Schedule your pedicure. The new Aravon sandals have arrived!

   

The Aravon Quennie

Spring is officially here and that means the new Aravon sandals have arrived. From casual to dressy, New Balance’s Aravon collection has a style for any occasion.

What makes this season different? New Balance has expanded Aravon’s Stridarc Collection to include the Stridarc Strata, an attractive split sole that, like the other styles in the Stridarc Collection, smoothly propels the foot forward, from heel to toe.

 The new styles featuring this technology include the Quinn cross strap thong, the Quinlan adjustable slingback and the Quennie slingback. These classic sandals get a modern upgrade with an expanded color selection that includes foil leather and croc styles.  

The Aravon Remy

   
If you need a shoe with additional support, meet the Stridarc Wedge Rocker, a rocker sole embedded with a rigid nylon shank for medial arch support. Styles include the Remy, a fun slide; the Rita, an adjustable strap sandal; and the Robin, a modern thong. 

For a night out on the town, the Stridarc has you covered with its heeled rocker models. Styles include the Page slide, the Penelope slide and the Pamela slingback.

The spring line also features new arrivals in the Aravon Power Comfort Collection. With a full ground contact outsole this line offers firm rearfoot motion control, midfoot support and stability in an attractive package.

 

The Aravon Page

Whether you choose the Stridarc or the Power Comfort Collection, once you slip on a pair you’ll immediately notice the difference between an Aravon style and your run-of-the-mill dress shoe. All insoles in the Aravon sandal line feature a full-length comfort-enhancing Abzorb insole—the same technology found in many New Balance athletic styles. Browse the entire line today and greet spring in your new comfort sandal!

-- Shoe Girl



shopnewbalance.com



Get back to basics with Minimus.

New Balance Minimus
Trail Running Shoe: MT10OB

It’s hard to imagine a time before shoes, let alone running shoes, but before foam cushioning, rubber soles or performance fits, humans simply ran barefoot.

In recent years, there has been a trend to go back to this basic form of running. Many runners have been tossing their shoes in favor of a barefoot run. In the modern world of streets and sidewalks this isn’t always practical. So, to bridge the gap between completely barefoot and the traditional running shoe, New Balance has created NB Minimus.

Available in running, trail running and wellness styles, NB Minimus shoes offer protection in the form of a Vibram sole plus a more natural fit. The shoes have a minimal heel to forefoot drop of just 4mm. (Most running shoes have a 12mm drop). They also have a reduced stack height and generous forefoot that allows the foot to expand on impact

To get the most benefit from NB Minimus shoes, it’s important to practice Good Form Running. (If you haven’t heard of this, view details and a video here.) Having the right posture, gait and pace is essential when using these shoes.

How does NB Minimus feel? Imagine your most comfortable socks. NB Minimus is lightweight and comfortable on your feet, allowing you to truly connect with the terrain. I started with the wellness version and already have a hard time taking them off! (In fact, my house slippers are getting jealous because I prefer wearing NB Minimus around the house.)

For running, you’ll find they open a whole new experience. A great choice if you’re ready to take on a new challenge. Be sure you start slow, though. Because these shoes are so dramatically different from other running shoes, they do take some getting used to. When starting out, try to limit your use to 10% of your normal running routine, gradually increasing as you get more comfortable with them.

View the complete NB Minimus line now. And remember, if you have any questions or comments about your experience with NB Minimus, share them here. I’m excited to hear what you think of these “less is more” shoes!

-- Shoe Girl


shopnewbalance.com

Want to seriously improve your time? Take a tip from the pros and lighten up!

Running is serious business. There’s a lot you have to put in if you want to succeed. But sometimes the best way to improve has more to do with removing what you don’t need. That’s the thinking that went into the design of the new 890. Created with input from two members of Team New Balance, Andy Baddeley and Jenny Barringer, it eliminates what you don’t need and reduces the weight of what you do.

What it has that you need: Cushioning, support and stability. You don’t have to sacrifice any of it in this shoe. It’s light without being minimal.

