Gift Cards you'll LOVE

The holidays can be a hectic time. And sometimes it’s hard finding that perfect gift for everyone on your list. If you’re not sure what to get or want them to choose their favorite gift, then consider going with a gift card. It’s a gift they’re guaranteed to LOVE!

We make gift cards easy. They’re fast and convenient at NBwebexpress.com. Select between gift cards that are sent by U.S. Mail or sent by email. Best of all…they never expire and can be used to pick from over 1200 styles of New Balance shoes, apparel and accessories.

Gift cards are sent by First Class U. S. Postal Mail and take about 3-5 business days for delivery. A card balance may be viewed with a valid gift card number, check gift card balance. And cards can even be conveniently reloaded to add more at a later time, reload gift card balance. If you need to send one right away, E-Gifts may be the better way to go. They are sent by email immediately after your order is processed. And you can add a personalized message with your email.

Want to learn more? Check out our gifts cards right here on NBwebexpress.com. Make their season bright this year and spread the LOVE with a gift card. Happy Holidays!

-- Julie

New Balance and Susan G. Komen for the Cure®

October is the month to think pink and more importantly think about the cure for breast cancer. Over the past 19 years New Balance has been proud to partner with Susan G. Komen for the Cure® in the fight against breast cancer. Susan G. Komen for the Cure® symbolizes what it's all about. “Susan G. Komen” reminds us of Nancy G. Brinker’s promise to her sister Susan to do everything in her power to spare others the agony of breast cancer. “For the Cure” reaffirms the vision of a world without the disease. The name conveys the original promise quickly and simply...Susan G. Komen = the Cure.

To show our support for the Cure, New Balance has the Lace Up for the Cure ® Collection. Each time you buy footwear, apparel or an accessory from the Collection, 15% of the proceeds goes towards the Cure. If you lace up for a run or walk, check out the WR768KM, the Official Shoe of the Komen Race for the Cure ®. It’s a comfortable, lightweight running shoe that will inspire you to get moving. And it’s featured in InStyle.com's Breast Cancer Product Guide this month.

Also, in honor of the month, now through October 31 you can get a free women’s cap with any Lace Up for the Cure ® $50 order right here on NBwebexpress.com. The cap is a stylish and fun way to show your spirit for the Cure! Lace up today! Together we’ll keep going stronger.

--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

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 Gifts for Father’s Day

The count down is on! There’s only 10 more days until Father’s Day, which means you still have time to think about the perfect way to show your dad just how much he means to you. Whether the dad in your life is into running, working out, working hard or just kicking back, you can find some great gift ideas right here at NBwebexpress.com.

Here are a few of my favorite picks!

920 Water Shoe
This is the perfect time of year and a top pick for any dad with an adventurous outdoor spirit! This quick-drying water shoe was just awarded the 2008 Best of Adventure Gear by the editors of National Geographic Adventure Magazine. It’s the ultimate shoe for unpredictable wet or dry lands. The innovative design flows water out but keeps sand and pebbles from seeping in. So your feet feel dry faster and won’t hurt. The grip from the outsole also protects you from slips.

MP3 Arm Wallet
For your music loving dad on the run, check out one of the MP3 video holders. Dad can grab his iPod and hit the road with this convenient holder that has an adjustable arm band. It has a space for the MP3 dial and a clear screen to check your song choice along the way without needing to stop. This is so convenient and user-friendly, it’s ideal for the dad who enjoys music on the go!

N5™ Max
If your dad wants to keep track of all his fitness goals, take a look at this training monitor. The N5™ Max recently earned the 2008 Great Gear of the Year Award from shapeyou.com! Its health focused with lots of easy to use features like an exercise calorie count that even shows total fat burned. The heart rate monitor stores data so you can keep records from every workout. This is just the thing for dads who are competitive runners or fitness enthusiasts.

Storm Striker Jacket
Not all jackets are created equal! Some stand up to wind and rain better than others. This jacket is so versatile it’s a must-have item for any dad. Designed for extra weather protection, it’s lightweight, great fitting, and features a music pocket for your MP3 player. A detachable magnetic hood gives you more options and the 360° reflectivity ensures safety during early morning or evening activities.

Shop by Outfit
You can’t go wrong with an entire outfit for dad! And you’ll be proud to see him sport a new look. Check out a variety of complete sets in one easy-to-shop place at the New Balance Shop By Outfit section. You’ll find awesome outfits for every dad whether he’s on the run, on the court or on the hammock!

Check out these gift ideas and let us know if any of them make a big hit with your dad! How ever you choose to show him how much you care, have a great celebration and treasure the time you spend together!

--Julie

Music at your Fingertips...and While Running!

There are some new and exciting additions to the Lace Up for the Cure collection; check out the MP3 Holders from New Balance!

I've seen these "holders" at other retailers but none of them have the user-friendly features that these holders offer. The holders have a clear screen so you can monitor your song choice, a comfy adjustable arm band, and a space for the MP3 dial.

With other music holders and devices, you almost have to stop in your tracks to get the song you want...meanwhile your PR time flies by...well not anymore!

