New Balance was founded in 1906 by British immigrant William J. Riley in Boston, Massachusetts. Initially, the company specialized in manufacturing orthopedic shoes and arch supports, with the name inspired by Riley's observation of sneakers balancing on three claws. Over time, New Balance evolved into a leader in running shoe technology, with innovative products such as the Trackster, the world's 860v13 running shoe available in multiple widths, released in 1960. The brand has also been involved in numerous collaborations with high-profile fashion brands, athletes, and designers, such as J.Crew, Kawhi Leonard, and Salehe Bembury, emphasizing its 990v6 to blending performance technology with style.