What was eliminated: Things you won’t even miss. The 890 uses a revolutionary new foam compound called REVlite that is 30% lighter than comparable foams, but performs just as well. Diamond-shaped cutouts on the midsole reduce the weight of the shoe and assists with transitions. Even the stitching on the upper was removed in place of lightweight, seamless, molded construction making it the lightest shoe in its class.

Technology is good. But sometimes it’s the absence of it is that can make you better. If you want to run faster, take a tip from the pros. Run lighter in the 890 with REVlite.

-- Shoe Girl
shopnewbalance.com

A track star takes to the streets.Getting to know the Velocity 773.

What happens when you take a track shoe that was built for speed and make it street ready? You get the new Velocity 773.

It’s not a performance shoe. It prefers hanging out at the mall or taking in a movie to a day at the gym. (Or, at least that’s what my pair told me.) But it does have a performance heritage. The New Balance Velocity 773 was based on the classic 607 track and field shoe. The spikes have been removed and the colors pumped up to create a trendy look that can be paired with anything from skinny jeans to casual skirts.

But don’t think the New Balance Velocity 773 is all about looks. When you get to know its history, you’ll see that a lot of thought was put into the Velocity 773 as well.

The Velocity 773 was inspired by Maggie Vessey, Team New Balance Athlete and 800M Champion. Maggie is known for having a bold, confident attitude and exceptional work ethic. This dynamic combination can be seen throughout the Velocity 773. It has a lightweight feel with a sleek, molded midsole. Plus, its ventilated, synthetic upper offers a comfortable fit.

If you haven’t seen it yet, check it out here. But be warned: You might be tempted to put more than one pair into your shopping cart. With personality to spare, the New Balance Velocity 773 is hard to resist!

-- Shoe Girl
shopnewbalance.com

Real-Life Review,Anue Yoga Apparel

Since I've been practicing yoga for over ten years, I was excited as anything when New Balance debuted the new Anue Yoga apparel collection. Designed to make your yoga experience as comfortable as possible, this apparel line is made with environmentally preferred materials and features design details that help make sure you look good in any posture. It's great for Pilates, too. I was especially intrigued by Anue Yoga because the designers really do know how yogis and yoginis move, and the collection has all sorts of little touches that prove that—like tank tops and camis that have longer hems so your bare back doesn't show when you're in Child's Pose or Downward-Facing Dog. Or piecing on the back of the Spree Capri that forms a lovely eastern architecture-inspired shape that just happens to help make you look slimmer!

Recently I got a pair of capri pants from the Anue Yoga line that have absolutely blown me away. The Devi Crop Flare Pant has the stylish flare at the hemline that I always look for in a capri, plus it has the slimming graphic seaming on the back yoke that reminds me of a lovely Moroccan archway. What I didn't expect is the waistband, which both puzzles and astounds me. I have no idea how they do this, but my pants don't move an inch, regardless of what pose I'm in or how hard I'm working out. These capris have been through hour after hour of both Pilates and yoga, and the waistband stays put and stays comfortable(!) no matter what I do. I'm so pleased. Also, I stay dry: the moisture-wicking fabric totally works. And knowing that the clothes I'm wearing are made from recycled materials is just icing on my proverbial gluten-free cake. In summary, these capris have me very excited to try out more Anue apparel in the yoga studio, at Pilates class, and even in my living room while I practice with the latest Rodney Yee yoga video. Next on my list are the Suzani Racerback bra top and the delicious Ummi Wrap. (How can I say "no" to the softest organic cotton I've ever touched?) Check in with me in a couple of weeks, when I give you the details and my final opinion.

Reza Armstrong
Copywriter
Shop New Balance

Everyday running in the 1225

Let’s just get this right out on the table: I love my New Balance 1225s. Okay, now I can back up a bit. Whenever I make a switch to another running shoe, I get a little nervous. I loved running in my 1063s, but because I loved running in them I put too many miles on them—my hips and knees were starting to feel the bumps in the road. Side note: I can’t stress how important it is to get new running shoes after 350-500 miles no matter how great they may look on the outside.

