If one word could sum up the fashion and fitness phenomenon brought about by New Balance shoes, it would have to be “performance.” Working under the assumption that shoes that fit better perform better, New Balance has built a reputation for high quality, perfect-fitting shoes, ultimately becoming the fourth largest men and women’s performance footwear manufacturer in the world.

Though they espouse an “endorsed by no one” philosophy and emphasize function over fashion, the New Balance running shoes and New Balance walking shoes have gained a wide following across a wide demographic. Moreover, the signature “N” on the upper is simultaneously recognizable as the badge of the serious athlete and the conscientious hipster.