Try these new holders and let us know what you think.

And as an added bonus, New Balance will donate 15% of wholesale sales from the Lace Up for the Cure® Collection to Susan G. Komen for the Cure. See site for additional details on contributions and how New Balance is taking the lead to help find a cure for Breast Cancer.

--Cassie

Last Minute New Balance Gifts for the Men on your List

My husband and father are two of the most difficult people to shop for during the holiday season. They each tell me every year "I don't need anything." Well, of course you don't need anything, the holidays are about getting what you want. So, after poking and prodding and asking tons of questions about what they want, I finally have a list to work with. Here are a few items that were on their lists and some will be under our tree!

XT Running Glove
Neither my husband or my father run competitively, but these technical runnning gloves showed up on both of their lists. These gloves have a high density gel on the palms for extra grip; so scraping ice off cars, shoveling snow, or just driving are a little easier in these technical gloves.

Sneaker Balls
Gym bags are the worst; they collect dirt and trap odor. Sneaker balls go right into running shoes, cross trainers, etc. and freshen the inside of the shoe with a clean scent. So, gym bags won't be so scary to open anymore!

Gear Short
Comfy shorts with lots of uses. Guys can grab the Gear Short and head to the gym or wear lounging at home. My husband has three pairs, no kidding! And the New Balance Gear Short was recently featured in the December issue of Men's Health magazine as part of a "well stocked gym bag." Now, who can argue with that recommendation?

So, those are my favorite guy picks for Last Minute gifts. Whether the men in your life are weekend warriors, muscle men, marathoners, or everyday athletes, there is always something for them under the tree and in their gym bag!

--Cassie

NB Web Express Gift Certificates

Shoes can be difficult presents to give. What if you pick the wrong size? What if they need a cross trainer and not a running shoe? What about walking shoes, they might need those, too!? And who wants to ask their gift recipient tons of questions about what they want under the tree? That intense Q/A would give it away! Then there would be no surprise on the big morning.

You can solve all of these issues with an NB Web Express gift certificate. Plus, they are super convenient; these gift certificates can be emailed directly to your gift recipient. You can also send them U.S Postal Mail, but please allow 3-5 business days for delivery.

So, get them a gift certificate and let them choose their "Perfect Fit" this year on NBwebexpress.com!

--Cassie

Last Minute New Balance Gifts for Ladies!

If you are like me, you have not finished your Christmas shopping. I still have my parents, in-laws and husband to finish shopping for, so this next week will not be easy! But, fortunately people can always use great shoes or comfortable fitness apparel; which brings me back to New Balance for last minute gift giving.

Here are a few of my favorites; and items I would not mind having under my own tree this year:

Women's Vent™ Mini: This fitness monitor is designed especially for women. It's smaller in size, so it fits on a woman's wrist perfectly without gaping or sliding. The water-resistant Vent Mini™ features 9 interval timers, 3 alarms, and a convenient training log.

Single Bottle Waistpack: This gift is perfect for the Lace Up! advocate or active woman with lots on her to-do list. The Lace Up! Single Bottle Waistpack is perfect for active days or any Lace Up for the Cure event next year. The adjustable waist belts are comfortable and made to fit every body type!

Cotton Stripe Lo-Cut Sock: The perfect stocking stuffer! This cute Lace Up! sock features fun stripes and a great fit for every foot. Your gift recipient can wear this sock for any activity they choose!

So, there you have it; some of my favorite last minute gifts for women this year. You really can't go wrong with items that will keep your loved ones healthy and happy in 2008!

--Cassie

An Early Christmas Present from New Balance

Here is a feel good story for the holidays; New Balance is donating unlimited shoes to a great cause. Frank Abate, who suffers from cerebral palsy and has made headlines for running marathons, has been promised all the New Balance shoes he can wear out.

The article explains how Abate wears out his shoes so fast in his training efforts, "Because of the way Abate runs — alternately swinging his legs forward and landing with his feet splayed out — he wears out his pairs of New Balance shoes a lot faster than the rest of us. Affording them is not always easy."

Maybe we can all learn something from Frank; that the impossible is possible with a little determination. He is even setting new PR's and new goals for coming races; an inspiration to everyone who runs.

Check out this "feel good" read and let us know your thoughts. What inspires you?

--Cassie

Nature vs. New Balance Sweepstakes!

Enter the Nature vs. New Balance Sweepstakes and you could win an all expenses paid trip to The Banff Film Festival November 2-5 in Banff, Canada!

This sweepstakes comes with the introduction of new GORE-TEX® outdoor and multi-sport shoes by New Balance. According to New Balance, the shoes "are the first to combine breathable waterproof technology with multiple widths." You can find GORE-TEX® waterproof technology in the 977, 1091, 1200, and 950 styles by New Balance. All of these styles contain amazing technologies to keep you prepared for anything nature throws at you.

And with fall coming fast, is there a better time to try them out?

--Cassie

Memorial Day Free Shipping!

Celebrate Memorial Day weekend with NBwebexpress.com!