I consider myself an average distance runner. I participate in local 5k’s, 10k’s, have done marathons and I have two half-marathons scheduled in the near future. Some of my runs are short, some long, some hilly, some flat, some hot, some cold, some muddy and some filled with time on the "dreaded" treadmill. I am happy to report that the 1225s performed great in all of the above runs and situations.

They have wonderful cushioning, which of course comes in handy during those long runs, as well as during trail runs on gravel! They breathe well in hot weather, my feet stay cool and despite the fact that the rest of me is soaking wet, my feet are not. The 1225s are flexible but still provide the support I need when running on rough terrain or on the treadmill. If you have been looking for a shoe that can take you from a 5k to a marathon with ease, check out the 1225s for happy feet either way.

In future posts, I'll write specifically about how the 1225s perform during both shorter distance events, like 5- and 10ks, and longer distances like a half-marathon.

Ann Hankins
Fitness Director, Personal Trainer, and Guest Blogger

Using the 1210 for Group Exercise Classes

Sometimes as fitness professionals, we need to be reminded to practice what we preach. One of the first things I tell new participants in my classes is to make sure they have a good pair of cross-training shoes. However, for the last few years I have been teaching step and conditioning classes in my running shoes! While I must say that I felt my running shoes did an adequate job, I noticed an immediate difference the first time I taught a step class in the New Balance 1210s.

The heel cushioning that the 1210s provide, especially during a forceful foot plant off the step, is exceptional. The other cross-training function the 1210s provides is to prevent your foot/ankle from rolling. During group exercise classes like Zumba, step and conditioning, there are so many connected motions that consequently your feet and ankles get a real workout. Many times conditioning classes include activites like sprints, shuffles and running laps, and the 1210s feel like a running shoe during these activities. In a later post, I will discuss using the 1210s to do small distance running (e.g., training for your first 5k).

So if you've been just "getting by" with your running shoes instead of purchasing cross-trainers, make the switch now. You'll be glad you did.

Ann Hankins
Fitness Director, Personal Trainer, and Guest Blogger

Real Life Review, Test Period Summer 2009

In June of 2008, the owner of our local running store encouraged me to purchase a pair of New Balance 1061s. Many wonderful miles were logged in the 1061s, but after the ING Georgia Marathon I needed to put them into forced retirement. The natural choice to replace them was the 1063. I was excited to see that they had received the Runner’s World “Best Update Award.”

The first time I took the 1063s out on the road I was coming off an ankle injury. Immediately I noticed the cushion during my heel strike, giving my ankle much needed relief. They held up to monotonous running on the treadmill and proved to be a welcome companion on the road as well. With their very flexible soles, the 1063s were comfortable during my long runs—avoiding blisters was a plus! They also gripped nicely during the downhill, loose-gravel portion of a trail run.

Although I use the 1063s primarily for running, I have used them to teach step aerobics and found them to be very stable during my foot plant on and off the bench.

Finding a good replacement for my trusty pair of 1061s was a snap. The 1063s not only made me a permanent New Balance fan, but they amazed me with their versatility as well. When my feet are happy, I’m happy!

Ann Hankins
Fitness Director, Personal Trainer, and Guest Blogger

Great Shoes for Spring

Well, NB Web Express fans, April’s already halfway over, and spring sports are everywhere! From the baseball field to the tread mill, everyone’s shaking off the heavy cold of the winter and warming up to the idea of spending more time in the great outdoors. For some, that means a new pair of cleats and some new 904’s for training runs. For others, the amazing new 909 trail runners will fit all of their needs as they run with Rex through the park, and others will grab the new 1010 cross trainers and go “Feel the burn!” in aerobics class. We really do have something for everyone.

