New Balance 997 Available Now
New Balance 997 History
The New Balance 997 debuted in 1991 as a premium running shoe, designed to provide superior cushioning and support for serious runners. It featured advanced technology for its time, including ENCAP midsole cushioning and a sleek, streamlined silhouette.
Like many other 99X series shoes, the 997 gradually transitioned into a lifestyle sneaker as running technology evolved. Its retro aesthetic and high-quality construction made it a favorite among sneaker enthusiasts and fashion-conscious consumers.
In the 2000s and 2010s, New Balance began releasing limited-edition collaborations and colorways of the 997, partnering with retailers, designers, and artists. These special releases, along with the rise of “dad shoe” trends, helped cement the 997’s status as a cult classic in sneaker culture. More recently, the 997 was used as the first model with the now widely successful Aimé Leon Dore x New Balance collaboration.
Today, the New Balance 997 is thriving with the current trends around retro sneakers, but its also shown the ability to rise above the constantly changing sneaker industry and remain a steady favorite among consumers.
