New Balance Unveils $400 Made in USA 2040v5; Releases Aug. 20
What do you get when you blend decades of premium U.S. craftsmanship and technical innovation? If we're talking New Balance, that would be the 2040v5, a premium $400 shoe made in the United States of America.
Over the last two years, the Boston-based brand has been able to expand its reputation beyond that of a leader within the world of "dad shoes" to include manufacturer of top-performing gear across basketball, baseball, skateboarding, tennis, and running. The heritage institution has married both feats through modern interpretations of retro product—namely by bringing its marquee FuelCell foam cushioning to numbered franchises. Back in 2012, the brand did something similar with the New Balance 2040v1.
The 2040v1 laid the foundation for the most ambitious Made in USA initiative ever. This effort showcased just what was possible within New Balance's U.S. factories, blending top-notch quality with cutting-edge performance technology. The initial result was a limited-edition pair that retailed for $275 (around $400 today). Although the model was rooted in New Balance Running legacy, it widely became a collector's item due to its quality and versatile style.
New Balance is pushing boundaries once more with the all-new 2040v5.
The new expression features a premium construction made up of more than 43 different components. Some of the standout elements that explore beyond previous limitations include:
- Horween® nubuck leather
- Full-length carbon fiber plate
- Three-part FuelCell, ABZORB SBS & ENCAP cushioning system
"Every detail was evaluated through the lens of craft, performance, and material integrity," said Brian Lynn, Global Vice President of Lifestyle Product at New Balance, in an official press release. "Free from trend-driven thinking or unnecessary compromise, the team focused on a singular objective: creating the ultimate expression of Made in USA footwear."
While not as "boring"-looking as other Made in USA styles—specifically the 9XX series—the 2040v5 features an understated aesthetic relative to all of the tech it packs.
Priced at $400, the sneaker sits at the pinnacle of the Made in USA platform, bringing together premium materials and advanced performance engineering to create one of New Balance’s most technically-complex lifestyle silhouettes to date.
The Made in USA 2040v5 launches exclusively in North America on Thursday, Aug. 20, via NewBalance.com and select shops. A global release follows in May 2027.
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