Speaking of something for everyone, there’s a shoe I’m especially excited about. The new 645 cheer shoe is available in both women’s and grade school girls’ sizes, and wow, has it gotten a lot of positive buzz! The customizable color inserts come in 10 different colors so you can cheer on your team in style. Whether you’re practicing or performing, in cheer or poms, tumbling and stunting or just standing on the sidelines, this is absolutely the perfect shoe for you. Plus, it’s a New Balance shoe, so of course it’s comfortable, and the name means you’re also in for great shock absorption and durability. Check it out today!

I’m signing off for now, but I’ll check in again soon. Customer ratings and reviews are coming to the site, so keep an eye out for the opportunity to review your favorite styles! I’ll also be bringing you personal stories from some of our customers who have something to say about their experience with us. Email me at editor@nbwebexpress.com if you’d like to tell me your tale of how NB Web Express made a difference to you, whether it was through one of our employees, a special way we delivered a product to you, or just to tell us that you’re glad we’re here. And if you’re out there and you’ve already sent us a letter, thank you! I’ve really enjoyed reading your experiences, and I’m so glad you decided to share.

--Reza

New Balance 1063 - Runner's World Best Update Spring 2009

The New Balance 1063 just got the “Best Update” Award from Runner’s World Magazine in their 2009 Spring Shoe Guide. This is great news for runners especially those who already know and love the 1062.

So, what makes the 1063 a winner? This premium trainer shoe is built for performance and is first rate for a cushioned ride. The Abzorb® DTS cushioning boasts a softer heel strike. And the Abzorb® FL is extra cushy on the midsole while the upper hugs your feet just right. The 1063 is less bulky in the forefoot, lighter weight, and maintains the N-LOCK® lacing system to ensure a snug fit through the arch. The new colors available in men’s and women’s styles are fun too!

If you’re ready to step up from the 1062 or looking for a training shoe with great flexibility, support and ultimate cushioning, you’ll LOVE the 1063s. Check out this awesome winner right here on NB Web Express. Let us know if you take a run in them, we want to hear how they work out for you!

-- Julie

The 993 is here!

Some good things just keep getting better. The 993 is the latest edition to the heritage 990 running series, New Balance’s signature style originally released in 1981 as the 990. The 993 promises a great fit, the same classic style, excellent support and more cushioning.

The 993 is loaded with technology to stabilize and comfort active feet. It boasts ABZORB® SBS advanced cushioning in the forefoot to help you manage long runs. And the new ABZORB® DTS has been added in the heel plus a full length ABZORB® insert to give you a comfortable and smooth ride. The suede and mesh upper offers a lightweight and supportive feel. If that’s not enough, these favorites come in extra wide widths and are a “Made in USA” shoe.
So if you are a loyal fan of the 990 series, the 993 might be the next best pick for you. Check it out here on NBwebexpress.com. Let us know what you think!

-- Julie

Aravon Women’s Collection….just in time for fall!

With the cooler weather ahead, many of us are looking for casual leather shoes. We want them to be stylish and fun but still have the comfort like our favorite running shoes. That's where Aravon steps in! The Aravon Collection is designed especially for busy women who want shoes that "support a woman's sense of well-being as well as her sense of style." So you don't have to sacrifice looks for comfort. That means no more aching feet when you're on the go all day long!

A roomier toe-box, good alignment and natural fit are just some of the perks with Aravon. The performance technologies are built around the basics of the Essential Support, 360° Fit and All-day Comfort.

Plus there are lots of style choices…. pumps, loafers, clogs, sling backs, boots and sandals. One of my favorites is the Mia, a closed-toed sandal with a heeled "rocker sole" for some extra height and a cute ankle strap for a fun look. I also love the Morgan clog that has an open back, an adjustable strap and it's perfect for dress pants. Check out all three of the Fall Collections for Everyday, Office, and Sandals, right here on NBwebexpress.com. Let us know if they become one of your fall favorites. We want to hear from you!

