearing new balance sneakers at public events. He was the embodiment of the fusion of function and fashion. And, he showed that high-tech gear could be both practical and stylish.
The Legacy of New Balance 990 in 80s Fashion The New Balance 990 not only influenced the sneaker culture of the 80s, but it left a lasting legacy on the fashion industry. By focusing on performance, craftsmanship, and versatility, they paved the way for future sneaker innovations. The popularity of the 990 helped to normalize the idea that athletic shoes can be worn in casual settings. And, they laid the foundation for today’s athleisure culture.
The shoe was so popular, that it still exists today, although it has undergone multiple iterations. Each new version of the 990 incorporates new technology in order to stay true to its original design. As a result, it is considered a timeless classic that is embraced by athletes, celebrities, and fashion enthusiasts from around the world.
Conclusion When it comes to sneakers in 80s fashion, the New Balance 990 remains as most one of the most significant running shoes of the decade. During a period of time in which innovation, individuality, and luxury were key to the success of any fashion business, New Balance took the reins and led the way. They managed to blend performance technology and high-quality craftsmanship to build an entire subculture focused on athleisure. And, this cultural impact can still be seen in closets and wardrobes around the world today.
