New Balance 1700

About

The New Balance 1700 first released in 1999 as the brand's Made in USA flagship of the time, carrying a slew of flagship running technology as the company entered the 21st century. A trifecta of ABZORB, ENCAP and C-CAP cushioning and support systems came as standard, wrapped in a suede and mesh upper with a perforated suede arch panel. The design takes many cues from the 1300, and its signature grey and blue-grey palette is an almost direct translation of the 1300's 'JP' colourway. The 1700 achieved cult status in Japan, where New Balance Japan enjoys special access to archival designs and has released Japan-exclusive editions such as the M1700JP. Sneaker Freaker describes the model as remaining esoteric, with later remakes keeping design fidelity to the originals. The Made in USA edition revived in 2021 originates from New Balance's original home, returning to the 1999 manufacturing location after recent 1700 releases were produced in Asia, and pairs nubuck leather and suede in grey with mesh at the toe cap and heel counter.