-- Julie

LOVE/hate...Right Before Your Eyes

I'm not sure if it's the scorching August heat or the new LOVE/hate campaign from New Balance, but more and more I am noticing the inner struggle all runner's face with each workout. No matter if you are an Olympiad or a new mom (again) trying to lose her baby weight...we all face it. Here's a story for you:

After my 3 mile run last Saturday, in the 90 degree heat, I struck up a conversation with another runner who was finishing his workout at the same time. He was drenched in sweat, taking out his ear buds after a hot run in the hot sun. I was drenched too, listening to my new Jay-Z and Keith Urban downloads from Napster. After getting back to our cars, we both chatted about the heat and other "runner" things. He downed a huge bottle of water, I chugged my fruit punch Gatorade and we just talked; runner to runner. The conversation went something like this:

Me: "Hot enough for ya?"
By this time I had a red mustache from the sugary sweet red Gatorade.
Runner: "Waited too long...got too hot...(he took a gulp of water)"
Me: "Before 10AM... forget about it. So, how many miles did you run?"
Runner: "4.75...(chugged water) you?"
Me: "3.1...I did that down hill loop twice, messed up my ankle"
Runner: "Oh yah, that first downhill trips you up, did you loose footing?"
Me: "On the bridge."
Runner: "The bridge (sigh) yah, gotta watch it on there, it's so shady, you can't see all the rocks."
Me: "Yep...that's gonna hurt tomorrow."
Runner: "Little ice, good as new."

It seems like a pointless conversation to the naked eye, but to runners, this is real camaraderie. I would never walk up to some stranger and talk about my ankle pains and I bet no one else would think to give me some advice on how to fix it...but runners do this all the time.

This is what the LOVE/hate campaign is all about and it's mind blowing when you see it happen before your eyes. We're both sweaty, hurting, and probably burnt to a crisp, that is the hate...but the sun is shining, we just ran our hearts out, we have cold drinks in our hands and we have our iPODS. We're happy. That is LOVE. True LOVE. It's a trip to see it all play out like a script after each mile.

Any "runner" stories out there? I know every runner, no matter their mile time, can relate to this story...tell us about it, and maybe we'll post it on our blog.

--Cassie

ChiRunning® and the New Balance 800

A new craze has hit the running world, ChiRunning®, the practice of combining T'ai Chi with high mileage training, is one of the newest trends. ChiRunning® or Mid-foot strike running, is most accredited for decreasing shock to knees and joints, creating a more comfortable ride. This practice takes discipline, especially if you are a forefoot or heel striker.

According to an article released by http://www.snewsnet.com/, ChiRunning® "employs the balance, alignment, and fluidity found in T’ai Chi, with running to create stride mechanics that reduce injury and create a more energy-efficient movement."

With this new running trend, comes a new running shoe to go with it. New Balance is currently the only athletic shoe brand having developed a shoe specifically for ChiRunning®. From the SNEWS article, “The 800 mid-foot strike shoe addresses the biomechanics and performance needs of mid-foot strikers,” says Sean Murphy, advanced products engineering manager at New Balance. “Each attribute and feature was carefully researched, tested, and retested to meet the specific performance needs of these athletes.”

Attention mid-foot strikers! We want to hear from you. The 800 has actually hit our site and we'd love to know how it performs. Or if you are practicing ChiRunning®, let us know how it's going...how do you feel?

--Cassie

New Balance 840

What shoe do you choose if you're an extreme terrain runner with a neutral running gait? But wait, you still want something that looks snazzy and performs just as great? The New Balance 840 trail running shoe just hit the site and it looks pretty incredible.

I am one of those runners that needs good traction when they start a run. I want a shoe that will make my feet feel secure. What if you hit a rocky area on your run? Or what if the terrain is unpredictable? What if it's 100 plus degrees outside and your feet start to sweat uncontrollably? If you have smooth outsole, you may not feel as "safe" and any shoe without moisture managing features will leave your feet with blisters. The 840 gives incredible traction with its N-Grip outsole, plus the PHANTOM LINER on the inside of the shoe will keep your feet comfy in the heat.

Any ultra runners out there? What do you do to keep your feet comfortable? Would you say traction is the most important? Let us know your thoughts...