Now through May 28th get free ground shipping on everything - no minimum purchase!

Shop for grads, dads, and anyone else in need of fitness gear for the summer months ahead.

--Cassie

NBwebexpress.com 48 Hour Sale!

The clock is ticking! Now on NBwebexpress.com get 10% off plus free ground shipping on all orders over $50!

Take advantage of this opportunity to save on New Balance gear for the entire family!

But hurry, this sale ends at 11:59 PM ET May 22!

See site for details.

--Cassie

New Balance Sports Monitors

New Balance Sports Monitors are here! New Balance has partnered with High Gear USA and developed a new line of sports monitors. These monitors all have something new to offer the everyday athlete just looking for an edge in their workout routine.

If you are training for a competitive event, (marathon, 5K race, 10K) sports monitors can really help with setting a pace or keeping track of your time goals.

But sports monitors aren't just for runners; New Balance also carries a line of pedometers that offer specific features; fat burning (keeps track of calories burned), alarm/alert pedometers for safety, and basic pedometers that keep track of your steps throughout the day. Whatever your fitness goals, sports monitors can make a big difference.

Check out this blog post about New Balance sports monitors in the PluggedIn Blog featured on PittsburghChannel.com. Here you can read even more information about the benefits of New Balance Sports Monitors. You can also take a look at this video by WTEA-TV Pittsburgh Channel highlighting even more benefits of working out with a sports monitor! (Be sure to drag the video to your play list to start the short clip.)

So, how many readers out there have tried one of the New Balance Sports Monitors? What did you think? I have personally tried the HRT Mini (for cardio workouts) and the Vent Mini (for running)...both really surprised me. I had never ran with a monitor before, not to mention worn a monitor for any other activity, and after I got the hang of it (which buttons to press, learned which function did what) they really opened my eyes to what training could be. Instead of just guessing my time or keeping an eye on the clock in the gym as I ran on the track, I had an accurate account of my entire workout...not a bad deal for a runner with a time crunch!

--Cassie

Top it Off! Free Ground Shipping on all Performance Tops!

Top it Off on NBwebexpress.com!

Now thru May 22, get free ground shipping with any performance top purchase!

Mother's Day is Right Around the Corner!

Mom's are tough people to shop for. What do you give the one person who gives so much? Why not get her something she can wear all weekend? Or shoes for her first marathon?

Celebrate Mother's Day on NBwebexpress.com!
Save 10-30% on select gifts for mom.


Plus, don't miss the New Balance Lace Up for the Cure collection!
Now through May 13 enjoy free shipping with any Lace Up for the Cure purchase*!

*see website for details.

Free Shipping All Weekend!

This weekend on NBwebexpress.com get free ground shipping on all orders - no minimum purchase!

Spring into action this season with great New Balance gear from NBwebexpress.com. Check out our wide selection of the latest New Balance shoes available in a variety of sizes and widths.

Plus, don't miss our high performance apparel perfect for warm weather.
But hurry...Offer ends April 22!

New Balance Select Sale

Now through March 26 enjoy 10-30% off Select New Balance styles during our Select Sale!

Some of the most popular New Balance and Dunham styles are on sale including:

Men's 1222: Technical and highly supportive running shoe
Women's 743: Ultra-comfortable walking shoe and the official shoe of "O" The Oprah Magazine.
Men's 608: Highly supportive sport trainer
Women's 992: Incredible cushioned and highly supportive heritage running shoe; the latest edition to the legendary 990 series!

Don't miss out on some of the most popular kids' styles; be sure to check out these great picks:
621: Extremely popular and versatile sport trainer, the adult version of an excellent all-around trainer!
607: Durable and cushioned running shoe with a C-CAP midsole for support
992: The kids' version of a highly supportive and cushioned running shoe

Plus, enjoy free ground shipping with apparel purchase!

Shop the Select Sale at NB Web Expressbefore March 26!

Sock Up and Save!

Now at NB Web Express buy any three sock pairs or packages and get one free of equal or lesser value!

When you have just invested in a great pair of shoes (running, walking or sport training) why not invest in your socks as well? A good pair of socks can be the difference between a mediocre workout and an excellent one.

A good sock is a pair that improves comfort, fit and support in your shoes. Some socks offer fashionable designs, technical fabrics, and supportive fit while others cushion your feet with each step.

Shop NBwebexpress.com and discover your 'good' sock!

Free Lace Up! Shoelaces with Any Lace Up for the Cure Purchase

Just in time for Valentine's Day, now through February 14, get a free pair of Lace Up! shoelaces with the purchase of any Lace Up for the Cure item!

The perfect compliment to any Lace Up for the Cure pair of shoes or T-shirt, show your support in finding a cure for breast cancer and wear your pink laces proud.

Show others that you support the race to find a cure!

While shopping at NB Web Express, visit our own Lace Up for the Cure homepage. You can read inspirational stories about cancer survivors, learn about the Susan G. Komen foundation and share your inspirational story with NB Web Express.

Stop in and visit today!