Introducing the New Balance 1500

First released in 1989, the 1500 was designed by Steven Smith, who also designed the New Balance classic 574 and 997, among others.

Today, the 1500 is a flagship sneaker for the New Balance factory in Flimby, Cumbria, in the UK. Many 1500 models are also marked "Made in the UK".

Smith's goal was to give the 1500 sneakers a luxury feel, similar to the feeling of a Cadillac or Rolls Royce. For this purpose, he designed the midsole of the 1500 with “plush suspensions” and used “pigskin suedes as the equivalent of Connolly leather” (Connolly Leather supplies leather to Rolls Royce).

The 1500 features a classic silhouette with a mesh and suede upper, offering breathability and comfort. It's known for its sleek lines and recognisable but smaller "N" logo on the side.

Originally designed for running, the 1500 boasts New Balance's ENCAP technology in the midsole, which provides cushioning and stability. This technology is still used in newer versions of the shoe.