--Cassie

The New Full Length Zips

If you’re a big fan of the New Balance Zips, you’ll LOVE the new 1306 Full Length Zip Running Shoe and the new 1315 Full Length Zip Cross Training Shoe. These styles are just in and they’re smokin’ hot!

What makes them on fire you might ask? The biggest change is the NB Zip responsive cushioning technology that is now full length instead of just the heel. So you get the powerful “heel to toe” energy for an added burst to heat up your runs and training. And, the removable full-length insert with ABZORB® cushioning and BIOCOOL® mesh upper will keep your feet cool and comfortable for a soft ride.

Some of the same great features from previous Zip styles are carried over, too. The ACTEVA™ LITE premium lightweight midsole foam keeps you light on your feet for your lengthy journeys. And, the N-Durance® rubber compound helps your shoes last even longer.

The new extended Zips are perfect for the athlete looking for a cutting edge design who wants to go faster, stronger and longer. If you take a run in these new Zips and they ignite your energy, tell us about them. We want to hear from you!

-- Julie

New Balance Sesame Street Collection

You can take just one look at these cute shoes and know kids will love wearing them! Elmo, Cookie Monster and Oscar the Grouch - three of the most adorable Sesame Street characters shine in this great new collection!

As a sponsor of Sesame Workshop, New Balance introduces these new kicks designed on the 574 Classic Running Shoe. They're all sure to be favorites! With googly eyes and a soft blue fur liner, Cookie Monster is yummy. Elmo's contagious smile stands out and his red fuzzy liner will make kids laugh. On grouchy days or happy ones, Oscar's soft green suede upper and peeking eyes make him a winner.

These fun styles are also designed to be comfy so kids can play in them all day long. They come in multiple widths for Infant, Pre-School and Grade School sizes. For a closer look, check them out here at NBwebexpress.com. Let us know what you and your kids think of them!

--Julie

New Balance 768 - Health Magazine 2008 "Best Running Shoe"

The New Balance 768 women's running shoe was just named a "2008 America's Healthiest Fitness Award" winner for best running shoe by Health Magazine. The 768 received "top marks" for cushioning, durability and flexibility.

What makes the 768 stand out? The adaptable trainer provides stability in any condition no matter where you run or what you run into. The 768 has a comfortable heel fit and roomier toe box. It boasts Abzorb® cushioning for a smooth journey and Stability Web® for lightweight midfoot support. If that's not enough, a Phantom Liner™ will carry you through on hot days to keep your feet cool and comfortable. And N-Lock® makes sure you get that snug secure fit.

So, if you want it all, whether for short runs or long marathons, the 768 could be the perfect running shoe for you. With hot summer days ahead, you'll LOVE this cool winner that is built to last.

The entire review is available in Health Magazine's June issue or by visiting www.health.com. You can find the 768's right here at NBwebexpress.com.

--Julie

New Balance 903 - Runner's World Editor's Choice June 2008

New Balance 902 wearers, get ready for the next generation.

The 903 was just named Runner's World Editor's Choice for June 2008. The combination of a lighter ride and supportive fit make this style a great pick for performance runners looking for more.

28 Grams lighter than its predecessor, the 903 is any runner's dream. An excellent pick for racing or training, the 903 offers some pronation control with the TS2® Transitional Support System; so if you need a little extra support or stability on your feet, you will be covered.

If you're in the market to step up from the 902 or just looking for a lightweight, flexible yet supportive running shoe, try on the New Balance 903. And if you've taken a long run in the 903's, let us hear about it. We want to know!

--Cassie

New Balance 790

New styles of the New Balance 790's are here on NB Web Express! Check out the new kid's styles , men's styles and women's casual styles. They are so lightweight and come in so many colors, they have become pretty popular.

But the 790's are more than just a great fashion shoe; the rugged outsole and lightweight feel make them a great pick for light trail running. So, if you're off for a quick, low impact run, the 790's could be the shoe for you. With the heat turning up, who wouldn't need something light and airy for the great outdoors?

Check out the new colors and be ready for fun looks that you might not have seen from New Balance before...

-Cassie