A celebration of craft and legacy, the 1300JP seamlessly blends style and functionality, creating a timeless appeal
Boston, MA (April 16, 2025) – Today, New Balance unveils the 2025 iteration of the Made in USA 1300JP – the legendary style released just once every five years. Coming this May during ‘Grey Days,’ the 1300JP stands out as one of New Balance’s most sought-after styles, not only because of its rarity, but because of its impeccable craftsmanship and unique place in global sneaker culture.
Released in 1985, the original 1300 was lauded for its combination of technological innovation and premium materials. The superior cushioning provided by full-length ENCAP and the shoe’s premium nubuck and mesh construction redefined the public’s understanding of what a luxury running shoe could be. Even though the original 1300 shattered the era’s established price ceiling, the shoe quickly gained traction amongst consumers, particularly in Japan. New Balance fans began wearing the 1300, not just to run, but as a mark of status and taste, rooted in the culture’s deep reverence for craftsmanship. The discerning sneaker buying public paid extra close attention to the details of the shoe where the immense care taken to construct each component was evident, down to the subtle individual irregularities created by hand stitching. The 1300 elevated standards of quality and craft to a level that transcended performance footwear.
Demand for the original led to a cult-like following, inspiring the reissue of the 1300JP in 1995. Celebrating the brand's rich heritage New Balance has since re-released the1300JP every five years. The anticipation for this extremely limited release is part of what makes it so special. The style’s authentic appeal, elevated materials, and meticulous craftsmanship, continue to enthrall fashion and sneaker culture alike with each new release.
“The 1300JP is a shoe like no other, an emblem of the soul of New Balance, that is prized by collectors and appreciators around the globe. Even before joining New Balance myself 34 years ago, I was inspired by my father’s work with the brand on the innovative sole design for the original 1300JP. This legacy model has been a constant throughout my career at New Balance, from spending years perfecting the first reissue, to working diligently on each subsequent launch to evolve the style in subtle ways while remaining true to its roots. With 2025’s launch we are excited to continue the 1300JP’s legacy, showcasing the design’s timeless appeal to loyal fans and a new generation” said Shinichi Kubota, Vice President, New Balance Japan.
Meticulously crafted in New Balance’s Skowhegan, Maine manufacturing facility, the Made in USA 1300JP is produced with a level of detail, expertise, and premium quality that is unrivaled in the sneaker world.
The Made in USA 1300JP will be available globally on NewBalance.com, at select wholesale and New Balance flagship stores beginning on May 29, 2025, with a suggested retail price of $330 USD. The 1300JP will be released during Grey Days. Kicking off May 1st, this annual celebration of New Balance's signature color is marked with product releases, events, and storytelling content throughout the month.
NEW BALANCE MADE IN USA FOOTWEAR CONTAINS A DOMESTIC VALUE OF 70% OR MORE. MADE IN USA MAKES UP A LIMITED PORTION OF NEW BALANCE'S US SALES.
About New Balance
New Balance, headquartered in Boston, MA, has the following purpose: Independent since 1906, we empower people through sport and craftsmanship to create positive change in communities around the world. New Balance employs 10,000 associates around the globe, and in 2024 reported worldwide sales of $7.8 billion. New Balance owns five athletic footwear factories in New England and one in Flimby, U.K. New Balance MADE in USA footwear contains a domestic value of 70% or more and makes up a limited portion of New Balance’s US sales. To learn more about New Balance, please visit www.newbalance.com; for the latest press information visit http://newbalance.newsmarket.com.